WASHINGTON (AP) —Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&nbsp;plans to announce a running mate for his independent presidential campaign on March 26 in Oakland, California, his campaign said Tuesday.

The campaign did not say whom Kennedy will pick, but he told The New York Times this week that NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are among the frontrunners.

Kennedy is making an unusually early announcement because of ballot access rules in many states that require independent candidates to name their vice presidential nominees before they can begin the process. Ballot access for independent candidates is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor, with rules varying vastly across states.

Kennedy's father was attorney general for the candidate's uncle, President John F. Kennedy. He began his presidential campaign as a primary challenge to Democratic President Joe Biden but later changed gears to run as an independent. His bid for the presidency, along with his embrace of conspiracy theories and views on vaccines that aren't supported by scientific consensus, have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-kennedy-joe-biden-2024-democrat-super-bowl-e4dee4be456e643be11735c6e4029377">angered</a>&nbsp;many of his famous relatives.

Kennedy is a lawyer and environmental activist who has found a loyal following among people who believe vaccines are harmful. He's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/politics/election-2024-0000018ca126d7a5a79da57ef5030000">energized supporters</a>&nbsp;alienated from the political system and distrustful of the government, corporations and media.

Candidates from outside the Republican and Democratic parties rarely make a splash, if they can make the ballot to begin with. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/whos-running-for-president-2024-f3555069195ad71e466646f826dad779">third-party candidates</a>&nbsp;don’t usually carry a famous last name like Kennedy’s, or his existing network of supporters.

Rodgers, the longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback who now plays for the New York Jets, shares Kennedy’s distrust of vaccine mandates and, like Kennedy, is a fixture on anti-establishment podcasts. Ventura, a former professional wrestler, shocked observers when he won the race for Minnesota governor as an independent candidate in 1998.

WASHINGTON (AP) —<a href="https://apnews.com/politics/election-2024-0000018ca126d7a5a79da57ef5030000">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;is having conversations with vice presidential candidates as he gets closer to announcing his running mate for his independent presidential bid.

Kennedy told The New York Times that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/aaron-rodgers">NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers</a>&nbsp;and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are at the top of his list. Stefanie Spear, a campaign spokesperson, confirmed the Times report and said there are other names on Kennedy's short list.

Kennedy, a scion of one of the nation's most prominent political families, has focused on getting access to the ballot, an expensive and time-consuming process that he has said will require him to collect more than a million signatures in a state-by-state effort.

Many states require independent candidates to name a running mate before they can seek access to the ballot, a factor driving the early push for Kennedy to make a pick. Major party candidates generally don't pick vice presidential nominees until closer to their summer conventions.

Kennedy is a lawyer and environmental activist who has become a leading figure in the movement that rejects the scientific consensus around vaccines. and a vocal critic of the public health establishment.

After originally running as a Democrat, he refocused his efforts around an independent campaign last year, spooking loyalists of both Donald Trump and Joe Biden, who worry he'll pick up supporters who would otherwise back one of the major party candidates.

Rodgers, the longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback who now plays for the New York Jets, shares Kennedy's distrust of vaccine mandates and, like Kennedy, is a fixture on anti-establishment podcasts. Ventura, a former professional wrestler, shocked observers when he won the race for Minnesota governor as an independent candidate in 1998.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696873934428.png" alt="Kennedy is making an unusually early announcement because of ballot access rules in many states that require independent candidates to name their vice presidential nominees before they can begin the process.-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kennedy is making an unusually early announcement because of ballot access rules in many states that require independent candidates to name their vice presidential nominees before they can begin the process.-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&nbsp;plans to announce a running mate for his independent presidential campaign on March 26 in Oakland, California, his campaign said Tuesday.The campaign did not say whom Kennedy will pick, but he told The New York Times this week that NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are among the frontrunners.Kennedy is making an unusually early announcement because of ballot access rules in many states that require independent candidates to name their vice presidential nominees before they can begin the process. Ballot access for independent candidates is an expensive and time-consuming endeavor, with rules varying vastly across states.Kennedy's father was attorney general for the candidate's uncle, President John F. Kennedy. He began his presidential campaign as a primary challenge to Democratic President Joe Biden but later changed gears to run as an independent. His bid for the presidency, along with his embrace of conspiracy theories and views on vaccines that aren't supported by scientific consensus, have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/robert-kennedy-joe-biden-2024-democrat-super-bowl-e4dee4be456e643be11735c6e4029377">angered</a>&nbsp;many of his famous relatives.Kennedy is a lawyer and environmental activist who has found a loyal following among people who believe vaccines are harmful. He's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/politics/election-2024-0000018ca126d7a5a79da57ef5030000">energized supporters</a>&nbsp;alienated from the political system and distrustful of the government, corporations and media.Candidates from outside the Republican and Democratic parties rarely make a splash, if they can make the ballot to begin with. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/whos-running-for-president-2024-f3555069195ad71e466646f826dad779">third-party candidates</a>&nbsp;don’t usually carry a famous last name like Kennedy’s, or his existing network of supporters.Rodgers, the longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback who now plays for the New York Jets, shares Kennedy’s distrust of vaccine mandates and, like Kennedy, is a fixture on anti-establishment podcasts. Ventura, a former professional wrestler, shocked observers when he won the race for Minnesota governor as an independent candidate in 1998.-----------------------WASHINGTON (AP) —<a href="https://apnews.com/politics/election-2024-0000018ca126d7a5a79da57ef5030000">Robert F. Kennedy Jr.</a>&nbsp;is having conversations with vice presidential candidates as he gets closer to announcing his running mate for his independent presidential bid.Kennedy told The New York Times that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/aaron-rodgers">NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers</a>&nbsp;and former Minnesota Gov. Jesse Ventura are at the top of his list. Stefanie Spear, a campaign spokesperson, confirmed the Times report and said there are other names on Kennedy's short list.Kennedy, a scion of one of the nation's most prominent political families, has focused on getting access to the ballot, an expensive and time-consuming process that he has said will require him to collect more than a million signatures in a state-by-state effort.Many states require independent candidates to name a running mate before they can seek access to the ballot, a factor driving the early push for Kennedy to make a pick. Major party candidates generally don't pick vice presidential nominees until closer to their summer conventions.Kennedy is a lawyer and environmental activist who has become a leading figure in the movement that rejects the scientific consensus around vaccines. and a vocal critic of the public health establishment.After originally running as a Democrat, he refocused his efforts around an independent campaign last year, spooking loyalists of both Donald Trump and Joe Biden, who worry he'll pick up supporters who would otherwise back one of the major party candidates.Rodgers, the longtime Green Bay Packers quarterback who now plays for the New York Jets, shares Kennedy's distrust of vaccine mandates and, like Kennedy, is a fixture on anti-establishment podcasts. Ventura, a former professional wrestler, shocked observers when he won the race for Minnesota governor as an independent candidate in 1998.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. forced to name vice presidential running mate early

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after noon Sunday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 in southern Jackson County on a 2000 Chevy S-10 pickup truck, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The driver was suspected of driving without a valid driver’s license. During the course of the vehicle stop, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 indicated the presence of drugs and or narcotics within the vehicle. A search was done and revealed items of drug contraband inside the vehicle.

The driver, David Douglas Friend, 52, of Meriden, Kansas, was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a narcotic, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with no valid license. Friend was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710164560710.png" alt="Friend-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Friend-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after noon Sunday, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 in southern Jackson County on a 2000 Chevy S-10 pickup truck, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The driver was suspected of driving without a valid driver’s license. During the course of the vehicle stop, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Office K-9 indicated the presence of drugs and or narcotics within the vehicle. A search was done and revealed items of drug contraband inside the vehicle.The driver, David Douglas Friend, 52, of Meriden, Kansas, was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; distribution of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a narcotic, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with no valid license. Friend was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Kan. sheriff's K9 found meth man had for sale

By RACHEL MIPRO&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/14/kansas-lawmakers-dig-into-pandemic-relief-spending-report/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA —Kansas House lawmakers advanced a wide-ranging bill Tuesday that includes Republican plans to ban trans children from getting gender-affirming medical care amid outcry from worried parents.&nbsp;

The bill is part of a wave of anti-trans legislation pushed by Republican-dominated legislatures throughout the U.S.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hrc.org/resources/attacks-on-gender-affirming-care-by-state-map">Twenty-two states</a>&nbsp;have similar bans, including Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas and Nebraska.&nbsp;

Several LGBTQ lawmakers urged fellow lawmakers against voting for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb233/">Senate Bill 233</a>. Rep. Brandon Woodard, D-Lenexa, one of the Statehouse’s few gay lawmakers, said he would continue to fight for the state’s LGBTQ residents.&nbsp;

“Nobody is grooming children to be gay or trans,” Woodard said. “…Please, in your rhetoric, remember that trans people are humans as well. Being trans is not an ideology, which has been referenced in this building. Me loving who I am is not a lifestyle. It is who we are.”&nbsp;

SB 233 bans health care professionals from using surgery or puberty blockers to treat children whose gender identity doesn’t match their sex. It would also ban state employees from helping minors to “social transition,” such as using a trans child’s preferred pronouns. The bill gained initial approval on the House floor, with final action on the bill expected tomorrow.&nbsp;

Similar legislation was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, and a veto override attempt failed during the last legislative session, but lawmakers continue to attempt to regulate transgender Kansans’ lives.&nbsp;

The state made news last year when it became the 20th state to pass a transgender student athlete ban into law in April, after lawmakers overrode Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto. The Legislature adopted Senate Bill 180 last year through veto override. That law, which continues to be the subject of litigation, has led to a temporary restraining order blocking Kelly’s administration from making gender marker changes on identity cards and driver’s licenses.

