TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;offered some encouraging words and advice for graduating students at the University of Alabama on Thursday in a speech interspersed with complaints about his critics, accusations that judges were “interfering” with his agenda and attacks on his predecessor, Joe Biden.

The Republican’s jolting speech was standard fare for Trump and well-received by the crowd in deep-red Alabama, which backed him in all three of his presidential runs.

“You’re the first graduating class of the golden age of America,” the president told the graduates.

But he quickly launched into a campaign-style diatribe, saying that the U.S. was being “ripped off” before he took office and that the last four years, when he was out of power, “were not good for our country.”

“But don’t let that scare you,” he said. “It was an aberration.”

The president of the University of Alabama, Stuart Bell, told graduates before Trump took the stage that Thursday night’s event was all about them.

“This special ceremony offers a meaningful opportunity for you, for I, to reflect on the important connection between academic inquiry, civic leadership, and public service,” Bell said.

Trump mostly went in a different direction.

He did a grunting impression of a female weightlifter as he criticized the participation of transgender women in sports. He bragged about how tech moguls have warmed up to him, saying, “They all hated me in my first term, and now they’re kissing my ass.”

And he falsely claimed that the 2020 election, which he lost, was “rigged.”

But after talking up his tariff plans, sharing his successes from his first 100 days in office and bashing the media, Trump turned back to the graduates, offering 10 pieces of advice drawn from his life and career, such as “Think of yourself as a winner,” “Be an original” and “Never, ever give up.”

He told them they were never too young to be successful and described how he worked on his first hotel development deal in his 20s.

“Now is the time to work harder than you’ve ever worked before,” he said. “Find your limits and then smash through everything.”

Although Trump described the speech as a commencement address, it is actually a special event that was created before graduation ceremonies that begin Friday. Graduating students had the option of attending the event.

Former Crimson Tide football coach Nick Saban also spoke, regaling the audience with a story about visiting the Oval Office in 2018 during Trump's first term. Saban said Trump was a gracious host.

In his remarks Thursday, Trump noted that he was marking his 100th day in office and touted the plummeting levels of arrests at the southern U.S. border as evidence that his immigration policies were working. But he accused the courts of trying to stop him from fulfilling the promises he made on the campaign trail.

“Judges are interfering, supposedly based on due process,” he said. “But how can you give due process to people who came into our country illegally?”

Trump has a long history of injecting such rhetoric into his remarks at venues where traditional political talk was seen as unseemly.

On his first full day in office in 2017, he used a speech at a memorial for fallen CIA agents to complain about journalists and defend the size of his crowd at the inauguration. Later that year, he drew backlash for talking about politics at a Boy Scouts gathering. And earlier this year, he delivered a grievance-filled speech at the Justice Department where he threatened to “expose” his enemies.

Ahead of Trump's arrival, Emily Appel, a 22-year-old advertising major from Norcross, Georgia, called Trump's appearance at her school “a cherry on top” of her college years.

She said she hoped he had a message to share that was "positive about us being able to work in the real world and for our future.”

Sophie Best, who is graduating with a communications degree, said, “I don’t think that we could have had a greater person come to speak."

The 21-year-old from Cartersville, Georgia, said she attended Trump's first presidential inauguration in 2017 when she was a freshman in high school, along with her father, who she said loves Trump.

“I think that no matter what political party or whatever you believe in, I think that it’s super cool that we get to experience and make history and be a part of this,” she said.

At a park a mile away, hundreds of people gathered at a counter-rally hosted by College Democrats. One-time presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke of Texas and former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, the last Democrat to hold statewide office in Alabama, addressed the attendees at their event, called a “Tide Against Trump” — a play on the university’s nickname.

Aidan Meyers, a 21-year-old junior studying biology at the university, said he was upset by the decision to let Trump speak at a graduation-related event.

“I felt betrayed that the university was willing to put up with someone who has made it clear that they hate academia, essentially holding funding above universities' heads as a bargaining chip, unless they bow down to what he wants, which is kind of a hallmark sign with fascist regime,” Meyers said.

O'Rourke told the rally that Trump was trying to make the students’ graduation “all about him, true to form.” He urged students and others gathered to go out and use their voices to “win America back.”

“The power of people works in this country, even against Donald Trump,” O’Rourke said.

Jones told the crowd they were there “not just as a protest, but as a movement.”

“You are here today because you’re concerned, you’re afraid. You understand that this country’s great democracy is teetering right now with what we’re seeing going on,” the former senator said.

Trump’s presence also drew criticism from the Alabama NAACP, which said his policies are hurting universities and students, particularly students of color.

After his stop in Alabama, Trump is scheduled to travel to Florida for a long weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort.

