ALLEN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Humboldt Police Department, and the Allen County Sheriff's Office are investigating a homicide that occurred in Humboldt, Kansas.

Just after 5p.m. on Sunday, Humboldt officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of Sycamore Street, in Humboldt, according to a media release from the KBI.

Preliminary information indicates that a woman fled a residence during a domestic dispute with her boyfriend, Malachi I. Davis, 25, of Humboldt, and sought help at a neighbor’s house. The neighbor contacted a male subject, who arrived at the scene. The man, John P. Kent, 43, of Humboldt, became involved in a verbal altercation with Davis.

During the incident, Davis fired a single shot from his vehicle window, striking Kent, who was transported to Allen County Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

Davis fled the scene following the shooting. The KBI identified Davis as the suspect and multiple law enforcement agencies began searching for him. At approximately 8:40 p.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol spotted Davis and conducted a traffic stop in Allen County near La Harpe. Davis was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Allen County Jail for second-degree murder.&nbsp; He has a previous conviction for theft in 2022, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation is ongoing. Nothing further will be released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1596032210664.png" alt="File photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>File photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI), the Humboldt Police Department, and the Allen County Sheriff's Office are investigating a homicide that occurred in Humboldt, Kansas.Just after 5p.m. on Sunday, Humboldt officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of Sycamore Street, in Humboldt, according to a media release from the KBI.Preliminary information indicates that a woman fled a residence during a domestic dispute with her boyfriend, Malachi I. Davis, 25, of Humboldt, and sought help at a neighbor’s house. The neighbor contacted a male subject, who arrived at the scene. The man, John P. Kent, 43, of Humboldt, became involved in a verbal altercation with Davis.During the incident, Davis fired a single shot from his vehicle window, striking Kent, who was transported to Allen County Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.Davis fled the scene following the shooting. The KBI identified Davis as the suspect and multiple law enforcement agencies began searching for him. At approximately 8:40 p.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol spotted Davis and conducted a traffic stop in Allen County near La Harpe. Davis was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Allen County Jail for second-degree murder.&nbsp; He has a previous conviction for theft in 2022, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation is ongoing. Nothing further will be released at this time.

KBI: Good Samaritan killed in domestic incident 

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

Former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison Monday after pleading guilty last year to misusing federal loans meant to help businesses withstand the COVID-19 pandemic.

Diehl, a St. Louis-area attorney, admitted defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration out of $379,900 through an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a later loan modification obtained through false representations.

His attorneys asked the court last month for a non-custodial sentence, arguing in part that he repaid the money. Prosecutors pushed back on that argument, saying repayment should not be treated as an “extraordinary” basis for leniency because Diehl is a “man of great and substantial means.”

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

Diehl also allegedly used some of the funds to pay off “a civil settlement related to his time as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives.” Prosecutors did not specify the nature of that settlement or whether it is connected to the scandal that forced him from office in 2015, which involved sending sexually inappropriate text messages to a 19-year-old House intern.

Diehl will be allowed to report to prison at a later date.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1684961110116.png" alt="John Diehl during his time in the Missouri House of Representatives (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption>John Diehl during his time in the Missouri House of Representatives (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Former Missouri House Speaker John Diehl was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison Monday after pleading guilty last year to misusing federal loans meant to help businesses withstand the COVID-19 pandemic.Diehl, a St. Louis-area attorney, admitted defrauding the U.S. Small Business Administration out of $379,900 through an Economic Injury Disaster Loan and a later loan modification obtained through false representations.His attorneys asked the court last month for a non-custodial sentence, arguing in part that he repaid the money. Prosecutors pushed back on that argument, saying repayment should not be treated as an “extraordinary” basis for leniency because Diehl is a “man of great and substantial means.”Prosecutors say he used the funds for personal expenses including payments on a Tesla, Audi and Jeep, mortgage payments, pool maintenance, additional country club charges and cash withdrawals. The filing also says he used about $200,000 of the loan money to fund a defined benefit plan for his law firm in which he was the sole participant.Diehl also allegedly used some of the funds to pay off “a civil settlement related to his time as Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives.” Prosecutors did not specify the nature of that settlement or whether it is connected to the scandal that forced him from office in 2015, which involved sending sexually inappropriate text messages to a 19-year-old House intern.Diehl will be allowed to report to prison at a later date.

Ex-Missouri House Speaker John Diehl sentenced to federal prison for COVID fraud

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773082135316.png" alt="Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington&nbsp;of Glendale, Kentucky. He died Sunday after being wounded during a March 1 attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, a Pentagon statement said." />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington&nbsp;of Glendale, Kentucky. He died Sunday after being wounded during a March 1 attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, a Pentagon statement said.</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> attends the dignified transfer of Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, an Army Space and Missile Defense Command soldier killed in Operation Epic Fury. May God grant eternal rest to this American hero, be with his family, and forever bless the United States of America. <a href="https://t.co/mvdgIAIojg">pic.twitter.com/mvdgIAIojg</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2031180782518014446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773139493230.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎥Dignified transfer for 7th US service member to die in Iran conflict

WILSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Just a couple of hours after asking for help to located&nbsp; a missing teen on Monday, The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) canceled&nbsp; an endangered persons advisory for 17-year-old&nbsp; Alexandra R. Smith of Wichita who had been seen in Coyville.&nbsp;

Alexandra went missing from Wichita on July 6, 2025 when she was 16. She was last seen Sunday, March 8, at a residence in Wilson County community of Coyville.

Alexandra was a witness to a homicide, and authorities were concerned for her safety.&nbsp; The KBI did not release details on where they located the teen.

They did report that just after 7p.m. on Sunday, deputies from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 2105 2nd&nbsp;Street in Coyville, after gunfire was reported.

Upon arrival deputies located Lucas R. Pickell, 37, of Fredonia, just outside a fifth-wheel RV on the property. Pickell had suffered a gunshot wound and died at the scene.

Witnesses were interviewed and evidence was examined and collected. Preliminary information indicates Pickell had been using drugs in the RV with a male subject and two female subjects. During the incident, 52-year-old William “Bud” Wescott, of Coyville, is suspected to have shot Pickell.

Wescott was arrested on requested of second-degree murder at the scene and booked into the Wilson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773090248934.png" alt="Alexandra Smith-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Smith-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WILSON COUNTY&nbsp;– Just a couple of hours after asking for help to located&nbsp; a missing teen on Monday, The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) canceled&nbsp; an endangered persons advisory for 17-year-old&nbsp; Alexandra R. Smith of Wichita who had been seen in Coyville.&nbsp;Alexandra went missing from Wichita on July 6, 2025 when she was 16. She was last seen Sunday, March 8, at a residence in Wilson County community of Coyville.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773085124320.png" alt="Wescott photo Wilson Co." />
 <figcaption>Wescott photo Wilson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Alexandra was a witness to a homicide, and authorities were concerned for her safety.&nbsp; The KBI did not release details on where they located the teen.They did report that just after 7p.m. on Sunday, deputies from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 2105 2nd&nbsp;Street in Coyville, after gunfire was reported.Upon arrival deputies located Lucas R. Pickell, 37, of Fredonia, just outside a fifth-wheel RV on the property. Pickell had suffered a gunshot wound and died at the scene.Witnesses were interviewed and evidence was examined and collected. Preliminary information indicates Pickell had been using drugs in the RV with a male subject and two female subjects. During the incident, 52-year-old William “Bud” Wescott, of Coyville, is suspected to have shot Pickell.Wescott was arrested on requested of second-degree murder at the scene and booked into the Wilson County Jail.

