On February 27, the Department of State authorized the departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of U.S. government personnel from Mission Israel due to safety risks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In response to security incidents and without advance notice, the U.S. Embassy may further restrict or prohibit U.S. government employees and their family members from traveling to certain areas of Israel, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the West Bank. Persons may wish to consider leaving Israel while commercial flights are available.

Country Summary:&nbsp;Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. The security environment is complex and can change quickly, and violence can occur in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza without warning. Increased regional tensions can cause airlines to cancel and/or curtail flights into and out of Israel.

Some areas have increased risk. Read the&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%25252FIsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FAh2FYzHTLzqz7nPsda0poqOfEdN6BpRzR5XGiLnZW3c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170603338%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3Dyx1o17QzmpCQFyVTI%252FRkC2M6JBm7WumzEwrlhONt4NA%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">country information page&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;for additional information on travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza.

Visit the CDC page for the latest&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Fwwwnc.cdc.gov%25252Ftravel%25252Fdestinations%25252Ftraveler%25252Fnone%25252Fisrael%25253Fs_cid%253Dncezid-dgmq-travel-single-001%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FZkzxZMKzbhGrklHD4F4l6vPBvgKxOnBxzqtS8v-moDQ%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170615806%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DVCXcsKAmRUhojPQaQuN8wkY3Bnn4mor3Saxy93WPsBw%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel Health Information&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza:

Israel – Reconsider Travel (see below for additional information regarding areas near the Lebanese and Syrian borders)

Reconsider travel due to&nbsp;terrorism, and civil unrest.

The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning.

U.S. government employees in Israel under Chief of Mission security responsibility are currently restricted from personal travel to the following locations:

Any official travel of U.S. government personnel within these areas requires approval from the Embassy’s security office.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees under Chief of Mission security responsibility, with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Northern Israel (within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of Lebanese and Syrian borders) – Do Not Travel

The Israeli authorities restrict travel to areas close to the border given the Israeli Defense Forces continued presence and activity. Do not travel to this area for any reason.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel are currently restricted from personal travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders. Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization to travel close to these borders.

The U.S. Embassy strongly recommends that U.S. citizens not travel within 4 kilometers/2.5 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders.

Reconsider Travel due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;civil unrest.

Due to the risks, U.S. government employees working in Israel must obtain special authorization travel to the West Bank. U.S. government employees are currently restricted from all personal travel to the West Bank, except:

Over the past several months, there has been an increase in violence, Israeli military operations, and terrorist attacks. Some incidents have resulted in injury or death of U.S. citizens. During periods of unrest, the Israeli government may restrict access to and within the West Bank, and some areas may be placed under curfew.

Additional travel restrictions may be imposed on U.S. government employees working in Israel with little to no notice due to increased security issues or threats.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FCJHwoe5ddft4nmJGklMrV7rtjlDoAxA1Nr6j7tqZdY0%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170729285%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DGcFf1gW3HyE8LzG%252Bdv%252BDGh1GDvnVnavM0Y0jEzuciz4%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Do not travel for any reason due to&nbsp;terrorism&nbsp;and&nbsp;armed conflict.

The U.S. government is unable to provide routine or emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in Gaza as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there. The security environment within Gaza and on its borders is extremely dangerous and volatile. The pedestrian crossing between Gaza and Israel (Erez Crossing) was damaged on October 7, 2023, and remains closed. The pedestrian crossing between Egypt and Gaza (Rafah Crossing) has been closed since May 7, 2024, and remains closed to the general public.

If a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) desires our assistance and has not already provided their information to the Department of State, please email U.S. Embassy Jerusalem at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:JerusalemACS@state.gov">JerusalemACS@state.gov</a>.

Visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Fpassports%25252Fen%25252Fgo%25252FTraveltoHighRiskAreas.html%252F2%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FKoAb07NTRIkz6QptK3rtrEY0e-fcZBXRW82fROpDKOw%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170743530%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DMtGfsOYHxbSdxpMkAsLg9JcAkw418SqIsYbeN5XLYeg%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Travel to High Risk Areas&nbsp;</a>.

Please be sure to visit our website for&nbsp;<a href="https://mcas-proxyweb.mcas-gov.ms/certificate-checker?login=false&amp;originalUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fgcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com.mcas-gov.ms%2F%3Furl%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%252FCL0%252Fhttps%253A%25252F%25252Ftravel.state.gov%25252Fcontent%25252Ftravel%25252Fen%25252Finternational-travel%25252Fbefore-you-go%25252Fcrisis_and_disaster_abroad_be_ready.html%252F1%252F0101019c9e328878-f8614486-ee74-479c-a2d5-30d64660914e-000000%252FmRStECkANzALK9cVshh6K4v_9vZHcVXDimtLlArNw_c%253D446%26data%3D05%257C02%257CAlbelbeisiE%2540state.gov%257Ca5ffb6cc3a7a42802cc708de75dcfdce%257C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%257C0%257C0%257C639077789170756531%257CUnknown%257CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%253D%253D%257C0%257C%257C%257C%26sdata%3DAajaGEH0mjZt2ZoSlRppHpZo%252BKlGDLUjmDpbYQ%252FbutQ%253D%26reserved%3D0%26McasTsid%3D20893&amp;McasCSRF=af70f2d6e5704a15882d352f35afde4c9eb324eb761bcdec8771c8624f62e229" target="_blank">Crisis and Disaster Abroad&nbsp;</a>: Be Ready&nbsp;for information that may be helpful.

U.S. updates travel advisory to Israel amid Iran strike fears

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Hillary Clinton: &quot;I just finished testifying. I answered every one of their questions as fully as I could...I never met Jeffrey Epstein, never had any connection or communication with him...I knew Ghislaine Maxwell casually, as an acquaintance…&quot; <a href="https://t.co/q1An5XIjlN">pic.twitter.com/q1An5XIjlN</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2027159353069916378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Here is my opening statement to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee today. <a href="https://t.co/NZSF2epcI5">pic.twitter.com/NZSF2epcI5</a>&mdash; Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) <a href="https://twitter.com/HillaryClinton/status/2027053057100693779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepRobertGarcia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepRobertGarcia</a> on leaked photo from Hillary Clinton deposition: &quot;That was completely against the rules. We&#39;re grateful the Secretary continued the deposition, but not acceptable.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/R5IW9OtufY">pic.twitter.com/R5IW9OtufY</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2027115397585985852?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Advisors to Hillary Clinton say the House Oversight Committee&#39;s deposition hearing has been paused due an unauthorized photo from the hearing shared on social media: &quot;It came from Benny Johnson, he said Lauren Boebert gave it to him.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/DAOMZmuSkn">pic.twitter.com/DAOMZmuSkn</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2027080264195731639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Can you talk to us about why you sent that picture?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/RepBoebert?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepBoebert</a>: “I just returned to my hotel room and installed the BleachBit software…So, I guess in regards to taking photos, I do not recall.” <a href="https://t.co/A8WctEnaAQ">pic.twitter.com/A8WctEnaAQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2027132240019276138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥What Hillary Clinton told members of Congress about Jeffrey Epstein

CLAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30 p.m. Thursday in Clay County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Kia Optima driven by a 21-year-old Kansas City, Missouri woman was northbound on Interstate 35 near the 435 interchange. The car struck a person who entered the road. The pedestrian, later identified as a 40-year-old Bates City man, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The MSHP no longer releases names of accident victims.