These restrictions go against commonly-accepted medical practices. Gender-affirming care for youths is supported by health care organizations including American Medical Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/2/e2021056082/186992/Gender-Identity-5-Years-After-Social-Transition?autologincheck=redirected%3fnfToken%3d00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000">American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;also released a 2022 study showing that 97.5% of trans-identifying youth still identified as trans years later. An adolescent health study found 98% of young people who start gender-affirming care in adolescence continue care as adults.

Author of the bill Rep. Ron Bryce, a Coffeyville Republican and physician registered in Texas, waved aside gender-affirming care practices to push forward the legislation during Tuesday’s debate.&nbsp;

“No matter what reality says, no matter what their body says, if the child says ‘I’m this,’ the affirmative model says we must change reality to meet what’s in the child’s head,” Bryce said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the initial bill hearings in a House legislative committee, transgender Kansans told legislators multiple times how damaging the legislation could be for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.&nbsp;

Committee chairwoman Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, responded by forcing transgender activists out of the hearing, and later held a surprise&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/07/kansas-democrats-blast-gop-physicians-for-pushing-disinformation-in-debate-on-anti-trans-bill/">committee meeting</a>&nbsp;without giving notice to the public to take action on the bill.

Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Shawnee Democrat and LGBT lawmaker, said banning medical professionals from providing care was unethical. Transgender youth face heightened risk of suicide. The Trevor Project estimated that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth consider suicide every year in the U.S. In a 2023 study, the project found that roughly half of transgender and nonbinary youth surveyed had seriously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/">contemplated suicide</a>.&nbsp;

“For us to say, ‘Well, let’s just wait till they grow out of it.’ Well, you know, let’s just hope they’re still alive, and see if that even happens,” Ruiz said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710359908227.png" alt="Rep. Ron Bryce said gender-affirming care for minors goes against what "reality says." (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Ron Bryce said gender-affirming care for minors goes against what "reality says." (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/14/kansas-lawmakers-dig-into-pandemic-relief-spending-report/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA —Kansas House lawmakers advanced a wide-ranging bill Tuesday that includes Republican plans to ban trans children from getting gender-affirming medical care amid outcry from worried parents.&nbsp;The bill is part of a wave of anti-trans legislation pushed by Republican-dominated legislatures throughout the U.S.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hrc.org/resources/attacks-on-gender-affirming-care-by-state-map">Twenty-two states</a>&nbsp;have similar bans, including Oklahoma, Missouri, Texas and Nebraska.&nbsp;Several LGBTQ lawmakers urged fellow lawmakers against voting for&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb233/">Senate Bill 233</a>. Rep. Brandon Woodard, D-Lenexa, one of the Statehouse’s few gay lawmakers, said he would continue to fight for the state’s LGBTQ residents.&nbsp;“Nobody is grooming children to be gay or trans,” Woodard said. “…Please, in your rhetoric, remember that trans people are humans as well. Being trans is not an ideology, which has been referenced in this building. Me loving who I am is not a lifestyle. It is who we are.”&nbsp;SB 233 bans health care professionals from using surgery or puberty blockers to treat children whose gender identity doesn’t match their sex. It would also ban state employees from helping minors to “social transition,” such as using a trans child’s preferred pronouns. The bill gained initial approval on the House floor, with final action on the bill expected tomorrow.&nbsp;Similar legislation was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly, and a veto override attempt failed during the last legislative session, but lawmakers continue to attempt to regulate transgender Kansans’ lives.&nbsp;The state made news last year when it became the 20th state to pass a transgender student athlete ban into law in April, after lawmakers overrode Gov. Laura Kelly’s veto. The Legislature adopted Senate Bill 180 last year through veto override. That law, which continues to be the subject of litigation, has led to a temporary restraining order blocking Kelly’s administration from making gender marker changes on identity cards and driver’s licenses.These restrictions go against commonly-accepted medical practices. Gender-affirming care for youths is supported by health care organizations including American Medical Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.&nbsp;The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/150/2/e2021056082/186992/Gender-Identity-5-Years-After-Social-Transition?autologincheck=redirected%3fnfToken%3d00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000">American Academy of Pediatrics</a>&nbsp;also released a 2022 study showing that 97.5% of trans-identifying youth still identified as trans years later. An adolescent health study found 98% of young people who start gender-affirming care in adolescence continue care as adults.Author of the bill Rep. Ron Bryce, a Coffeyville Republican and physician registered in Texas, waved aside gender-affirming care practices to push forward the legislation during Tuesday’s debate.&nbsp;“No matter what reality says, no matter what their body says, if the child says ‘I’m this,’ the affirmative model says we must change reality to meet what’s in the child’s head,” Bryce said.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the initial bill hearings in a House legislative committee, transgender Kansans told legislators multiple times how damaging the legislation could be for some of the state’s most vulnerable residents.&nbsp;Committee chairwoman Rep. Brenda Landwehr, R-Wichita, responded by forcing transgender activists out of the hearing, and later held a surprise&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/03/07/kansas-democrats-blast-gop-physicians-for-pushing-disinformation-in-debate-on-anti-trans-bill/">committee meeting</a>&nbsp;without giving notice to the public to take action on the bill.Rep. Susan Ruiz, a Shawnee Democrat and LGBT lawmaker, said banning medical professionals from providing care was unethical. Transgender youth face heightened risk of suicide. The Trevor Project estimated that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ+ youth consider suicide every year in the U.S. In a 2023 study, the project found that roughly half of transgender and nonbinary youth surveyed had seriously&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/resources/article/facts-about-lgbtq-youth-suicide/">contemplated suicide</a>.&nbsp;“For us to say, ‘Well, let’s just wait till they grow out of it.’ Well, you know, let’s just hope they’re still alive, and see if that even happens,” Ruiz said.&nbsp;

Kan. bill banning affirming care for trans kids headed toward fight with governor

KANSAS CITY (AP) —Dollar Tree will close nearly 1,000 stores and swung to a surprise fourth quarter loss as the discount retailer took a related $1.07 billion goodwill impairment charge.

Shares tumbled 15% before the opening bell Wednesday.

Dollar Tree plans to close about 600 Family Dollar stores in the first half of this year and 370 Family Dollar and 30 Dollar Tree stores over the next several years.

Dollar Tree&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a315fcf8a1264ed7bb38ede89611202f">acquired Family Dollar for more than $8 billion</a>&nbsp;almost a decade ago after a bidding war with rival Dollar General, but it has had difficulty absorbing the chain.

“This dramatic cull is the coup de grâce in the rather botched acquisition of the Family Dollar chain, which has caused Dollar Tree nothing but hassle since it was completed back in 2015,” wrote Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData. “Basically, almost ten years on, Dollar Tree is still sifting through the mess it inherited and has not been able to completely turn around,” Saunders said.

Saunders said in an emailed statement that nearly 12% of current Family Dollar stores will be closing over the next three years.

For the three months ended Feb. 3, Dollar Tree lost $1.71 billion, or $7.85 per share. A year earlier the Chesapeake, Virginia, company earned $452.2 million, or $2.04 per share.

Stripping out certain items, earnings were $2.55 per share, which is still short of the per-share earnings of $2.67 expected on Wall Street, according to a survey by Zacks Investment Research.

Revenue climbed to $8.64 billion from $7.72 billion, a bit below Wall Street’s estimate of $8.67 billion.

Dollar Tree has been attracting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">consumers</a>&nbsp;that have been stung by inflation as they seek to cut spending. During the quarter, sales at Dollar Tree stores open at least a year climbed 6.3%, with traffic up 7.1%. While more shoppers were heading to stores, they were closely watching how much they spent, with average ticket down 0.7%.

At Family Dollar, sales at stores open at least a year slipped 1.2%. Traffic edged up 0.7%, but average ticket fell 2%.

For fiscal 2024, Dollar Tree anticipates earnings between $6.70 and $7.30 per share. Revenue is expected in a range of $31 billion to $32 billion.

Analysts polled by FactSet expect full-year earnings of $7.04 on revenue of $31.68 billion.

Dollar Tree expects first-quarter earnings of $1.33 to $1.48 per share on revenue in a range of $7.6 billion to $7.9 billion.

Wall Street anticipates first-quarter earnings of $1.70 on revenue of $7.68 billion.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710339881014.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) —Dollar Tree will close nearly 1,000 stores and swung to a surprise fourth quarter loss as the discount retailer took a related $1.07 billion goodwill impairment charge.Shares tumbled 15% before the opening bell Wednesday.Dollar Tree plans to close about 600 Family Dollar stores in the first half of this year and 370 Family Dollar and 30 Dollar Tree stores over the next several years.Dollar Tree&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/a315fcf8a1264ed7bb38ede89611202f">acquired Family Dollar for more than $8 billion</a>&nbsp;almost a decade ago after a bidding war with rival Dollar General, but it has had difficulty absorbing the chain.“This dramatic cull is the coup de grâce in the rather botched acquisition of the Family Dollar chain, which has caused Dollar Tree nothing but hassle since it was completed back in 2015,” wrote Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData. “Basically, almost ten years on, Dollar Tree is still sifting through the mess it inherited and has not been able to completely turn around,” Saunders said.Saunders said in an emailed statement that nearly 12% of current Family Dollar stores will be closing over the next three years.For the three months ended Feb. 3, Dollar Tree lost $1.71 billion, or $7.85 per share. A year earlier the Chesapeake, Virginia, company earned $452.2 million, or $2.04 per share.Stripping out certain items, earnings were $2.55 per share, which is still short of the per-share earnings of $2.67 expected on Wall Street, according to a survey by Zacks Investment Research.Revenue climbed to $8.64 billion from $7.72 billion, a bit below Wall Street’s estimate of $8.67 billion.Dollar Tree has been attracting&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-consumers-price-gouging-spending-economy-999e81e2f869a0151e2ee6bbb63370af">consumers</a>&nbsp;that have been stung by inflation as they seek to cut spending. During the quarter, sales at Dollar Tree stores open at least a year climbed 6.3%, with traffic up 7.1%. While more shoppers were heading to stores, they were closely watching how much they spent, with average ticket down 0.7%.At Family Dollar, sales at stores open at least a year slipped 1.2%. Traffic edged up 0.7%, but average ticket fell 2%.For fiscal 2024, Dollar Tree anticipates earnings between $6.70 and $7.30 per share. Revenue is expected in a range of $31 billion to $32 billion.Analysts polled by FactSet expect full-year earnings of $7.04 on revenue of $31.68 billion.Dollar Tree expects first-quarter earnings of $1.33 to $1.48 per share on revenue in a range of $7.6 billion to $7.9 billion.Wall Street anticipates first-quarter earnings of $1.70 on revenue of $7.68 billion.

