After 32 years in mornings at Audacy’s “98.9 The Rock” KQRC Kansas City, the Johnny Dare Morning Show will come to an end on Friday, March 7 as part of Audacy’s round of layoffs.

Dare has anchored mornings at KQRC since 1993 months after the station’s Rock format debuted.&nbsp;

“No one is more surprised than us that its lasted this long but after 32 years, we got smoked. Tomorrow will be the final morning show for us on the Rock.. join Nycki,Gregg,Jake, Kyle and I tomorrow morning starting at 6am for one final show,"&nbsp;Dare wrote,

The show has long helped give back during the holiday season with “Hope for the Holidays.”

It wasn't the only show to announce its end on Thursday. The Ponch &amp; Nikki show on 99.7 The Point posted on Facebook they were no longer on the station and would "have more details soon."

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostAfter 32 years in mornings at Audacy’s “98.9 The Rock” KQRC Kansas City, the Johnny Dare Morning Show will come to an end on Friday, March 7 as part of Audacy’s round of layoffs.Dare has anchored mornings at KQRC since 1993 months after the station’s Rock format debuted.&nbsp;“No one is more surprised than us that its lasted this long but after 32 years, we got smoked. Tomorrow will be the final morning show for us on the Rock.. join Nycki,Gregg,Jake, Kyle and I tomorrow morning starting at 6am for one final show,"&nbsp;Dare wrote,The show has long helped give back during the holiday season with “Hope for the Holidays.”It wasn't the only show to announce its end on Thursday. The Ponch &amp; Nikki show on 99.7 The Point posted on Facebook they were no longer on the station and would "have more details soon."

Popular Kansas City DJ to air last show Friday after cancellation announced

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/hannahtaylor/">HANNAH TAYLOR</a>

Members of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus criticized the state budget and Gov. Mike Kehoe’s executive order to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in a news conference Tuesday.

State Rep. Michael Johnson, a Kansas City Democrat and the caucus chair, focused his comments on Kehoe’s elimination of DEI efforts.

The caucus had released a statement opposing the executive order covering state agencies when it was announced. Members continued to echo that sentiment Tuesday.

“DEI is not a black thing,” Johnson said. “DEI is for everyone. It’s for veterans. It’s for those that are disabled. It’s for those that have impairments. It is for those that deserve a chance at showing equality on a job.”

In a news release announcing the midsession update, Johnson added, “While this legislature has been entrusted by the people of Missouri to administer a healthy economy, professional opportunities and affordable living, the Republican supermajority appears to be, again, largely ignoring the needs of Missourians, particularly those of color.”

Beyond the executive order, legislation approved by the House seeks to ban all state funding of DEI initiatives, which would cover state universities and other spending not included in Kehoe’s executive order. The bill, sponsored by GOP state Rep. Ben Baker of Neosho, was debated by the Senate Government Efficiency Committee on Monday.

State Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Columbia Democrat, voiced his opposition to legislation seeking to prohibit public institutions of higher education from discriminating against religious, political or ideological organizations.

Smith warned that this bill would allow organizations to engage in hate speech and leave students of color unprotected on college campuses. He said students are captive audiences and should not be subject to, “hate speech,” “ugliness” or “racist ideas.”

Regarding the state budget and tax cuts, members of the caucus voiced their opinion that continuous cutting of state taxes and federal services are putting Missourians at a disadvantage.

“We are renegotiating some of the very fundamental contracts that we have made with the public,” said state Rep. Del Taylor, a Democrat from St. Louis..

The Missouri state budget totals more than $50 billion, with about half supported by federal aid. According to Taylor, if federally funded programs receive cuts, that means a cut in federal workers’ salaries.

“These individuals need to be paid just like the rest of us,” Taylor said.

Despite his concerns, Taylor praised the Missouri economy for being strong and continuing to grow, but said with the growth comes the willingness to meet financial obligations.

The biggest example he cited was the state’s budget allotment for education. Taylor noted that under provisions of the Missouri Foundation Formula, an adequate state education budget requires an additional $300 million over what Kehoe has proposed. Instead of committing to this amount, Taylor added that representatives are willing to “change the formula” through a task force also proposed by Kehoe.

“Our state is strong,” Taylor said. “Our economy is strong. But as we continue all of these tax cuts and tax shavings and tax incentives, we are discounting and we are robbing the people of Missouri of basic services that they need.”

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/legislative-black-caucus-dei-is-for-everyone/article_19ad40f2-f925-11ef-9bb5-97dbbc823c7e.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741312054015.png" alt=" State Rep. Michael Johnson, a Kansas City Democrat, speaks during House debate on Feb. 27 (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Michael Johnson, a Kansas City Democrat, speaks during House debate on Feb. 27 (Tim Bommel/Missouri House Communications).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/hannahtaylor/">HANNAH TAYLOR</a>Members of the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus criticized the state budget and Gov. Mike Kehoe’s executive order to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion programs in a news conference Tuesday.State Rep. Michael Johnson, a Kansas City Democrat and the caucus chair, focused his comments on Kehoe’s elimination of DEI efforts.The caucus had released a statement opposing the executive order covering state agencies when it was announced. Members continued to echo that sentiment Tuesday.“DEI is not a black thing,” Johnson said. “DEI is for everyone. It’s for veterans. It’s for those that are disabled. It’s for those that have impairments. It is for those that deserve a chance at showing equality on a job.”In a news release announcing the midsession update, Johnson added, “While this legislature has been entrusted by the people of Missouri to administer a healthy economy, professional opportunities and affordable living, the Republican supermajority appears to be, again, largely ignoring the needs of Missourians, particularly those of color.”Beyond the executive order, legislation approved by the House seeks to ban all state funding of DEI initiatives, which would cover state universities and other spending not included in Kehoe’s executive order. The bill, sponsored by GOP state Rep. Ben Baker of Neosho, was debated by the Senate Government Efficiency Committee on Monday.State Rep. David Tyson Smith, a Columbia Democrat, voiced his opposition to legislation seeking to prohibit public institutions of higher education from discriminating against religious, political or ideological organizations.Smith warned that this bill would allow organizations to engage in hate speech and leave students of color unprotected on college campuses. He said students are captive audiences and should not be subject to, “hate speech,” “ugliness” or “racist ideas.”Regarding the state budget and tax cuts, members of the caucus voiced their opinion that continuous cutting of state taxes and federal services are putting Missourians at a disadvantage.“We are renegotiating some of the very fundamental contracts that we have made with the public,” said state Rep. Del Taylor, a Democrat from St. Louis..The Missouri state budget totals more than $50 billion, with about half supported by federal aid. According to Taylor, if federally funded programs receive cuts, that means a cut in federal workers’ salaries.“These individuals need to be paid just like the rest of us,” Taylor said.Despite his concerns, Taylor praised the Missouri economy for being strong and continuing to grow, but said with the growth comes the willingness to meet financial obligations.The biggest example he cited was the state’s budget allotment for education. Taylor noted that under provisions of the Missouri Foundation Formula, an adequate state education budget requires an additional $300 million over what Kehoe has proposed. Instead of committing to this amount, Taylor added that representatives are willing to “change the formula” through a task force also proposed by Kehoe.“Our state is strong,” Taylor said. “Our economy is strong. But as we continue all of these tax cuts and tax shavings and tax incentives, we are discounting and we are robbing the people of Missouri of basic services that they need.”This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/state_news/legislative-black-caucus-dei-is-for-everyone/article_19ad40f2-f925-11ef-9bb5-97dbbc823c7e.html" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Missouri Legislative Black Caucus criticizes anti-diversity push by Republicans

GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Parol reported a 2019 Jeep Compass driven by Paul J, Pacholski, 32, Junction City, was westbound on Farnum Creek Road from U.S. 77.&nbsp; The Jeep struck a pole, a delineator post, traveled off the roadway and came to rest in Milford Lake.