Police found Kansas teen, a witness in a deadly shooting

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 11p.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A customized American Chopper motorcycle was southbound on Raytown Road from Longview Road, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The rider lost control of the motorcycle. The vehicle crossed the double yellow centerline, entered a ditch, and overturned ejecting the rider. Grandiew EMS pronounced the rider deceased at the scene.

This incident marks traffic fatality number 14 for 2025, compared to 10 at the same time last year, according to&nbsp;Gonzalez.&nbsp; Police did not release the victim's name.

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just after 11p.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.A customized American Chopper motorcycle was southbound on Raytown Road from Longview Road, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The rider lost control of the motorcycle. The vehicle crossed the double yellow centerline, entered a ditch, and overturned ejecting the rider. Grandiew EMS pronounced the rider deceased at the scene.This incident marks traffic fatality number 14 for 2025, compared to 10 at the same time last year, according to&nbsp;Gonzalez.&nbsp; Police did not release the victim's name.

KCPD: Motorcyclist killed after ejected in crash

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.&nbsp; Sheriff Tim Morse reports on March 5, 2026, around 

Just after 10:00 a.m. March 5 a, Sheriff's Deputies and Detectives along with the Holton Police Department served a search warrant at 627 W. 3rd&nbsp;Street in the City of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The search warrant was issued in reference to an ongoing drug investigation that was initiated by the Sheriff’s Office earlier this year.&nbsp; The following individuals were arrested at the residence:

Gabriel Joaquin Mendez, 32, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement, conspiracy; possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of THC, and use of communication facility; in the commission of a felony drug violation.

Ruta Lee Mendez, 60, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of THC and &nbsp;possession of a controlled substance.

Grace Naomi Place, 25, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773051527887.png" alt="Mendez-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Mendez-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.&nbsp; Sheriff Tim Morse reports on March 5, 2026, around Just after 10:00 a.m. March 5 a, Sheriff's Deputies and Detectives along with the Holton Police Department served a search warrant at 627 W. 3rd&nbsp;Street in the City of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The search warrant was issued in reference to an ongoing drug investigation that was initiated by the Sheriff’s Office earlier this year.&nbsp; The following individuals were arrested at the residence:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773051461420.png" alt="Place" />
 <figcaption>Place</figcaption>
 </figure>Gabriel Joaquin Mendez, 32, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement, conspiracy; possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of THC, and use of communication facility; in the commission of a felony drug violation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773051489671.png" alt="Mendez-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Mendez-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ruta Lee Mendez, 60, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of THC and &nbsp;possession of a controlled substance.Grace Naomi Place, 25, of Holton, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: 3 jailed after meth was sold from Kansas home

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. –&nbsp;The Department of War announced the death of a U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Soldier who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.

Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, died March 8 of his wounds received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East. He was seriously injured at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, on March 1. Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, Colorado. The incident is under investigation.

"The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."

“Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”

Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, USASMDC, on June 10, 2025.

Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Pennington was promotable and will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773082135316.png" alt="Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Department of WarREDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. –&nbsp;The Department of War announced the death of a U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command Soldier who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, died March 8 of his wounds received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East. He was seriously injured at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, on March 1. Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, Colorado. The incident is under investigation."The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."“Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, USASMDC, on June 10, 2025.Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.Pennington was promotable and will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

Pentagon IDs 7th U.S. soldier to die in Iran conflict

JEFFERSON COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 9p.m. Sunday in Jefferson&nbsp; County.

The Patrol reported a&nbsp;Honda UTV and a Polaris UTV were eastbound side-by-side on Half Mound Road at Coal Creek Road approximately 4 and one half miles north of Valley Falls. A rear passenger in one of the vehicles exited the vehicle while it was in motion and was struck and killed by the other vehicle.

Check the Post for additional detail as they are released by the KHP.

JEFFERSON COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal accident that occurred just before 9p.m. Sunday in Jefferson&nbsp; County.The Patrol reported a&nbsp;Honda UTV and a Polaris UTV were eastbound side-by-side on Half Mound Road at Coal Creek Road approximately 4 and one half miles north of Valley Falls. A rear passenger in one of the vehicles exited the vehicle while it was in motion and was struck and killed by the other vehicle.Check the Post for additional detail as they are released by the KHP.

KHP: Passenger dead after exiting moving vehicle

WILSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office have arrested a man connected to a weekend homicide in Coyville, Kansas.

Just after 7p.m. on Sunday, deputies from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 2105 2nd&nbsp;Street in Coyville, after gunfire was reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773085124320.png" alt="Wescott photo Wilson County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Wescott photo Wilson County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>WILSON COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office have arrested a man connected to a weekend homicide in Coyville, Kansas.Just after 7p.m. on Sunday, deputies from the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to 2105 2nd&nbsp;Street in Coyville, after gunfire was reported.Upon arrival deputies located Lucas R. Pickell, 37, of Fredonia, just outside a fifth-wheel RV on the property. Pickell had suffered a gunshot wound and died at the scene.Witnesses were interviewed and evidence was examined and collected. Preliminary information indicates Pickell had been using drugs in the RV with a male subject and two female subjects. During the incident, 52-year-old William “Bud” Wescott, of Coyville, is suspected to have shot Pickell.Wescott was arrested on requested of second-degree murder at the scene and booked into the Wilson County Jail.

Man accused of murder in small rural, Kansas town

MIAMI COUNTY —Three people are safe after a weekend water rescue in Miami County.

Emergency personnel from the Miami County, Kansas Sheriff’s Office, Osawatomie Volunteer Fire Department, and Miami County EMS worked a water rescue in the area of 347th Street and Hospital Drive on Sunday, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.

The driver traveled into flooded roadways, requiring emergency rescue. The occupants, two adults and a juvenile, reportedly did not know how to swim, making this situation even more dangerous for both them and the responders working to reach them.

&nbsp;All occupants were rescued and are safe. There were no injures to anyone involved.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The sheriff office reminded, "Turn around, don’t drown. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. It only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep a vehicle away.Please avoid flooded areas and allow emergency crews space to work safely."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773067052689.png" alt="Photos Miami County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Miami County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY —Three people are safe after a weekend water rescue in Miami County.Emergency personnel from the Miami County, Kansas Sheriff’s Office, Osawatomie Volunteer Fire Department, and Miami County EMS worked a water rescue in the area of 347th Street and Hospital Drive on Sunday, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773067026939.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The driver traveled into flooded roadways, requiring emergency rescue. The occupants, two adults and a juvenile, reportedly did not know how to swim, making this situation even more dangerous for both them and the responders working to reach them.&nbsp;All occupants were rescued and are safe. There were no injures to anyone involved.&nbsp;&nbsp;The sheriff office reminded, "Turn around, don’t drown. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. It only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep a vehicle away.Please avoid flooded areas and allow emergency crews space to work safely."

2 adults, child rescued after driver stuck on flooded Kansas road

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Five Democratic candidates vying to unseat U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall told more than 150 people Sunday how they will deliver in Washington, D.C., if the state can flip the seat blue.

While sharing their experience and goals for Kansas, the five took a few shots at Marshall. They&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RU4oovkjmWY" target="_blank">were on stage</a>&nbsp;during the closing day of the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual meeting, which began Friday at Townsite Topeka.

“I just want you to know I’m ready, willing and able to send Roger Marshall back to Florida for good,” said Sandy Spidel Neumann, who is challenging Marshall for his Senate seat.

Democrats have accused Marshall of living at his second residence in Florida more than his Kansas residence, an accusation Marshall denies.