CLAY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 8:30 p.m. Thursday in Clay County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Kia Optima driven by a 21-year-old Kansas City, Missouri woman was northbound on Interstate 35 near the 435 interchange. The car struck a person who entered the road. The pedestrian, later identified as a 40-year-old Bates City man, was pronounced dead at the scene.The MSHP no longer releases names of accident victims.

Man dead after struck by a car near Kansas City

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas city man faces multiple felony charges&nbsp;in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred during an attempted home invasion in 2024.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2814/Perkins-Redacted-Complaint">Sheldon Perkins</a>, 34,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder, 1st Degree Attempted Robbery, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, 1st Degree Burglary, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2815/Perkins-Redacted-PC">According to court records</a>, Kansas City detectives determined Perekins allegedly recruited two other men, including his brother, to help him rob the occupants of a Kansas City residence on August 26, 2024. The three men forced their way into the home, where an altercation ensued with one of the occupants of the residence.&nbsp;

During the struggle, a firearm belonging to one of the intruders became loose. The second occupant of the home picked up the firearm and fired at the men. The gunfire killed one of the intruders and injured the other two, including the defendant, who fled the scene and checked into a nearby hospital.&nbsp;

The occupant who fired the shots called 911 to report the attempted robbery and shooting.

When Kansas City police arrived at the residence, they found one victim outside the home with gunshot wounds to the back. He was transported to a nearby hospital and determined to be paralyzed as a result of the shooting. Inside the residence, officers found a second victim who was deceased.&nbsp;

DNA testing of the firearms recovered at the crime scene found the Perkin’s DNA on two of the firearms.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772120101060.png" alt="Perkins photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Perkins photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas city man faces multiple felony charges&nbsp;in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred during an attempted home invasion in 2024.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2814/Perkins-Redacted-Complaint">Sheldon Perkins</a>, 34,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder, 1st Degree Attempted Robbery, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, 1st Degree Burglary, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2815/Perkins-Redacted-PC">According to court records</a>, Kansas City detectives determined Perekins allegedly recruited two other men, including his brother, to help him rob the occupants of a Kansas City residence on August 26, 2024. The three men forced their way into the home, where an altercation ensued with one of the occupants of the residence.&nbsp;During the struggle, a firearm belonging to one of the intruders became loose. The second occupant of the home picked up the firearm and fired at the men. The gunfire killed one of the intruders and injured the other two, including the defendant, who fled the scene and checked into a nearby hospital.&nbsp;The occupant who fired the shots called 911 to report the attempted robbery and shooting.When Kansas City police arrived at the residence, they found one victim outside the home with gunshot wounds to the back. He was transported to a nearby hospital and determined to be paralyzed as a result of the shooting. Inside the residence, officers found a second victim who was deceased.&nbsp;DNA testing of the firearms recovered at the crime scene found the Perkin’s DNA on two of the firearms.

Suspect was wounded in failed KC home-invasion robbery

WYANDOTTE COUNTY- A man wanted for murder in Denver remains behind bars in Kansas, after a multi-agency traffic stop.

Just after noon, Feb. 20, The FBI and Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department's Special Operations Unit and Violent Crimes Task Force conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a statement from KCK Police.

During the stop, police arrested 20-year-old Yeanbraiker Yriarte-Valera who&nbsp;was a passenger inside the vehicle.

Yriarte-Valera is being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on&nbsp;a first-degree murder charge from Denver and a separate hold from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772105519803.png" alt="Yriarte-Valera photo Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Yriarte-Valera photo Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY- A man wanted for murder in Denver remains behind bars in Kansas, after a multi-agency traffic stop.Just after noon, Feb. 20, The FBI and Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department's Special Operations Unit and Violent Crimes Task Force conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a statement from KCK Police.During the stop, police arrested 20-year-old Yeanbraiker Yriarte-Valera who&nbsp;was a passenger inside the vehicle.Yriarte-Valera is being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on&nbsp;a first-degree murder charge from Denver and a separate hold from Immigration and Customs Enforcement, according to online jail records.

Murder suspect captured in Kansas also wanted by ICE

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA —&nbsp;FIFA World Cup games will go around-the-clock, but under current law the alcoholic drinks in Kansas will stop before the final whistle.&nbsp;

A proposed Senate bill would change that.

Proponents are worried that fans will cross the border to Missouri, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/sports/world-cup/where-kansas-city-area-cities-stand-on-23-hour-alcohol-sales-during-world-cup-in-missouri" target="_blank">already passed</a>&nbsp;legislation to extend liquor sales to 23 hours of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sen. Adam Thomas, a Republican from Olathe with decades of restaurant experience, modeled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb393/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 393</a>&nbsp;after Missouri’s law.&nbsp;

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime deal. The reason this was brought is because as we know, last year Missouri already passed this,” Thomas said. “As we know, KCK is not that far from the state line.”

The bill would authorize bars, restaurants and liquor stores to sell liquor from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m. for the duration of the World Cup, which is predicted to bring&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-disaster-declaration-prepares-state-for-world-cup-visitor-boom/">650,000 visitors</a>&nbsp;this summer. Thomas said the one-hour window is to give restaurant staff time to recoup.&nbsp;

The proposed change is a jump from current&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/abcsaledays.html#:~:text=When%20Can%20Alcoholic%20Liquor%20and%20Cereal%20Malt,more%20restrictive%20hours%20via%20ordinance%20or%20resolution" target="_blank">liquor sale hours</a>. Under current law, liquor stores can generally sell from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. with various restrictions on the weekends, and bars from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.&nbsp;

Kansas will be the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportingkc.com/news/kansas-city-selected-by-four-national-teams-for-base-camps-emerging-as-the-base-camp-capital-of-the-fifa-world-cup-2026tm" target="_blank">home base</a>&nbsp;for two teams: Argentina at Kansas City’s Sporting KC Training Center, and Algeria at Lawrence’s Rock Chalk Park. Missouri will have two teams as well, with England at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri, and the Netherlands at Riverside’s KC Current Training Facility.&nbsp;

Janez Lomshek, who owns bars and grills in Johnson County, testified on behalf of the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association. Lomshek said he already has invested tens of thousands of dollars in renovations in anticipation.&nbsp;

“Our current alcohol sales hour restrictions risk preventing us from fully accommodating this international moment,” Lomshek said in his written testimony. “A meaningful share of visitor spending — especially during late-night or early morning games due to global scheduling — could easily cross State Line Road into Missouri.”

“With a full one-third of Kansas alcohol licensees located within 10 miles of the Missouri border, and about 26.4% in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties alone (including businesses like mine), this cross-border diversion represents a real threat to local revenue,” he added.

Sen. Ron Ryckman, R-Meade, said he is apprehensive about changing the drinking hours for the whole state, including his southwest Kansas district — far away from the World Cup action.

“I’m not excited about people in southwest Kansas drinking till 3 or 4 o’clock in the morning,” Ryckman said. “We know the problem that alcohol causes there, and I know you do too.”

Thomas said the bill wouldn’t force businesses to be open late, just give them the option.&nbsp;

“We’re not mandating that anybody do this,” Thomas said. “ We’re simply opening the door for folks, that right now instead of staying open till 2 a.m., have that couple of extra hours to sell.”