EMS transported Pacholski to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Geary County Sheriff's Office/Junction City Fire Department joint dive team recovered the submerged vehicle and the Farnum Creek Boat Ramp is once again open.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741291836399.jpeg" alt="Photo Geary Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Geary Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 2p.m. Thursday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Parol reported a 2019 Jeep Compass driven by Paul J, Pacholski, 32, Junction City, was westbound on Farnum Creek Road from U.S. 77.&nbsp; The Jeep struck a pole, a delineator post, traveled off the roadway and came to rest in Milford Lake.EMS transported Pacholski to Stormont Vail. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Geary County Sheriff's Office/Junction City Fire Department joint dive team recovered the submerged vehicle and the Farnum Creek Boat Ramp is once again open.

Kansas man hospitalized after Jeep lands in lake

CLAY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that occurred on Thursday afternoon on Southbound Interstate 29 near Vivion Road in Clay County, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

The&nbsp; Patrol released a security camera image of the suspect vehicle.

The Patrol released no additional details.

 As the investigation continues to evolve, if you witnessed or have any information pertaining to this incident, please call Troop A at 816-622-0800.

Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741307803143.png" alt="-MSHP believes this is the suspect vehicle in the shooting that occurred near I-29 and Vivion Road." />
 <figcaption>-MSHP believes this is the suspect vehicle in the shooting that occurred near I-29 and Vivion Road.</figcaption>
 </figure>CLAY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that occurred on Thursday afternoon on Southbound Interstate 29 near Vivion Road in Clay County, according to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.The&nbsp; Patrol released a security camera image of the suspect vehicle.The Patrol released no additional details. As the investigation continues to evolve, if you witnessed or have any information pertaining to this incident, please call Troop A at 816-622-0800.Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

MSHP releases image of suspect vehicle in I-29 shooting

KANSAS CITY —During the storm on Wednesday, Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt, Ryan Wood, Clay County, witnessed a close call where an out of control vehicle narrowly missed a vehicle entering Northbound Interstate 35 from NE Chouteau Trafficway. 

Thankfully, no injuries occurred in this incident, according to the patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741286858422.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —During the storm on Wednesday, Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt, Ryan Wood, Clay County, witnessed a close call where an out of control vehicle narrowly missed a vehicle entering Northbound Interstate 35 from NE Chouteau Trafficway. <div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">During yesterday’s storm, Sgt, Ryan Wood, Clay County, witnessed a close call where an out of control vehicle narrowly missed a vehicle entering NB I-35 from NE Chouteau Trafficway. Thankfully, no injuries occurred in this incident. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSHP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSHP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KCwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KCwx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kansascity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kansascity</a> <a href="https://t.co/NL6elGwbw6">pic.twitter.com/NL6elGwbw6</a>&mdash; MSHP Troop A (@MSHPTrooperA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSHPTrooperA/status/1897689547300880385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Thankfully, no injuries occurred in this incident, according to the patrol.

🎥 Trooper witnessed close call on icy KC area highway

LABETTE COUNTY —The Kansas Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Emergency Response Division was asked to respond to Labette County, in southeast Kansas, to assist the Labette County Sheriff’s Office in searching for a missing 82-year-old&nbsp; Lynn S. Gregory who had been in a tractor at a low water crossing, according to the Fire Marshal's office.

The Labette County Sheriff’s Office began searching the area trying to locate Gregory and was later joined by the Parsons Fire Department, Bartlett Fire Department, Edna Fire Department, Labette County EMS, Altamont Police Department, and Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks.

Kansas Task Force 4 was deployed to assist in the search. KS-TF4 consists of agencies located in the southeast part of Kansas. 12 team members have been searching for two days, utilizing ATV’s, boats, wide area ground search as well as swift water technicians wearing dry suits walking the creek. A K-9 team from the Tulsa Fire Department and a K-9 team from Kansas Task Force have been assisting in the search efforts.

12 team members from KS-TF3 from the KC Metro Area and 12 members from KS-TF5 from south central Kansas are expected to deploy to the area on Friday, March 7, 2025, to relieve KS-TF4 and continue search efforts. The wind has hindered the use of UAV’s (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).

The terrain is difficult to maneuver so citizens are asked to stay away from the area for safety reasons. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Labette County Sheriff's Office at 620-795-2565.

LABETTE COUNTY —The Kansas Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), Emergency Response Division was asked to respond to Labette County, in southeast Kansas, to assist the Labette County Sheriff’s Office in searching for a missing 82-year-old&nbsp; Lynn S. Gregory who had been in a tractor at a low water crossing, according to the Fire Marshal's office.The Labette County Sheriff’s Office began searching the area trying to locate Gregory and was later joined by the Parsons Fire Department, Bartlett Fire Department, Edna Fire Department, Labette County EMS, Altamont Police Department, and Kansas Wildlife &amp; Parks.Kansas Task Force 4 was deployed to assist in the search. KS-TF4 consists of agencies located in the southeast part of Kansas. 12 team members have been searching for two days, utilizing ATV’s, boats, wide area ground search as well as swift water technicians wearing dry suits walking the creek. A K-9 team from the Tulsa Fire Department and a K-9 team from Kansas Task Force have been assisting in the search efforts.12 team members from KS-TF3 from the KC Metro Area and 12 members from KS-TF5 from south central Kansas are expected to deploy to the area on Friday, March 7, 2025, to relieve KS-TF4 and continue search efforts. The wind has hindered the use of UAV’s (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).The terrain is difficult to maneuver so citizens are asked to stay away from the area for safety reasons. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Labette County Sheriff's Office at 620-795-2565.

Search continues for rural Kan. man who fell into creek

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>

WASHINGTON — The National Institutes of Health won’t be able to implement an across-the-board cap on how much it pays research universities and medical schools for indirect costs, under a federal court order released Wednesday in cases brought by Democratic attorneys general and university associations.