Dollar Tree, Family Dollar to close nearly 1,000 stores

KANSAS CITY — Three Kansas City men have been charged in federal court for illegal firearms trafficking and straw purchases of firearms as a result of the investigation into the mass shooting at Union Station during the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory on Feb. 14, 2024, according the U.S. Department of Justice.

“These cases underscore the importance of enforcing federal firearms laws,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “Stopping straw buyers and preventing illegal firearms trafficking is our first line of defense against gun violence. At least two of the firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station were illegally purchased or trafficked. We work diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals by investigating and prosecuting those who illegally buy and sell dangerous weapons.”

“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act has given ATF additional tools needed to go after straw purchasers and firearms traffickers who flood our streets with weapons that pose a threat to every single person in Kansas City,” said ATF Kansas City Field Division Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “These arrests serve as a notice to those who think they can illegally traffic guns into our communities or straw purchase firearms. The men and women of ATF will never waiver on our commitment to protect the public and to aggressively target firearms traffickers. The proliferation of illegal guns represents a grave danger to the public, but law enforcement is united and strong. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all our law enforcement partners for their diligent work and tireless dedication to our shared public safety mission.”

“While the events of February 14, will forever weigh heavy on our hearts, the effort of our federal partners and KCPD detectives is a testament to their service to Kansas City,” said Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves. “We will continue to hold those responsible for violence in our city accountable.”

One person was killed and more than 20 people were injured in the mass shooting at Union Station. According to court documents, 12 individuals brandished firearms and at least six individuals fired their weapons. The Kansas City, Mo., Police Department recovered several firearms, spent shell casings, and other items of evidentiary value from the scene.

Two Firearms Recovered from Scene of Mass Shooting

Two firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting are cited in two separate federal criminal complaints filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Monday, March 11. Those complaints were unsealed and made public today following the arrests of the defendants.

Fedo Antonia Manning, 22, was charged in a 12-count criminal complaint. Ronnel Dewayne Williams, Jr., 21, and Chaelyn Hendrick Groves, 19, were charged in a four-count federal criminal complaint.

One of the firearms recovered from the scene of the shooting was an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber pistol. The loaded pistol was found along the wall with a backpack next to two AR-15-style firearms and backpacks. Because the pistol was in “fire” position and there were 26 live rounds in the magazine, which is capable of holding 30 rounds, it may have fired several rounds before it was discarded.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, the AM-15 pistol was purchased by Manning from Frontier Justice in Lee’s Summit, Mo., on Aug. 7, 2022. The affidavit alleges that Manning illegally trafficked dozens of firearms, including many Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms.

The second firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting was a Stag Arms 300-caliber pistol. According to an affidavit filed in the second federal criminal complaint, the pistol was purchased by Williams from The Ammo Box during a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023. Williams allegedly purchased the firearm for Groves, who accompanied him to the gun show but was too young to legally purchase the firearm himself.

The federal criminal complaints do not make any allegations that Manning, Williams, or Groves were among the shooters at Union Station on Feb. 14, 2024. Rather, the federal charges involve the illegal straw purchases and trafficking of firearms.

Manning and Williams are alleged to have purchased firearm receivers, or frames, which house the firing mechanism and other internal parts of a firearm. The receiver can be loaded and fired, or built into a complete firearm by adding components that may not be regulated under federal law. By federal definition, a receiver is a firearm and is the only controlled component of a firearm.

Manning, who is not a licensed federal firearms dealer, allegedly purchased dozens of firearms. Fifteen of the firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement officers in the possession of individuals other than Manning, including several individuals who were legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

The firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station is one of seven firearms originally purchased by Manning that have been recovered during investigations of crimes. According to the affidavit, Manning purchased two Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 pistols from Frontier Justice on Aug. 7, 2022. In addition to the firearm recovered at Union Station, the second firearm purchased by Manning that day was later recovered from a stolen vehicle during the investigation of an armed robbery. Firearms also were recovered during investigations into a murder in Columbia, Mo., and the armed robbery of a local convenience store. Three firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement from individuals who were prohibited from legally possessing firearms.

Manning also allegedly was the straw purchaser of seven firearms that were later sold to a confidential informant during a separate federal criminal investigation. The confidential informant, who was known to be a felon and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms, purchased a total of 27 firearms from two of Manning’s family members and their co-conspirators, who have been indicted in a separate federal case. In addition to those seven firearms, says the affidavit, federal investigators traced Manning’s purchase of 40 firearms over a nine-month period, including 33 Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms, all of which were purchased as receivers.

The federal criminal complaint charges Manning with one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and 10 counts of making a false statement on a federal form. In each of these 10 purchases, Manning represented that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, but in fact these firearms were transferred to other persons shortly after he purchased them.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The federal criminal complaint charges Williams and Groves together in one count of conspiracy to make false statements in the acquisition of firearms and in one count of aiding and abetting making false statements in the acquisition of firearms. Williams and Groves are each charged separately in one count each of making a false statement to a federal agent.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Williams and Groves attended a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023, looking for receivers to buy. Groves, who was under the age of 21 and therefore too young to legally purchase a firearm receiver, allegedly gave money to Williams. Williams allegedly purchased the Stag Arms receiver for Groves.

Groves told investigators he purchased a 300-blackout upper to complete the firearm at another gun show about a month later. Groves also claimed the Stag Arms firearm was stolen during a “shootout.” Rather than report the firearm stolen, Groves said he just went to a gun show with a different friend who bought him another one. Groves showed investigators a video on his cell phone that included the firearm. According to the affidavit, the cell phone video showed an AR pistol lying on a flat surface, then panned out to show five other handguns.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jess Michaelsen. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