Spidel Neumann said she made the decision to run, after a long career in financial services, after seeing Marshall storm out of a town hall.

“I saw Roger Marshall’s infamous town hall, and I saw him walk out on Kansans — people that reminded me of my cousins who voted for Trump and Marshall,” she said. “It was so bad that I thought, ‘Oh, hell to the no, you work for us, and we need somebody to fight for us.’ I’m that person.”

The five candidates talked about issues they’ve heard from Kansans as they’ve toured the state, echoing many of the same challenges other candidates spoke about at the convention: education, immigration, health care, tariffs and reproductive rights.

Erik Murray, a real estate developer, said the “politician-created problems,” such as tariffs and tax policies that benefit billionaires, “are tearing apart the fabric of our communities.”

“We know that this is a country of immigrants, and protecting and standing up for folks is what we believe in,” Murray said. “So we’ve got to restore our Kansas values in Washington.”

Anne Parelkar, an immigration attorney, called for a full investigation of what U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have been doing nationwide.&nbsp;

“The American people need and deserve to see everything that they have done and everything that has gone wrong,” she said. “We deserve the truth, and if that investigation shows us that there isn’t anything in that entity worth saving, then we abolish it, and we use that money for actual immigration reform that serves our people in our country.”

Spidel Neumann called for body cameras, the elimination of masks and better training.

“We need them to have the right goals,” she said, noting that ICE agents have goals set based on the number of arrests, rather than on convictions or other criteria.

Jason Hart, an assistant U.S. district attorney, said his job for 21 years has been “standing in the breach against bullies” for marginalized communities.

“You have to be there and be able to hold their hand, to meet them where they are, and show them that you care and that you are an ally,” he said.

Christy Cauble Davis, a fifth-generation Kansan, said about 20% of the voters in Chase County, where she lives, are registered Democrats. Even with those numbers, her county voted about 50-50 on protecting abortion in the Kansas Constitution.

“What that says to me is we can’t count rural Kansas out,” she said. “We need to work statewide.There are more people who agree on issues than disagree.”

Spidel Neumann said she couldn’t believe Kansas is still debating this issue.

“I am beyond floored by it,” she said. “I’m a pro-choice Catholic. I’m pro women making decisions that they need to make with their doctor, with their family. Politicians should not be involved, and they should stay away from our hoo-has.”

Across the board, the candidates supported women choosing what happens with their bodies.

“We have got to protect women’s rights to make their own decisions about their own bodies,” Murray said. “We do not need the same leaders in Washington that are screwing up everything in this world to be in our doctor’s offices and in our schools and in our hospitals trying to make decisions on behalf of women.”

Cauble Davis said she is used to working with hard-line Republicans to find solutions and drew laughter after a comment about Rep. Pat Proctor, a Leavenworth Republican who is well-known for his conservative views.

“I’ve also navigated this landscape in my advocacy work in the state Legislature,” she said. “ I worked with Pat Proctor on an issue that we agreed on. If I’m able, as a woman and a leader, to work with Pat Proctor on issues, I can work with anyone.”

Parelkar said she’s modeling the idea of compromise throughout her campaign, where the idea is to “throw out the idea of an aisle.”

“At my community round tables, which we’re holding in every county in this state, we make it a point to invite everybody, not just the people who agree with us — Democrat, Republican, independent, inexperienced in politics,” she said. “I say throw out the old idea of us vs. them.”

Today, she said, it’s “us vs. the elite.”

It was a sentiment that brought Murray’s full agreement.&nbsp;

“We’re all struggling because of the actions that Washington is taking in our communities,” he said. “All of the lies, all of the division, it’s all a distraction from the grift, right? We need to come together as the 99% of Americans who are not part of that grift, not part of that hate, to realize that we need to work together on solutions.”

As an attorney, Hart said he is used to reaching agreement, and it’s all about the question you ask.

“What are your interests, not your positions,” he said. “Because all we’ve been doing right now is arguing from the corners. Everybody’s staked out a position, and they can’t get in the middle. The middle is where you need to be standing in order to bridge the gap.”

Spidel Neumann said reversing some impacts of the “big abomination of a bill” that cut Medicaid would be a good first step because health care is a significant concern in rural Kansas. She also pointed out the need to get a Farm Bill passed and to stop using tariffs “willy-nilly.”&nbsp;

“That’s not economics. That’s market manipulation,” she said.

Cauble Davis said Democrats need to keep in mind that not everyone in rural communities are farmers or ranchers.

“Only 2% of the folks who live in rural America are engaged in production agriculture,” she said, and issues like health care, mental health care and education are critical in rural communities.

Hart said the most important thing is to show up for rural Kansans.