Judge Angel Kelley of the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts granted a nationwide preliminary injunction in the case, blocking the proposed 15% cap on Facilities and Administrative fees from taking effect while three lawsuits advance.

Those costs cover the expenses that go along with research, but that aren’t directly associated with one specific project. They can include construction, maintenance, equipment purchases, utilities and administrative staff.

Kelley wrote in the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.280590/gov.uscourts.mad.280590.105.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">76-page decision</a>&nbsp;that a preliminary injunction would prevent the NIH from bringing about “immediate, devastating, and irreparable” harm to research institutions.

“First, the suspension of ongoing clinical trials and the resulting threats to patients’ lives represents a dire risk of a quintessentially irreparable nature. Second, the threats to non-human, yet still essential, research subjects similarly rings in irreparability,” Kelley wrote, referring to research animals. “Finally, the potential loss of human capital and talent to virtually every Plaintiff poses yet another harm incapable of run-of-the-mill legal relief.”

Kelley wrote that the “Court is hard pressed to think of a loss more irreparable than the loss of a life, let alone the thousands of people who are counting on clinical trials as their last hope.”

The NIH&nbsp;<a href="https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-068.html" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;on a Friday in early February that it would no longer pay research universities and medical colleges the indirect cost percentage that each had negotiated with the federal government over the course of years.

Instead, NIH said it would cap Facilities and Administrative fees at 15% for every institution receiving funds from the NIH, producing an outcry from medical colleges and universities.

Three lawsuits were quickly filed, challenging the NIH’s decision: Commonwealth of Massachusetts v. National Institutes of Health, Association of American Medical Colleges v. National Institutes of Health and Association of American Universities v. Department of Health &amp; Human Services.

All three were filed in the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts and assigned to Kelley, who was nominated by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2021 following a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1171/vote_117_1_00364.htm" target="_blank">52-44 vote.</a>

Kelley quickly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-blocks-catastrophic-trump-administration-cut-nih-grant-funding" target="_blank">blocked the NIH from implementing the percentage change</a>&nbsp;in the 22 states whose Democratic attorneys general filed one of the lawsuits, before&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-nationwide-ruling-blocks-trump-administration-cut-nih-research-grants" target="_blank">entering a nationwide temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;in the case brought by the Association of American Medical Colleges.

Kelley&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-extends-order-blocking-devastating-nih-cap-research-payments" target="_blank">held a hearing</a>&nbsp;in late February to hear from the organizations that filed the three lawsuits and the Trump administration’s attorney over whether to issue a preliminary injunction.

The ruling released Wednesday notes that in 2017, during President Donald Trump’s first term in office, he sent Congress a budget request that asked lawmakers to set the NIH’s indirect cost rate at 10%.

Lawmakers, on a bipartisan basis, rejected Trump’s proposal and instead added language to the NIH’s annual spending bill that barred it from changing the percentage across the board. The language has been kept in the annual funding bill ever since.

“Congress’ rebuke of the first Trump Administration’s proposal to slash and cap was patently clear,” Kelley wrote. “This rider contains three, overlapping provisions meant to restrict NIH’s ability to enact an across-the-board rate reduction.”

Kelley wrote the preliminary injunction would “preserve public health, and by extension, serve the public interest.” She also wrote that the ruling would require the NIH “to abide by existing law and regulations.”

“It is impossible to accurately measure or compensate humans who lose their lives from a pause in research. It is impossible to measure the value of lost research animals—representing years of study central to medical breakthrough—that will be euthanized,” Kelley wrote. “It is impossible to measure the value of discovery from scientists who choose to leave, or of the potential students who now never become scientists at all.

“Even for those harms (that) can be measured in dollars and cents, the losses are compounding and will result in even greater disruption to ongoing research and clinical trials. As a result, failure to grant a preliminary injunction would certainly result in irreparable harm.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630165275617.jpeg" alt="Photo Kansas State University" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas State University</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">JENNIFER SHUTT</a>WASHINGTON — The National Institutes of Health won’t be able to implement an across-the-board cap on how much it pays research universities and medical schools for indirect costs, under a federal court order released Wednesday in cases brought by Democratic attorneys general and university associations.Judge Angel Kelley of the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts granted a nationwide preliminary injunction in the case, blocking the proposed 15% cap on Facilities and Administrative fees from taking effect while three lawsuits advance.Those costs cover the expenses that go along with research, but that aren’t directly associated with one specific project. They can include construction, maintenance, equipment purchases, utilities and administrative staff.Kelley wrote in the&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.mad.280590/gov.uscourts.mad.280590.105.0_2.pdf" target="_blank">76-page decision</a>&nbsp;that a preliminary injunction would prevent the NIH from bringing about “immediate, devastating, and irreparable” harm to research institutions.“First, the suspension of ongoing clinical trials and the resulting threats to patients’ lives represents a dire risk of a quintessentially irreparable nature. Second, the threats to non-human, yet still essential, research subjects similarly rings in irreparability,” Kelley wrote, referring to research animals. “Finally, the potential loss of human capital and talent to virtually every Plaintiff poses yet another harm incapable of run-of-the-mill legal relief.”Kelley wrote that the “Court is hard pressed to think of a loss more irreparable than the loss of a life, let alone the thousands of people who are counting on clinical trials as their last hope.”<h2>How suit came about</h2>The NIH&nbsp;<a href="https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-25-068.html" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;on a Friday in early February that it would no longer pay research universities and medical colleges the indirect cost percentage that each had negotiated with the federal government over the course of years.Instead, NIH said it would cap Facilities and Administrative fees at 15% for every institution receiving funds from the NIH, producing an outcry from medical colleges and universities.Three lawsuits were quickly filed, challenging the NIH’s decision: Commonwealth of Massachusetts v. National Institutes of Health, Association of American Medical Colleges v. National Institutes of Health and Association of American Universities v. Department of Health &amp; Human Services.All three were filed in the U.S. District Court of Massachusetts and assigned to Kelley, who was nominated by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in 2021 following a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1171/vote_117_1_00364.htm" target="_blank">52-44 vote.</a>Kelley quickly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-blocks-catastrophic-trump-administration-cut-nih-grant-funding" target="_blank">blocked the NIH from implementing the percentage change</a>&nbsp;in the 22 states whose Democratic attorneys general filed one of the lawsuits, before&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-nationwide-ruling-blocks-trump-administration-cut-nih-research-grants" target="_blank">entering a nationwide temporary restraining order</a>&nbsp;in the case brought by the Association of American Medical Colleges.Kelley&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/federal-judge-extends-order-blocking-devastating-nih-cap-research-payments" target="_blank">held a hearing</a>&nbsp;in late February to hear from the organizations that filed the three lawsuits and the Trump administration’s attorney over whether to issue a preliminary injunction.<h2>Congress rejected earlier cap</h2>The ruling released Wednesday notes that in 2017, during President Donald Trump’s first term in office, he sent Congress a budget request that asked lawmakers to set the NIH’s indirect cost rate at 10%.Lawmakers, on a bipartisan basis, rejected Trump’s proposal and instead added language to the NIH’s annual spending bill that barred it from changing the percentage across the board. The language has been kept in the annual funding bill ever since.“Congress’ rebuke of the first Trump Administration’s proposal to slash and cap was patently clear,” Kelley wrote. “This rider contains three, overlapping provisions meant to restrict NIH’s ability to enact an across-the-board rate reduction.”Kelley wrote the preliminary injunction would “preserve public health, and by extension, serve the public interest.” She also wrote that the ruling would require the NIH “to abide by existing law and regulations.”“It is impossible to accurately measure or compensate humans who lose their lives from a pause in research. It is impossible to measure the value of lost research animals—representing years of study central to medical breakthrough—that will be euthanized,” Kelley wrote. “It is impossible to measure the value of discovery from scientists who choose to leave, or of the potential students who now never become scientists at all.“Even for those harms (that) can be measured in dollars and cents, the losses are compounding and will result in even greater disruption to ongoing research and clinical trials. As a result, failure to grant a preliminary injunction would certainly result in irreparable harm.”

