this is Shades of the Day — bringing you different shades of opinion in news & culture so that you can see the big picture quickly. We believe that seeing multiple POVs is the best way to stay informed.

It’s Thursday, December 5 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s edition:

• France’s political turmoil

• UnitedHealthcare CEO assassination clues

• 4 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

France’s political turmoil

Macron faces the aftermath of a collapsed government; Barnier’s ouster marks shortest prime minister tenure in French history.

AP News says Macron must address both political and economic challenges, acting fast after Barnier's government falls.

NDTV reports the dramatic collapse saw far-right support led by Marine Le Pen ousting Barnier, with Macron facing calls for resignation.

BBC highlights the no-confidence vote as a strong message against Macron’s leadership, with both far-right and left-wing backing.

Finally, ABC News notes that Macron aims to stabilize the political chaos by picking a new PM, amid soaring economic concerns.

CEO assassination clues

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was assassinated in Midtown Manhattan, with messages left on-site. Yahoo says the case could have a complex motive, with words like “deny” on bullet shells implying a vendetta.

Echoing this, Fox5NY says the NYPD believes Thompson's death was “premeditated” with the killer waiting outside the hotel. His wife's comments about prior threats add layers to the motive.

Fox News intensifies the intrigue: It's not just about the bullets. A chilling message was claimed, adding calculated precision linking clues directly to the assassination plot.

Adding another piece, The Daily Beast found tangible clues: The assassin may have used a carefully planned escape route with bikes and subways, leaving more than just words at the scene.

Finally, NY Post suggests that the killer's message is literary; the words on bullets are linked to a book condemning insurance firms, making the case as much ideological as it is personal.

1) Democrat Adam Gray, a former state assemblyman, won against Republican incumbent John Duarte in California's 13th Congressional District, narrowing the Republican House majority.

2) Peloton, known for its high-end exercise equipment and interactive fitness classes, has expanded its offerings by launching a new strength training app.

3) Japan is planning to ease visa requirements for Chinese visitors, as part of a wider effort to improve bilateral relations between Japan and China.

4) In a thrilling ACC/SEC NCAA men’s basketball game, Duke defeated No. 2 Auburn, 84-78 -- it was Auburn's first loss of the season.