The charges contained in these complaints are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707958028584.jpeg" alt="File photo (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann)." />
 <figcaption>File photo (AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY — Three Kansas City men have been charged in federal court for illegal firearms trafficking and straw purchases of firearms as a result of the investigation into the mass shooting at Union Station during the celebration of the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl victory on Feb. 14, 2024, according the U.S. Department of Justice.“These cases underscore the importance of enforcing federal firearms laws,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “Stopping straw buyers and preventing illegal firearms trafficking is our first line of defense against gun violence. At least two of the firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station were illegally purchased or trafficked. We work diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals by investigating and prosecuting those who illegally buy and sell dangerous weapons.”“The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act has given ATF additional tools needed to go after straw purchasers and firearms traffickers who flood our streets with weapons that pose a threat to every single person in Kansas City,” said ATF Kansas City Field Division Special Agent in Charge Bernard Hansen. “These arrests serve as a notice to those who think they can illegally traffic guns into our communities or straw purchase firearms. The men and women of ATF will never waiver on our commitment to protect the public and to aggressively target firearms traffickers. The proliferation of illegal guns represents a grave danger to the public, but law enforcement is united and strong. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and all our law enforcement partners for their diligent work and tireless dedication to our shared public safety mission.”“While the events of February 14, will forever weigh heavy on our hearts, the effort of our federal partners and KCPD detectives is a testament to their service to Kansas City,” said Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves. “We will continue to hold those responsible for violence in our city accountable.”One person was killed and more than 20 people were injured in the mass shooting at Union Station. According to court documents, 12 individuals brandished firearms and at least six individuals fired their weapons. The Kansas City, Mo., Police Department recovered several firearms, spent shell casings, and other items of evidentiary value from the scene.Two Firearms Recovered from Scene of Mass ShootingTwo firearms recovered from the scene of the mass shooting are cited in two separate federal criminal complaints filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Monday, March 11. Those complaints were unsealed and made public today following the arrests of the defendants.Fedo Antonia Manning, 22, was charged in a 12-count criminal complaint. Ronnel Dewayne Williams, Jr., 21, and Chaelyn Hendrick Groves, 19, were charged in a four-count federal criminal complaint.One of the firearms recovered from the scene of the shooting was an Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 .223-caliber pistol. The loaded pistol was found along the wall with a backpack next to two AR-15-style firearms and backpacks. Because the pistol was in “fire” position and there were 26 live rounds in the magazine, which is capable of holding 30 rounds, it may have fired several rounds before it was discarded.According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, the AM-15 pistol was purchased by Manning from Frontier Justice in Lee’s Summit, Mo., on Aug. 7, 2022. The affidavit alleges that Manning illegally trafficked dozens of firearms, including many Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms.The second firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting was a Stag Arms 300-caliber pistol. According to an affidavit filed in the second federal criminal complaint, the pistol was purchased by Williams from The Ammo Box during a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023. Williams allegedly purchased the firearm for Groves, who accompanied him to the gun show but was too young to legally purchase the firearm himself.The federal criminal complaints do not make any allegations that Manning, Williams, or Groves were among the shooters at Union Station on Feb. 14, 2024. Rather, the federal charges involve the illegal straw purchases and trafficking of firearms.Manning and Williams are alleged to have purchased firearm receivers, or frames, which house the firing mechanism and other internal parts of a firearm. The receiver can be loaded and fired, or built into a complete firearm by adding components that may not be regulated under federal law. By federal definition, a receiver is a firearm and is the only controlled component of a firearm.USA v. ManningManning, who is not a licensed federal firearms dealer, allegedly purchased dozens of firearms. Fifteen of the firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement officers in the possession of individuals other than Manning, including several individuals who were legally prohibited from possessing firearms.The firearm recovered from the scene of the mass shooting at Union Station is one of seven firearms originally purchased by Manning that have been recovered during investigations of crimes. According to the affidavit, Manning purchased two Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 pistols from Frontier Justice on Aug. 7, 2022. In addition to the firearm recovered at Union Station, the second firearm purchased by Manning that day was later recovered from a stolen vehicle during the investigation of an armed robbery. Firearms also were recovered during investigations into a murder in Columbia, Mo., and the armed robbery of a local convenience store. Three firearms originally purchased by Manning were recovered by law enforcement from individuals who were prohibited from legally possessing firearms.Manning also allegedly was the straw purchaser of seven firearms that were later sold to a confidential informant during a separate federal criminal investigation. The confidential informant, who was known to be a felon and therefore prohibited from possessing firearms, purchased a total of 27 firearms from two of Manning’s family members and their co-conspirators, who have been indicted in a separate federal case. In addition to those seven firearms, says the affidavit, federal investigators traced Manning’s purchase of 40 firearms over a nine-month period, including 33 Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 firearms, all of which were purchased as receivers.The federal criminal complaint charges Manning with one count of conspiracy to traffic firearms, one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and 10 counts of making a false statement on a federal form. In each of these 10 purchases, Manning represented that he was the actual buyer of the firearm, but in fact these firearms were transferred to other persons shortly after he purchased them.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.USA v. Williams, et alThe federal criminal complaint charges Williams and Groves together in one count of conspiracy to make false statements in the acquisition of firearms and in one count of aiding and abetting making false statements in the acquisition of firearms. Williams and Groves are each charged separately in one count each of making a false statement to a federal agent.According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Williams and Groves attended a gun show at the KCI Expo Center on Nov. 25, 2023, looking for receivers to buy. Groves, who was under the age of 21 and therefore too young to legally purchase a firearm receiver, allegedly gave money to Williams. Williams allegedly purchased the Stag Arms receiver for Groves.Groves told investigators he purchased a 300-blackout upper to complete the firearm at another gun show about a month later. Groves also claimed the Stag Arms firearm was stolen during a “shootout.” Rather than report the firearm stolen, Groves said he just went to a gun show with a different friend who bought him another one. Groves showed investigators a video on his cell phone that included the firearm. According to the affidavit, the cell phone video showed an AR pistol lying on a flat surface, then panned out to show five other handguns.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jess Michaelsen. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.The charges contained in these complaints are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Federal charges filed in connection to deadly shooting at Chiefs rally 

MOSCOW (AP) —President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty or independence is threatened, issuing another blunt warning to the West just days before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-election-ukraine-war-crackdown-dfd4d290bf6a08192eb53068e08f0783">an election</a>&nbsp;in which he’s all but certain to secure another six-year term.

The Russian leader has repeatedly talked about his readiness to use nuclear weapons since launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. The most recent such threat came in his state-of-the-nation address last month, when he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-state-nation-ukraine-war-security-b7f3e66caf093f405f8bbc278d9ca581">warned the West</a>&nbsp;that deepening its involvement in the fighting in Ukraine would risk a nuclear war.

Asked in an interview with Russian state television released early Wednesday if he has ever considered using battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine, Putin responded that there has been no need for that. He also noted that he doesn’t think that the world is heading for a nuclear war, describing U.S. President Joe Biden as a veteran politician who fully understands the possible dangers of escalation.

Still, the remarks appeared to be a message to the West that he's prepared to use all means to protect his gains in Ukraine.

Putin said that in line with the country’s security doctrine, Moscow is ready to use nuclear weapons in case of a threat to “the existence of the Russian state, our sovereignty and independence.”

“All that is written in our strategy, we haven’t changed it,” he said.

In an apparent reference to NATO allies that support Kyiv, he also declared that “the nations that say they have no red lines regarding Russia should realize that Russia won’t have any red lines regarding them either.”

Lithuania's foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, recently lamented that the West too often constrains itself with self-imposed “red lines” regarding Russia. He also welcomed a comment by French President Emmanuel Macron that the possibility of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paris-conference-support-ukraine-zelenskyy-c458a1df3f9a7626128cdeb84050d469">Western troops being sent to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;couldn't be ruled out.

In the wake of recent battlefield gains, Putin argued that Ukraine and its Western allies will eventually have to accept a deal to end the war on Russian terms.

“It shouldn't be a break for the enemy to rearm, but a serious talk involving the guarantees of security for the Russian Federation,” he said.

Putin said that a recent spike in Ukrainian drone attacks deep inside Russia is part of efforts to derail the country's three-day presidential election, which starts Friday and which he's set to win by a landslide, given his near total crackdown on dissent and tight control over Russia's political system.

Russian authorities reported another major attack by Ukrainian drones early Wednesday. The Defense Ministry said air defenses downed 58 drones over six regions. One of the drones hit an oil refinery in the Ryazan region, injuring at least two people and sparking a fire. Another was downed as it was approaching a refinery near St. Petersburg.

Ukraine, meanwhile, reported more Russian attacks early Wednesday.

A Russian strike killed two people and wounded another five in the town of Myrnohrad in the eastern region of Donetsk, about 30 kilometers (about 20 miles) from the front line, according to Gov. Vadym Filashkin. Local rescuers managed to pull a 13-year-old girl out of the rubble of an apartment building.

A five-story building in the northern city of Sumy was struck by a drone launched from Russia overnight, killing two people and wounding eight, according to the regional administration.

In Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's hometown, the death toll from a Russian missile attack the previous night rose to five, Gov. Serhii Lysak said. He said that 43 people were wounded in Kryvyi Rih, including 12 children, the youngest a 2-month-old infant.

“Every day our cities and villages suffer similar attacks. Every day Ukraine loses people because of Russian evil,” Zelenskyy said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663760963726.jpeg" alt="File photo (Russian Presidential Press Service via AP)" />
 <figcaption>File photo (Russian Presidential Press Service via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) —President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty or independence is threatened, issuing another blunt warning to the West just days before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-election-ukraine-war-crackdown-dfd4d290bf6a08192eb53068e08f0783">an election</a>&nbsp;in which he’s all but certain to secure another six-year term.The Russian leader has repeatedly talked about his readiness to use nuclear weapons since launching a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. The most recent such threat came in his state-of-the-nation address last month, when he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-putin-state-nation-ukraine-war-security-b7f3e66caf093f405f8bbc278d9ca581">warned the West</a>&nbsp;that deepening its involvement in the fighting in Ukraine would risk a nuclear war.Asked in an interview with Russian state television released early Wednesday if he has ever considered using battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine, Putin responded that there has been no need for that. He also noted that he doesn’t think that the world is heading for a nuclear war, describing U.S. President Joe Biden as a veteran politician who fully understands the possible dangers of escalation.Still, the remarks appeared to be a message to the West that he's prepared to use all means to protect his gains in Ukraine.Putin said that in line with the country’s security doctrine, Moscow is ready to use nuclear weapons in case of a threat to “the existence of the Russian state, our sovereignty and independence.”“All that is written in our strategy, we haven’t changed it,” he said.In an apparent reference to NATO allies that support Kyiv, he also declared that “the nations that say they have no red lines regarding Russia should realize that Russia won’t have any red lines regarding them either.”Lithuania's foreign minister, Gabrielius Landsbergis, recently lamented that the West too often constrains itself with self-imposed “red lines” regarding Russia. He also welcomed a comment by French President Emmanuel Macron that the possibility of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/paris-conference-support-ukraine-zelenskyy-c458a1df3f9a7626128cdeb84050d469">Western troops being sent to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;couldn't be ruled out.In the wake of recent battlefield gains, Putin argued that Ukraine and its Western allies will eventually have to accept a deal to end the war on Russian terms.“It shouldn't be a break for the enemy to rearm, but a serious talk involving the guarantees of security for the Russian Federation,” he said.Putin said that a recent spike in Ukrainian drone attacks deep inside Russia is part of efforts to derail the country's three-day presidential election, which starts Friday and which he's set to win by a landslide, given his near total crackdown on dissent and tight control over Russia's political system.Russian authorities reported another major attack by Ukrainian drones early Wednesday. The Defense Ministry said air defenses downed 58 drones over six regions. One of the drones hit an oil refinery in the Ryazan region, injuring at least two people and sparking a fire. Another was downed as it was approaching a refinery near St. Petersburg.Ukraine, meanwhile, reported more Russian attacks early Wednesday.A Russian strike killed two people and wounded another five in the town of Myrnohrad in the eastern region of Donetsk, about 30 kilometers (about 20 miles) from the front line, according to Gov. Vadym Filashkin. Local rescuers managed to pull a 13-year-old girl out of the rubble of an apartment building.A five-story building in the northern city of Sumy was struck by a drone launched from Russia overnight, killing two people and wounding eight, according to the regional administration.In Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's hometown, the death toll from a Russian missile attack the previous night rose to five, Gov. Serhii Lysak said. He said that 43 people were wounded in Kryvyi Rih, including 12 children, the youngest a 2-month-old infant.“Every day our cities and villages suffer similar attacks. Every day Ukraine loses people because of Russian evil,” Zelenskyy said.