Trump administration’s ‘irreparable’ cut in NIH research funds blocked by judge

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an armed robbery and have a teen in custody.

Just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 17-year-old Delron Tyree, Jr. of Topeka, in the 6000 block of SW 10th Street in Topeka, according to a media release from the RCPD.

Tyree was taken into custody on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated robbery armed with a dangerous weapon and criminal use of weapons.

Following his arrest, Tyree was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility. Tyree was confined at the time of this report.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an armed robbery and have a teen in custody.Just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday, police arrested 17-year-old Delron Tyree, Jr. of Topeka, in the 6000 block of SW 10th Street in Topeka, according to a media release from the RCPD.Tyree was taken into custody on a Riley County District Court warrant for aggravated robbery armed with a dangerous weapon and criminal use of weapons.Following his arrest, Tyree was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility. Tyree was confined at the time of this report.

Police arrest 17-year-old for Kansas armed robbery

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colorado – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Kenner (Louisiana) Police Department, and the National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children announced on Wednesday the recovery of a 14-year-old boy who had been missing for more than seven years, according to a media release.

Abdul Aziz Khan was successfully located and recovered thanks to the sharp instincts and diligent work of Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies responding to a trespass call. 

At approximately 3:37 p.m. on February 23, 2025, Douglas County deputies were dispatched to a home on Kelliwood Way in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, to investigate a burglary in progress.

 Two individuals allegedly illegally entered the property, which was vacant and listed for sale. The homeowner, monitoring security cameras, observed the suspicious activity and immediately alerted authorities. Deputies arrived on the scene and made contact with two children in a vehicle parked in the driveway. 

Shortly thereafter, a male and female exited the house, claiming to be associated with a realtor. Their story began to unravel as the deputies and dispatchers worked for four hours to verify their identities. The female was finally identified as 40-year-old Rabia Khalid, who had an active warrant for kidnapping. Continued research verified the older child on scene was the victim of the kidnapping and is currently 14 years old. 

The investigation revealed that on November 27, 2017, Khalid, as a non-custodial parent, allegedly abducted her son, Aziz, from Atlanta, Georgia. Khalid was charged with felony kidnapping, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. The U.S. Marshals Service became involved in the investigation, working diligently to locate Khalid and Aziz. Khalid and 42-year-old Elliot Blake Bourgeois were arrested and booked into the Douglas County Jail on charges including Second Degree Kidnapping, Forgery, Identity Theft, Providing False Information to Authorities, and Trespassing. Bond was set at one million dollars each. 

The children were taken into protective custody. The identity of the younger child is not being released at this time. Decisions about where the children will be placed are made by the Court. The victim’s family is asking for privacy at this time. 

The family of Abdul Aziz Khan provided this statement: “We’re overwhelmed with joy that Aziz has finally been found. We want to thank everyone for their support over the last seven years. We specifically want to recognize the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for their exceptional work in solving this case. 

Now, as we navigate the next steps, we ask for privacy so that we can move forward as a family and heal together.”“Our deputies responded to what initially seemed like a routine trespass call, but through sharp attention to detail and tenacity, they uncovered the truth. Their ability to recognize the discrepancies in the suspects’ story and to follow the leads, even when the situation seemed unclear, ultimately led to the safe recovery of a child who had been missing for seven long years. I couldn’t be prouder of the work done by our team; this case highlights the commitment of our officers to seek justice and protect the most vulnerable. 

It’s a reminder of the incredible difference our work makes in the lives of those we serve,” said Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly.&nbsp; “This significant development follows a lengthy seven-year search,” said U.S. Marshal Enix Smith III for the Eastern District of Louisiana. 

“I extend my sincere gratitude to all involved in the recovery effort, especially the authorities in Douglas County, Colorado for their swift and effective actions. Also, we would like to thank NCMEC, Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries, and Crimestoppers GNO for directing the public’s attention to this matter.” “The National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children has worked closely with law enforcement and Aziz’s family since his disappearance, always believing he could be found. In family abduction cases, it can be difficult to garner public attention, but we knew that national media coverage was crucial—Aziz could have been anywhere. Thanks to the deputies’ keen instincts and the attention of both law enforcement and the public, Aziz is now safe. We know family reunifications can be challenging."