There was no neutral or opposition testimony for the bill, but Sen. Kenny Titus, R-Manhattan, brought up the security needs associated with late-night and early-morning drinking. Lomshek said his bars and grills would have extra staff on board, and their kitchens would stay open later.

Sen. Stephen Owens, a Republican from Hesston, asked Thomas a joking question: “Nothing good happens after midnight. What good is going to happen after midnight here?”

“We’re already open till 2 right now,” Thomas replied. “So I would argue if nothing good happens after midnight the difference between 2 and 5 is — not much is going to change.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772132095539.png" alt="Sen. Adam Thomas, R-Olathe, has introduced a bill extending Kansas drinking hours during the World Cup tournament. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Adam Thomas, R-Olathe, has introduced a bill extending Kansas drinking hours during the World Cup tournament. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA —&nbsp;FIFA World Cup games will go around-the-clock, but under current law the alcoholic drinks in Kansas will stop before the final whistle.&nbsp;A proposed Senate bill would change that.Proponents are worried that fans will cross the border to Missouri, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/sports/world-cup/where-kansas-city-area-cities-stand-on-23-hour-alcohol-sales-during-world-cup-in-missouri" target="_blank">already passed</a>&nbsp;legislation to extend liquor sales to 23 hours of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sen. Adam Thomas, a Republican from Olathe with decades of restaurant experience, modeled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb393/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 393</a>&nbsp;after Missouri’s law.&nbsp;“This is a once-in-a-lifetime deal. The reason this was brought is because as we know, last year Missouri already passed this,” Thomas said. “As we know, KCK is not that far from the state line.”The bill would authorize bars, restaurants and liquor stores to sell liquor from 6 a.m. to 5 a.m. for the duration of the World Cup, which is predicted to bring&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-disaster-declaration-prepares-state-for-world-cup-visitor-boom/">650,000 visitors</a>&nbsp;this summer. Thomas said the one-hour window is to give restaurant staff time to recoup.&nbsp;The proposed change is a jump from current&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksrevenue.gov/abcsaledays.html#:~:text=When%20Can%20Alcoholic%20Liquor%20and%20Cereal%20Malt,more%20restrictive%20hours%20via%20ordinance%20or%20resolution" target="_blank">liquor sale hours</a>. Under current law, liquor stores can generally sell from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. with various restrictions on the weekends, and bars from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m.&nbsp;Kansas will be the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sportingkc.com/news/kansas-city-selected-by-four-national-teams-for-base-camps-emerging-as-the-base-camp-capital-of-the-fifa-world-cup-2026tm" target="_blank">home base</a>&nbsp;for two teams: Argentina at Kansas City’s Sporting KC Training Center, and Algeria at Lawrence’s Rock Chalk Park. Missouri will have two teams as well, with England at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City, Missouri, and the Netherlands at Riverside’s KC Current Training Facility.&nbsp;Janez Lomshek, who owns bars and grills in Johnson County, testified on behalf of the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association. Lomshek said he already has invested tens of thousands of dollars in renovations in anticipation.&nbsp;“Our current alcohol sales hour restrictions risk preventing us from fully accommodating this international moment,” Lomshek said in his written testimony. “A meaningful share of visitor spending — especially during late-night or early morning games due to global scheduling — could easily cross State Line Road into Missouri.”“With a full one-third of Kansas alcohol licensees located within 10 miles of the Missouri border, and about 26.4% in Wyandotte and Johnson Counties alone (including businesses like mine), this cross-border diversion represents a real threat to local revenue,” he added.Sen. Ron Ryckman, R-Meade, said he is apprehensive about changing the drinking hours for the whole state, including his southwest Kansas district — far away from the World Cup action.“I’m not excited about people in southwest Kansas drinking till 3 or 4 o’clock in the morning,” Ryckman said. “We know the problem that alcohol causes there, and I know you do too.”Thomas said the bill wouldn’t force businesses to be open late, just give them the option.&nbsp;“We’re not mandating that anybody do this,” Thomas said. “ We’re simply opening the door for folks, that right now instead of staying open till 2 a.m., have that couple of extra hours to sell.”There was no neutral or opposition testimony for the bill, but Sen. Kenny Titus, R-Manhattan, brought up the security needs associated with late-night and early-morning drinking. Lomshek said his bars and grills would have extra staff on board, and their kitchens would stay open later.Sen. Stephen Owens, a Republican from Hesston, asked Thomas a joking question: “Nothing good happens after midnight. What good is going to happen after midnight here?”“We’re already open till 2 right now,” Thomas replied. “So I would argue if nothing good happens after midnight the difference between 2 and 5 is — not much is going to change.”

Senate bill would uncork round-the-clock drinking in Kansas during FIFA World Cup

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran– a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – today applauded the removal of the lesser prairie-chicken from the&nbsp;Endangered Species Act&nbsp;(ESA) list by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), following a ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas:

“The removal of the lesser prairie‑chicken from the endangered and threatened species list is a major win for Kansas farmers, ranchers and rural communities. For years, Kansas producers have worked to protect the bird’s habitat through voluntary, locally‑driven conservation efforts, but the listing’s burdensome federal regulations put severe strain on many Kansas industries.&nbsp;I have worked to oppose the listing of the lesser prairie-chicken for more than a decade, and I applaud today’s decision to remove the listing and continue to support local efforts to promote voluntary solutions that will protect the bird’s habitat without placing unnecessary burdens on our agricultural community.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681935383708.jpeg" alt="Photo by Cristina Janney" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Cristina Janney</figcaption>
 </figure>Office of Senator Jerry MoranWASHINGTON&nbsp;– Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran– a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry – today applauded the removal of the lesser prairie-chicken from the&nbsp;Endangered Species Act&nbsp;(ESA) list by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), following a ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas:“The removal of the lesser prairie‑chicken from the endangered and threatened species list is a major win for Kansas farmers, ranchers and rural communities. For years, Kansas producers have worked to protect the bird’s habitat through voluntary, locally‑driven conservation efforts, but the listing’s burdensome federal regulations put severe strain on many Kansas industries.&nbsp;I have worked to oppose the listing of the lesser prairie-chicken for more than a decade, and I applaud today’s decision to remove the listing and continue to support local efforts to promote voluntary solutions that will protect the bird’s habitat without placing unnecessary burdens on our agricultural community.”

Kan. U.S. Senator applauds removal of prairie-chicken from ESA list

A 44-year-old Columbia, Missouri, man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a multi-state crime spree involving drug trafficking and firearm possession, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Walter Antwine Moore received his 180-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Greg Kays following guilty pleas to drug distribution and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

The legal proceedings consolidated crimes committed across three different jurisdictions between late 2022 and early 2023.

The earliest incident occurred on December 6, 2022, at a casino in Quapaw, Oklahoma. After losing over $1,000 at a blackjack table, Moore became belligerent toward a dealer and made threats involving "yellow police tape and sirens." When Quapaw Marshals attempted a pat-down, Moore reached into his jacket and tried to flee. During a struggle with deputies, a baggie in Moore’s possession burst, scattering 913 blue fentanyl pills across the floor.