Later this month, he is scheduled to give the commencement address at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) — President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;offered some encouraging words and advice for graduating students at the University of Alabama on Thursday in a speech interspersed with complaints about his critics, accusations that judges were “interfering” with his agenda and attacks on his predecessor, Joe Biden.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> takes the stage at the University of Alabama Commencement and shakes hands with Nick Saban: “Congratulations to the class of 2025. ROLL TIDE!” <a href="https://t.co/npveenmzvr">pic.twitter.com/npveenmzvr</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918101830522859866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> to Nick Saban and University President Stuart Bell: “After you, fellas. Anybody that won that many games should go first!” <a href="https://t.co/TabzSOFoYJ">pic.twitter.com/TabzSOFoYJ</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1918098299728384281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Republican’s jolting speech was standard fare for Trump and well-received by the crowd in deep-red Alabama, which backed him in all three of his presidential runs.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> arrives in Coleman Coliseum at the University of Alabama! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/vPNmwbtysg">pic.twitter.com/vPNmwbtysg</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1918101523839762498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“You’re the first graduating class of the golden age of America,” the president told the graduates.But he quickly launched into a campaign-style diatribe, saying that the U.S. was being “ripped off” before he took office and that the last four years, when he was out of power, “were not good for our country.”“But don’t let that scare you,” he said. “It was an aberration.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WHAT A NIGHT IN ALABAMA! 🇺🇸🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/bAHzi2tejR">pic.twitter.com/bAHzi2tejR</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1918116481235034151?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The president of the University of Alabama, Stuart Bell, told graduates before Trump took the stage that Thursday night’s event was all about them.“This special ceremony offers a meaningful opportunity for you, for I, to reflect on the important connection between academic inquiry, civic leadership, and public service,” Bell said.Trump mostly went in a different direction.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: “For the University of Alabama, good isn’t good enough, tough isn’t tough enough, and great isn’t great enough. The Crimson Tide will not rest, will not quit… The University of Alabama has a brand— and that brand is WINNING.” <a href="https://t.co/CnXZgQrIOE">pic.twitter.com/CnXZgQrIOE</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918103827514823061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;As long as I&#39;m President, we will always protect women’s sports. Men will NOT play in women&#39;s sports.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/NHwFUguZf8">pic.twitter.com/NHwFUguZf8</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918103862633812321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: “As you graduate, it’s natural to reflect on four years of happy memories— But today, I am also asking you to look forward to something very very bright and more promising…. You are the first Graduating Class of the Golden Age of America.” 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/VeQ1LBs6Te">pic.twitter.com/VeQ1LBs6Te</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918104674755883304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: “Each of the graduates in this arena will soon have the chance to help lead this project of national renewal… I think you have the chance to be the greatest generation in the history of our country… You learned a lot about winning here at Alabama, and now we need you… <a href="https://t.co/MkHX2wwOQq">pic.twitter.com/MkHX2wwOQq</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918107760245522945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;For the Business Majors here today, I challenge you not merely to use your talents for financial speculation—but to apply your great skills... Don’t just build a strong portfolio—build a very, very STRONG AMERICA.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/a5DM4sxoru">pic.twitter.com/a5DM4sxoru</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918109274909360339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;For the Business Majors here today, I challenge you not merely to use your talents for financial speculation—but to apply your great skills... Don’t just build a strong portfolio—build a very, very STRONG AMERICA.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/a5DM4sxoru">pic.twitter.com/a5DM4sxoru</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918109274909360339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">That graduation feeling. 🕺🎓 <a href="https://t.co/AqPKJArCZv">pic.twitter.com/AqPKJArCZv</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1918116070952472846?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He did a grunting impression of a female weightlifter as he criticized the participation of transgender women in sports. He bragged about how tech moguls have warmed up to him, saying, “They all hated me in my first term, and now they’re kissing my ass.”And he falsely claimed that the 2020 election, which he lost, was “rigged.”But after talking up his tariff plans, sharing his successes from his first 100 days in office and bashing the media, Trump turned back to the graduates, offering 10 pieces of advice drawn from his life and career, such as “Think of yourself as a winner,” “Be an original” and “Never, ever give up.”He told them they were never too young to be successful and described how he worked on his first hotel development deal in his 20s.“Now is the time to work harder than you’ve ever worked before,” he said. “Find your limits and then smash through everything.”Although Trump described the speech as a commencement address, it is actually a special event that was created before graduation ceremonies that begin Friday. Graduating students had the option of attending the event.Former Crimson Tide football coach Nick Saban also spoke, regaling the audience with a story about visiting the Oval Office in 2018 during Trump's first term. Saban said Trump was a gracious host.In his remarks Thursday, Trump noted that he was marking his 100th day in office and touted the plummeting levels of arrests at the southern U.S. border as evidence that his immigration policies were working. But he accused the courts of trying to stop him from fulfilling the promises he made on the campaign trail.“Judges are interfering, supposedly based on due process,” he said. “But how can you give due process to people who came into our country illegally?”Trump has a long history of injecting such rhetoric into his remarks at venues where traditional political talk was seen as unseemly.On his first full day in office in 2017, he used a speech at a memorial for fallen CIA agents to complain about journalists and defend the size of his crowd at the inauguration. Later that year, he drew backlash for talking about politics at a Boy Scouts gathering. And earlier this year, he delivered a grievance-filled speech at the Justice Department where he threatened to “expose” his enemies.Ahead of Trump's arrival, Emily Appel, a 22-year-old advertising major from Norcross, Georgia, called Trump's appearance at her school “a cherry on top” of her college years.She said she hoped he had a message to share that was "positive about us being able to work in the real world and for our future.”Sophie Best, who is graduating with a communications degree, said, “I don’t think that we could have had a greater person come to speak."The 21-year-old from Cartersville, Georgia, said she attended Trump's first presidential inauguration in 2017 when she was a freshman in high school, along with her father, who she said loves Trump.“I think that no matter what political party or whatever you believe in, I think that it’s super cool that we get to experience and make history and be a part of this,” she said.At a park a mile away, hundreds of people gathered at a counter-rally hosted by College Democrats. One-time presidential candidate Beto O’Rourke of Texas and former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, the last Democrat to hold statewide office in Alabama, addressed the attendees at their event, called a “Tide Against Trump” — a play on the university’s nickname.Aidan Meyers, a 21-year-old junior studying biology at the university, said he was upset by the decision to let Trump speak at a graduation-related event.“I felt betrayed that the university was willing to put up with someone who has made it clear that they hate academia, essentially holding funding above universities' heads as a bargaining chip, unless they bow down to what he wants, which is kind of a hallmark sign with fascist regime,” Meyers said.O'Rourke told the rally that Trump was trying to make the students’ graduation “all about him, true to form.” He urged students and others gathered to go out and use their voices to “win America back.”“The power of people works in this country, even against Donald Trump,” O’Rourke said.Jones told the crowd they were there “not just as a protest, but as a movement.”“You are here today because you’re concerned, you’re afraid. You understand that this country’s great democracy is teetering right now with what we’re seeing going on,” the former senator said.Trump’s presence also drew criticism from the Alabama NAACP, which said his policies are hurting universities and students, particularly students of color.After his stop in Alabama, Trump is scheduled to travel to Florida for a long weekend at his Mar-a-Lago resort.Later this month, he is scheduled to give the commencement address at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York.

🎥Trump offers encouragement to University of Alabama graduates 

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a woman on drug allegations.

Just before 1:30a.m. April 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Corolla on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Police arrested the back seat passenger, Summer Rose Kennedy-Webb, 27, of Olathe. She was booked into jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745845658403.png" alt="Kennedy-Webb -photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Kennedy-Webb -photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating a woman on drug allegations. Just before 1:30a.m. April 27, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Corolla on U.S. Highway 75 near 134th Road for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Police arrested the back seat passenger, Summer Rose Kennedy-Webb, 27, of Olathe. She was booked into jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Back seat passenger jailed after Kansas traffic stop

KANSAS CITY —Kansas City, Missouri police are investigating a deadly officer involved shooting near Kansas City International Airport.

Early Thursday,&nbsp; Riverside, Missouri Police Officers were dispatched on a reported Domestic Violence Aggravated Assault that occurred in the parking lot of the Argosy Casino, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez .

 An adult male victim was located and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on scene at that location. Riverside dispatch quickly broadcasted the description of the suspect vehicle and person of interest to responding officers. 

A Riverside police officer located the described suspect and vehicle as he was fleeing the scene. Due to the nature of the call, a vehicle pursuit was initiated, to stop an armed and dangerous individual. 

The Kansas City Missouri Police Department became notified of an outside agency vehicle pursuit traveling through the city and assisted by deploying stop sticks, a tire deflation device, in the area of I-29 and Cookingham around 6:40a.m.

The suspect vehicle’s tires struck the tire deflation device disabling the vehicle. The driver subsequently pulled over and stopped the vehicle at I-29 and I-435. 

Multiple agencies, to include the Riverside Police Department and the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, began giving verbal commands for the suspect to exit the vehicle and peacefully surrender. 

After approximately thirty minutes of negotiations, the suspect exited the driver’s seat of the vehicle armed with a handgun. He pointed the firearm in the direction of the officers, at which time two Riverside Police Officers and one Platte County Deputy discharged their duty weapons, striking the adult male subject. 

Officers on scene provided emergency medical care to the man until EMS responded and transported him to an area hospital for treatment. The male suspect was declared deceased a short time later at the hospital. 

A handgun was recovered from the scene where the suspect had been shot. No officers were injured during this incident.&nbsp; Police have not released the suspect's name.

KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Police Department is investigating an Officer Involved Shooting involving multiple outside agencies that occurred early Thursday near Interstate 29 and Interstate 435, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez .&nbsp; Few details are available. Northbound Interstate 29 was closed at Cookingham during the investigation.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746109656574.png" alt="Image KC Scout camera" />
 <figcaption>Image KC Scout camera</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Kansas City, Missouri police are investigating a deadly officer involved shooting near Kansas City International Airport.Early Thursday,&nbsp; Riverside, Missouri Police Officers were dispatched on a reported Domestic Violence Aggravated Assault that occurred in the parking lot of the Argosy Casino, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez . An adult male victim was located and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds on scene at that location. Riverside dispatch quickly broadcasted the description of the suspect vehicle and person of interest to responding officers. A Riverside police officer located the described suspect and vehicle as he was fleeing the scene. Due to the nature of the call, a vehicle pursuit was initiated, to stop an armed and dangerous individual. The Kansas City Missouri Police Department became notified of an outside agency vehicle pursuit traveling through the city and assisted by deploying stop sticks, a tire deflation device, in the area of I-29 and Cookingham around 6:40a.m.The suspect vehicle’s tires struck the tire deflation device disabling the vehicle. The driver subsequently pulled over and stopped the vehicle at I-29 and I-435. Multiple agencies, to include the Riverside Police Department and the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, began giving verbal commands for the suspect to exit the vehicle and peacefully surrender. After approximately thirty minutes of negotiations, the suspect exited the driver’s seat of the vehicle armed with a handgun. He pointed the firearm in the direction of the officers, at which time two Riverside Police Officers and one Platte County Deputy discharged their duty weapons, striking the adult male subject. Officers on scene provided emergency medical care to the man until EMS responded and transported him to an area hospital for treatment. The male suspect was declared deceased a short time later at the hospital. A handgun was recovered from the scene where the suspect had been shot. No officers were injured during this incident.&nbsp; Police have not released the suspect's name.----------------KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Police Department is investigating an Officer Involved Shooting involving multiple outside agencies that occurred early Thursday near Interstate 29 and Interstate 435, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez .&nbsp; Few details are available. Northbound Interstate 29 was closed at Cookingham during the investigation.Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

KCPD updates details on fatal officer-involved shooting near KCI

WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump created a religious liberty commission.