Putin warns again that Russia is ready to use nuclear weapons

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on sex crime allegations.

Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, police in Kansas were notified that the Phelps County Missouri Sheriff’s Department was looking for a 13-year-old girl who had been missing since Monday night, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Law enforcement had developed information that the girl was with a 20-year-old suspect and they were believed to be in the Atchison, Kansas, area. 

Atchison Police officers located the suspect’s vehicle parked at a local hotel and subsequently located the 13-year-old runaway and the suspect at the hotel.

Police arrested Osias W. Everson, 20, Deer Lodge Montana on requested charges of&nbsp; rape and contributing to a child’s misconduct.&nbsp;

The investigation of Everson continues by police and Phelps County authorities, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710346370479.png" alt="Everson-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Everson-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on sex crime allegations.Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, police in Kansas were notified that the Phelps County Missouri Sheriff’s Department was looking for a 13-year-old girl who had been missing since Monday night, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Law enforcement had developed information that the girl was with a 20-year-old suspect and they were believed to be in the Atchison, Kansas, area. Atchison Police officers located the suspect’s vehicle parked at a local hotel and subsequently located the 13-year-old runaway and the suspect at the hotel.Police arrested Osias W. Everson, 20, Deer Lodge Montana on requested charges of&nbsp; rape and contributing to a child’s misconduct.&nbsp;The investigation of Everson continues by police and Phelps County authorities, according to Wilson.

Man accused of sex crimes after missing teen found at Kan. hotel

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Wednesday passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-bill-divest-5b5a685e8f1e19d22182d62526bf19b8">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would lead to a nationwide ban of the popular video app TikTok if its China-based owner doesn't sell, as lawmakers acted on concerns that the company's current ownership structure is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-china-biden-administration-14ef5f93dc2114e4ade110b2e85433fd">a national security threat</a>.

Kansas 2nd District Congressman Jake LaTurner was among lawmakers leading the effort to get the bill passed.

The bill, passed by a vote of 352-65, now goes to the Senate, where its prospects are unclear.

Missouri's 3rd District Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer was a strong supporter of the legislation.

TikTok, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-biden-bytedance-china-2acbaeb71e8bb0c6341f2bc55ba33e80">more than 150 million American users</a>, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chinese technology firm ByteDance Ltd.

The lawmakers contend that ByteDance is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-china-bytedance-user-data-d257d98125f69ac80f983e6067a84911">beholden to the Chinese government</a>, which could demand access to the data of TikTok’s consumers in the U.S. any time it wants. The worry stems from a set of Chinese national security laws that compel organizations to assist with intelligence gathering.

“We have given TikTok a clear choice,” said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash. “Separate from your parent company ByteDance, which is beholden to the CCP (the Chinese Communist Party), and remain operational in the United States, or side with the CCP and face the consequences. The choice is TikTok's.”

House passage of the bill is only the first step. The Senate would also need to pass the measure for it to become law, and lawmakers in that chamber indicated it would undergo a thorough review. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said he'll have to consult with relevant committee chairs to determine the bill's path.

President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;has said if Congress passes the measure, he will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-tiktok-ban-house-china-aaa884d8c974f0a35856af5ee6aa4e99">sign it</a>.

The House vote is poised to open a new front in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-business-government-and-politics-f0f56ec111d85e5f70fe27bb5002e93f">the long-running feud between lawmakers and the tech industry</a>. Members of Congress have long been critical of tech platforms and their expansive influence, often clashing with executives over industry practices. But by targeting TikTok, lawmakers are singling out a platform popular with millions of people, many of whom skew younger, just months before an election.

Opposition to the bill was also bipartisan. Some Republicans said the U.S. should warn consumers if there are data privacy and propaganda concerns, while some Democrats voiced concerns about the impact a ban would have on its millions of users in the U.S., many of which are entrepreneurs and business owners.

“The answer to authoritarianism is not more authoritarianism,” said Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif. “The answer to CCP-style propaganda is not CCP-style oppression. Let us slow down before we blunder down this very steep and slippery slope.”

Ahead of the House vote, a top national security official in the Biden administration held a closed-door briefing Tuesday with lawmakers to discuss TikTok and the national security implications. Lawmakers are balancing those security concerns against a desire not to limit free speech online.

“What we've tried to do here is be very thoughtful and deliberate about the need to force a divestiture of TikTok without granting any authority to the executive branch to regulate content or go after any American company,” said Rep. Mike Gallagher, the bill's author, as he emerged from the briefing.

TikTok has long denied that it could be used as a tool of the Chinese government. The company has said it has never shared U.S. user data with Chinese authorities and won’t do so if it is asked. To date, the U.S. government also has not provided any evidence that shows TikTok shared such information with Chinese authorities. The platform has about 170 million users in the U.S.

The security briefing seemed to change few minds, instead solidifying the views of both sides.

“We have a national security obligation to prevent America's most strategic adversary from being so involved in our lives,” said Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y.

But Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., said no information has been shared with him that convinces him TikTok is a national security threat. “My opinion, leaving that briefing, has not changed at all,” he said.

“This idea that we're going to ban, essentially, entrepreneurs, small business owners, the main way how young people actually communicate with each other is to me insane,” Garcia said.

“Not a single thing that we heard in today's classified briefing was unique to TikTok. It was things that happen on every single social media platform,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif.

Republican leaders have moved quickly to bring up the bill after its introduction last week. A House committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bill-support-congress-china-data-f1ec5b720bb68884c6423c62f314dcff">approved</a>&nbsp;the legislation unanimously, on a 50-vote, even after their offices were inundated with calls from TikTok users demanding they drop the effort. Some offices even shut off their phones because of the onslaught.

Lawmakers in both parties are anxious to confront China on a range of issues. The House formed a special committee to focus on China-related issues. And Schumer directed committee chairs to begin working with Republicans on a bipartisan China competition bill.

Senators are expressing an openness to the bill but suggested they don’t want to rush ahead.

“It is not for me a redeeming quality that you’re moving very fast in technology because the history shows you make a lot of mistakes,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

In pushing ahead with the legislation, House Republicans are also creating rare daylight between themselves and former President Donald Trump as he seeks another term in the White House.

Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tiktok-ban-biden-facebook-cnbc-tik-tok-72768a92439de45b38e88cc255504ab5">voiced opposition</a>&nbsp;to the effort. He said Monday that he still believes TikTok poses a national security risk but is opposed to banning the hugely popular app because doing so would help its rival, Facebook, which he continues to lambast over his 2020 election loss.