A month later, on January 7, 2023, police in St. Joseph, Missouri, responded to a convenience store report of a man stealing potato chips and attempting to sell drugs. Upon searching Moore’s vehicle, officers discovered:

The final confrontation took place on February 10, 2023, at a train station in Kansas City, Missouri. When interdiction detectives questioned Moore upon his arrival, he became confrontational and attempted to run. After being tackled by tactical officers, investigators recovered a cellophane-wrapped bundle nearby containing approximately 2,300 fentanyl pills.

The case was a collaborative effort between the Western District of Missouri and the Northern District of Oklahoma. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the DEA, ATF, the Quapaw Nation Marshals Service, and various regional drug task forces. Moore was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trey Alford and Adam McConney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762464553171.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By RYAN SKAITHA 44-year-old Columbia, Missouri, man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a multi-state crime spree involving drug trafficking and firearm possession, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.Walter Antwine Moore received his 180-month sentence from U.S. District Judge Greg Kays following guilty pleas to drug distribution and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.The legal proceedings consolidated crimes committed across three different jurisdictions between late 2022 and early 2023.The earliest incident occurred on December 6, 2022, at a casino in Quapaw, Oklahoma. After losing over $1,000 at a blackjack table, Moore became belligerent toward a dealer and made threats involving "yellow police tape and sirens." When Quapaw Marshals attempted a pat-down, Moore reached into his jacket and tried to flee. During a struggle with deputies, a baggie in Moore’s possession burst, scattering 913 blue fentanyl pills across the floor.A month later, on January 7, 2023, police in St. Joseph, Missouri, responded to a convenience store report of a man stealing potato chips and attempting to sell drugs. Upon searching Moore’s vehicle, officers discovered:<ul>
 <li>284.8 grams of methamphetamine.</li><li>A loaded Glock .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun.</li><li>Numerous clear plastic baggies used for distribution.</li>
 </ul>The final confrontation took place on February 10, 2023, at a train station in Kansas City, Missouri. When interdiction detectives questioned Moore upon his arrival, he became confrontational and attempted to run. After being tackled by tactical officers, investigators recovered a cellophane-wrapped bundle nearby containing approximately 2,300 fentanyl pills.The case was a collaborative effort between the Western District of Missouri and the Northern District of Oklahoma. The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the DEA, ATF, the Quapaw Nation Marshals Service, and various regional drug task forces. Moore was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Trey Alford and Adam McConney.

Columbia man gets 15 years after St. Joe, Kansas City, Oklahoma drug busts

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged with murder for the fatal shooting of a teenage girl late last year in Independence, Missouri.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2813/Phillips-COMP">Eric R. Phillips II</a>, 28,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and Abandonment of a Corpse, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2812/PhillipsEric---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police received a call on November 28, 2025, reporting that an 18-year-old victim had been shot multiple times in a vehicle at a location in Independence earlier that morning. Detectives began using investigative leads to locate the vehicle.&nbsp;

Due to the circumstances, the victim was entered as a missing person in Independence.&nbsp;

Through multiple witness reports and surveillance footage, detectives identified Phillips as the shooter. Detectives determined he shot the victim multiple times while she was in the back of his vehicle in the early morning hours of Nov. 28.&nbsp; Ring camera footage captured the sound of gunshots coming from the location of his vehicle where it had been reported the shooting had occurred, and Phillips was seen in video footage multiple times carrying a firearm.&nbsp;

On November 29, police found the victim deceased in Kansas City. Phillips' cell phone pinged in the area where the victim’s body was located.

A Jackson County judge set Phillips’s bond at $350,000 cash only.&nbsp;

Prosecutors charged the defendant on December 3, 2025, under seal. The case has been unsealed this week.

Phillips is not yet in custody and law enforcement are working to locate him. If you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact police or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers over the phone: 816-474-8477 or online at kccrimestoppers.com.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged with murder for the fatal shooting of a teenage girl late last year in Independence, Missouri.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2813/Phillips-COMP">Eric R. Phillips II</a>, 28,&nbsp;faces 1st Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and Abandonment of a Corpse, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772119544094.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2812/PhillipsEric---PC-Statement_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police received a call on November 28, 2025, reporting that an 18-year-old victim had been shot multiple times in a vehicle at a location in Independence earlier that morning. Detectives began using investigative leads to locate the vehicle.&nbsp;Due to the circumstances, the victim was entered as a missing person in Independence.&nbsp;Through multiple witness reports and surveillance footage, detectives identified Phillips as the shooter. Detectives determined he shot the victim multiple times while she was in the back of his vehicle in the early morning hours of Nov. 28.&nbsp; Ring camera footage captured the sound of gunshots coming from the location of his vehicle where it had been reported the shooting had occurred, and Phillips was seen in video footage multiple times carrying a firearm.&nbsp;On November 29, police found the victim deceased in Kansas City. Phillips' cell phone pinged in the area where the victim’s body was located.A Jackson County judge set Phillips’s bond at $350,000 cash only.&nbsp;Prosecutors charged the defendant on December 3, 2025, under seal. The case has been unsealed this week.Phillips is not yet in custody and law enforcement are working to locate him. If you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact police or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers over the phone: 816-474-8477 or online at kccrimestoppers.com.&nbsp;

Wanted suspect charged in fatal shooting of Kansas City girl

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>: &quot;Far too many people have gotten rich by taking what is best of the American spirit and getting rich off of it instead of providing services to kids who need it. That is stopping today.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh">https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh</a> <a href="https://t.co/LXJQzhrN0Z">pic.twitter.com/LXJQzhrN0Z</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026779392609825065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrOzCMS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrOzCMS</a>: &quot;I&#39;m proud to announce the largest anti-fraud effort of its kind in CMS history... We&#39;re not going to let fraudsters steal it from you.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh">https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh</a> <a href="https://t.co/jtAOpFKEDf">pic.twitter.com/jtAOpFKEDf</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026780012490154251?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>: &quot;What we want to see from the Governor of Minnesota, from the entire administration there in Minnesota, is some affirmative steps to make sure that the people who are billing us for Medicaid services, are actually providing those Medicaid services.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sId7NY8H0e">pic.twitter.com/sId7NY8H0e</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026783283938275471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrOzCMS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrOzCMS</a>: &quot;If Minnesota fails to clean up the systems, the state will rack up $1 billion of deferred payments this year. <a href="https://twitter.com/GovTimWalz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovTimWalz</a> has 60 days to respond... We have more announcements of other states coming soon.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh">https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh</a> <a href="https://t.co/nw18bsv64z">pic.twitter.com/nw18bsv64z</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026781835179565155?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>: &quot;The problem is not going after the fraud, the problem is the fact that these programs are being defrauded to begin with. They WILL NOT EXIST. Our social safety net with disappear unless we take fraud more seriously.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh">https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh</a> <a href="https://t.co/PpMASU5vYs">pic.twitter.com/PpMASU5vYs</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026784685171339363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrOzCMS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrOzCMS</a> details just a fraction of the fraud in Minnesota: One scheme involved criminals paying moms $1,000 to enroll their children — falsely — as autistic, then billed Medicaid millions of dollars for services that were never rendered. <a href="https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh">https://t.co/AjAoc9osmh</a> <a href="https://t.co/7AKMGSKwPj">pic.twitter.com/7AKMGSKwPj</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2026781360266830026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

VP: Largest anti-fraud effort of its kind in Medicaid history

SHAWNE COUNTY—A family pet died in a house fire on Wednesday in Topeka.