The president signed an executive order creating the panel during a White House Rose Garden ceremony to recognize the National Day of Prayer.

Its members include Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, former U.S. housing secretary Ben Carson and TV talk-show host Phil McGraw. The commission was Patrick’s idea, Trump said.

Patrick told Trump, “There has never been a president who has invoked the name of Jesus more than you.”

McGraw said Trump is a “man of deep faith … who wants this country to have a heart and have religion.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746132611775.png" alt="President Trump and Dr. Phil -Image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Trump and Dr. Phil -Image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —President Trump created a religious liberty commission.The president signed an executive order creating the panel during a White House Rose Garden ceremony to recognize the National Day of Prayer.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> officially establishes the Religious Liberty Commission to safeguard and promote America&#39;s founding principle of religious freedom <a href="https://t.co/UCqlqnl3PN">pic.twitter.com/UCqlqnl3PN</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1917993660945227924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Its members include Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, former U.S. housing secretary Ben Carson and TV talk-show host Phil McGraw. The commission was Patrick’s idea, Trump said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Humbling to hear “Amazing Grace” being sung at the WH. Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> for putting faith at the forefront of your Administration. <a href="https://t.co/SoSHyfsHnv">pic.twitter.com/SoSHyfsHnv</a>&mdash; Scott Turner (@SecretaryTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecretaryTurner/status/1918010029677961635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Texas Lt. Governor <a href="https://twitter.com/DanPatrick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DanPatrick</a> delivers remarks at the White House National Day of Prayer event: &quot;You are restoring the hopes and the prayers of millions upon millions of believers... you have a heart for every American, and you&#39;re showing that today.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/tla4lFNrm1">pic.twitter.com/tla4lFNrm1</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1917983560545271924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;As we bow our heads on this beautiful day, once again we have to trust our God because our God knows exactly where we&#39;re going... and may He continue to hear our prayers, to guide our steps, and build up our beloved nation to even greater heights.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/n7WqrjksH4">pic.twitter.com/n7WqrjksH4</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1917986435816112406?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Patrick told Trump, “There has never been a president who has invoked the name of Jesus more than you.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/DrPhil?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrPhil</a>: &quot;I&#39;ve sat with President Trump with no cameras around, nobody listening, nobody watching — and I&#39;m telling you, this is a man of deep faith, a man of deep conviction ... This man cares about every single person in America.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/XhkRRfZ1ll">pic.twitter.com/XhkRRfZ1ll</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1917982018459030012?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>McGraw said Trump is a “man of deep faith … who wants this country to have a heart and have religion.”

🎥Who Trump appointed to his religious liberty commission 

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and USD 473 staff are investigating an alleged threat at the middle school in Chapman.

On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School, 624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.

Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately.

After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete.  An official statement will be released on Friday.  Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement and USD 473 staff are investigating an alleged threat at the middle school in Chapman.On Wednesday, an officer with Chapman Police was notified of a potential harmful event that may occur at a later date at the Chapman Middle School, 624 Marshall Ave, Chapman, according to a social media report from the Chapman Police Department.Chapman police immediately made contact with USD 473 staff and contacted the Dickinson Co. Sheriff’s Office and an investigation began immediately.After the investigation, the officials feel that there is no credible threat. The investigation isn’t complete. An official statement will be released on Friday. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police investigating alleged threat at Kansas middle school

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect accused in a deadly shooting in the parking lot of a motel in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.

James Owens, 35 of Wichita, was charged with 1st degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 8 p.m. April 25, Wichita Police were in the area of South Topeka and East Indianapolis in Wichita when they heard gunshots nearby, according to Wichita Police Officer Brad Wright.

Officers immediately responded to the area in the 800 block of South Broadway. Upon arrival, officers discovered that 21-year-old Martevion Davis from Wichita had suffered gunshot wounds to his torso and arms. Davis was driven to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased at 10:46 p.m., according to Wright.

Through investigations, Officers were quickly able to identify Owens as a suspect. There were multiple individuals at the scene who were later interviewed by Wichita Police Department Homicide Investigators. At this point in the investigation, it is believed that Davis and Owens were known to each other.

At 12:30 p.m. Saturday Owens turned himself into police custody and was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on a bond of one-million dollars and is due back in court&nbsp; May 12, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745701616774.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A suspect accused in a deadly shooting in the parking lot of a motel in Wichita made his first court appearance in the case Wednesday.James Owens, 35 of Wichita, was charged with 1st degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 8 p.m. April 25, Wichita Police were in the area of South Topeka and East Indianapolis in Wichita when they heard gunshots nearby, according to Wichita Police Officer Brad Wright.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745750207897.png" alt="Owens photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Owens photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers immediately responded to the area in the 800 block of South Broadway. Upon arrival, officers discovered that 21-year-old Martevion Davis from Wichita had suffered gunshot wounds to his torso and arms. Davis was driven to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased at 10:46 p.m., according to Wright.Through investigations, Officers were quickly able to identify Owens as a suspect. There were multiple individuals at the scene who were later interviewed by Wichita Police Department Homicide Investigators. At this point in the investigation, it is believed that Davis and Owens were known to each other.At 12:30 p.m. Saturday Owens turned himself into police custody and was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. He is being held on a bond of one-million dollars and is due back in court&nbsp; May 12, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. man who turned himself in for murder appears before a judge

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — An astronaut who missed out on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/774dc759788d4e42a5eecaa4f739aade">first all-female spacewalk</a>&nbsp;because of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/nasa-nixes-1st-all-female-spacewalk-due-to-suit-sizing-issue-b5de006769d6411d803b395dabac4e4f">spacesuit sizing issue</a>&nbsp;got her chance six years later on Thursday.

NASA’s Anne McClain emerged from the International Space Station alongside Nichole Ayers. Both military officers and pilots, they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-stuck-astronauts-spacex-boeing-e2f2e7fed6a0e65553eb72923b9357c7">launched</a>&nbsp;to the orbiting lab in March to replace NASA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stuck-astronauts-space-spacex-williams-wilmore-23138bc21431771e91418d5cab40bbf4">two stuck astronauts</a>, who are now back home.

Minutes before floating out, McClain noticed strands of string on the index finger of her right glove. Mission Control briefly delayed the start of the spacewalk to make sure her glove was safe.

Outside for nearly six hours, the spacewalkers prepared the station for another new set of solar panels and moved an antenna on the 260-mile-high (420-kilometer-high) complex. They were welcomed back inside by the space station's commander, Japanese astronaut Takuya Onishi.

“We are so happy to have you back, and your dinner is ready so don’t worry about it,” Onishi said.

The space station had to be raised into a slightly higher orbit Wednesday evening to avoid space junk: part of a 20-year-old Chinese rocket.

McClain, an Army colonel and helicopter pilot, should have taken part in the first all-female spacewalk in 2019, but there weren’t enough medium-size suits. The first women-only spacewalk was by Christina Koch and Jessica Meir. The latest was the fifth all-female spacewalk in 60 years of spacewalking.

Koch soon will become the first woman to fly to the moon. She and three male astronauts will fly around the moon without landing next year under NASA's Artemis program, the successor to Apollo.

Men still outnumber women in NASA's astronaut corps.