“How do you bring folks together? You go out and talk to them,” he said. “I ask people questions for a living, and that’s what we need more of, not talking at people. I listen to the experts, and the experts are our Kansas voters, our Kansas constituents, our Kansas communities that can tell us exactly what they need, and then take that and go to D.C. and advocate for them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060389411.png" alt=" Five Democratic candidates running to flip U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s seat blue spoke March 8, 2026, at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention. From left, Jason Hart, Christy Cauble Davis, Sandy Spidel Neumann, Anne Parelkar and Erik Murray. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Five Democratic candidates running to flip U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s seat blue spoke March 8, 2026, at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention. From left, Jason Hart, Christy Cauble Davis, Sandy Spidel Neumann, Anne Parelkar and Erik Murray. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Five Democratic candidates vying to unseat U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall told more than 150 people Sunday how they will deliver in Washington, D.C., if the state can flip the seat blue.While sharing their experience and goals for Kansas, the five took a few shots at Marshall. They&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RU4oovkjmWY" target="_blank">were on stage</a>&nbsp;during the closing day of the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual meeting, which began Friday at Townsite Topeka.“I just want you to know I’m ready, willing and able to send Roger Marshall back to Florida for good,” said Sandy Spidel Neumann, who is challenging Marshall for his Senate seat.Democrats have accused Marshall of living at his second residence in Florida more than his Kansas residence, an accusation Marshall denies.Spidel Neumann said she made the decision to run, after a long career in financial services, after seeing Marshall storm out of a town hall.“I saw Roger Marshall’s infamous town hall, and I saw him walk out on Kansans — people that reminded me of my cousins who voted for Trump and Marshall,” she said. “It was so bad that I thought, ‘Oh, hell to the no, you work for us, and we need somebody to fight for us.’ I’m that person.”The five candidates talked about issues they’ve heard from Kansans as they’ve toured the state, echoing many of the same challenges other candidates spoke about at the convention: education, immigration, health care, tariffs and reproductive rights.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060355661.png" alt="Democrat Sandy Spidel Neumann shares her thoughts on her run for the U.S. Senate at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention on March 8 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democrat Sandy Spidel Neumann shares her thoughts on her run for the U.S. Senate at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention on March 8 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Immigration</h2>Erik Murray, a real estate developer, said the “politician-created problems,” such as tariffs and tax policies that benefit billionaires, “are tearing apart the fabric of our communities.”“We know that this is a country of immigrants, and protecting and standing up for folks is what we believe in,” Murray said. “So we’ve got to restore our Kansas values in Washington.”Anne Parelkar, an immigration attorney, called for a full investigation of what U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have been doing nationwide.&nbsp;“The American people need and deserve to see everything that they have done and everything that has gone wrong,” she said. “We deserve the truth, and if that investigation shows us that there isn’t anything in that entity worth saving, then we abolish it, and we use that money for actual immigration reform that serves our people in our country.”Spidel Neumann called for body cameras, the elimination of masks and better training.“We need them to have the right goals,” she said, noting that ICE agents have goals set based on the number of arrests, rather than on convictions or other criteria.Jason Hart, an assistant U.S. district attorney, said his job for 21 years has been “standing in the breach against bullies” for marginalized communities.“You have to be there and be able to hold their hand, to meet them where they are, and show them that you care and that you are an ally,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060323828.png" alt="Democratic candidate Jason Hart, an assistant U.S. attorney, shares his thoughts on what needs to happen in Washington, D.C., at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic candidate Jason Hart, an assistant U.S. attorney, shares his thoughts on what needs to happen in Washington, D.C., at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Reproductive rights</h2>Christy Cauble Davis, a fifth-generation Kansan, said about 20% of the voters in Chase County, where she lives, are registered Democrats. Even with those numbers, her county voted about 50-50 on protecting abortion in the Kansas Constitution.“What that says to me is we can’t count rural Kansas out,” she said. “We need to work statewide.There are more people who agree on issues than disagree.”Spidel Neumann said she couldn’t believe Kansas is still debating this issue.“I am beyond floored by it,” she said. “I’m a pro-choice Catholic. I’m pro women making decisions that they need to make with their doctor, with their family. Politicians should not be involved, and they should stay away from our hoo-has.”Across the board, the candidates supported women choosing what happens with their bodies.“We have got to protect women’s rights to make their own decisions about their own bodies,” Murray said. “We do not need the same leaders in Washington that are screwing up everything in this world to be in our doctor’s offices and in our schools and in our hospitals trying to make decisions on behalf of women.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060290995.png" alt="Democratic candidate Christy Cauble Davis talks about the importance of rural communities at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention on March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic candidate Christy Cauble Davis talks about the importance of rural communities at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention on March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Working across the aisle</h2>Cauble Davis said she is used to working with hard-line Republicans to find solutions and drew laughter after a comment about Rep. Pat Proctor, a Leavenworth Republican who is well-known for his conservative views.“I’ve also navigated this landscape in my advocacy work in the state Legislature,” she said. “ I worked with Pat Proctor on an issue that we agreed on. If I’m able, as a woman and a leader, to work with Pat Proctor on issues, I can work with anyone.”Parelkar said she’s modeling the idea of compromise throughout her campaign, where the idea is to “throw out the idea of an aisle.”“At my community round tables, which we’re holding in every county in this state, we make it a point to invite everybody, not just the people who agree with us — Democrat, Republican, independent, inexperienced in politics,” she said. “I say throw out the old idea of us vs. them.”Today, she said, it’s “us vs. the elite.”It was a sentiment that brought Murray’s full agreement.&nbsp;“We’re all struggling because of the actions that Washington is taking in our communities,” he said. “All of the lies, all of the division, it’s all a distraction from the grift, right? We need to come together as the 99% of Americans who are not part of that grift, not part of that hate, to realize that we need to work together on solutions.”As an attorney, Hart said he is used to reaching agreement, and it’s all about the question you ask.“What are your interests, not your positions,” he said. “Because all we’ve been doing right now is arguing from the corners. Everybody’s staked out a position, and they can’t get in the middle. The middle is where you need to be standing in order to bridge the gap.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060249595.png" alt="Democratic candidate Erik Murray shares his views on what Kansans want from their Washington politicians at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. He is running for Sen. Roger Marshall’s seat. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic candidate Erik Murray shares his views on what Kansans want from their Washington politicians at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. He is running for Sen. Roger Marshall’s seat. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Rural Kansas</h2>Spidel Neumann said reversing some impacts of the “big abomination of a bill” that cut Medicaid would be a good first step because health care is a significant concern in rural Kansas. She also pointed out the need to get a Farm Bill passed and to stop using tariffs “willy-nilly.”&nbsp;“That’s not economics. That’s market manipulation,” she said.Cauble Davis said Democrats need to keep in mind that not everyone in rural communities are farmers or ranchers.“Only 2% of the folks who live in rural America are engaged in production agriculture,” she said, and issues like health care, mental health care and education are critical in rural communities.Hart said the most important thing is to show up for rural Kansans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773060207013.png" alt="Democratic candidate Anne Parelkar states her point about Kansans needing better representation in Washington, D.C., at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic candidate Anne Parelkar states her point about Kansans needing better representation in Washington, D.C., at the Kansas Democratic Party’s annual convention March 8, 2026. (Photo by Morgan Chilson/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“How do you bring folks together? You go out and talk to them,” he said. “I ask people questions for a living, and that’s what we need more of, not talking at people. I listen to the experts, and the experts are our Kansas voters, our Kansas constituents, our Kansas communities that can tell us exactly what they need, and then take that and go to D.C. and advocate for them.”

Kansas Dems in U.S. Senate campaign focus on defeating GOP incumbent

On March 8, at the direction of the U.S. Souther Command Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report the U.S. Southern Command.

 Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Six male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.

The death toll is now 157 people since the U.S. military began targeting&nbsp; “narcoterrorists” in small vessels in September 2025.

On March 8, at the direction of the U.S. Souther Command Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations, according to a social media report the U.S. Southern Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On March 8, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SOUTHCOM?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SOUTHCOM</a> commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known… <a href="https://t.co/hIXMDeDKK5">pic.twitter.com/hIXMDeDKK5</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2030800534052196608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> Intelligence confirmed the vessel was transiting along known narco-trafficking routes in the Eastern Pacific and was engaged in narco-trafficking operations. Six male narco-terrorists were killed during this action. No U.S. military forces were harmed.The death toll is now 157 people since the U.S. military began targeting&nbsp; “narcoterrorists” in small vessels in September 2025.

🎥US military kills 6 in new strike on drug boat in the Eastern Pacific

Kansas City—Authorities are investigating the cause an apartment fire in Kansas City.

Just after 7a.m. Saturday Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to&nbsp;a reported fire in the 3700 block of Main Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a 3-story apartment and initiated an offensive fire attack. Multiple hose lines were advanced into the structure to fight the fire.

Searches throughout the structure were performed and reported all clear. The fire was brought under control&nbsp;at&nbsp; 7:43 a.m.

No injuries have been reported from this incident .Dangerous Buildings and City Planning have been requested to the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772902746524.png" alt="Photo KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas City—Authorities are investigating the cause an apartment fire in Kansas City.Just after 7a.m. Saturday Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to&nbsp;a reported fire in the 3700 block of Main Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a 3-story apartment and initiated an offensive fire attack. Multiple hose lines were advanced into the structure to fight the fire.Searches throughout the structure were performed and reported all clear. The fire was brought under control&nbsp;at&nbsp; 7:43 a.m.No injuries have been reported from this incident .Dangerous Buildings and City Planning have been requested to the scene.

Fire at 3-story apartment building in Kansas City

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a violent knife attack and have made an arrest.

Just after 5:30p.m. March 5, police responded to a call at the intersection of SW 17th Street and SW Washburn Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp;

Officers located a man with multiple stab wounds. He was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.

As a result of the investigation, Kevin E. Hill, 54, Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and was booked on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause great body harm/disfigure/death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772832960996.png" alt="Hill photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Hill photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a violent knife attack and have made an arrest.Just after 5:30p.m. March 5, police responded to a call at the intersection of SW 17th Street and SW Washburn Avenue in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp;Officers located a man with multiple stab wounds. He was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.As a result of the investigation, Kevin E. Hill, 54, Topeka, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and was booked on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause great body harm/disfigure/death.