"As Aziz and his family reconnect and heal, NCMEC will continue to support them.” John Bischoff III, Vice President Missing Children Division, NCMEC.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I commend the training and professionalism of the deputies with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and am proud that law enforcement worked collaboratively to bring resolve and closure to this family,” said Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley.&nbsp; The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather information to fully resolve this case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741266830025.png" alt="Khalid-photo Douglas Co." />
 <figcaption>Khalid-photo Douglas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colorado – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Kenner (Louisiana) Police Department, and the National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children announced on Wednesday the recovery of a 14-year-old boy who had been missing for more than seven years, according to a media release.Abdul Aziz Khan was successfully located and recovered thanks to the sharp instincts and diligent work of Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies responding to a trespass call. At approximately 3:37 p.m. on February 23, 2025, Douglas County deputies were dispatched to a home on Kelliwood Way in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, to investigate a burglary in progress.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741266807592.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> Two individuals allegedly illegally entered the property, which was vacant and listed for sale. The homeowner, monitoring security cameras, observed the suspicious activity and immediately alerted authorities. Deputies arrived on the scene and made contact with two children in a vehicle parked in the driveway. Shortly thereafter, a male and female exited the house, claiming to be associated with a realtor. Their story began to unravel as the deputies and dispatchers worked for four hours to verify their identities. The female was finally identified as 40-year-old Rabia Khalid, who had an active warrant for kidnapping. Continued research verified the older child on scene was the victim of the kidnapping and is currently 14 years old. The investigation revealed that on November 27, 2017, Khalid, as a non-custodial parent, allegedly abducted her son, Aziz, from Atlanta, Georgia. Khalid was charged with felony kidnapping, and a warrant was issued for her arrest. The U.S. Marshals Service became involved in the investigation, working diligently to locate Khalid and Aziz. Khalid and 42-year-old Elliot Blake Bourgeois were arrested and booked into the Douglas County Jail on charges including Second Degree Kidnapping, Forgery, Identity Theft, Providing False Information to Authorities, and Trespassing. Bond was set at one million dollars each. The children were taken into protective custody. The identity of the younger child is not being released at this time. Decisions about where the children will be placed are made by the Court. The victim’s family is asking for privacy at this time. The family of Abdul Aziz Khan provided this statement: “We’re overwhelmed with joy that Aziz has finally been found. We want to thank everyone for their support over the last seven years. We specifically want to recognize the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for their exceptional work in solving this case. Now, as we navigate the next steps, we ask for privacy so that we can move forward as a family and heal together.”“Our deputies responded to what initially seemed like a routine trespass call, but through sharp attention to detail and tenacity, they uncovered the truth. Their ability to recognize the discrepancies in the suspects’ story and to follow the leads, even when the situation seemed unclear, ultimately led to the safe recovery of a child who had been missing for seven long years. I couldn’t be prouder of the work done by our team; this case highlights the commitment of our officers to seek justice and protect the most vulnerable. It’s a reminder of the incredible difference our work makes in the lives of those we serve,” said Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly.&nbsp; “This significant development follows a lengthy seven-year search,” said U.S. Marshal Enix Smith III for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “I extend my sincere gratitude to all involved in the recovery effort, especially the authorities in Douglas County, Colorado for their swift and effective actions. Also, we would like to thank NCMEC, Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries, and Crimestoppers GNO for directing the public’s attention to this matter.” “The National Center for Missing &amp; Exploited Children has worked closely with law enforcement and Aziz’s family since his disappearance, always believing he could be found. In family abduction cases, it can be difficult to garner public attention, but we knew that national media coverage was crucial—Aziz could have been anywhere. Thanks to the deputies’ keen instincts and the attention of both law enforcement and the public, Aziz is now safe. We know family reunifications can be challenging.""As Aziz and his family reconnect and heal, NCMEC will continue to support them.” John Bischoff III, Vice President Missing Children Division, NCMEC.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I commend the training and professionalism of the deputies with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and am proud that law enforcement worked collaboratively to bring resolve and closure to this family,” said Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley.&nbsp; The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather information to fully resolve this case.

Boy missing 7 years found after appearing on Netflix’s ‘Unsolved Mysteries’

KANSAS CITY —A pedestrian injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. February 23 has died.

The pedestrian was standing/walking in the middle travel lane of eastbound Interstate 70 at Sterling, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

A red Honda Civic struck the pedestrian, knocking the pedestrian to the ground. The driver of the Honda who was uninjured in the collision, stopped and cooperated with the investigation. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

The Jackson County Medical Examiner's office notified police on Wednesday the victim died just after 9:30p.m. Tuesday, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the pedestrian or additional details.

KANSAS CITY —A pedestrian injured in an accident just before 2:30p.m. February 23 has died.The pedestrian was standing/walking in the middle travel lane of eastbound Interstate 70 at Sterling, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino.A red Honda Civic struck the pedestrian, knocking the pedestrian to the ground. The driver of the Honda who was uninjured in the collision, stopped and cooperated with the investigation. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;The Jackson County Medical Examiner's office notified police on Wednesday the victim died just after 9:30p.m. Tuesday, according to DiMartino.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the pedestrian or additional details.

Police: Pedestrian dies days after struck by a car on I-70

State Sen. Mike Moon stepped down from a legislative committee because his opposition to rape and incest exceptions would have blocked the bill’s passage

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

A proposed constitutional amendment reinstating Missouri’s abortion ban cleared a Senate committee Wednesday after a GOP lawmaker who opposes the inclusion of rape and incest exceptions asked to be removed from the panel to avoid sinking the bill’s chances.&nbsp;

Sponsored by state Sen. Adam Schnelting, a Republican from St Charles,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=186" target="_blank">the proposed amendment&nbsp;</a>would ban abortion but allow exceptions up to 12 weeks gestation for survivors of rape and incest who first reported the assault to police.

Last week, state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, said he opposed any legislation that would leave the door open for abortions not medically necessary during an emergency. Specifically, he pointed to the rape and incest exceptions as unacceptable.&nbsp;

The bill was assigned to the Senate Families, Seniors and Health Committee, where Republicans hold four of the panel’s six seats. If Moon voted against the measure, it would die on a 3-3 tie.&nbsp;

Moon sent a letter to Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin on Tuesday requesting his removal from the committee, saying that while he understands the need to respond to the legalization of abortion last November, he “cannot support the creation of a subhuman group.”

“Republicans, and some Democrats, profess to be ‘protectors’ of life. I claim to be one of them,” he continued. “Because of this, I cannot support an effort which does not recognize all life as precious and worth saving and protecting.”

O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina, granted Moon’s request. State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, replaced Moon on the committee and the bill was approved Wednesday morning on a party-line vote.&nbsp;

It now heads to the full Senate for debate.&nbsp;

Schnelting on Wednesday said while he agrees with Moon that those conceived in rape are “just as valuable as any other human being,” he believes a ban with an exception for survivors has the best chance of winning at the ballot box.&nbsp;

“So my goal is to maximize human life as much as I possibly can, working pragmatically within that framework,” he said.&nbsp;

Moon could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday, but Schnelting said he believes his colleague stepped down from the committee of his own accord.

“(Moon) gave me his word that he wouldn’t kill the bill,” Schnelting said. “But at the same time he didn’t want to vote for something with exceptions.”&nbsp;

Moon has remained a staunch opponent of any abortion exceptions and has filed legislation to impose criminal penalties on women who end their pregnancies. Last year, he also opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/08/missouri-abortion-legislation-defund-planned-parenthood-defund/">Democrats’ attempted to introduce rape and incest exceptions</a>&nbsp;into what was then a near-total ban on the procedure.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=512" target="_blank">Another proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;approved by the Senate committee on Wednesday was sponsored by Moon that would define a “person” as “every human being with a unique DNA code regardless of age, including every in utero human child at every stage of biological development from the moment of conception until birth.”

<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR54" target="_blank">Legislation similar to Schnelting’s — filed in the House&nbsp;</a>by GOP state Rep. Melanie Stinnett of Springfield — is still&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR54" target="_blank">awaiting a vote in the House Children and Families committee.&nbsp;</a>Both Schnelting and Stinnett’s bills would also ban gender-affirming health care for minors and allow abortions during an ectopic pregnancy.