Of NASA's 47 active astronauts, 20 are women. And of the seven astronauts currently living at the space station, McClain and Ayers are the only women. It was the first spacewalk for Ayers, an Air Force major and former fighter pilot, and the third for McClain.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — An astronaut who missed out on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/774dc759788d4e42a5eecaa4f739aade">first all-female spacewalk</a>&nbsp;because of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/nasa-nixes-1st-all-female-spacewalk-due-to-suit-sizing-issue-b5de006769d6411d803b395dabac4e4f">spacesuit sizing issue</a>&nbsp;got her chance six years later on Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LIVE: We&#39;re going on a spacewalk! <a href="https://twitter.com/AstroAnnimal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AstroAnnimal</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Astro_Ayers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Astro_Ayers</a> are scheduled to head out around 8am ET (1200 UTC) on a six-and-a-half hour spacewalk to upgrade the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>. <a href="https://t.co/VzqVjBGyP8">https://t.co/VzqVjBGyP8</a>&mdash; NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1917889344628457840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>NASA’s Anne McClain emerged from the International Space Station alongside Nichole Ayers. Both military officers and pilots, they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nasa-stuck-astronauts-spacex-boeing-e2f2e7fed6a0e65553eb72923b9357c7">launched</a>&nbsp;to the orbiting lab in March to replace NASA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stuck-astronauts-space-spacex-williams-wilmore-23138bc21431771e91418d5cab40bbf4">two stuck astronauts</a>, who are now back home.Minutes before floating out, McClain noticed strands of string on the index finger of her right glove. Mission Control briefly delayed the start of the spacewalk to make sure her glove was safe.Outside for nearly six hours, the spacewalkers prepared the station for another new set of solar panels and moved an antenna on the 260-mile-high (420-kilometer-high) complex. They were welcomed back inside by the space station's commander, Japanese astronaut Takuya Onishi.“We are so happy to have you back, and your dinner is ready so don’t worry about it,” Onishi said.The space station had to be raised into a slightly higher orbit Wednesday evening to avoid space junk: part of a 20-year-old Chinese rocket.McClain, an Army colonel and helicopter pilot, should have taken part in the first all-female spacewalk in 2019, but there weren’t enough medium-size suits. The first women-only spacewalk was by Christina Koch and Jessica Meir. The latest was the fifth all-female spacewalk in 60 years of spacewalking.Koch soon will become the first woman to fly to the moon. She and three male astronauts will fly around the moon without landing next year under NASA's Artemis program, the successor to Apollo.Men still outnumber women in NASA's astronaut corps.Of NASA's 47 active astronauts, 20 are women. And of the seven astronauts currently living at the space station, McClain and Ayers are the only women. It was the first spacewalk for Ayers, an Air Force major and former fighter pilot, and the third for McClain.___The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

🎥NASA astronauts step outside to perform the 5th all-female spacewalk

NEW YORK (AP) — SharkNinja is recalling more than 2 million pressure cookers sold in the U.S. and Canada — after consumers reported over 100 burn injuries spanning from a hazard that can cause hot food to spew out.

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/SharkNinja-Recalls-1-8-Million-Foodi-Multi-Function-Pressure-Cookers-Due-to-Burn-Hazard-Serious-Burn-Injuries-Reported">recall notice</a>&nbsp;published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday, Ninja-branded “Foodi OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers” have a lid that can be opened while the cooker is in use. That can cause hot contents to escape from the product, posing serious burn risks.

SharkNinja has received 106 reports of burn injuries in the U.S. — including more than 50 reports of second or third-degree burns to the face or body, per the CPSC, which adds that 26 lawsuits have been filed as a result. No additional injuries have been reported in Canada, an accompanying&nbsp;<a href="https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/ninja-foodi-tendercrisp-multi-cookers-pressure-cooking-lid-recalled-due-potential-burn">notice</a>&nbsp;from Health Canada notes.

“The safety of our customers is a top priority for SharkNinja,” the company said in a statement sent to The Associated Press, adding that it was conducting a recall to address related consumer reports.

Those in possession of the now-recalled cookers are urged to immediately stop using the pressure-cooking function and contact Massachusetts-based SharkNinja for a free replacement lid. But you can still use the cookers' other functions, including air frying, which are not affected by the recall.

To get a new lid, “you do not need to take your unit back to where you bought it,"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">an FAQ</a>&nbsp;on SharkNinja's website adds — noting that all recall replacements will be handled online.

The multiuse cookers were made in China and sold between early 2019 and the spring of 2025 at major retailers like Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Amazon and Target, as well as Ninjakitchen.com, for about $200. The products have the word “Ninja” printed on the front.

Consumers can also identify if their cooker is impacted by checking its product label. Impacted model numbers are listed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">Thursday's recall notices</a>. About 1,846,400 of these cookers were sold in the U.S. and 184,240 were sold in Canada, in addition to some lids that were previously distributed as replacement parts.

To request a free replacement lid and learn more information, consumers can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">visit SharkNinja's recall page here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746125982790.png" alt="Photo Consumer Product Safety Commission" />
 <figcaption>Photo Consumer Product Safety Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — SharkNinja is recalling more than 2 million pressure cookers sold in the U.S. and Canada — after consumers reported over 100 burn injuries spanning from a hazard that can cause hot food to spew out.According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/SharkNinja-Recalls-1-8-Million-Foodi-Multi-Function-Pressure-Cookers-Due-to-Burn-Hazard-Serious-Burn-Injuries-Reported">recall notice</a>&nbsp;published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday, Ninja-branded “Foodi OP300 Series Multi-Function Pressure Cookers” have a lid that can be opened while the cooker is in use. That can cause hot contents to escape from the product, posing serious burn risks.SharkNinja has received 106 reports of burn injuries in the U.S. — including more than 50 reports of second or third-degree burns to the face or body, per the CPSC, which adds that 26 lawsuits have been filed as a result. No additional injuries have been reported in Canada, an accompanying&nbsp;<a href="https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/ninja-foodi-tendercrisp-multi-cookers-pressure-cooking-lid-recalled-due-potential-burn">notice</a>&nbsp;from Health Canada notes.“The safety of our customers is a top priority for SharkNinja,” the company said in a statement sent to The Associated Press, adding that it was conducting a recall to address related consumer reports.Those in possession of the now-recalled cookers are urged to immediately stop using the pressure-cooking function and contact Massachusetts-based SharkNinja for a free replacement lid. But you can still use the cookers' other functions, including air frying, which are not affected by the recall.To get a new lid, “you do not need to take your unit back to where you bought it,"&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">an FAQ</a>&nbsp;on SharkNinja's website adds — noting that all recall replacements will be handled online.The multiuse cookers were made in China and sold between early 2019 and the spring of 2025 at major retailers like Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Amazon and Target, as well as Ninjakitchen.com, for about $200. The products have the word “Ninja” printed on the front.Consumers can also identify if their cooker is impacted by checking its product label. Impacted model numbers are listed on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">Thursday's recall notices</a>. About 1,846,400 of these cookers were sold in the U.S. and 184,240 were sold in Canada, in addition to some lids that were previously distributed as replacement parts.To request a free replacement lid and learn more information, consumers can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rqa-inc.com/client/SharkNinja/">visit SharkNinja's recall page here</a>.

Ninja-branded pressure cookers recalled after reports of serious burn injuries

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Thursday that he’s naming Secretary of State Marco Rubio as acting national security adviser to replace Mike Waltz, whom he is nominating for United Nations ambassador.

Trump announced the moves shortly after news broke that Waltz and his deputy Alex Wong were departing the administration just weeks after it was revealed that Waltz added a journalist to a Signal chat being used to discuss military plans.

Trump said Rubio will continue to serve as secretary of state.

“I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Mike Waltz to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations. From his time in uniform on the battlefield, in Congress and, as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation’s Interests first,” Trump wrote on social media.

“In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will serve as National Security Advisor, while continuing his strong leadership at the State Department. Together, we will continue to fight tirelessly to Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN.

WASHINGTON (AP) — White House national security adviser&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-national-security-adviser-mike-wlatz-0c81d044c9ffe18dfd745202e8351b9c">Mike Waltz</a>&nbsp;is leaving the administration just weeks after it was revealed he added a journalist to a Signal chat being used to discuss military plans, according to two people familiar with the matter Thursday, marking the first major staff shakeup of President Donald Trump’s second term.

Mike Walz statement during the Trump cabinet meeting Wednesday.

Waltz came under searing scrutiny in March after revelations that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/war-plans-hegseth-signal-chat-investigation-507d6c692d0cfdfe53e687c0801fd46b">added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a private text chain</a>&nbsp;on the encrypted messaging app Signal, which was used to discuss planning for a sensitive March 15 military operation against Houthi militants in Yemen. A far-right ally of the president, Laura Loomer, has also targeted Waltz, telling Trump in a recent Oval Office conversation that he needs to purge aides who she believes are insufficiently loyal to the “Make America Great Again” agenda.