Kansas man accused of violent knife attack

KANSAS CITY —Kansas City Aviation Department (KCAD) received a call of a potential device inside the Kansas City international Airport (MCI) terminal Sunday Morning, as well in the parking garage.

Airport police and other law enforcement, including the FBI, worked quickly to evaluate the situation and ensure the safety of everyone. 

As part of that process, KCAD staff evacuated travelers from the terminal and held inbound flights on the taxiway away from the gates during the event.

Law Enforcement was able to determine no credible threat to the Airport or those inside the terminal. Once that determination was made, KCAD has started working to resume normal operations and minimize disruptions. ​The evacuation lasted approximately two hours.

During the sweep of the garage, a vehicle on the top floor was identified by K9 units as suspicious. As protocol, KCPD Bomb and Arson were called in to investigate and the garage was kept closed for an additional three hours.

Bomb and Arson investigated the vehicle and was able to determine that there was no threat.

As always, the KCAD and FBI encourage anyone who becomes aware of anything suspicious or concerning to report that to law enforcement.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement including the FBI forced the evacuation of portions of Kansas City International Airport terminal Sunday afternoon due to a threat.

On their social media page, the airport wrote, "The Kansas City Aviation Department is aware of a situation at Kansas City International Airport (MCI). As a precaution, the department has evacuated sections of the Airport Terminal."

"Airport Police are working with the FBI to substantiate any potential threat."

FBI Director Kash Patrol wrote on social media, "The FBI&nbsp;and our law enforcement partners quickly responded to the scene and secured the area. The threat was reviewed and determined not to be credible. Terminal has been swept, cleared, and normal operations resumed." 

"Thank you to our federal partners at U. S. Department of Transportation and Secretary Duffy for the coordination and quick response. 

Threats like these are a federal crime. FBI and law enforcement partners will fully investigate and bring to justice anyone responsible."

Just before 2p.m. the Airport terminal re-opened.&nbsp;

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote, "The security incident at Kansas City&nbsp;is now clear and normal operations are resuming. I want to thank law enforcement including the FBI for their timely response.

Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1751290936220.png" alt="File photo courtesy KCI" />
 <figcaption>File photo courtesy KCI</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Kansas City Aviation Department (KCAD) received a call of a potential device inside the Kansas City international Airport (MCI) terminal Sunday Morning, as well in the parking garage.Airport police and other law enforcement, including the FBI, worked quickly to evaluate the situation and ensure the safety of everyone. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1773005842451.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>As part of that process, KCAD staff evacuated travelers from the terminal and held inbound flights on the taxiway away from the gates during the event.Law Enforcement was able to determine no credible threat to the Airport or those inside the terminal. Once that determination was made, KCAD has started working to resume normal operations and minimize disruptions. ​The evacuation lasted approximately two hours.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An update on the earlier threat at Kansas City International Airport:<a href="https://twitter.com/FBI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBI</a> and our law enforcement partners quickly responded to the scene and secured the area. The threat was reviewed and determined not to be credible. Terminal has been swept, cleared, and normal operations…&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/2030735034735304837?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>During the sweep of the garage, a vehicle on the top floor was identified by K9 units as suspicious. As protocol, KCPD Bomb and Arson were called in to investigate and the garage was kept closed for an additional three hours.Bomb and Arson investigated the vehicle and was able to determine that there was no threat.As always, the KCAD and FBI encourage anyone who becomes aware of anything suspicious or concerning to report that to law enforcement.-----------KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement including the FBI forced the evacuation of portions of Kansas City International Airport terminal Sunday afternoon due to a threat.On their social media page, the airport wrote, "The Kansas City Aviation Department is aware of a situation at Kansas City International Airport (MCI). As a precaution, the department has evacuated sections of the Airport Terminal.""Airport Police are working with the FBI to substantiate any potential threat."FBI Director Kash Patrol wrote on social media, "The FBI&nbsp;and our law enforcement partners quickly responded to the scene and secured the area. The threat was reviewed and determined not to be credible. Terminal has been swept, cleared, and normal operations resumed." "Thank you to our federal partners at U. S. Department of Transportation and Secretary Duffy for the coordination and quick response. 

Threats like these are a federal crime. FBI and law enforcement partners will fully investigate and bring to justice anyone responsible."Just before 2p.m. the Airport terminal re-opened.&nbsp;U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote, "The security incident at Kansas City&nbsp;is now clear and normal operations are resuming. I want to thank law enforcement including the FBI for their timely response.Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

New details on KCI terminal evacuation during threat investigation

On Saturday night, a U.S. service member passed away from injuries received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The service member was seriously wounded at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 1.

This is the seventh service member killed in action during Operation Epic Fury. Major combat operations continue. The identity of the fallen warrior will be withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.

A U.S. National Guard Soldier also died in a health-related incident in Kuwait on March 6 during a medical emergency, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The exact cause of death is under review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772408102033.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday night, a U.S. service member passed away from injuries received during the Iranian regime’s initial attacks across the Middle East, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The service member was seriously wounded at the scene of an attack on U.S. troops in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on March 1.This is the seventh service member killed in action during Operation Epic Fury. Major combat operations continue. The identity of the fallen warrior will be withheld until 24 hours after next of kin notification.A U.S. National Guard Soldier also died in a health-related incident in Kuwait on March 6 during a medical emergency, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command. The exact cause of death is under review.

U.S. military reports more service member deaths in Iran conflict

KANSAS CITY—A Kansas City man faces charges in&nbsp;connection with the fatal shooting of a teenage girl that occurred in Independence in June 2021.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2821/Finch-Redacted-Complaint">Justin Finch</a>, 21,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and 1st Degree Burglary.&nbsp;

Finch was a juvenile at the time of the homicide. Last week, a Family Court judge certified him to stand trial as an adult.&nbsp;

“Justice does not have an expiration date. Homicide cases are among the most complex our office handles and when the suspect is also a juvenile at the time of the offense, the legal process becomes much more intricate, moving through Family Court first, under a completely different system,”&nbsp;Prosecutor Johnson said.&nbsp;“That process takes time, but that does not mean we’ve forgotten our obligation to victims. Our office will pursue accountability and justice for all victims no matter how long it takes.”

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2822/Finch-Redacted-Probable-Cause">According to court records</a>, Independence police responded to a residence on June 23, 2021, and located the victim deceased in her bedroom with an apparent injury to her face and head. A single spent shell casing was recovered under the victim’s bed.&nbsp;

Witnesses reported Finch and the victim were in a relationship and not getting along. The defendant had been seen with firearms in the past and had sent photos and videos of firearms to the victim.&nbsp;

The defendant’s DNA was present in the scrapings from both the victim’s hands. He had also been observed at the victim’s bedroom window the day of the homicide.&nbsp;

In July 2023, Finch had a pre-trial conference with Family Court but failed to appear. After investigators and different law enforcement agencies attempted to locate Finch, he was arrested on Jan. 6 for the warrant.&nbsp;

A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond to $350,000 cash only.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772667093720.png" alt="Finch -photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Finch -photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—A Kansas City man faces charges in&nbsp;connection with the fatal shooting of a teenage girl that occurred in Independence in June 2021.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2821/Finch-Redacted-Complaint">Justin Finch</a>, 21,&nbsp;faces 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, and 1st Degree Burglary.&nbsp;Finch was a juvenile at the time of the homicide. Last week, a Family Court judge certified him to stand trial as an adult.&nbsp;“Justice does not have an expiration date. Homicide cases are among the most complex our office handles and when the suspect is also a juvenile at the time of the offense, the legal process becomes much more intricate, moving through Family Court first, under a completely different system,”&nbsp;Prosecutor Johnson said.&nbsp;“That process takes time, but that does not mean we’ve forgotten our obligation to victims. Our office will pursue accountability and justice for all victims no matter how long it takes.”<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2822/Finch-Redacted-Probable-Cause">According to court records</a>, Independence police responded to a residence on June 23, 2021, and located the victim deceased in her bedroom with an apparent injury to her face and head. A single spent shell casing was recovered under the victim’s bed.&nbsp;Witnesses reported Finch and the victim were in a relationship and not getting along. The defendant had been seen with firearms in the past and had sent photos and videos of firearms to the victim.&nbsp;The defendant’s DNA was present in the scrapings from both the victim’s hands. He had also been observed at the victim’s bedroom window the day of the homicide.&nbsp;In July 2023, Finch had a pre-trial conference with Family Court but failed to appear. After investigators and different law enforcement agencies attempted to locate Finch, he was arrested on Jan. 6 for the warrant.&nbsp;A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond to $350,000 cash only.