Just after 4:30p.m., crews&nbsp;responded to a two-story house fire at 420 SW Woodlawn Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.

Fire crews encountered heavy smoke coming from the first floor of the residence and initiated an interior fire attack and successfully extinguished the fire.

Fire crews conducted a systematic search of the structure and safely removed two dogs and one cat. Life-saving efforts, including CPR, were administered to one of the dogs, but despite those efforts, the dog did not survive. No occupants were home at the time of the fire.

The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature:&nbsp;&nbsp;Smoke detectors were found in the home.

SHAWNE COUNTY—A family pet died in a house fire on Wednesday in Topeka.Just after 4:30p.m., crews&nbsp;responded to a two-story house fire at 420 SW Woodlawn Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.Fire crews encountered heavy smoke coming from the first floor of the residence and initiated an interior fire attack and successfully extinguished the fire.Fire crews conducted a systematic search of the structure and safely removed two dogs and one cat. Life-saving efforts, including CPR, were administered to one of the dogs, but despite those efforts, the dog did not survive. No occupants were home at the time of the fire.The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature:&nbsp;&nbsp;Smoke detectors were found in the home.

Family pet dies after fire at Kansas home

BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase involving a stolen car.

Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, a sheriff's deputy running radar observed a Kia passenger car traveling over 90 miles per hour, west bound on US 54 in the area of Santa Fe Lake Road according to Butler County Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff.

The deputy was able to get behind the Kia at the stop light located at Santa Fe Lake Road. The deputy attempted to stop the Kia west of the intersection but the vehicle fled westbound reaching speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour. 

As the pursuit entered Andover, the driver of the Kia ran the red lights on US 54 at both Yorktown and Andover Road. The deputy terminated the pursuit. 

A short time later, the deputy was notified of a crash at the intersection of US 54 and 143rd St. East and responded to the scene. It was found that the Kia was involved in the crash and the driver had fled the scene on foot after side-swiping one vehicle and striking another. 

The occupant of the struck vehicle was transported to a local Wichita hospital with minor injuries. Through investigation it was determined that the Kia had been stolen in El Dorado but had not yet been reported. 

Through the use of a Wichita Police Department drone, a Butler County K9 team, and quick collaboration with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol Air Section, and the Andover Police Department the suspect was located north and west of the crash scene hiding in the trees. 

He has been identified as Levi H. Nash, 30, of rural El Dorado. He has been booked into the Butler County Jail on requested charges of Felony Fleeing and Eluding, Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, Reckless Aggravated Battery, Felony Theft, Reckless Driving, and other traffic related charges. Nash is also confirmed to have extraditable felony warrants from another jurisdiction, according to Cundiff.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772044436414.png" alt="Nash photo Butler County" />
 <figcaption>Nash photo Butler County</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase involving a stolen car.Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, a sheriff's deputy running radar observed a Kia passenger car traveling over 90 miles per hour, west bound on US 54 in the area of Santa Fe Lake Road according to Butler County Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff.The deputy was able to get behind the Kia at the stop light located at Santa Fe Lake Road. The deputy attempted to stop the Kia west of the intersection but the vehicle fled westbound reaching speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour. As the pursuit entered Andover, the driver of the Kia ran the red lights on US 54 at both Yorktown and Andover Road. The deputy terminated the pursuit. A short time later, the deputy was notified of a crash at the intersection of US 54 and 143rd St. East and responded to the scene. It was found that the Kia was involved in the crash and the driver had fled the scene on foot after side-swiping one vehicle and striking another. The occupant of the struck vehicle was transported to a local Wichita hospital with minor injuries. Through investigation it was determined that the Kia had been stolen in El Dorado but had not yet been reported. Through the use of a Wichita Police Department drone, a Butler County K9 team, and quick collaboration with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol Air Section, and the Andover Police Department the suspect was located north and west of the crash scene hiding in the trees. He has been identified as Levi H. Nash, 30, of rural El Dorado. He has been booked into the Butler County Jail on requested charges of Felony Fleeing and Eluding, Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, Reckless Aggravated Battery, Felony Theft, Reckless Driving, and other traffic related charges. Nash is also confirmed to have extraditable felony warrants from another jurisdiction, according to Cundiff.

Kan. stolen car suspect found hiding in trees after a crash

MARION COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Marion County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Michael T. Walsh, 75, Lost Springs, was westbound on 340th just east of Sunflower Road approximately 3 miles west of Lost Springs.

The driver fell asleep. The pickup traveled eastbound in the westbound lane. A westbound USD 387 school bus driven by James L. Beeson, 79, Paola, with seven students on board stopped. The pickup struck the school bus head-on.

EMS transported Walsh to St. Luke Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Beeson was not injured. One student possibly had an injury but was not transported to the hospital, according to the KHP.

MARION COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday in Marion County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Dodge Ram driven by Michael T. Walsh, 75, Lost Springs, was westbound on 340th just east of Sunflower Road approximately 3 miles west of Lost Springs.The driver fell asleep. The pickup traveled eastbound in the westbound lane. A westbound USD 387 school bus driven by James L. Beeson, 79, Paola, with seven students on board stopped. The pickup struck the school bus head-on.EMS transported Walsh to St. Luke Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Beeson was not injured. One student possibly had an injury but was not transported to the hospital, according to the KHP.

Kansas man hospitalized after head-on crash with a school bus

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a home invasion knife attack have made an arrest.

Just after 3:00 am Tuesday, a 28-year old woman arrived at Salina Regional Health Center with stab wounds on her leg, according to Saline Police Captain James Feldman.

The victim was at her home in north Salina when a known associate forced her way into the residence through a door and stabbed her multiple times. At the time, police did not release the name of the suspect.

Just after 10a.m. Tuesday at around 10 am, officers arrested the suspect identified as 42-year old, Alesha Martinez-Reavis. She is being held in the Saline County Jail on&nbsp;requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Threat, Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness, Battery and Criminal Damage to Property.

&nbsp;Martinez-Reavis was accused of Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness because she reportedly threatened to kill the victim if she called police, according to Feldman.

The victim has been treated and was released Tuesday morning from the hospital.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772057669649.png" alt="Reavis photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Reavis photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a home invasion knife attack have made an arrest.Just after 3:00 am Tuesday, a 28-year old woman arrived at Salina Regional Health Center with stab wounds on her leg, according to Saline Police Captain James Feldman.The victim was at her home in north Salina when a known associate forced her way into the residence through a door and stabbed her multiple times. At the time, police did not release the name of the suspect.Just after 10a.m. Tuesday at around 10 am, officers arrested the suspect identified as 42-year old, Alesha Martinez-Reavis. She is being held in the Saline County Jail on&nbsp;requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Threat, Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness, Battery and Criminal Damage to Property.&nbsp;Martinez-Reavis was accused of Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness because she reportedly threatened to kill the victim if she called police, according to Feldman.The victim has been treated and was released Tuesday morning from the hospital.