Waltz’s deputy, Alex Wong, is also expected to depart, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel move not yet made public. The National Security Council did not respond do a request for comment.

Waltz, who served in the House representing Florida for three terms before his elevation to the White House, is the most prominent senior administration official to depart since Trump returned to the White House. In his second term, the Republican president had been looking to avoid the tumult of his first four years in office, during which he cycled through four national security advisers, four White House chiefs of staff and two secretaries of state.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-signal-chat-pentagon-trump-30dc4c3d0e75a89f3fd883f38b26afff">The Signal chain</a>&nbsp;also showed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth provided the exact timings of warplane launches and when bombs would drop. Waltz had previously taken “full responsibility” for building the message chain and administration officials described the episode as a “mistake” but one that caused Americans no harm. Waltz maintained that he was not sure how Goldberg ended up in the messaging chain, and insisted he did not know the journalist.

Trump and the White House — which insisted that no classified information was shared on the text chain — have stood by Waltz publicly throughout the episode. But the embattled national security adviser was also under siege from personalities such as Loomer, who had been complaining to administration officials that she had been excluded from the vetting process for National Security Council aides. In her view, Waltz relied too much on “neocons” — referring to hawkish neoconservatives within the Republican Party — as well as others who Loomer argued were “not-MAGA-enough” types.

Waltz was on television as late as Thursday morning, promoting the administration’s agreement with Kyiv that would allow the U.S. to access Ukraine’s critical minerals and other natural resources. As reports began to circulate that Waltz could be leaving the administration, Loomer appeared to take credit in a post on the social media site X, writing: “SCALP.”

“Hopefully, the rest of the people who were set to be fired but were given promotions at the NSC under Waltz also depart,” Loomer wrote in another post.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746122307583.png" alt="Mike Waltz leaving the White House grounds on Thursday- image from CSPAN video" />
 <figcaption>Mike Waltz leaving the White House grounds on Thursday- image from CSPAN video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Thursday that he’s naming Secretary of State Marco Rubio as acting national security adviser to replace Mike Waltz, whom he is nominating for United Nations ambassador.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737910487415.png" alt="Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran during a meeting with Waltz before his confirmation hearing- courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran during a meeting with Waltz before his confirmation hearing- courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Trump announced the moves shortly after news broke that Waltz and his deputy Alex Wong were departing the administration just weeks after it was revealed that Waltz added a journalist to a Signal chat being used to discuss military plans.Trump said Rubio will continue to serve as secretary of state.“I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Mike Waltz to be the next United States Ambassador to the United Nations. From his time in uniform on the battlefield, in Congress and, as my National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz has worked hard to put our Nation’s Interests first,” Trump wrote on social media.“In the interim, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will serve as National Security Advisor, while continuing his strong leadership at the State Department. Together, we will continue to fight tirelessly to Make America, and the World, SAFE AGAIN.---------WASHINGTON (AP) — White House national security adviser&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-national-security-adviser-mike-wlatz-0c81d044c9ffe18dfd745202e8351b9c">Mike Waltz</a>&nbsp;is leaving the administration just weeks after it was revealed he added a journalist to a Signal chat being used to discuss military plans, according to two people familiar with the matter Thursday, marking the first major staff shakeup of President Donald Trump’s second term.Mike Walz statement during the Trump cabinet meeting Wednesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Cabinet meet yest: WALTZ: &quot;Total lack of zero leadership under Biden. We&#39;ve had 100 days of your leadership with respect, with strength...Pulling this great team together Mr. President...It&#39;s an honor to serve you in this administration&quot; TRUMP: &quot;...Thank you very much, Michael&quot; <a href="https://t.co/JovGXc9wV3">pic.twitter.com/JovGXc9wV3</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1917981092545454561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Waltz came under searing scrutiny in March after revelations that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/war-plans-hegseth-signal-chat-investigation-507d6c692d0cfdfe53e687c0801fd46b">added journalist Jeffrey Goldberg to a private text chain</a>&nbsp;on the encrypted messaging app Signal, which was used to discuss planning for a sensitive March 15 military operation against Houthi militants in Yemen. A far-right ally of the president, Laura Loomer, has also targeted Waltz, telling Trump in a recent Oval Office conversation that he needs to purge aides who she believes are insufficiently loyal to the “Make America Great Again” agenda.Waltz’s deputy, Alex Wong, is also expected to depart, according to the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss a personnel move not yet made public. The National Security Council did not respond do a request for comment.Waltz, who served in the House representing Florida for three terms before his elevation to the White House, is the most prominent senior administration official to depart since Trump returned to the White House. In his second term, the Republican president had been looking to avoid the tumult of his first four years in office, during which he cycled through four national security advisers, four White House chiefs of staff and two secretaries of state.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hegseth-signal-chat-pentagon-trump-30dc4c3d0e75a89f3fd883f38b26afff">The Signal chain</a>&nbsp;also showed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth provided the exact timings of warplane launches and when bombs would drop. Waltz had previously taken “full responsibility” for building the message chain and administration officials described the episode as a “mistake” but one that caused Americans no harm. Waltz maintained that he was not sure how Goldberg ended up in the messaging chain, and insisted he did not know the journalist.Trump and the White House — which insisted that no classified information was shared on the text chain — have stood by Waltz publicly throughout the episode. But the embattled national security adviser was also under siege from personalities such as Loomer, who had been complaining to administration officials that she had been excluded from the vetting process for National Security Council aides. In her view, Waltz relied too much on “neocons” — referring to hawkish neoconservatives within the Republican Party — as well as others who Loomer argued were “not-MAGA-enough” types.Waltz was on television as late as Thursday morning, promoting the administration’s agreement with Kyiv that would allow the U.S. to access Ukraine’s critical minerals and other natural resources. As reports began to circulate that Waltz could be leaving the administration, Loomer appeared to take credit in a post on the social media site X, writing: “SCALP.”“Hopefully, the rest of the people who were set to be fired but were given promotions at the NSC under Waltz also depart,” Loomer wrote in another post.

Staff shakeup: Waltz will move from National Security Adviser to UN envoy

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating gunfire in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just before 6 p.m., Monday, police responded to the area of SW Huntoon and Lincoln in Topeka on the report of gunshots being fired in the area, according to Police Lt. John Trimble.

 Officers arrived to the area shortly after being dispatched. They located multiple witnesses and victims and took a subject into custody identified&nbsp; as 23-year-old Rajhgerio Guruda Smith.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault,&nbsp;Criminal Discharge of Firearm at Occupied Vehicle, felon in Possession of Firearm, Felony Criminal Damage and Misdemeanor Criminal Damage.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745952487931.png" alt="Smith photo Shawnee XCounty" />
 <figcaption>Smith photo Shawnee XCounty</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Police investigating gunfire in Topeka have made an arrest.Just before 6 p.m., Monday, police responded to the area of SW Huntoon and Lincoln in Topeka on the report of gunshots being fired in the area, according to Police Lt. John Trimble. Officers arrived to the area shortly after being dispatched. They located multiple witnesses and victims and took a subject into custody identified&nbsp; as 23-year-old Rajhgerio Guruda Smith.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault,&nbsp;Criminal Discharge of Firearm at Occupied Vehicle, felon in Possession of Firearm, Felony Criminal Damage and Misdemeanor Criminal Damage.

Kansas man accused of shooting at vehicle

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

TOPEKA — Former Kansas foster care leaders accused of defrauding their old employer of millions of dollars indicated in court that they plan to change their not guilty pleas, avoiding a trial.

William Whymark, the former IT director for the regional foster care provider Saint Francis Ministries, is expected to change his plea later this year as attorneys continue to negotiate a deal. His co-defendant and former Saint Francis CEO Robert Smith is also “actively engaged in plea negotiations,” Smith’s attorney said at a Wednesday hearing.

Smith faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 15 counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering amounting to $4.7 million in damages. Whymark faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and 10 counts of wire fraud.&nbsp;A federal grand jury indicted the two in November 2022.

U.S. District Judge Toby Crouse set a May 28 hearing for Smith, whose attorney expressed concern Wednesday with some of the case’s numbers and calculations for alleged fraud. Whymark is expected to change his plea at a Sept. 3 hearing.