KC man will stand trial as an adult for killing girl in her bedroom

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>

Online prediction markets allow users to put money on the outcome of almost anything — this weekend’s NBA game between the Warriors and the Thunder, the next supreme leader of Iran, whether the government will confirm the existence of aliens.

But those markets have no state oversight and operate even in states that ban gambling.

The platforms are raising bipartisan alarms, especially related to sports gambling. As states have legalized sports betting in recent years, they’ve required legal sportsbooks to jump through multiple hoops — from age verification procedures to protections for gambling addiction to tax collections. Online prediction markets circumvent all those rules.

Platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket say they are offering contracts similar to commodity markets that speculate on the future price of corn or oil — not outright gambling. But a growing number of states are rejecting those justifications, arguing the platforms are offering a backdoor to skirt state gambling regulations, particularly on sports.

The issue has sparked action from state regulators, new legislation, and lawsuits from both states and prediction markets. Complicating matters are the federal government’s moves to block state regulation of prediction markets, which see more than&nbsp;<a href="https://theconversation.com/everything-can-be-a-bet-now-the-rise-and-risks-of-prediction-markets-276464" target="_blank">$13 billion</a>&nbsp;in transactions each month.

Most activity on those platforms revolves around sports. And in national ads, Kalshi even marketed itself as the first national legal sports betting platform — even though states approve and regulate sports gambling since a 2018 Supreme Court decision. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/research/state-of-play-map/" target="_blank">11 states,</a>&nbsp;sports gambling remains illegal.

“This is sports wagering. If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably sports wagering, in this situation,” said Kentucky state Rep. Michael Meredith, a Republican.

Meredith, who sponsored a 2023 law that legalized sports betting in Kentucky, called for states to regulate prediction markets during a webinar hosted by the National Conference of State Legislatures. That organization, representing state legislators across the country, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/resources/details/ncsl-urges-congress-to-address-unregulated-sports-betting-via-prediction-markets" target="_blank">urged Congress</a>&nbsp;“to act swiftly to address the rapid growth of unregulated sports‑related event contracts.”

State leaders argue their longstanding authority to oversee gambling should allow states to regulate or ban prediction market platforms. But those companies maintain they are not beholden to state regulations.

“I think it’s very clear that this authority should be vested in our state governments,” Meredith said last month.

In New York, lawmakers are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&amp;leg_video=&amp;bn=A09251&amp;term=&amp;Summary=Y&amp;Actions=Y&amp;Text=Y" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would ban prediction markets from offering contracts on sports events, in addition to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and deaths. In Nevada, where gambling and tourism are top economic drivers, regulators are involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://nevadacurrent.com/2026/02/24/protracted-legal-fight-expected-in-nevada-v-kalshi/" target="_blank">protracted legal fight&nbsp;</a>after the state sought to stop prediction market activity on sports.

“To me, this is clearly gambling,” Thomas Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, which operates casinos and sports betting,&nbsp;said during a company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/02/17/caesars-czr-q4-2025-earnings-call-transcript/" target="_blank">earnings call</a>&nbsp;in January.

But states are also fighting an obscure federal agency seeking to protect the emerging marketplace. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which regulates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/derivative.asp" target="_blank">derivatives</a>&nbsp;such as futures contracts on stocks, has asserted it has “exclusive jurisdiction” over prediction markets and promised to fight state regulatory efforts in court.

The CTFC did not respond to Stateline’s request for comment. Neither did Kalshi or Polymarket, two of the leading prediction market companies.

Unless Congress passes legislation, experts say the courts will ultimately decide what role states can play in regulating prediction markets.

The standoff has led to litigation between the platforms and states in at least eight states, and officials in 11 states have sent cease and desist orders to prediction market companies, according to the American Gaming Association, an industry group representing casinos and sports books. A bipartisan group of attorneys general from 39 states and the District of Columbia recently urged a federal court to uphold state authority to regulate sports gambling.

The American Gaming Association says prediction markets should either get out of the sports betting business or follow the same regulations and rules that apply to sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel.

“They don’t want to pay the taxes, they don’t want to undergo the compliance and provide all of the consumer protections that are required by states of operators who operate legal sports betting,” said Tres York, the vice president of government relations for the association.

The organization estimates states have lost out on more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/sports-event-contracts/" target="_blank">$570 million</a>&nbsp;in sports gambling tax revenues since prediction markets began offering sports events contracts.

Many state leaders and experts are<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/12/05/growth-of-sports-betting-may-be-linked-to-financial-woes-new-studies-find/" target="_blank">&nbsp;already concerned</a>&nbsp;about the societal effects from the meteoric rise of sports gambling, which has transformed collegiate and professional sports, and the potential for&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">manipulation</a>&nbsp;by players.

“If you already have what I would call an epidemic of sports betting addiction in this country when you have regulated sports betting, imagine what it’s going to be like when you have essentially unregulated sports betting,” said Benjamin Schiffrin, director of securities policy at Better Markets, a nonprofit watchdog group advocating for consumer and investor financial protections.

The wide range of available bets also is raising alarms over election integrity and insider trading. In addition to individual elections, prediction markets have allowed wagers on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the timing of the U.S. strike on Iran. Last week, hundreds of thousands of dollars were bet the day before the Iranian strikes, and more than 100 accounts cashed in $10,000 or more from successful predictions, according to a New York Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/03/upshot/prediction-markets-iran-strikes.html" target="_blank">analysis</a>.

“It’s a huge change to all of a sudden allow betting on elections, and it really threatens the underpinnings of our democracy,” Schiffrin said. “It just seems like there’s tremendous potential for wrongdoing.”

On its&nbsp;<a href="https://news.kalshi.com/p/values-and-principles-for-prediction-markets" target="_blank">website</a>, Kalshi says it operates under a “strict regulatory framework” with a suite of market integrity, surveillance, financial safeguards, and anti-manipulation protections.

Citing what it called “an onslaught” of state litigation, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission last month filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/9183-26" target="_blank">court brief&nbsp;</a>underscoring its authority to regulate prediction markets.

“To those who seek to challenge our authority in this space, let me be clear: We will see you in court,” Commissioner Mike Selig said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/Exit/index.htm?https://x.com/ChairmanSelig/status/2023744651216240966?s=20" target="_blank">video</a>&nbsp;posted on social media. Selig is the only member of the presidentially appointed commission, which currently has four vacancies.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, immediately vowed to oppose the federal agency and the prediction platforms in court. Gambling has been&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter9/76-9-S1402.html" target="_blank">banned</a>&nbsp;under the Utah Constitution since the state’s founding, and Cox posted on social media that prediction markets are “destroying the lives of families.”