As president, Trump attempted to ban TikTok&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-trade-ap-top-news-politics-asia-business-719d8c83f689929c9c9d8c9aa5593fc8">through an executive order</a>&nbsp;that called “the spread in the United States of mobile applications developed and owned by companies in the People’s Republic of China (China)” a threat to “the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States.” The courts, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-courts-a526c144fad9f0ebc37bf2d49a97740a">blocked the action</a>&nbsp;after TikTok sued, arguing such actions would violate free speech and due process rights.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710340791449.png" alt="View of the House floor as the final TikTok bill vote count is announced-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>View of the House floor as the final TikTok bill vote count is announced-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House on Wednesday passed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-bill-divest-5b5a685e8f1e19d22182d62526bf19b8">a bill</a>&nbsp;that would lead to a nationwide ban of the popular video app TikTok if its China-based owner doesn't sell, as lawmakers acted on concerns that the company's current ownership structure is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bytedance-china-biden-administration-14ef5f93dc2114e4ade110b2e85433fd">a national security threat</a>.Kansas 2nd District Congressman Jake LaTurner was among lawmakers leading the effort to get the bill passed.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Chinese Communist Party uses TikTok to collect keystrokes and data from over 170 million Americans—a clear threat to our national security. Our bill is simple: Cut ties with the CCP or face restrictions in the U.S. markets. The ball is in TikTok’s court. <a href="https://t.co/Q2hpyiZeBu">pic.twitter.com/Q2hpyiZeBu</a>&mdash; Rep. Jake LaTurner (@RepLaTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLaTurner/status/1767920036176404829?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The bill, passed by a vote of 352-65, now goes to the Senate, where its prospects are unclear.Missouri's 3rd District Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer was a strong supporter of the legislation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If the Chinese Communist Party was able to mobilize an army of misinformed kids to call Congress in just a few hours, what would be possible in the event of a real crisis? Notice how they said call your government not our . . . read between the lines. <a href="https://t.co/QywP0Nex9S">pic.twitter.com/QywP0Nex9S</a>&mdash; Blaine Luetkemeyer (@RepBlaine) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepBlaine/status/1767273405001212246?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>TikTok, which has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-biden-bytedance-china-2acbaeb71e8bb0c6341f2bc55ba33e80">more than 150 million American users</a>, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Chinese technology firm ByteDance Ltd.The lawmakers contend that ByteDance is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-china-bytedance-user-data-d257d98125f69ac80f983e6067a84911">beholden to the Chinese government</a>, which could demand access to the data of TikTok’s consumers in the U.S. any time it wants. The worry stems from a set of Chinese national security laws that compel organizations to assist with intelligence gathering.“We have given TikTok a clear choice,” said Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash. “Separate from your parent company ByteDance, which is beholden to the CCP (the Chinese Communist Party), and remain operational in the United States, or side with the CCP and face the consequences. The choice is TikTok's.”House passage of the bill is only the first step. The Senate would also need to pass the measure for it to become law, and lawmakers in that chamber indicated it would undergo a thorough review. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said he'll have to consult with relevant committee chairs to determine the bill's path.President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;has said if Congress passes the measure, he will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-tiktok-ban-house-china-aaa884d8c974f0a35856af5ee6aa4e99">sign it</a>.The House vote is poised to open a new front in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-technology-business-government-and-politics-f0f56ec111d85e5f70fe27bb5002e93f">the long-running feud between lawmakers and the tech industry</a>. Members of Congress have long been critical of tech platforms and their expansive influence, often clashing with executives over industry practices. But by targeting TikTok, lawmakers are singling out a platform popular with millions of people, many of whom skew younger, just months before an election.Opposition to the bill was also bipartisan. Some Republicans said the U.S. should warn consumers if there are data privacy and propaganda concerns, while some Democrats voiced concerns about the impact a ban would have on its millions of users in the U.S., many of which are entrepreneurs and business owners.“The answer to authoritarianism is not more authoritarianism,” said Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Calif. “The answer to CCP-style propaganda is not CCP-style oppression. Let us slow down before we blunder down this very steep and slippery slope.”Ahead of the House vote, a top national security official in the Biden administration held a closed-door briefing Tuesday with lawmakers to discuss TikTok and the national security implications. Lawmakers are balancing those security concerns against a desire not to limit free speech online.“What we've tried to do here is be very thoughtful and deliberate about the need to force a divestiture of TikTok without granting any authority to the executive branch to regulate content or go after any American company,” said Rep. Mike Gallagher, the bill's author, as he emerged from the briefing.TikTok has long denied that it could be used as a tool of the Chinese government. The company has said it has never shared U.S. user data with Chinese authorities and won’t do so if it is asked. To date, the U.S. government also has not provided any evidence that shows TikTok shared such information with Chinese authorities. The platform has about 170 million users in the U.S.The security briefing seemed to change few minds, instead solidifying the views of both sides.“We have a national security obligation to prevent America's most strategic adversary from being so involved in our lives,” said Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y.But Rep. Robert Garcia, D-Calif., said no information has been shared with him that convinces him TikTok is a national security threat. “My opinion, leaving that briefing, has not changed at all,” he said.“This idea that we're going to ban, essentially, entrepreneurs, small business owners, the main way how young people actually communicate with each other is to me insane,” Garcia said.“Not a single thing that we heard in today's classified briefing was unique to TikTok. It was things that happen on every single social media platform,” said Rep. Sara Jacobs, D-Calif.Republican leaders have moved quickly to bring up the bill after its introduction last week. A House committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tiktok-ban-bill-support-congress-china-data-f1ec5b720bb68884c6423c62f314dcff">approved</a>&nbsp;the legislation unanimously, on a 50-vote, even after their offices were inundated with calls from TikTok users demanding they drop the effort. Some offices even shut off their phones because of the onslaught.Lawmakers in both parties are anxious to confront China on a range of issues. The House formed a special committee to focus on China-related issues. And Schumer directed committee chairs to begin working with Republicans on a bipartisan China competition bill.Senators are expressing an openness to the bill but suggested they don’t want to rush ahead.“It is not for me a redeeming quality that you’re moving very fast in technology because the history shows you make a lot of mistakes,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.In pushing ahead with the legislation, House Republicans are also creating rare daylight between themselves and former President Donald Trump as he seeks another term in the White House.Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tiktok-ban-biden-facebook-cnbc-tik-tok-72768a92439de45b38e88cc255504ab5">voiced opposition</a>&nbsp;to the effort. He said Monday that he still believes TikTok poses a national security risk but is opposed to banning the hugely popular app because doing so would help its rival, Facebook, which he continues to lambast over his 2020 election loss.As president, Trump attempted to ban TikTok&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/global-trade-ap-top-news-politics-asia-business-719d8c83f689929c9c9d8c9aa5593fc8">through an executive order</a>&nbsp;that called “the spread in the United States of mobile applications developed and owned by companies in the People’s Republic of China (China)” a threat to “the national security, foreign policy and economy of the United States.” The courts, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-courts-a526c144fad9f0ebc37bf2d49a97740a">blocked the action</a>&nbsp;after TikTok sued, arguing such actions would violate free speech and due process rights.

Kan. lawmaker leads effort as House passes TikTok ban bill

NASHVILLE —Law enforcement authorities continue to work to locate missing 22-year-old Riley Strain, a University of Missouri student, according to a statement from Nashville Metro Police.

Strain was last seen Friday night by friends at a Broadway bar in&nbsp;Nashville. On Monday, police released a security camera video that shows Strain wearing a 2-tone shirt crossing 1st Avenue North to Gay Street (right to left), at 9:47 p.m. on Friday.&nbsp;

&nbsp;He is described as 6-foot-5&nbsp; with a thin build, blue eyes and light brown hair.&nbsp; If you have information about him, please call 615-742-7463.

University of Missouri officials said in a statement that they were alerted over the weekend that Strain was missing after traveling to Nashville to attend a private event and that they have been in touch with family and authorities.

Strain’s mother, Michelle Whiteid, and his stepfather, Chris Whiteid, drove to Nashville from Springfield, Missouri, after they learned he disappeared while on a fraternity trip, news outlets reported.

“I just need to know where my son is,” Michelle Whiteid said. “We talk every day, multiple times a day. This is the longest I’ve ever gone without talking to him. It’s devastating. I just want to find him and hug him.”

After the bus ride from Columbia, Strain and some of his fraternity brothers went out, according to Chris Whiteid. Strain was asked to leave a bar, and they got separated, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710335346952.png" alt="Riley Strain- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Riley Strain- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NASHVILLE —Law enforcement authorities continue to work to locate missing 22-year-old Riley Strain, a University of Missouri student, according to a statement from Nashville Metro Police.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Detectives today continue to pursue tips &amp; investigative leads concerning missing person Riley Strain, 22. Strain, wearing a 2-tone shirt, is seen in this video crossing 1st Ave N to Gay St (right to left), at 9:47 p.m. Fri. Have info about him? Plz 📞 615-742-7463. <a href="https://t.co/fE86dlqeOC">pic.twitter.com/fE86dlqeOC</a>&mdash; Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) <a href="https://twitter.com/MNPDNashville/status/1767578348249559347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Strain was last seen Friday night by friends at a Broadway bar in&nbsp;Nashville. On Monday, police released a security camera video that shows Strain wearing a 2-tone shirt crossing 1st Avenue North to Gay Street (right to left), at 9:47 p.m. on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is described as 6-foot-5&nbsp; with a thin build, blue eyes and light brown hair.&nbsp; If you have information about him, please call 615-742-7463.University of Missouri officials said in a statement that they were alerted over the weekend that Strain was missing after traveling to Nashville to attend a private event and that they have been in touch with family and authorities.Strain’s mother, Michelle Whiteid, and his stepfather, Chris Whiteid, drove to Nashville from Springfield, Missouri, after they learned he disappeared while on a fraternity trip, news outlets reported.“I just need to know where my son is,” Michelle Whiteid said. “We talk every day, multiple times a day. This is the longest I’ve ever gone without talking to him. It’s devastating. I just want to find him and hug him.”After the bus ride from Columbia, Strain and some of his fraternity brothers went out, according to Chris Whiteid. Strain was asked to leave a bar, and they got separated, he said.

🎥Police: Video shows missing Univ. of Missouri student Riley Strain 

TOPEKA — Eleven youths died in the state’s often-scrutinized foster care system during 2023, according to records from the state Department for Children and Families.

The&nbsp;department released the records through a Kansas Open Records Act request filed by Kansas Reflector following demands for accountability in the wake of the death of a 5-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted and died last year after living in a homeless camp.

Kansas Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard said the department works to provide safety and resources for children in the system.&nbsp;Howard also is urging the Legislature to change the law to allow for more information to be made public in cases of abuse and neglect.

“Unfortunately we do have some youth, just like youth who aren’t in care, who might take their own life,” Howard said. “We take that very seriously and that focus, but we also have natural deaths that occur.”&nbsp;

Across the state, 9,308 youths were held in foster care in 2023. Of the 11 deaths, six were listed as unintentional injury and three deaths were listed as natural.&nbsp;Beside the two suicides, one youth died from fentanyl exposure, another was in a car accident, and a third drowned. One 17-year-old was found dead from gunshot wounds after he went on the run. In five of these cases, health conditions such as pneumonia were listed.

“If we see trends or things we need to address, we’ll do that,” Howard said during a Kansas Reflector interview. “I think sometimes the things we’ve seen that are health-related unfortunately have to do with children who have very, very serious disabilities and come into our care in very fragile circumstances. So obviously, if we see anything that would indicate that we needed to be doing something differently in terms of health care, we would address that.”

Howard said all deaths were investigated&nbsp;thoroughly by the department and by the state attorney general through the annual child death review report. A board of health professionals, law enforcement officers, educators and attorneys examines each child death in Kansas to create the report.&nbsp;

Between 2019 to 2021, 392 out of 1,074 child fatalities reviewed by the board had history with DCF’s child protective services, according to the annual death review report, with situations like being held in state custody, having siblings removed from the home, or having open child protective services cases. Of the 32 child homicides in 2021, twenty-three of those families had been involved with child protective services before death.&nbsp;

Adina Morse, child welfare advocate with Kansas Appleseed, emphasized the importance of offering adequate mental health support and other services for youth in care.&nbsp;

“It is a tragedy when any child dies,” Morse said. “A commitment within the foster care system to ensure access to timely physical and mental health supports and placement stability for children, as well as support for biological families to prevent breaking up the family in the first place, can only help reduce these tragedies.”