Schnelting said he doesn’t know how Moon plans to vote once the bill reaches the Senate floor, but noted that the revised legislation that was passed out of committee Wednesday included a severability clause that was suggested by Moon.&nbsp;

The clause could allow the rape and incest exceptions in the amendment to be challenged in federal court as being discriminatory and in violation of the 14th Amendment.&nbsp;

During a press conference last week, Moon said he was open to any abortion bans going before voters.&nbsp;

“There are some other measures that are out there, and I’m hoping that all of them can make it,” Moon said. “So the voters can decide on either one, two or all the ones that are put before them.”

While the GOP-led legislature continues to prioritize abortion access, Planned Parenthood started offering procedural abortions for the first in nearly three years after a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/14/missouri-judge-blocks-discriminatory-abortion-clinics-rules-blamed-for-lack-of-access/">judge struck down many of the state’s abortion regulations,</a>&nbsp;citing them as discriminatory.&nbsp;

If any of the proposed amendments banning abortion make it to the ballot and are approved by a simple majority of voters, the new law would be in direct conflict with an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">amendment narrowly approved&nbsp;</a>in November that protects the right to reproductive health care, including abortion up to the point of fetal viability.&nbsp;

The first elective abortion to take place in Missouri since 2022 happened in mid-February at the Planned Parenthood clinic in Kansas City. On Monday, four more abortions took place, this time at the clinic in Columbia, which hadn’t performed the procedure since 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741261920673.png" alt="State Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, stepped down from the Families, Seniors and Health Committee, saying he didn't want to vote on a bill that included rape exceptions for survivors (photo by Madeline Carter)." />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, stepped down from the Families, Seniors and Health Committee, saying he didn't want to vote on a bill that included rape exceptions for survivors (photo by Madeline Carter).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>State Sen. Mike Moon stepped down from a legislative committee because his opposition to rape and incest exceptions would have blocked the bill’s passage</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a>&nbsp;AND&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a> A proposed constitutional amendment reinstating Missouri’s abortion ban cleared a Senate committee Wednesday after a GOP lawmaker who opposes the inclusion of rape and incest exceptions asked to be removed from the panel to avoid sinking the bill’s chances.&nbsp;Sponsored by state Sen. Adam Schnelting, a Republican from St Charles,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=186" target="_blank">the proposed amendment&nbsp;</a>would ban abortion but allow exceptions up to 12 weeks gestation for survivors of rape and incest who first reported the assault to police.Last week, state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, said he opposed any legislation that would leave the door open for abortions not medically necessary during an emergency. Specifically, he pointed to the rape and incest exceptions as unacceptable.&nbsp;The bill was assigned to the Senate Families, Seniors and Health Committee, where Republicans hold four of the panel’s six seats. If Moon voted against the measure, it would die on a 3-3 tie.&nbsp;Moon sent a letter to Senate President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin on Tuesday requesting his removal from the committee, saying that while he understands the need to respond to the legalization of abortion last November, he “cannot support the creation of a subhuman group.”“Republicans, and some Democrats, profess to be ‘protectors’ of life. I claim to be one of them,” he continued. “Because of this, I cannot support an effort which does not recognize all life as precious and worth saving and protecting.”O’Laughlin, a Republican from Shelbina, granted Moon’s request. State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, replaced Moon on the committee and the bill was approved Wednesday morning on a party-line vote.&nbsp;It now heads to the full Senate for debate.&nbsp;Schnelting on Wednesday said while he agrees with Moon that those conceived in rape are “just as valuable as any other human being,” he believes a ban with an exception for survivors has the best chance of winning at the ballot box.&nbsp;“So my goal is to maximize human life as much as I possibly can, working pragmatically within that framework,” he said.&nbsp;Moon could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday, but Schnelting said he believes his colleague stepped down from the committee of his own accord.“(Moon) gave me his word that he wouldn’t kill the bill,” Schnelting said. “But at the same time he didn’t want to vote for something with exceptions.”&nbsp;Moon has remained a staunch opponent of any abortion exceptions and has filed legislation to impose criminal penalties on women who end their pregnancies. Last year, he also opposed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/02/08/missouri-abortion-legislation-defund-planned-parenthood-defund/">Democrats’ attempted to introduce rape and incest exceptions</a>&nbsp;into what was then a near-total ban on the procedure.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=512" target="_blank">Another proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;approved by the Senate committee on Wednesday was sponsored by Moon that would define a “person” as “every human being with a unique DNA code regardless of age, including every in utero human child at every stage of biological development from the moment of conception until birth.”<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR54" target="_blank">Legislation similar to Schnelting’s — filed in the House&nbsp;</a>by GOP state Rep. Melanie Stinnett of Springfield — is still&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR54" target="_blank">awaiting a vote in the House Children and Families committee.&nbsp;</a>Both Schnelting and Stinnett’s bills would also ban gender-affirming health care for minors and allow abortions during an ectopic pregnancy.Schnelting said he doesn’t know how Moon plans to vote once the bill reaches the Senate floor, but noted that the revised legislation that was passed out of committee Wednesday included a severability clause that was suggested by Moon.&nbsp;The clause could allow the rape and incest exceptions in the amendment to be challenged in federal court as being discriminatory and in violation of the 14th Amendment.&nbsp;During a press conference last week, Moon said he was open to any abortion bans going before voters.&nbsp;“There are some other measures that are out there, and I’m hoping that all of them can make it,” Moon said. “So the voters can decide on either one, two or all the ones that are put before them.”While the GOP-led legislature continues to prioritize abortion access, Planned Parenthood started offering procedural abortions for the first in nearly three years after a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/14/missouri-judge-blocks-discriminatory-abortion-clinics-rules-blamed-for-lack-of-access/">judge struck down many of the state’s abortion regulations,</a>&nbsp;citing them as discriminatory.&nbsp;If any of the proposed amendments banning abortion make it to the ballot and are approved by a simple majority of voters, the new law would be in direct conflict with an&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">amendment narrowly approved&nbsp;</a>in November that protects the right to reproductive health care, including abortion up to the point of fetal viability.&nbsp;The first elective abortion to take place in Missouri since 2022 happened in mid-February at the Planned Parenthood clinic in Kansas City. On Monday, four more abortions took place, this time at the clinic in Columbia, which hadn’t performed the procedure since 2018.

Abortion ban advances in Missouri Senate after GOP critic of rape exception quits committee

JOHNSON COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 11a.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.

The two vehicle crash that occurred on northbound Kansas 7 near West 47th Street, according to a statement from Shawnee Police.

Two individuals in one vehicle were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. They were not seriously injured.The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Shawnee Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit.&nbsp; Police did release names of the victims or additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Two people died in an accident just before 11a.m. Wednesday in Johnson County.The two vehicle crash that occurred on northbound Kansas 7 near West 47th Street, according to a statement from Shawnee Police.Two individuals in one vehicle were pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. They were not seriously injured.The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Shawnee Police Department’s Traffic Safety Unit.&nbsp; Police did release names of the victims or additional details.

Two dead after 2-vehicle Kansas crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent crime.