Kansas woman accused of home-invasion knife attack

&nbsp;On&nbsp;Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall introduced&nbsp;Dr. Casey Means at her confirmation hearing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772039816667.png" alt="Dr. Casey Means and Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, MD" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Casey Means and Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, MD</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;On&nbsp;Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall introduced&nbsp;Dr. Casey Means at her confirmation hearing.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9yAhR8jeFGg?si=_LQGmGejRSLZCRau&amp;start=7" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenBillCassidy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenBillCassidy</a> presses Surgeon General nominee Dr. Casey Means to explain childhood vaccine views: &quot;I&#39;m not sure I know what you&#39;re advocating for, which of course gives pause.&quot; Means: &quot;I am very supportive of what&#39;s been laid out by this administration, in terms of vaccines.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/lOI3SLa2lX">pic.twitter.com/lOI3SLa2lX</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2026726295384592777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorCollins?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorCollins</a> to Surgeon General nominee Dr. Casey Means: &quot;In your book…you urge readers to consider psilocybin-assisted therapy…Do you stand by what you said?&quot; Means: &quot;The science is still emerging…There is exciting work being done in this area that needs to continue.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/1XyebRxSyV">pic.twitter.com/1XyebRxSyV</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2026719454407668125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenTimKaine?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenTimKaine</a> to Surgeon General nominee Dr. Casey Means: &quot;Do you believe that there is evidence that the flu vaccine prevents serious disease and…deaths in children?&quot; Means: &quot;I believe all patients should talk to their doctors—&quot; Kaine: &quot;That&#39;s not what I&#39;m asking.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dj0RhA5CIw">pic.twitter.com/dj0RhA5CIw</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2026754211501817896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Surgeon general nominee questioned about vaccines, birth control

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has arrested a Manhattan man connected to his role in an officer-involved shooting that occurred Jan. 3, in Manhattan, Kansas, according to a media release from the KBI.

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, at around 4 p.m., KBI agents and officers from the KU Medical Center Department of Public Safety arrested Brian J. Lovgren, 38, on a warrant for two counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Lovgren was booked into the Wyandotte County Detention Center after being released from KU Medical Center, where he was being treated for his injuries.&nbsp;

On Jan. 3, at approximately 3:50 p.m., the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office requested KBI assistance. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to investigate.

Preliminary information indicates that shortly after 3 p.m., two deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a homeowner who indicated their shed and garage had been damaged by gunfire. While taking the report, deputies heard gunshots in the area. As they approached 8655 Josie Lane, they heard additional gunshots which they believed were coming from the residence. They identified themselves as law enforcement and began giving various commands to the shooter.

A man, later identified as Brian J. Lovgren, 38, of Manhattan, came out of a door of the house armed with a handgun. One of the responding deputies fired multiple times, striking Lovgren. Life-saving measures were provided at the scene. EMS then transported Lovgren to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;

The Pottawatomie County Attorney is expected to prosecute the case.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772064204174.png" alt="Lovgren-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Lovgren-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has arrested a Manhattan man connected to his role in an officer-involved shooting that occurred Jan. 3, in Manhattan, Kansas, according to a media release from the KBI.On Wednesday, Feb. 25, at around 4 p.m., KBI agents and officers from the KU Medical Center Department of Public Safety arrested Brian J. Lovgren, 38, on a warrant for two counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Lovgren was booked into the Wyandotte County Detention Center after being released from KU Medical Center, where he was being treated for his injuries.&nbsp;On Jan. 3, at approximately 3:50 p.m., the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office requested KBI assistance. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to investigate.Preliminary information indicates that shortly after 3 p.m., two deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a homeowner who indicated their shed and garage had been damaged by gunfire. While taking the report, deputies heard gunshots in the area. As they approached 8655 Josie Lane, they heard additional gunshots which they believed were coming from the residence. They identified themselves as law enforcement and began giving various commands to the shooter.A man, later identified as Brian J. Lovgren, 38, of Manhattan, came out of a door of the house armed with a handgun. One of the responding deputies fired multiple times, striking Lovgren. Life-saving measures were provided at the scene. EMS then transported Lovgren to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;The Pottawatomie County Attorney is expected to prosecute the case.&nbsp;

Suspect in Kan. officer shooting moved from from hospital to jail

SALINE COUNTY—A small earthquake shook central Kansas on Wednesday afternoon.

Just after 2p.m., a 3.5 magnitude quake was centered approximately 3 miles east of Assaria in Saline County, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

There are no reports of damage, according to the Saline County Sheriff's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772057839732.png" alt="Wednesday afternoon earthquake USGS image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday afternoon earthquake USGS image</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—A small earthquake shook central Kansas on Wednesday afternoon.Just after 2p.m., a 3.5 magnitude quake was centered approximately 3 miles east of Assaria in Saline County, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.There are no reports of damage, according to the Saline County Sheriff's office.

Small earthquake shakes central Kansas

BARTON COUNTY —A Kansas school resource officer continues to receive recognition for his courage.

On social media Wednesday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote, " Congratulations to SRO Paul Millard of the Great Bend Police Department, named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Wichita Metro Crime Commission."

"While off duty, he heard gunshots and acted immediately to stop the threat until Wichita Police arrived."&nbsp; 

"Thank you, Officer Millard, for your bravery and dedication to protecting Kansans."

Around 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 8, Millard and his wife were leaving Towne East Mall after a day of shopping when they heard gunshots in the parking lot. Taking immediate action, Millard rushed over to the scene, restrained a suspect and stopped the threat until the Wichita Police arrived.

With 27 years of service at the Great Bend Police Department, Millard has spent the past decade as the SRO for the USD 428 School System. He also leads the department’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program and has been member of the bike patrol unit and SWAT team, as well as a supervisor throughout his extensive career.

&nbsp;Millard also received national recognition as SRO of the Month by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) in August.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754967933271.jpeg" alt="School Resource officer Paul Millard -photo by Mike Courson Great Bend Post" />
 <figcaption>School Resource officer Paul Millard -photo by Mike Courson Great Bend Post</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —A Kansas school resource officer continues to receive recognition for his courage.On social media Wednesday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote, " Congratulations to SRO Paul Millard of the Great Bend Police Department, named Law Enforcement Officer of the Year by the Wichita Metro Crime Commission.""While off duty, he heard gunshots and acted immediately to stop the threat until Wichita Police arrived."&nbsp; "Thank you, Officer Millard, for your bravery and dedication to protecting Kansans."Around 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 8, Millard and his wife were leaving Towne East Mall after a day of shopping when they heard gunshots in the parking lot. Taking immediate action, Millard rushed over to the scene, restrained a suspect and stopped the threat until the Wichita Police arrived.With 27 years of service at the Great Bend Police Department, Millard has spent the past decade as the SRO for the USD 428 School System. He also leads the department’s Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program and has been member of the bike patrol unit and SWAT team, as well as a supervisor throughout his extensive career.&nbsp;Millard also received national recognition as SRO of the Month by the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) in August.

Another honor for brave Kansas school resource officer 

HICKORY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Hickory County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford Escape driven by a 64-year-old Lee's Summit woman was westbound on U.S. 54 six miles east of Preston. The SUV traveled off the road and struck a tree.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Springfield Mortuary. She was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

HICKORY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Hickory County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ford Escape driven by a 64-year-old Lee's Summit woman was westbound on U.S. 54 six miles east of Preston. The SUV traveled off the road and struck a tree.The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Springfield Mortuary. She was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman killed after SUV strikes a tree

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to sentence former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl to two years in prison in his federal COVID relief fraud case, arguing his admitted misuse of nearly $380,000 in pandemic aid “should merit a significant punishment.”