DCF most recently came under fire in October when the case of Zoey Felix, the&nbsp;Topeka 5-year-old girl who died of sexual assault,&nbsp;became widely publicized. The state’s child welfare agency received nine reports asking it to look into her case before her death.

Lawmakers and concerned members of the public&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/06/topeka-childs-murder-reignites-debate-on-how-kansas-protects-children-from-abuse-and-neglect/">pressed Howard for answers</a>&nbsp;about agency action, but a man was charged with rape and capital murder before DCF could release information, due to statute limiting information release.&nbsp;

Current law stipulates information can be accessed via KORA requests after the agency’s investigation ends, as long as the investigation rules the death was caused because of abuse or neglect. Within seven business days of a KORA request, DCF is required to provide records on the age and sex of the child, date of the fatality and a summary of child welfare reports, as well as department-recommended services provided.

Howard asked lawmakers to amend that law and require DCF to publicly release certain information on a child fatality once criminal charges are filed. Encapsulated as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2628/">House Bill 2628</a>, the bill passed the House 119-0 and was sent to the Senate for further action.&nbsp;

“The inability to provide that basic data, I think, leads to a lot of speculation,” Howard said during a Monday Senate committee hearing on the bill.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696769820568.png" alt="&nbsp;Kansas Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard emphasized transparency within the system during a Monday bill hearing. (Sam Bailey/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Kansas Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard emphasized transparency within the system during a Monday bill hearing. (Sam Bailey/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — Eleven youths died in the state’s often-scrutinized foster care system during 2023, according to records from the state Department for Children and Families.The&nbsp;department released the records through a Kansas Open Records Act request filed by Kansas Reflector following demands for accountability in the wake of the death of a 5-year-old girl who was sexually assaulted and died last year after living in a homeless camp.Kansas Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard said the department works to provide safety and resources for children in the system.&nbsp;Howard also is urging the Legislature to change the law to allow for more information to be made public in cases of abuse and neglect.“Unfortunately we do have some youth, just like youth who aren’t in care, who might take their own life,” Howard said. “We take that very seriously and that focus, but we also have natural deaths that occur.”&nbsp;Across the state, 9,308 youths were held in foster care in 2023. Of the 11 deaths, six were listed as unintentional injury and three deaths were listed as natural.&nbsp;Beside the two suicides, one youth died from fentanyl exposure, another was in a car accident, and a third drowned. One 17-year-old was found dead from gunshot wounds after he went on the run. In five of these cases, health conditions such as pneumonia were listed.“If we see trends or things we need to address, we’ll do that,” Howard said during a Kansas Reflector interview. “I think sometimes the things we’ve seen that are health-related unfortunately have to do with children who have very, very serious disabilities and come into our care in very fragile circumstances. So obviously, if we see anything that would indicate that we needed to be doing something differently in terms of health care, we would address that.”Howard said all deaths were investigated&nbsp;thoroughly by the department and by the state attorney general through the annual child death review report. A board of health professionals, law enforcement officers, educators and attorneys examines each child death in Kansas to create the report.&nbsp;Between 2019 to 2021, 392 out of 1,074 child fatalities reviewed by the board had history with DCF’s child protective services, according to the annual death review report, with situations like being held in state custody, having siblings removed from the home, or having open child protective services cases. Of the 32 child homicides in 2021, twenty-three of those families had been involved with child protective services before death.&nbsp;Adina Morse, child welfare advocate with Kansas Appleseed, emphasized the importance of offering adequate mental health support and other services for youth in care.&nbsp;“It is a tragedy when any child dies,” Morse said. “A commitment within the foster care system to ensure access to timely physical and mental health supports and placement stability for children, as well as support for biological families to prevent breaking up the family in the first place, can only help reduce these tragedies.”DCF most recently came under fire in October when the case of Zoey Felix, the&nbsp;Topeka 5-year-old girl who died of sexual assault,&nbsp;became widely publicized. The state’s child welfare agency received nine reports asking it to look into her case before her death.Lawmakers and concerned members of the public&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/06/topeka-childs-murder-reignites-debate-on-how-kansas-protects-children-from-abuse-and-neglect/">pressed Howard for answers</a>&nbsp;about agency action, but a man was charged with rape and capital murder before DCF could release information, due to statute limiting information release.&nbsp;Current law stipulates information can be accessed via KORA requests after the agency’s investigation ends, as long as the investigation rules the death was caused because of abuse or neglect. Within seven business days of a KORA request, DCF is required to provide records on the age and sex of the child, date of the fatality and a summary of child welfare reports, as well as department-recommended services provided.Howard asked lawmakers to amend that law and require DCF to publicly release certain information on a child fatality once criminal charges are filed. Encapsulated as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2628/">House Bill 2628</a>, the bill passed the House 119-0 and was sent to the Senate for further action.&nbsp;“The inability to provide that basic data, I think, leads to a lot of speculation,” Howard said during a Monday Senate committee hearing on the bill.&nbsp;

In 2023, 11 kids died in Kansas foster care. DCF secretary calls for transparency in criminal cases

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have officially secured the requisite numbers of delegates to be considered their parties' presumptive nominees.

It was a foreseeable outcome. Biden faced token opposition in the Democratic primary. Several high-profile Republicans ran against Trump but didn't come close to knocking him off course in his third straight Republican bid.

Here is a look at what that means, what's changed, and what still needs to happen before Biden and Trump can drop “presumptive” and just be their parties' official standard-bearers:

‘Presumptive nominee:’ What does it mean?

The Associated Press only uses the “presumptive nominee” designation once a candidate has captured the number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-election-2024-delegate-tracker">delegates needed</a>&nbsp;to win a majority vote at the national party convention this summer. For Republicans, that number this year is 1.215. On the Democratic side of things, it's 1,968.

The marker essentially ends the presidential primary season, though both Biden and Trump have been largely focusing their energies on each other for months already.

Do the political parties function any differently?

Generally, the national Democratic and Republican parties start coordinating directly with their presumptive nominees once their status is clear, although there have been some exceptions.

Last week, the Republican National Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republican-national-committee-trump-whatley-legal-fees-53402f8e8ac845db3cf4ab82c882ea74">ushered in new leadership</a>&nbsp;handpicked by Trump, in the form of a new chairman, co-chair and party chief of staff. Trump's installed leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republican-national-committee-trump-staffing-cuts-46bc8afcc152aecfd471161a59b74005">then moved to fire dozens of RNC staff</a>.

After Trump won both the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary — but still faced GOP opponents — an RNC member who is a longtime Trump ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rnc-trump-presumptive-nominee-haley-2024-campaign-74c529ab8d3804622276f8e197cd3a5c">floated a resolution</a>&nbsp;that would have allowed the party to consider him its “presumptive nominee” and allowed some of that coordination earlier.

Trump actually spoke out against the measure — although he said it likely would have succeeded — which was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-haley-rnc-republican-mcdaniel-99230edb3e2f5c41dc7ceb11a8a0ba6a">ultimately withdrawn</a>.

As for the Democratic National Committee, Biden is the de facto leader of the party, although any official leadership changes have to go through structured channels. During the 2020 campaign, the DNC shuffled its leadership and entered into a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dedbc5ec18de9e503c56f0a7de45fba7">joint fundraising agreement</a>&nbsp;with Biden in April, even though the candidate didn’t&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bb261be1a4ca285b9422b2f6b93d8d75">clinch the Democratic nomination</a>&nbsp;until June.

When do presumptive nominees become official?

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/presidential-candidates-2024-301db5ce310cafc97025682b39ceac6e">A presidential candidate</a>&nbsp;doesn’t officially become the Republican or Democratic nominee until winning the vote on the floor of the nominating convention, which takes place this summer. Delegates' casting of votes is mostly a ceremonial procedure, but it hasn’t always been this way.

Decades ago, presidential candidates might have run in primaries and caucuses, but the eventual nominees weren’t known until delegates and party bosses hashed things out themselves at the conventions.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;clinched their parties' presidential nominations Tuesday with decisive victories in a slate of low-profile primaries, setting up a general election rematch that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-2024-campaign-democrats-republicans-440088966619e68dbf89f745788bb372">many voters do not want</a>.

The outcome of contests across Georgia, Mississippi and Washington state was never in doubt. Neither Biden, a Democrat, nor Trump, a Republican, faced major opposition. But the magnitude of their wins gave each man the delegate majority he needed to claim his party's nomination at the summertime national conventions.

Not even halfway through the presidential primary calendar, Tuesday marked a crystalizing moment for a nation uneasy with its choices in 2024.

There is no longer any doubt that the fall election will feature a rematch between two flawed and unpopular presidents. At 81, Biden is already the oldest president in U.S. history, while the 77-year-old Trump is facing decades in prison as a defendant in four criminal cases. Their rematch — the first featuring two U.S. presidents since 1912 — will almost certainly deepen the nation’s searing political and cultural divides over the eight-month grind that lies ahead.

In a statement, Biden celebrated the nomination while casting Trump as a serious threat to democracy.

Trump, Biden said, “is running a campaign of resentment, revenge, and retribution that threatens the very idea of America.”

He continued, “I am honored that the broad coalition of voters representing the rich diversity of the Democratic Party across the country have put their faith in me once again to lead our party — and our country — in a moment when the threat Trump poses is greater than ever.”

Trump, in a video posted on social media, celebrated what he called “a great day of victory.”

“But now we have to get back to work because we have the worst president in the history of our country,” Trump said of Biden. “So, we're not going to take time to celebrate. We'll celebrate in eight months when the election is over."

Both candidates dominated Tuesday's primaries in swing-state Georgia, deep-red Mississippi and Democratic-leaning Washington. Trump also won Hawaii's Republican caucus.