The two defendants were not present at Wednesday’s status conference. Whymark’s attorney said Whymark was in the emergency room the night before and is scheduled to receive additional treatment. Smith, who lives in Tennessee, waived his right to appear.

<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/27/former-leaders-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-negotiating-plea-deal-in-federal-fraud-case/">A court filing from Feb. 25</a>&nbsp;showed Whymark and Smith are “presently involved in plea negotiations and anticipate resolving this case without a trial.” They face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, plus fines and restitution.

Court documents allege that Smith used Saint Francis Ministries’ credit cards for personal expenses and that “materially false invoices” paid Whymark’s IT company more than $10 million. Court documents say Saint Francis Ministries had to spend an estimated $3.2 million to repair Whymark’s “grossly deficient and overpriced” work.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746113559446.png" alt=" A routine court hearing for two former Saint Francis Ministries executives accused of defrauding the foster care provider took place on April 30, 2025, at the Kansas federal courthouse in Topeka. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> A routine court hearing for two former Saint Francis Ministries executives accused of defrauding the foster care provider took place on April 30, 2025, at the Kansas federal courthouse in Topeka. (Grace Hills/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Former Kansas foster care leaders accused of defrauding their old employer of millions of dollars indicated in court that they plan to change their not guilty pleas, avoiding a trial.William Whymark, the former IT director for the regional foster care provider Saint Francis Ministries, is expected to change his plea later this year as attorneys continue to negotiate a deal. His co-defendant and former Saint Francis CEO Robert Smith is also “actively engaged in plea negotiations,” Smith’s attorney said at a Wednesday hearing.Smith faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, 15 counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering amounting to $4.7 million in damages. Whymark faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and 10 counts of wire fraud.&nbsp;A federal grand jury indicted the two in November 2022.U.S. District Judge Toby Crouse set a May 28 hearing for Smith, whose attorney expressed concern Wednesday with some of the case’s numbers and calculations for alleged fraud. Whymark is expected to change his plea at a Sept. 3 hearing.The two defendants were not present at Wednesday’s status conference. Whymark’s attorney said Whymark was in the emergency room the night before and is scheduled to receive additional treatment. Smith, who lives in Tennessee, waived his right to appear.<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/27/former-leaders-of-kansas-foster-care-provider-negotiating-plea-deal-in-federal-fraud-case/">A court filing from Feb. 25</a>&nbsp;showed Whymark and Smith are “presently involved in plea negotiations and anticipate resolving this case without a trial.” They face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, plus fines and restitution.Court documents allege that Smith used Saint Francis Ministries’ credit cards for personal expenses and that “materially false invoices” paid Whymark’s IT company more than $10 million. Court documents say Saint Francis Ministries had to spend an estimated $3.2 million to repair Whymark’s “grossly deficient and overpriced” work.

Kansas foster care leaders accused of swindling millions want to change not guilty pleas 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Former Vice President Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;used a high-profile speech Wednesday to sharply criticize&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;amid speculation about whether she will mount another presidential campaign or opt to run for California governor.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/fmr-vice-president-kamala-harris-delivers-remarks-at-emerge-gala/659258">Click here to watch</a>&nbsp;the full speech

In her most extensive public remarks since leaving office in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">following her defeat</a>&nbsp;to Trump, Harris said she’s inspired by Americans fighting Trump’s agenda despite threats to their freedom or livelihood.

“Instead of an administration working to advance America’s highest ideals, we are witnessing the wholesale abandonment of those ideals,” Harris said a day after Trump reached&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-push-alerts-100-days/">100 days</a>&nbsp;in office.

Before Wednesday, Harris had barely mentioned Trump by name since she conceded defeat to him in November.

In a 15-minute speech, she spoke to the anxiety and confusion that have gripped many of her supporters since Trump took office but discouraged despair.

“They are counting on the notion that if they can make some people afraid, it will have a chilling effect on others. But what they have overlooked is that fear is not the only thing that’s contagious,” Harris said. “Courage is contagious.”

Trump went after Harris in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-100-days-michigan-whitmer-2e30695aa185a785cc1037ab74c19a55">campaign-style rally</a>&nbsp;Tuesday marking his 100th day in office. He sarcastically called her a “great border czar" and a “great candidate," and repeated some of the applause lines he routinely delivered during the campaign.

Until Harris replaced Joe Biden atop the Democratic ticket last summer, Trump said, “I knew nothing about her."

Harris cautioned Americans against viewing Trump’s administration as merely chaotic, casting it instead as a “high-velocity event,” the culmination of extensive work on the right to remake government.

“A vessel is being used for the swift implementation of an agenda that has been decades in the making," Harris said. “An agenda to slash public education. An agenda to shrink government and then privatize its services. All while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest among us.”

Harris chose a friendly audience for her return to the political arena, addressing the 20th anniversary gala for Emerge America, an organization that recruits and trains Democratic women to run for office. It grew in part from Harris’ run for San Francisco district attorney in the early 2000s.

The speech was delivered below luminous chandeliers in a gold-trimmed ballroom in the landmark Palace Hotel.

Harris is ramping up her public presence as Democrats nationally search for a path forward after November's election, in which Republicans also won control of Congress. While a slate of high-profile Democrats — from governors to businessmen — seek leadership roles within the party, the former vice president retains unique influence and would reshape any future race she chooses to enter.

She praised Democrats who have been especially prolific in criticizing Trump, name-dropping lawmakers diverse in their ideology and style: Sens. Cory Booker, Chris Van Hollen, Chris Murphy and Bernie Sanders along with Reps. Jasmine Crockett, Maxwell Frost and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

But she did not take a stand in one of her party's central divides, neither calling for mass mobilization like Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker or questioning Democratic positioning on key issues like California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“I’m not here tonight to offer all the answers,” Harris said. “But I am here to say this: You are not alone and we are all in this together.”

But she warned that things will probably get worse before they get better.

“The one check, the one balance, the one power that must not fail is the voice of the people,” she said.

Harris, a former state attorney general and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-congress-senate-elections-united-states-government-general-news-united-states-senate-0f65a4bba07344bfb2c6650ff02a27b7">U.S. senator from California</a>, has not discouraged speculation that she might enter the race to replace the term-limited Newsom, himself a potential contender for president. And she has not ruled out another run for the White House.

She did not address her future Wednesday.

She continues to fundraise, using a joint committee that includes Harris for President, the Democratic National Committee and state Democratic parties. The committee, the Harris Victory Fund, reported having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/committee/C00744946/">about $4.5 million on hand</a>&nbsp;at the end of March, according to federal records.

In recent fundraising emails, Harris has been blunt about the need for Democrats to unify ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Democrats need to “organize and stop Trump’s agenda while electing Democrats everywhere,” she wrote in recent emails. “There has never been a more important time for a strong Democratic Party — one that is willing to stand up to Donald Trump, Elon Musk and what they are doing to this country.”

The event marks a homecoming of sorts. Harris lives in Los Angeles but she is from the San Francisco Bay Area, where her political career is rooted. For her first major speech since the election, she chose familiar terrain and a friendly, in some ways familial, crowd.

Lisa Gotbhi, a health care executive in San Francisco, said Harris' loss last year was a “shock," but “she’s a voice we need and a leader we need. Let’s get back in the fight.”