In a sentencing memorandum filed Monday in U.S. District Court in St. Louis, Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith urged the court to sentence Diehl within the federal guideline range of 21 to 27 months. Prosecutors say that range is appropriate given what they describe as Diehl’s “substantial criminal conduct” involving disaster relief money intended to help businesses and workers during the pandemic.

Diehl, a St. Louis-area attorney and former Republican House speaker, pleaded guilty in September to wire fraud. Federal prosecutors said he admitted defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration out of $379,900 through an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a later loan modification obtained through false representations.

The government’s filing lays out in detail how prosecutors say the money was spent.

According to the memorandum, the first $1,000 in loan proceeds was used to pay Diehl’s personal country club dues and fees. Prosecutors also say he used the funds for personal expenses including payments on a Tesla, Audi and Jeep, mortgage payments, pool maintenance, additional country club charges and cash withdrawals. The filing also says he used about $200,000 of the loan money to fund a defined benefit plan for his law firm in which he was the sole participant.

Prosecutors further allege Diehl used some of the funds to pay off “a civil settlement related to his time as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives.” The memorandum does not specify the nature of that settlement or whether it is connected to the scandal that forced him from office in 2015 which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article20822424.html" target="_blank">involved sending sexually inappropriate text messages to a 19-year-old House intern</a>.&nbsp;

Goldsmith argued that the fraud was especially serious because, in the government’s view, there is no evidence Diehl’s law practice suffered the sort of pandemic-related economic harm the EIDL program was designed to address.

Last month, Diehl&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/21/ex-missouri-house-speaker-john-diehl-seeks-to-avoid-prison-in-covid-loan-fraud-case/">asked the court for a non-custodial sentence</a>, arguing in part that he repaid the money. Prosecutors pushed back on that argument in Monday’s filing, saying repayment should not be treated as an “extraordinary” basis for leniency.

The government said Diehl is a “man of great and substantial means” and argued that his prepayment of restitution is not comparable to cases in which defendants sell assets, cash in savings or take extra work to make victims whole.

Prosecutors also pointed to Diehl’s background in public office, writing that his education and political career underscored that he “knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.” The memorandum notes Diehl’s service in the Missouri House, including as speaker, and references a 2023 Missouri Ethics Commission consent order involving improper campaign spending and a fee of $47,392.

“Through his education and public office,” Goldsmith wrote, “(Diehl) had every privilege and opportunity, and to put it bluntly, he knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684961110116.png" alt="John Diehl during his time in the Missouri House of Representatives (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption>John Diehl during his time in the Missouri House of Representatives (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to sentence former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl to two years in prison in his federal COVID relief fraud case, arguing his admitted misuse of nearly $380,000 in pandemic aid “should merit a significant punishment.”In a sentencing memorandum filed Monday in U.S. District Court in St. Louis, Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith urged the court to sentence Diehl within the federal guideline range of 21 to 27 months. Prosecutors say that range is appropriate given what they describe as Diehl’s “substantial criminal conduct” involving disaster relief money intended to help businesses and workers during the pandemic.Diehl, a St. Louis-area attorney and former Republican House speaker, pleaded guilty in September to wire fraud. Federal prosecutors said he admitted defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration out of $379,900 through an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a later loan modification obtained through false representations.The government’s filing lays out in detail how prosecutors say the money was spent.According to the memorandum, the first $1,000 in loan proceeds was used to pay Diehl’s personal country club dues and fees. Prosecutors also say he used the funds for personal expenses including payments on a Tesla, Audi and Jeep, mortgage payments, pool maintenance, additional country club charges and cash withdrawals. The filing also says he used about $200,000 of the loan money to fund a defined benefit plan for his law firm in which he was the sole participant.Prosecutors further allege Diehl used some of the funds to pay off “a civil settlement related to his time as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives.” The memorandum does not specify the nature of that settlement or whether it is connected to the scandal that forced him from office in 2015 which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article20822424.html" target="_blank">involved sending sexually inappropriate text messages to a 19-year-old House intern</a>.&nbsp;Goldsmith argued that the fraud was especially serious because, in the government’s view, there is no evidence Diehl’s law practice suffered the sort of pandemic-related economic harm the EIDL program was designed to address.Last month, Diehl&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/21/ex-missouri-house-speaker-john-diehl-seeks-to-avoid-prison-in-covid-loan-fraud-case/">asked the court for a non-custodial sentence</a>, arguing in part that he repaid the money. Prosecutors pushed back on that argument in Monday’s filing, saying repayment should not be treated as an “extraordinary” basis for leniency.The government said Diehl is a “man of great and substantial means” and argued that his prepayment of restitution is not comparable to cases in which defendants sell assets, cash in savings or take extra work to make victims whole.Prosecutors also pointed to Diehl’s background in public office, writing that his education and political career underscored that he “knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.” The memorandum notes Diehl’s service in the Missouri House, including as speaker, and references a 2023 Missouri Ethics Commission consent order involving improper campaign spending and a fee of $47,392.“Through his education and public office,” Goldsmith wrote, “(Diehl) had every privilege and opportunity, and to put it bluntly, he knew better than to engage in the charged fraud scheme.”

Federal prosecutors seek prison sentence for former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Tuesday spoke on the Senate floor to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and emphasize the importance of continued support for Ukraine from the United States and its allies as Russia’s ongoing aggression reaches its fifth year.

“Vladimir Putin believed his so-called military operation would be over in two weeks, but as the fifth year of the war begins, Russian forces have fought Ukraine longer than they fought the Germans in World War II,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“Because of the bravery and innovation of the Ukrainians, aided by American and European support, Vladimir Putin’s objective to conquer and control the Ukrainian government remains unobtainable. His war is a strategic failure.”“Ukrainians are coming out of the most difficult winter yet, with temperatures at the most frigid of the war, and the Russian bombing campaigns aimed at energy infrastructure have taken a toll. Instead of being convinced to sue for peace on Putin’s terms, Ukrainians remain unwavering in their commitment to remain an independent and sovereign nation,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.

&nbsp;“We must commit to share in their resolve. I say that again: we must commit to share in their resolve and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”Sen. Moran today joined Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) in introducing a bipartisan Senate resolution to mark the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Full text of the resolution can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/DAV26310.pdf">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772036551568.jpg" alt="Image courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Tuesday spoke on the Senate floor to mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and emphasize the importance of continued support for Ukraine from the United States and its allies as Russia’s ongoing aggression reaches its fifth year.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nDkvoJVlyX0?si=yLhfG29we6ufV5sQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>“Vladimir Putin believed his so-called military operation would be over in two weeks, but as the fifth year of the war begins, Russian forces have fought Ukraine longer than they fought the Germans in World War II,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“Because of the bravery and innovation of the Ukrainians, aided by American and European support, Vladimir Putin’s objective to conquer and control the Ukrainian government remains unobtainable. His war is a strategic failure.”“Ukrainians are coming out of the most difficult winter yet, with temperatures at the most frigid of the war, and the Russian bombing campaigns aimed at energy infrastructure have taken a toll. Instead of being convinced to sue for peace on Putin’s terms, Ukrainians remain unwavering in their commitment to remain an independent and sovereign nation,”&nbsp;continued Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“We must commit to share in their resolve. I say that again: we must commit to share in their resolve and support the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.”Sen. Moran today joined Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) in introducing a bipartisan Senate resolution to mark the four-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Full text of the resolution can be found&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.foreign.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/DAV26310.pdf">here</a>.