Just after 5p.m. March 1, police responded to a Topeka hospital after a victim arrived non-life-threatening wounds from an alleged knife attack that occurred in the 600 block of S.W. Taylor Street, according to a media release.

After an investigation, police arrested 29-year-old Nicole Elizabeth Henneke of Topeka and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of aggravated battery; domestic battery; and criminal restraint. She met the requirement of a $100,000 bond and was released from jail Monday night, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741032148850.png" alt="Henneke photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Henneke photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for an alleged violent crime.Just after 5p.m. March 1, police responded to a Topeka hospital after a victim arrived non-life-threatening wounds from an alleged knife attack that occurred in the 600 block of S.W. Taylor Street, according to a media release.After an investigation, police arrested 29-year-old Nicole Elizabeth Henneke of Topeka and booked her into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of aggravated battery; domestic battery; and criminal restraint. She met the requirement of a $100,000 bond and was released from jail Monday night, according to online jail records.

Kansas woman accused of violent knife attack

KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced additional charges against a Kansas City man in connection with his infant son’s fatal fentanyl and methamphetamine poisoning that took place on the 2700 block of Quincy Avenue in Kansas City on January 28.&nbsp;

Terry Canady was originally charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child in the 1st Degree, Abuse or Neglect of a Child, and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance.&nbsp;

On Friday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2521/Canady-Indictment">a grand jury indicted</a>&nbsp;the defendant with Trafficking Drugs in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm—Dangerous Felon/Prior Conviction, and Delivery of a Controlled Substance.

During the defendant’s arrest for the original charges, officers found a gun, fentanyl, and meth in his possession. The defendant was previously convicted of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in 2019.

"We're seeing too many children's lives cut short due to negligence and substance misuse in our community.&nbsp;<a href="https://dss.mo.gov/re/pdf/fentanyl-report-may-2024.pdf">In our state in 2022</a>, 43 children lost their lives due to fentanyl and of those, 20 were under the age of five. The overall number of fentanyl-related child fatalities also nearly doubled,"&nbsp;said Prosecutor Johnson.&nbsp;"While our office will prosecute each of these cases to the fullest extent of the law, we also recognize and understand the complexities of addiction. My office is committed to balancing accountability and rehabilitation to address the root of the issue to ensure everyone in Jackson County has a chance at a successful life."

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2501/CanadyTerry-PC_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence regarding an infant. The infant was later pronounced deceased. When officers searched the residence, they located a clear plastic torn baggie containing an unknown white substance inside, which later tested positive for meth. Camera footage also captured the defendant throwing away items into trash bins, later determined to be drug equipment with residue that tested positive for fentanyl.&nbsp;

Witnesses told police the defendant uses and sells meth and fentanyl.&nbsp;

The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s report revealed the victim tested positive for fentanyl and meth. &nbsp;

The defendant is being held on no bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739282680424.png" alt="Canady-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Canady-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced additional charges against a Kansas City man in connection with his infant son’s fatal fentanyl and methamphetamine poisoning that took place on the 2700 block of Quincy Avenue in Kansas City on January 28.&nbsp;Terry Canady was originally charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child in the 1st Degree, Abuse or Neglect of a Child, and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance.&nbsp;On Friday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2521/Canady-Indictment">a grand jury indicted</a>&nbsp;the defendant with Trafficking Drugs in the 2nd Degree, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm—Dangerous Felon/Prior Conviction, and Delivery of a Controlled Substance.During the defendant’s arrest for the original charges, officers found a gun, fentanyl, and meth in his possession. The defendant was previously convicted of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm in 2019."We're seeing too many children's lives cut short due to negligence and substance misuse in our community.&nbsp;<a href="https://dss.mo.gov/re/pdf/fentanyl-report-may-2024.pdf">In our state in 2022</a>, 43 children lost their lives due to fentanyl and of those, 20 were under the age of five. The overall number of fentanyl-related child fatalities also nearly doubled,"&nbsp;said Prosecutor Johnson.&nbsp;"While our office will prosecute each of these cases to the fullest extent of the law, we also recognize and understand the complexities of addiction. My office is committed to balancing accountability and rehabilitation to address the root of the issue to ensure everyone in Jackson County has a chance at a successful life."<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2501/CanadyTerry-PC_Redacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence regarding an infant. The infant was later pronounced deceased. When officers searched the residence, they located a clear plastic torn baggie containing an unknown white substance inside, which later tested positive for meth. Camera footage also captured the defendant throwing away items into trash bins, later determined to be drug equipment with residue that tested positive for fentanyl.&nbsp;Witnesses told police the defendant uses and sells meth and fentanyl.&nbsp;The Jackson County Medical Examiner’s report revealed the victim tested positive for fentanyl and meth. &nbsp;The defendant is being held on no bond.&nbsp;

New charges against alleged KC drug dealer for infant's fentanyl death

The bill’s sponsor says it was inspired by a lawsuit filed by a transgender student against the Blue Springs School District

BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

A Republican push to bar transgender Missourians from changing the sex on their birth certificates was briefly debated Wednesday morning by a state Senate committee.

The bill’s sponsor, Republican state Sen. Mike Cierpiot of Lee’s Summit, said birth certificates reflect “facts on the day you were born” and should be unchangeable except in cases of sex development disorders.

Cierpiot filed the same bill in 2023, but it was never debated by the full Senate. He did not file the bill last year.

The bill was inspired, he said, by a lawsuit in his district where a transgender student sued the Blue Springs School District in 2015 after being barred from locker rooms and multi-stall bathrooms. A jury<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/04/missouri-appeals-court-sides-with-transgender-student-in-4-million-discrimination-case/">&nbsp;awarded the student $4 million</a>, but the case was appealed and is currently<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/11/missouri-supreme-court-hears-case-on-transgender-students-use-of-school-bathrooms/">&nbsp;awaiting a Missouri Supreme Court opinion</a>.

“The reason this (bill) is needed is because some courts are making decisions partly because of modified birth certificates,” Cierpiot said.

State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, mentioned that some transgender Missourians have changed their gender marker on their driver’s license. The Department of Revenue<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/19/missouri-agency-quietly-made-it-harder-to-change-gender-marker-on-drivers-licenses/">&nbsp;recently rescinded that policy after pressure from lawmakers</a>.

Cierpiot said he was less worried about driver’s licenses.

“A birth certificate is a historic document,” he said. “If someone wants to change things later in life, this is quiet on that.”

A Senate committee room was full of people waiting to testify on the bill, but the public hearing was cut short after 30 minutes with three speaking in favor and four able to speak in opposition before the committee chair moved to the next bill.

Sharon Dunski Vermont, a pediatrician from the St. Louis area, told committee members that the bill is dangerous for transgender people.

“People have been attacked, bullied and even killed because their documents don’t reflect who they see themselves to be,” she said.