Kalshi&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/24/kalshi-sues-utah-over-proposed-prop-betting-ban/" target="_blank">swiftly sued&nbsp;</a>the governor and the state in federal court in anticipation of enforcement efforts and pending legislation in Salt Lake City. The company’s lawsuit cited the governor’s post and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2026/02/22/utah-gambling-apps-prediciton-markets-harmful-dangerous/" target="_blank">column penned</a>&nbsp;by Republican Attorney General Derek Brown explaining why he joined Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat, “in urging Congress to address offshore gambling operations that disregard state law and target young Americans.”

Utah Republican state Rep. Joseph Elison sponsored the&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/23/utah-legislature-advances-ban-on-proposition-betting/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;cited in Kalshi’s lawsuit. The bill, which has passed both chambers, would expand the state’s definition of gambling to include&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">proposition betting</a>&nbsp;— bets on the performance of an individual player or team that don’t necessarily affect the outcome of a competition. While Elison acknowledged the courts will ultimately determine the issue, he said prediction markets are essentially offering proposition betting without authorization.

”We’re 50 independent sovereigns that gave centralized government to the federal government to do certain things,” he told Stateline. “But the rest, we want those things to be under our purview. And this is one of those.”

In early rulings on the matter, courts have issued a mix of opinions: States have found initial success in state courts while results have been more mixed in federal courts, said Daniel Wallach, a gaming and sports gambling attorney tracking the issue.

But federal law has long affirmed state authority to oversee gambling, he said.

Despite attempts to cast transactions as investments, Wallach says courts will look at the substance of bets, which he said are almost indistinguishable from those made in state-regulated betting markets.

“The argument that this is investing rather than gambling is essentially elevating form over substance,” he said. “Plain and simple, this is wagering on the outcome of a sporting event.”

Wallach said state efforts such as cease and desist orders are counterproductive, as they essentially invite federal lawsuits from prediction market firms. He said states are better off pursuing gambling enforcement efforts in state courts, where several have won preliminary injunctions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-bans-kalshi-offering-sports-events-contracts-massachusetts-30-days-2026-02-06/" target="_blank">halting operations&nbsp;</a>of the platforms temporarily.

For now, he said the federal agency has applied almost no scrutiny of the platforms, noting that the president’s family has a financial interest in the industry.

Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, has a business interest in two of the largest online prediction markets, and the president’s social media platform Truth Social announced it would start its own prediction market, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/15/us/politics/donald-trump-jr-prediction-markets.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>.

Journalist Dustin Gouker, who authors<a href="https://substack.com/@dustingouker" target="_blank">&nbsp;newsletters</a>&nbsp;on gambling and prediction markets, noted that the CFTC rules that currently regulate prediction markets were built for financial products — not gambling. He said prediction markets have moved into the gaming market because “nobody said no.”

“It’s a bit of a mess,” he said. “If we’re going to have betting in 50 states for everyone 18 and over, shouldn’t we have thought about that a little bit more?”

Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.&nbsp;