🎥Kan. U.S. Senator marks 4th anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine 

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids said ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday she was concerned about his promises of lower costs, stability and support for American families.

“Instead we are seeing the opposite of that,” the Kansas Democrat said during a virtual press conference. “We’re seeing rising grocery bills. We’re seeing tariffs that have forced small businesses to close. We’re seeing cuts to health care that are, frankly, going to devastate families.”

Davids said her State of the Union guest, Nick Levendofsky, will bring Kansas voices to the forefront. Levendofsky,&nbsp; the executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union and secretary of the Minneapolis-based research nonprofit Institute for Agriculture &amp; Trade Policy, has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s tariff policies and advocate for broader protections for Kansas farmers.

Davids said she is hoping for solutions from Trump rather than partisan rhetoric.

“I have to be honest here. I am not necessarily holding my breath for that,” she said.

The State of the Union address follows Friday’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/20/repub/us-supreme-court-rules-against-trumps-tariffs-in-6-3-opinion-dealing-blow-to-trade-agenda/">U.S. Supreme Court decision</a>, which deemed certain tariffs illegal.

Trump’s tariffs have been detrimental to Kansas farmers, according to Levendofsky.

He said farmers across the country have lost tens of billions of dollars because of tariffs, and crop markets have become stressed or entirely lost. When farmers aren’t making money, they aren’t spending money, he said.

“I hate to say it, but we’ve become less reliable when it comes to trade and what we can offer to the world,” Levendofsky said.

He believes that Congress should address tariffs by exerting its checks and balances authority and intervening in the ongoing trade war.

Also top of mind for Davids and Levendofsky while in D.C. this week is a farm bill that will govern agriculture and food issues for the next several years.

Davids wants to see amendments to the bill that end current trade war policy, protect food assistance programs and address adequate staffing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan.

She said she will not support a final product that ignores what Kansans need to stay competitive.

Levendofsky favors updates to the legislation that address climate change issues, attracting new farmers to the profession, supporting underserved farmers, boosting research, promoting rural mental health services and establishing food assistance programs.

“If you eat, you are involved in agriculture,” Levendofsky said.

Kansas is the country’s eighth-largest agriculture producer, exporting more than $7 billion in beef, wheat, soybeans and other grains.

The state lost 700 farms in 2025, according to a USDA study, and 11 Kansas farms filed for Chapter 12 bankruptcy, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.

The White House has promoted Trump’s first year in his second term in office as a major success. In a statement released Tuesday gouging Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who is set to deliver Democrats’ rebuttal following Trump’s address, the White House said, “Americans deserve better than the Radical Left’s vision of higher taxes, weaker borders, and divisive ideology.”

“Tonight, while President Trump highlights the successes of his America First agenda in slashing costs, revitalizing manufacturing, securing our borders, and delivering real relief — Spanberger’s response will only underscore her party’s commitment to the failed lunacy Americans rejected,” the statement said.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said while appearing Monday on Newsmax said Trump has made American families safer, borders more secure, the military more successful and the economy more prosperous. He said record-low murder rates, missions in Iran and Venezuela and lower utility costs are worth celebrating.

Marshall called the U.S. Supreme Court’s tariff decision disappointing. Trump’s tariffs have served as a leverage tool to be used for diplomacy, national security and forceful trade deals, he said. He also said manufacturing jobs have moved back to Kansas from overseas as a result of tariff policy.

“This big ship we call America is now moving in the right direction,” he said, “so there’s lots to celebrate.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1772019756193.png" alt=" U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, and Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union, are set to attend President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address. They appear on a video call with reporters on Feb. 24, 2026, from Washington, D.C. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids video call)" />
 <figcaption> U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, and Nick Levendofsky, executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union, are set to attend President Donald Trump’s 2026 State of the Union address. They appear on a video call with reporters on Feb. 24, 2026, from Washington, D.C. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids video call)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids said ahead of President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday she was concerned about his promises of lower costs, stability and support for American families.“Instead we are seeing the opposite of that,” the Kansas Democrat said during a virtual press conference. “We’re seeing rising grocery bills. We’re seeing tariffs that have forced small businesses to close. We’re seeing cuts to health care that are, frankly, going to devastate families.”Davids said her State of the Union guest, Nick Levendofsky, will bring Kansas voices to the forefront. Levendofsky,&nbsp; the executive director of the Kansas Farmers Union and secretary of the Minneapolis-based research nonprofit Institute for Agriculture &amp; Trade Policy, has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s tariff policies and advocate for broader protections for Kansas farmers.Davids said she is hoping for solutions from Trump rather than partisan rhetoric.“I have to be honest here. I am not necessarily holding my breath for that,” she said.The State of the Union address follows Friday’s&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/02/20/repub/us-supreme-court-rules-against-trumps-tariffs-in-6-3-opinion-dealing-blow-to-trade-agenda/">U.S. Supreme Court decision</a>, which deemed certain tariffs illegal.Trump’s tariffs have been detrimental to Kansas farmers, according to Levendofsky.He said farmers across the country have lost tens of billions of dollars because of tariffs, and crop markets have become stressed or entirely lost. When farmers aren’t making money, they aren’t spending money, he said.“I hate to say it, but we’ve become less reliable when it comes to trade and what we can offer to the world,” Levendofsky said.He believes that Congress should address tariffs by exerting its checks and balances authority and intervening in the ongoing trade war.Also top of mind for Davids and Levendofsky while in D.C. this week is a farm bill that will govern agriculture and food issues for the next several years.Davids wants to see amendments to the bill that end current trade war policy, protect food assistance programs and address adequate staffing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan.She said she will not support a final product that ignores what Kansans need to stay competitive.Levendofsky favors updates to the legislation that address climate change issues, attracting new farmers to the profession, supporting underserved farmers, boosting research, promoting rural mental health services and establishing food assistance programs.“If you eat, you are involved in agriculture,” Levendofsky said.Kansas is the country’s eighth-largest agriculture producer, exporting more than $7 billion in beef, wheat, soybeans and other grains.The state lost 700 farms in 2025, according to a USDA study, and 11 Kansas farms filed for Chapter 12 bankruptcy, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.The White House has promoted Trump’s first year in his second term in office as a major success. In a statement released Tuesday gouging Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger, who is set to deliver Democrats’ rebuttal following Trump’s address, the White House said, “Americans deserve better than the Radical Left’s vision of higher taxes, weaker borders, and divisive ideology.”“Tonight, while President Trump highlights the successes of his America First agenda in slashing costs, revitalizing manufacturing, securing our borders, and delivering real relief — Spanberger’s response will only underscore her party’s commitment to the failed lunacy Americans rejected,” the statement said.U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, said while appearing Monday on Newsmax said Trump has made American families safer, borders more secure, the military more successful and the economy more prosperous. He said record-low murder rates, missions in Iran and Venezuela and lower utility costs are worth celebrating.Marshall called the U.S. Supreme Court’s tariff decision disappointing. Trump’s tariffs have served as a leverage tool to be used for diplomacy, national security and forceful trade deals, he said. He also said manufacturing jobs have moved back to Kansas from overseas as a result of tariff policy.“This big ship we call America is now moving in the right direction,” he said, “so there’s lots to celebrate.”