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Former Vice President Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;used a high-profile speech Wednesday to sharply criticize&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;amid speculation about whether she will mount another presidential campaign or opt to run for California governor.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/fmr-vice-president-kamala-harris-delivers-remarks-at-emerge-gala/659258">Click here to watch</a>&nbsp;the full speech<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Kamala Harris: &quot;Instead of an administration working to advance America&#39;s highest ideals, we are witnessing the wholesale abandonment of those ideals.&quot; She advocates for resistance to the &quot;fear&quot; spread by Trump agenda, saying &quot;Courage is contagious&quot; full: <a href="https://t.co/OSO98guAMS">https://t.co/OSO98guAMS</a> <a href="https://t.co/rBugxnkEej">pic.twitter.com/rBugxnkEej</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1917869623480881625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In her most extensive public remarks since leaving office in January&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">following her defeat</a>&nbsp;to Trump, Harris said she’s inspired by Americans fighting Trump’s agenda despite threats to their freedom or livelihood.“Instead of an administration working to advance America’s highest ideals, we are witnessing the wholesale abandonment of those ideals,” Harris said a day after Trump reached&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-push-alerts-100-days/">100 days</a>&nbsp;in office.Before Wednesday, Harris had barely mentioned Trump by name since she conceded defeat to him in November.In a 15-minute speech, she spoke to the anxiety and confusion that have gripped many of her supporters since Trump took office but discouraged despair.“They are counting on the notion that if they can make some people afraid, it will have a chilling effect on others. But what they have overlooked is that fear is not the only thing that’s contagious,” Harris said. “Courage is contagious.”Trump went after Harris in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-100-days-michigan-whitmer-2e30695aa185a785cc1037ab74c19a55">campaign-style rally</a>&nbsp;Tuesday marking his 100th day in office. He sarcastically called her a “great border czar" and a “great candidate," and repeated some of the applause lines he routinely delivered during the campaign.Until Harris replaced Joe Biden atop the Democratic ticket last summer, Trump said, “I knew nothing about her."Harris cautioned Americans against viewing Trump’s administration as merely chaotic, casting it instead as a “high-velocity event,” the culmination of extensive work on the right to remake government.“A vessel is being used for the swift implementation of an agenda that has been decades in the making," Harris said. “An agenda to slash public education. An agenda to shrink government and then privatize its services. All while giving tax breaks to the wealthiest among us.”Harris chose a friendly audience for her return to the political arena, addressing the 20th anniversary gala for Emerge America, an organization that recruits and trains Democratic women to run for office. It grew in part from Harris’ run for San Francisco district attorney in the early 2000s.The speech was delivered below luminous chandeliers in a gold-trimmed ballroom in the landmark Palace Hotel.Harris is ramping up her public presence as Democrats nationally search for a path forward after November's election, in which Republicans also won control of Congress. While a slate of high-profile Democrats — from governors to businessmen — seek leadership roles within the party, the former vice president retains unique influence and would reshape any future race she chooses to enter.She praised Democrats who have been especially prolific in criticizing Trump, name-dropping lawmakers diverse in their ideology and style: Sens. Cory Booker, Chris Van Hollen, Chris Murphy and Bernie Sanders along with Reps. Jasmine Crockett, Maxwell Frost and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.But she did not take a stand in one of her party's central divides, neither calling for mass mobilization like Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker or questioning Democratic positioning on key issues like California Gov. Gavin Newsom.“I’m not here tonight to offer all the answers,” Harris said. “But I am here to say this: You are not alone and we are all in this together.”But she warned that things will probably get worse before they get better.“The one check, the one balance, the one power that must not fail is the voice of the people,” she said.Harris, a former state attorney general and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-congress-senate-elections-united-states-government-general-news-united-states-senate-0f65a4bba07344bfb2c6650ff02a27b7">U.S. senator from California</a>, has not discouraged speculation that she might enter the race to replace the term-limited Newsom, himself a potential contender for president. And she has not ruled out another run for the White House.She did not address her future Wednesday.She continues to fundraise, using a joint committee that includes Harris for President, the Democratic National Committee and state Democratic parties. The committee, the Harris Victory Fund, reported having&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/committee/C00744946/">about $4.5 million on hand</a>&nbsp;at the end of March, according to federal records.In recent fundraising emails, Harris has been blunt about the need for Democrats to unify ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.Democrats need to “organize and stop Trump’s agenda while electing Democrats everywhere,” she wrote in recent emails. “There has never been a more important time for a strong Democratic Party — one that is willing to stand up to Donald Trump, Elon Musk and what they are doing to this country.”The event marks a homecoming of sorts. Harris lives in Los Angeles but she is from the San Francisco Bay Area, where her political career is rooted. For her first major speech since the election, she chose familiar terrain and a friendly, in some ways familial, crowd.Lisa Gotbhi, a health care executive in San Francisco, said Harris' loss last year was a “shock," but “she’s a voice we need and a leader we need. Let’s get back in the fight.”

🎥Harris rips President Trump in fiery comeback speech 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man jailed following an Amber Alert in September is due in court for a preliminary hearing in Judge William Wooley's court room, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Trevawn Strong, 30 of Wichita, has been charged with abuse of a child, two counts of aggravated battery, two counts of aggravated assault, three counts of aggravated endangering a child, three counts of criminal threat, and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery, criminal restraint, and criminal damage to property, according to the District Attorney's office.

Just before 5 p.m. September 11, Strong forcibly took his 5-year-old son Trevawn Strong Jr from his mother utilizing a knife and firearm during a domestic incident at their residence in Wichita, according to police.

&nbsp;Strong&nbsp; threatened to kill his son, stabbed the boy's mother, and took the child.&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation reported the boy was in imminent danger. The suspect left in a vehicle, but that vehicle was recovered in the 1900 block of N. Woodlawn in Wichita.&nbsp;

Just before 9p.m. police located the child and took the father into custody.

Strong remains free on a $250,000 bond with conditions including electronic monitoring with pre-trial services, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726138875380.png" alt="Strong photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Strong photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man jailed following an Amber Alert in September is due in court for a preliminary hearing in Judge William Wooley's court room, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Trevawn Strong, 30 of Wichita, has been charged with abuse of a child, two counts of aggravated battery, two counts of aggravated assault, three counts of aggravated endangering a child, three counts of criminal threat, and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery, criminal restraint, and criminal damage to property, according to the District Attorney's office.Just before 5 p.m. September 11, Strong forcibly took his 5-year-old son Trevawn Strong Jr from his mother utilizing a knife and firearm during a domestic incident at their residence in Wichita, according to police.&nbsp;Strong&nbsp; threatened to kill his son, stabbed the boy's mother, and took the child.&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation reported the boy was in imminent danger. The suspect left in a vehicle, but that vehicle was recovered in the 1900 block of N. Woodlawn in Wichita.&nbsp;Just before 9p.m. police located the child and took the father into custody.Strong remains free on a $250,000 bond with conditions including electronic monitoring with pre-trial services, according to the district attorney's office.

Suspect in violent Kansas Amber Alert is due back in court

JEWELL COUNTY— Law enforcement and animal rescue agencies assisted Jewell County Sheriff's Deputies seize multiple dogs at a residence in the rural community of Esbon April 25, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Authorities found the dogs in "unimaginable conditions," according to the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. Dozes of other animals were already dead.&nbsp; The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City took in 40 of the dogs.&nbsp; The Hutchinson Animal Shelter also took dogs.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported possible charges in the case.

The sheriff's office encouraged the public to help.&nbsp; If you would like to make a donation to help support the shelter in getting food and proper equipment for the animals that they hold, please send to:

Hutchison Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance Stteet, Hutchison, KS 67501

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746065749869.png" alt="Photo Humane Society of Greater Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Photo Humane Society of Greater Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>JEWELL COUNTY— Law enforcement and animal rescue agencies assisted Jewell County Sheriff's Deputies seize multiple dogs at a residence in the rural community of Esbon April 25, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities found the dogs in "unimaginable conditions," according to the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City. Dozes of other animals were already dead.&nbsp; The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City took in 40 of the dogs.&nbsp; The Hutchinson Animal Shelter also took dogs.&nbsp; Authorities have not reported possible charges in the case.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHSGKCOfficial%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02sgHgkRrWqcTnLAds33qmnwgQeQZj6H3rhXVvqiQ8414EHo6FPme68jSHDVSeNhMil&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="931" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The sheriff's office encouraged the public to help.&nbsp; If you would like to make a donation to help support the shelter in getting food and proper equipment for the animals that they hold, please send to:Hutchison Animal Shelter, 1501 S. Severance Stteet, Hutchison, KS 67501

Dogs rescued, more found dead in north-central Kansas 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans narrowly voted down a Democratic resolution Wednesday that would have blocked global tariffs announced by Donald Trump earlier this month, giving the president a modest win as lawmakers in both parties have remained skeptical of his trade agenda.