Despite their tough talk, the road ahead will not be easy for either presumptive nominee.

Trump is facing 91 felony counts in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictments-election-january-6-classified-documents-5cb04868bb1cdf91c19eafdb882af8c0">four criminal cases</a>&nbsp;involving his handling of classified documents and his attempt to overturn the 2020 election, among other alleged crimes. He’s also facing increasingly pointed questions about his policy plans and relationships with some of the world's most dangerous dictators. Trump met privately on Friday with Hungarian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-orban-hungary-conservatives-autocrats-biden-97d6998f747d3543f2f1df069b0f9165">Viktor Orbán</a>, who has rolled back democracy in his country.

Biden, who would be 86 years old at the end of his next term, is working to assure a skeptical electorate that he’s still physically and mentally able to thrive in the world’s most important job. Voters in both parties are unhappy with his handling of immigration and inflation.

And he's dealing with additional dissension within his party’s progressive base, furious that he hasn’t done more to stop&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s war against Hamas</a>&nbsp;in Gaza. Activists and religious leaders in Washington encouraged Democrats to vote “uncommitted” to signal their outrage.

In Seattle, 26-year-old voter Bella Rivera said they hoped their “uncommitted” vote would would serve as a wakeup call for the Democratic party.

“If you really want our votes, if you want to win this election, you’re going to have to show a little bit more either support of Palestinian liberation — that’s something that’s very important to us — and ceasing funds to Israel,” said Rivera, a preschool teacher who uses they/them pronouns.

Almost 3,000 miles away in Georgia, retiree Donna Graham said she would have preferred another Republican nominee over Trump, but she said there's no way she'd ever vote for Biden in the general election.

“He wasn’t my first choice, but he’s the next best thing,” Graham said of Trump. “It’s sad that it’s the same old matchup as four years ago."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1710295653190.png" alt="File photo Associated Press" />
 <figcaption>File photo Associated Press</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have officially secured the requisite numbers of delegates to be considered their parties' presumptive nominees.It was a foreseeable outcome. Biden faced token opposition in the Democratic primary. Several high-profile Republicans ran against Trump but didn't come close to knocking him off course in his third straight Republican bid.Here is a look at what that means, what's changed, and what still needs to happen before Biden and Trump can drop “presumptive” and just be their parties' official standard-bearers:‘Presumptive nominee:’ What does it mean?The Associated Press only uses the “presumptive nominee” designation once a candidate has captured the number of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-election-2024-delegate-tracker">delegates needed</a>&nbsp;to win a majority vote at the national party convention this summer. For Republicans, that number this year is 1.215. On the Democratic side of things, it's 1,968.The marker essentially ends the presidential primary season, though both Biden and Trump have been largely focusing their energies on each other for months already.Do the political parties function any differently?Sort of.Generally, the national Democratic and Republican parties start coordinating directly with their presumptive nominees once their status is clear, although there have been some exceptions.Last week, the Republican National Committee&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republican-national-committee-trump-whatley-legal-fees-53402f8e8ac845db3cf4ab82c882ea74">ushered in new leadership</a>&nbsp;handpicked by Trump, in the form of a new chairman, co-chair and party chief of staff. Trump's installed leaders&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/republican-national-committee-trump-staffing-cuts-46bc8afcc152aecfd471161a59b74005">then moved to fire dozens of RNC staff</a>.After Trump won both the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary — but still faced GOP opponents — an RNC member who is a longtime Trump ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rnc-trump-presumptive-nominee-haley-2024-campaign-74c529ab8d3804622276f8e197cd3a5c">floated a resolution</a>&nbsp;that would have allowed the party to consider him its “presumptive nominee” and allowed some of that coordination earlier.Trump actually spoke out against the measure — although he said it likely would have succeeded — which was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-haley-rnc-republican-mcdaniel-99230edb3e2f5c41dc7ceb11a8a0ba6a">ultimately withdrawn</a>.As for the Democratic National Committee, Biden is the de facto leader of the party, although any official leadership changes have to go through structured channels. During the 2020 campaign, the DNC shuffled its leadership and entered into a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dedbc5ec18de9e503c56f0a7de45fba7">joint fundraising agreement</a>&nbsp;with Biden in April, even though the candidate didn’t&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bb261be1a4ca285b9422b2f6b93d8d75">clinch the Democratic nomination</a>&nbsp;until June.When do presumptive nominees become official?<a href="https://apnews.com/article/presidential-candidates-2024-301db5ce310cafc97025682b39ceac6e">A presidential candidate</a>&nbsp;doesn’t officially become the Republican or Democratic nominee until winning the vote on the floor of the nominating convention, which takes place this summer. Delegates' casting of votes is mostly a ceremonial procedure, but it hasn’t always been this way.Decades ago, presidential candidates might have run in primaries and caucuses, but the eventual nominees weren’t known until delegates and party bosses hashed things out themselves at the conventions.----------------WASHINGTON (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;and former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;clinched their parties' presidential nominations Tuesday with decisive victories in a slate of low-profile primaries, setting up a general election rematch that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-2024-campaign-democrats-republicans-440088966619e68dbf89f745788bb372">many voters do not want</a>.The outcome of contests across Georgia, Mississippi and Washington state was never in doubt. Neither Biden, a Democrat, nor Trump, a Republican, faced major opposition. But the magnitude of their wins gave each man the delegate majority he needed to claim his party's nomination at the summertime national conventions.Not even halfway through the presidential primary calendar, Tuesday marked a crystalizing moment for a nation uneasy with its choices in 2024.There is no longer any doubt that the fall election will feature a rematch between two flawed and unpopular presidents. At 81, Biden is already the oldest president in U.S. history, while the 77-year-old Trump is facing decades in prison as a defendant in four criminal cases. Their rematch — the first featuring two U.S. presidents since 1912 — will almost certainly deepen the nation’s searing political and cultural divides over the eight-month grind that lies ahead.In a statement, Biden celebrated the nomination while casting Trump as a serious threat to democracy.Trump, Biden said, “is running a campaign of resentment, revenge, and retribution that threatens the very idea of America.”He continued, “I am honored that the broad coalition of voters representing the rich diversity of the Democratic Party across the country have put their faith in me once again to lead our party — and our country — in a moment when the threat Trump poses is greater than ever.”Trump, in a video posted on social media, celebrated what he called “a great day of victory.”“But now we have to get back to work because we have the worst president in the history of our country,” Trump said of Biden. “So, we're not going to take time to celebrate. We'll celebrate in eight months when the election is over."Both candidates dominated Tuesday's primaries in swing-state Georgia, deep-red Mississippi and Democratic-leaning Washington. Trump also won Hawaii's Republican caucus.Despite their tough talk, the road ahead will not be easy for either presumptive nominee.Trump is facing 91 felony counts in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indictments-election-january-6-classified-documents-5cb04868bb1cdf91c19eafdb882af8c0">four criminal cases</a>&nbsp;involving his handling of classified documents and his attempt to overturn the 2020 election, among other alleged crimes. He’s also facing increasingly pointed questions about his policy plans and relationships with some of the world's most dangerous dictators. Trump met privately on Friday with Hungarian Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-orban-hungary-conservatives-autocrats-biden-97d6998f747d3543f2f1df069b0f9165">Viktor Orbán</a>, who has rolled back democracy in his country.Biden, who would be 86 years old at the end of his next term, is working to assure a skeptical electorate that he’s still physically and mentally able to thrive in the world’s most important job. Voters in both parties are unhappy with his handling of immigration and inflation.And he's dealing with additional dissension within his party’s progressive base, furious that he hasn’t done more to stop&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s war against Hamas</a>&nbsp;in Gaza. Activists and religious leaders in Washington encouraged Democrats to vote “uncommitted” to signal their outrage.In Seattle, 26-year-old voter Bella Rivera said they hoped their “uncommitted” vote would would serve as a wakeup call for the Democratic party.“If you really want our votes, if you want to win this election, you’re going to have to show a little bit more either support of Palestinian liberation — that’s something that’s very important to us — and ceasing funds to Israel,” said Rivera, a preschool teacher who uses they/them pronouns.Almost 3,000 miles away in Georgia, retiree Donna Graham said she would have preferred another Republican nominee over Trump, but she said there's no way she'd ever vote for Biden in the general election.“He wasn’t my first choice, but he’s the next best thing,” Graham said of Trump. “It’s sad that it’s the same old matchup as four years ago."___

Election rematch: Biden and Trump clinch nominations

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement and school district officials are investigating after a gun was found in a student's back pack at Park Hill South High School,&nbsp;4500 River Park Drive, Riverside, Missouri, on Tuesday, according to a statement from the school district.

There was no threat to the school, according to principal Dr. Kerrie Herren. "During this time, our law enforcement partners and team continued to work through our safety protocols and also secured a student during this process, Herren wrote in message to school disctrict families.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement and school district officials are investigating after a gun was found in a student's back pack at Park Hill South High School,&nbsp;4500 River Park Drive, Riverside, Missouri, on Tuesday, according to a statement from the school district.There was no threat to the school, according to principal Dr. Kerrie Herren. "During this time, our law enforcement partners and team continued to work through our safety protocols and also secured a student during this process, Herren wrote in message to school disctrict families."The student was removed from school, and we will be following guidance in partnership with our law enforcement partners in continuing our investigation. We want to reiterate that our process worked, and our team worked through appropriate steps to ensure that safety was the priority for all.""We are well aware that this information may cause unease given the context of other incidents in our larger Kansas City community over the past month. We commit to sharing information and resources as we continue to learn more in this investigation. Our counselors, social workers and administration will be available throughout this week to help support students."