This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/kalshi-and-polymarket-are-skirting-laws-on-sports-betting-states-say/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/3/1772829738340.png" alt=" In this online ad, prediction market platform Kalshi advertises its sports betting products in California and Texas, both states that have not legalized sports gambling. States are increasingly targeting platforms like Kalshi, arguing they circumvent the protections and taxes of regulated gambling markets. (Image courtesy of Dustin Goucher/ Event Horizon newsletter)" />
 <figcaption> In this online ad, prediction market platform Kalshi advertises its sports betting products in California and Texas, both states that have not legalized sports gambling. States are increasingly targeting platforms like Kalshi, arguing they circumvent the protections and taxes of regulated gambling markets. (Image courtesy of Dustin Goucher/ Event Horizon newsletter)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>Online prediction markets allow users to put money on the outcome of almost anything — this weekend’s NBA game between the Warriors and the Thunder, the next supreme leader of Iran, whether the government will confirm the existence of aliens.But those markets have no state oversight and operate even in states that ban gambling.The platforms are raising bipartisan alarms, especially related to sports gambling. As states have legalized sports betting in recent years, they’ve required legal sportsbooks to jump through multiple hoops — from age verification procedures to protections for gambling addiction to tax collections. Online prediction markets circumvent all those rules.Platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket say they are offering contracts similar to commodity markets that speculate on the future price of corn or oil — not outright gambling. But a growing number of states are rejecting those justifications, arguing the platforms are offering a backdoor to skirt state gambling regulations, particularly on sports.The issue has sparked action from state regulators, new legislation, and lawsuits from both states and prediction markets. Complicating matters are the federal government’s moves to block state regulation of prediction markets, which see more than&nbsp;<a href="https://theconversation.com/everything-can-be-a-bet-now-the-rise-and-risks-of-prediction-markets-276464" target="_blank">$13 billion</a>&nbsp;in transactions each month.Most activity on those platforms revolves around sports. And in national ads, Kalshi even marketed itself as the first national legal sports betting platform — even though states approve and regulate sports gambling since a 2018 Supreme Court decision. In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/research/state-of-play-map/" target="_blank">11 states,</a>&nbsp;sports gambling remains illegal.“This is sports wagering. If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s probably sports wagering, in this situation,” said Kentucky state Rep. Michael Meredith, a Republican.Meredith, who sponsored a 2023 law that legalized sports betting in Kentucky, called for states to regulate prediction markets during a webinar hosted by the National Conference of State Legislatures. That organization, representing state legislators across the country, has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsl.org/resources/details/ncsl-urges-congress-to-address-unregulated-sports-betting-via-prediction-markets" target="_blank">urged Congress</a>&nbsp;“to act swiftly to address the rapid growth of unregulated sports‑related event contracts.”State leaders argue their longstanding authority to oversee gambling should allow states to regulate or ban prediction market platforms. But those companies maintain they are not beholden to state regulations.“I think it’s very clear that this authority should be vested in our state governments,” Meredith said last month.In New York, lawmakers are considering&nbsp;<a href="https://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?default_fld=&amp;leg_video=&amp;bn=A09251&amp;term=&amp;Summary=Y&amp;Actions=Y&amp;Text=Y" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;that would ban prediction markets from offering contracts on sports events, in addition to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and deaths. In Nevada, where gambling and tourism are top economic drivers, regulators are involved in a&nbsp;<a href="https://nevadacurrent.com/2026/02/24/protracted-legal-fight-expected-in-nevada-v-kalshi/" target="_blank">protracted legal fight&nbsp;</a>after the state sought to stop prediction market activity on sports.“To me, this is clearly gambling,” Thomas Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, which operates casinos and sports betting,&nbsp;said during a company&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2026/02/17/caesars-czr-q4-2025-earnings-call-transcript/" target="_blank">earnings call</a>&nbsp;in January.But states are also fighting an obscure federal agency seeking to protect the emerging marketplace. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission, which regulates&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/d/derivative.asp" target="_blank">derivatives</a>&nbsp;such as futures contracts on stocks, has asserted it has “exclusive jurisdiction” over prediction markets and promised to fight state regulatory efforts in court.The CTFC did not respond to Stateline’s request for comment. Neither did Kalshi or Polymarket, two of the leading prediction market companies.<h2>A new wave of betting</h2>Unless Congress passes legislation, experts say the courts will ultimately decide what role states can play in regulating prediction markets.The standoff has led to litigation between the platforms and states in at least eight states, and officials in 11 states have sent cease and desist orders to prediction market companies, according to the American Gaming Association, an industry group representing casinos and sports books. A bipartisan group of attorneys general from 39 states and the District of Columbia recently urged a federal court to uphold state authority to regulate sports gambling.The American Gaming Association says prediction markets should either get out of the sports betting business or follow the same regulations and rules that apply to sportsbooks such as DraftKings and FanDuel.“They don’t want to pay the taxes, they don’t want to undergo the compliance and provide all of the consumer protections that are required by states of operators who operate legal sports betting,” said Tres York, the vice president of government relations for the association.The organization estimates states have lost out on more than&nbsp;<a href="https://www.americangaming.org/sports-event-contracts/" target="_blank">$570 million</a>&nbsp;in sports gambling tax revenues since prediction markets began offering sports events contracts.Many state leaders and experts are<a href="https://stateline.org/2024/12/05/growth-of-sports-betting-may-be-linked-to-financial-woes-new-studies-find/" target="_blank">&nbsp;already concerned</a>&nbsp;about the societal effects from the meteoric rise of sports gambling, which has transformed collegiate and professional sports, and the potential for&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">manipulation</a>&nbsp;by players.“If you already have what I would call an epidemic of sports betting addiction in this country when you have regulated sports betting, imagine what it’s going to be like when you have essentially unregulated sports betting,” said Benjamin Schiffrin, director of securities policy at Better Markets, a nonprofit watchdog group advocating for consumer and investor financial protections.The wide range of available bets also is raising alarms over election integrity and insider trading. In addition to individual elections, prediction markets have allowed wagers on the ouster of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the timing of the U.S. strike on Iran. Last week, hundreds of thousands of dollars were bet the day before the Iranian strikes, and more than 100 accounts cashed in $10,000 or more from successful predictions, according to a New York Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/03/upshot/prediction-markets-iran-strikes.html" target="_blank">analysis</a>.“It’s a huge change to all of a sudden allow betting on elections, and it really threatens the underpinnings of our democracy,” Schiffrin said. “It just seems like there’s tremendous potential for wrongdoing.”On its&nbsp;<a href="https://news.kalshi.com/p/values-and-principles-for-prediction-markets" target="_blank">website</a>, Kalshi says it operates under a “strict regulatory framework” with a suite of market integrity, surveillance, financial safeguards, and anti-manipulation protections.<h2>Federal-state conflict&nbsp;</h2>Citing what it called “an onslaught” of state litigation, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission last month filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/PressRoom/PressReleases/9183-26" target="_blank">court brief&nbsp;</a>underscoring its authority to regulate prediction markets.“To those who seek to challenge our authority in this space, let me be clear: We will see you in court,” Commissioner Mike Selig said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cftc.gov/Exit/index.htm?https://x.com/ChairmanSelig/status/2023744651216240966?s=20" target="_blank">video</a>&nbsp;posted on social media. Selig is the only member of the presidentially appointed commission, which currently has four vacancies.Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, immediately vowed to oppose the federal agency and the prediction platforms in court. Gambling has been&nbsp;<a href="https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title76/Chapter9/76-9-S1402.html" target="_blank">banned</a>&nbsp;under the Utah Constitution since the state’s founding, and Cox posted on social media that prediction markets are “destroying the lives of families.”Kalshi&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/24/kalshi-sues-utah-over-proposed-prop-betting-ban/" target="_blank">swiftly sued&nbsp;</a>the governor and the state in federal court in anticipation of enforcement efforts and pending legislation in Salt Lake City. The company’s lawsuit cited the governor’s post and a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.deseret.com/opinion/2026/02/22/utah-gambling-apps-prediciton-markets-harmful-dangerous/" target="_blank">column penned</a>&nbsp;by Republican Attorney General Derek Brown explaining why he joined Connecticut Attorney General William Tong, a Democrat, “in urging Congress to address offshore gambling operations that disregard state law and target young Americans.”Utah Republican state Rep. Joseph Elison sponsored the&nbsp;<a href="https://utahnewsdispatch.com/2026/02/23/utah-legislature-advances-ban-on-proposition-betting/" target="_blank">legislation</a>&nbsp;cited in Kalshi’s lawsuit. The bill, which has passed both chambers, would expand the state’s definition of gambling to include&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2025/09/09/wagers-on-touchdowns-strikeouts-and-even-penalties-states-eye-limits-on-prop-bets/" target="_blank">proposition betting</a>&nbsp;— bets on the performance of an individual player or team that don’t necessarily affect the outcome of a competition. While Elison acknowledged the courts will ultimately determine the issue, he said prediction markets are essentially offering proposition betting without authorization.”We’re 50 independent sovereigns that gave centralized government to the federal government to do certain things,” he told Stateline. “But the rest, we want those things to be under our purview. And this is one of those.”<h2>The legal landscape&nbsp;</h2>In early rulings on the matter, courts have issued a mix of opinions: States have found initial success in state courts while results have been more mixed in federal courts, said Daniel Wallach, a gaming and sports gambling attorney tracking the issue.But federal law has long affirmed state authority to oversee gambling, he said.Despite attempts to cast transactions as investments, Wallach says courts will look at the substance of bets, which he said are almost indistinguishable from those made in state-regulated betting markets.“The argument that this is investing rather than gambling is essentially elevating form over substance,” he said. “Plain and simple, this is wagering on the outcome of a sporting event.”Wallach said state efforts such as cease and desist orders are counterproductive, as they essentially invite federal lawsuits from prediction market firms. He said states are better off pursuing gambling enforcement efforts in state courts, where several have won preliminary injunctions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/judge-bans-kalshi-offering-sports-events-contracts-massachusetts-30-days-2026-02-06/" target="_blank">halting operations&nbsp;</a>of the platforms temporarily.For now, he said the federal agency has applied almost no scrutiny of the platforms, noting that the president’s family has a financial interest in the industry.Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, has a business interest in two of the largest online prediction markets, and the president’s social media platform Truth Social announced it would start its own prediction market, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/15/us/politics/donald-trump-jr-prediction-markets.html" target="_blank">The New York Times</a>.Journalist Dustin Gouker, who authors<a href="https://substack.com/@dustingouker" target="_blank">&nbsp;newsletters</a>&nbsp;on gambling and prediction markets, noted that the CFTC rules that currently regulate prediction markets were built for financial products — not gambling. He said prediction markets have moved into the gaming market because “nobody said no.”“It’s a bit of a mess,” he said. “If we’re going to have betting in 50 states for everyone 18 and over, shouldn’t we have thought about that a little bit more?”Stateline reporter Kevin Hardy can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:khardy@stateline.org">khardy@stateline.org</a>.&nbsp;This story was originally produced by&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/2026/03/06/kalshi-and-polymarket-are-skirting-laws-on-sports-betting-states-say/" target="_blank">Stateline</a>, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Missouri Independent, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.<figure>
 <img src="https://missouriindependent.com/wp-content/plugins/republisher/assets/img/ccwhite.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Kalshi and Polymarket are skirting laws on sports betting, states say

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.Just after 2a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the area of the 3900 Block of Baltimore on a sound of gunshots call, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.&nbsp;First responders were led to the back parking lot of the apartment buildings where they located an adult male shooting victim unresponsive. EMS pronunced the victim deceased. Preliminary information indicates the shooting took place in the back parking lot of the apartments after the victim had an interaction with one or more suspects that led to gunfire.&nbsp;If anyone was in the area or in the apartment and heard or saw anything or has any information, they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.