Trump announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-liberation-day-2a031b3c16120a5672a6ddd01da09933">far-reaching tariffs</a>&nbsp;on nearly all U.S. trading partners April 2 and then reversed himself a few days later after a market meltdown, suspending the import taxes for 90 days. Amid the uncertainty for both U.S. consumers and businesses, the Commerce Department said Wednesday that the U.S. economy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-trump-gdp-tariffs-inflation-trade-28a0da24c803c4796eb32704cd0244cc">shrank 0.3% from January through March</a>, the first drop in three years.

The 49-49 vote came weeks after the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-tariffs-trump-republicans-a45b4d4da013e4ce1ce434b81337e3ec">approved a resolution</a>&nbsp;that would have have thwarted Trump’s ability to impose tariffs on Canada. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the measure.

Sen. Mitch McConnell — who has been sharply critical of the tariffs but had not said how he would vote — and Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse were absent Wednesday, denying Democrats the votes for passage.

Democrats said their primary aim was to put Republicans on the record either way and to try to reassert congressional powers.

“The Senate cannot be an idle spectator in the tariff madness,” said Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, a lead sponsor of the resolution.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said the dismal economic numbers should be a “wakeup call” to Republicans.

Wary of a rebuke to Trump, GOP leaders encouraged their conference not to vote for the resolution, even as many of them remain unconvinced about the tariffs. Vice President JD Vance attended a Senate GOP luncheon Tuesday with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who assured senators that the administration is making progress toward trade deals with individual countries.

Collins said the close vote “demonstrates that there is unease with the president’s plan.”

“It’s partially the president’s plan is still evolving but many of us are hearing from employers back home about the impact of the tariffs in a negative way,” she said.

Some Republicans argued that the vote was a political stunt. North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said he backs separate legislation by Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley that would give Congress increased power over determining tariffs but would voted on the resolution, which he said is only about “making a point.”

Several Republicans defended Trump's tariffs — and said they were willing to give him time to figure it out.

“People are willing to give the president an opportunity to prove that the new system works,” said Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy.

Texas Sen. John Cornyn said the vote shows that senators “believe that the President’s policies deserve to be tried and see if they’re successful.”

Democrats say the Republicans’ failure to stand up to Trump could have dire consequences. “The only thing Donald Trump’s tariffs have succeeded in is raising the odds of recession and sending markets into a tailspin,” said Schumer, D-N.Y. “Today, they have to choose – stick with Trump or stand with your states.”

The Democratic resolution forced a vote under a statute that allows them to try to terminate the national economic emergency Trump used to levy the tariffs.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren called it a “fake” emergency that Trump is using to impose his “on again, off again, red light, green light tariffs.”

The tariffs “are pushing our economy off a cliff,” Warren said.

Republicans held a procedural vote after the tied vote to ensure that Democrats could not bring the resolution up again, Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters afterward. Vice President J.D. Vance came to the Capitol to break the tie and ensure they dismissed the resolution for good.

The Republican president has tried to reassure voters that his tariffs will not provoke a recession as his administration has focused on China, raising tariffs on Chinese goods to 145% even as he paused the others. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-economy-tariffs-gdp-7494825851dcef94ec81475124f9326f">told his Cabinet Wednesday</a>&nbsp;morning that his tariffs meant China was “having tremendous difficulty because their factories are not doing business.”

Trump said the U.S. does not really need imports from the world’s dominant manufacturer. “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls,” he said. “So maybe the two dolls will cost a couple bucks more than they would normally.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743626000304.png" alt="White House file photo-President Trump announcing his tariff plan April 2" />
 <figcaption>White House file photo-President Trump announcing his tariff plan April 2</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans narrowly voted down a Democratic resolution Wednesday that would have blocked global tariffs announced by Donald Trump earlier this month, giving the president a modest win as lawmakers in both parties have remained skeptical of his trade agenda.Trump announced the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-liberation-day-2a031b3c16120a5672a6ddd01da09933">far-reaching tariffs</a>&nbsp;on nearly all U.S. trading partners April 2 and then reversed himself a few days later after a market meltdown, suspending the import taxes for 90 days. Amid the uncertainty for both U.S. consumers and businesses, the Commerce Department said Wednesday that the U.S. economy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-trump-gdp-tariffs-inflation-trade-28a0da24c803c4796eb32704cd0244cc">shrank 0.3% from January through March</a>, the first drop in three years.The 49-49 vote came weeks after the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-tariffs-trump-republicans-a45b4d4da013e4ce1ce434b81337e3ec">approved a resolution</a>&nbsp;that would have have thwarted Trump’s ability to impose tariffs on Canada. Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against the measure.Sen. Mitch McConnell — who has been sharply critical of the tariffs but had not said how he would vote — and Democratic Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse were absent Wednesday, denying Democrats the votes for passage.Democrats said their primary aim was to put Republicans on the record either way and to try to reassert congressional powers.“The Senate cannot be an idle spectator in the tariff madness,” said Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, a lead sponsor of the resolution.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said the dismal economic numbers should be a “wakeup call” to Republicans.Wary of a rebuke to Trump, GOP leaders encouraged their conference not to vote for the resolution, even as many of them remain unconvinced about the tariffs. Vice President JD Vance attended a Senate GOP luncheon Tuesday with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who assured senators that the administration is making progress toward trade deals with individual countries.Collins said the close vote “demonstrates that there is unease with the president’s plan.”“It’s partially the president’s plan is still evolving but many of us are hearing from employers back home about the impact of the tariffs in a negative way,” she said.Some Republicans argued that the vote was a political stunt. North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said he backs separate legislation by Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley that would give Congress increased power over determining tariffs but would voted on the resolution, which he said is only about “making a point.”Several Republicans defended Trump's tariffs — and said they were willing to give him time to figure it out.“People are willing to give the president an opportunity to prove that the new system works,” said Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy.Texas Sen. John Cornyn said the vote shows that senators “believe that the President’s policies deserve to be tried and see if they’re successful.”Democrats say the Republicans’ failure to stand up to Trump could have dire consequences. “The only thing Donald Trump’s tariffs have succeeded in is raising the odds of recession and sending markets into a tailspin,” said Schumer, D-N.Y. “Today, they have to choose – stick with Trump or stand with your states.”The Democratic resolution forced a vote under a statute that allows them to try to terminate the national economic emergency Trump used to levy the tariffs.Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren called it a “fake” emergency that Trump is using to impose his “on again, off again, red light, green light tariffs.”The tariffs “are pushing our economy off a cliff,” Warren said.Republicans held a procedural vote after the tied vote to ensure that Democrats could not bring the resolution up again, Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters afterward. Vice President J.D. Vance came to the Capitol to break the tie and ensure they dismissed the resolution for good.The Republican president has tried to reassure voters that his tariffs will not provoke a recession as his administration has focused on China, raising tariffs on Chinese goods to 145% even as he paused the others. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-economy-tariffs-gdp-7494825851dcef94ec81475124f9326f">told his Cabinet Wednesday</a>&nbsp;morning that his tariffs meant China was “having tremendous difficulty because their factories are not doing business.”Trump said the U.S. does not really need imports from the world’s dominant manufacturer. “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls,” he said. “So maybe the two dolls will cost a couple bucks more than they would normally.”

Moran, Marshall help Senate kill resolution to block global tariffs

KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Fire Department is investigating the cause of a building fire at 1716 East 8th Street.

Just after 7p.m., crews from fire station 10 noticed a column of smoke one block to the north in the area of 8th&nbsp;and Woodland, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

They responded and on arrival they reported heavy fire from a two-story vacant building and requested a working fire response. 

Interior operations were initiated but crews quickly had to evacuate and assume defensive operations and continued working to get the fire completely under control.&nbsp; Determining the cause of the fire will be difficult due to the amount of damage, according to Hopkins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1746009155201.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The Kansas City Fire Department is investigating the cause of a building fire at 1716 East 8th Street.Just after 7p.m., crews from fire station 10 noticed a column of smoke one block to the north in the area of 8th&nbsp;and Woodland, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.They responded and on arrival they reported heavy fire from a two-story vacant building and requested a working fire response. Interior operations were initiated but crews quickly had to evacuate and assume defensive operations and continued working to get the fire completely under control.&nbsp; Determining the cause of the fire will be difficult due to the amount of damage, according to Hopkins.