Brattin asked Vermont about the Washington University Transgender Center, which was the<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/09/missouri-agencies-launch-investigation-into-health-center-for-transgender-youth/">&nbsp;subject of a whistleblower’s affidavit in 2023</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/11/washington-university-the-second-missouri-provider-to-stop-transgender-care-for-minors/">&nbsp;closed</a>&nbsp;after<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-ban-on-gender-affirming-care-restrictions-for-trans-athletes/">&nbsp;state law made gender-affirming care illegal</a>&nbsp;for minors.

Brattin criticized the center, calling treatments “detrimental to (children’s) health.”

Dunski Vermont, who worked there, said the allegations were untrue.

“I don’t tell you how to be a senator, and I would appreciate if you don’t tell me how to be a doctor,” she said, as Brattin interrupted.

Keith Rose, who is a legal advocate with nonprofit law firm Center for Growing Justice, said he has assisted people changing their birth certificates as part of his work.

He called birth certificates “living documents,” instead of historic.

“It is common sense that birth records should reflect your lived reality,” he said.

Few judges are willing to issue court orders to change birth certificates, Rose said, and it has grown more difficult in the past three years.

The committee did not take action on the bill Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741205823256.png" alt=" State Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee's Summit Republican, stands at his desk in the Missouri Senate chamber. Cierpiot filed legislation this year seeking to bar transgender Missourians from changing their sex on their birth certificates (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Mike Cierpiot, a Lee's Summit Republican, stands at his desk in the Missouri Senate chamber. Cierpiot filed legislation this year seeking to bar transgender Missourians from changing their sex on their birth certificates (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The bill’s sponsor says it was inspired by a lawsuit filed by a transgender student against the Blue Springs School District</h2>BY:&nbsp;ANNELISE HANSHAW <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>A Republican push to bar transgender Missourians from changing the sex on their birth certificates was briefly debated Wednesday morning by a state Senate committee.The bill’s sponsor, Republican state Sen. Mike Cierpiot of Lee’s Summit, said birth certificates reflect “facts on the day you were born” and should be unchangeable except in cases of sex development disorders.Cierpiot filed the same bill in 2023, but it was never debated by the full Senate. He did not file the bill last year.The bill was inspired, he said, by a lawsuit in his district where a transgender student sued the Blue Springs School District in 2015 after being barred from locker rooms and multi-stall bathrooms. A jury<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/04/missouri-appeals-court-sides-with-transgender-student-in-4-million-discrimination-case/">&nbsp;awarded the student $4 million</a>, but the case was appealed and is currently<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/11/missouri-supreme-court-hears-case-on-transgender-students-use-of-school-bathrooms/">&nbsp;awaiting a Missouri Supreme Court opinion</a>.“The reason this (bill) is needed is because some courts are making decisions partly because of modified birth certificates,” Cierpiot said.State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, mentioned that some transgender Missourians have changed their gender marker on their driver’s license. The Department of Revenue<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/19/missouri-agency-quietly-made-it-harder-to-change-gender-marker-on-drivers-licenses/">&nbsp;recently rescinded that policy after pressure from lawmakers</a>.Cierpiot said he was less worried about driver’s licenses.“A birth certificate is a historic document,” he said. “If someone wants to change things later in life, this is quiet on that.”A Senate committee room was full of people waiting to testify on the bill, but the public hearing was cut short after 30 minutes with three speaking in favor and four able to speak in opposition before the committee chair moved to the next bill.Sharon Dunski Vermont, a pediatrician from the St. Louis area, told committee members that the bill is dangerous for transgender people.“People have been attacked, bullied and even killed because their documents don’t reflect who they see themselves to be,” she said.Brattin asked Vermont about the Washington University Transgender Center, which was the<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/09/missouri-agencies-launch-investigation-into-health-center-for-transgender-youth/">&nbsp;subject of a whistleblower’s affidavit in 2023</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/11/washington-university-the-second-missouri-provider-to-stop-transgender-care-for-minors/">&nbsp;closed</a>&nbsp;after<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-signs-ban-on-gender-affirming-care-restrictions-for-trans-athletes/">&nbsp;state law made gender-affirming care illegal</a>&nbsp;for minors.Brattin criticized the center, calling treatments “detrimental to (children’s) health.”Dunski Vermont, who worked there, said the allegations were untrue.“I don’t tell you how to be a senator, and I would appreciate if you don’t tell me how to be a doctor,” she said, as Brattin interrupted.Keith Rose, who is a legal advocate with nonprofit law firm Center for Growing Justice, said he has assisted people changing their birth certificates as part of his work.He called birth certificates “living documents,” instead of historic.“It is common sense that birth records should reflect your lived reality,” he said.Few judges are willing to issue court orders to change birth certificates, Rose said, and it has grown more difficult in the past three years.The committee did not take action on the bill Wednesday.

Legislation would prohibit transgender Missourians from changing birth certificates

BOONE COUNTY —One person was injured in a violent crash that occurred just before 12:30p.m. Wednesday in Boone County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by a 45-year-old from Tennessee was westbound on Interstate 70 at the Route O&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huntsdale,_Missouri">Huntsdale</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harrisburg,_Missouri">Harrisburg</a>&nbsp;exit.

The Kenworth struck the right side of a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by a 62-year-old Union, Missouri man. After impact the Kenworth traveled off the road and collided with a ditch and trees.

EMS transported the 45-year-old driver to University Hospital. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

BOONE COUNTY —Troopers are investigating semi crash on westbound Interstate 70 at Route O in Boone County.

EMS transported the driver to University Hospital with minor injuries.

The patrol advised drivers to be careful when traveling the area as workers cleanup.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741206052908.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BOONE COUNTY —One person was injured in a violent crash that occurred just before 12:30p.m. Wednesday in Boone County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Kenworth semi driven by a 45-year-old from Tennessee was westbound on Interstate 70 at the Route O&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huntsdale,_Missouri">Huntsdale</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harrisburg,_Missouri">Harrisburg</a>&nbsp;exit.The Kenworth struck the right side of a 2020 Freightliner semi driven by a 62-year-old Union, Missouri man. After impact the Kenworth traveled off the road and collided with a ditch and trees.EMS transported the 45-year-old driver to University Hospital. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.-------------------BOONE COUNTY —Troopers are investigating semi crash on westbound Interstate 70 at Route O in Boone County.EMS transported the driver to University Hospital with minor injuries.The patrol advised drivers to be careful when traveling the area as workers cleanup.&nbsp; The patrol released no additional details.

Driver hospitalized after violent semi crash on Mo. highway

TOPEKA —On Tuesday,&nbsp; Kansans gathered at the Statehouse to celebrate Equality Day. The rotunda was packed for the event.

"Kansas has a long tradition of standing on the right side of history, Governor Laura Kelly wrote on her social media account. "We must ensure our state remains a place that embraces everyone and protects the dignity and rights of all people."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741114448017.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly at Equality Day at the Kansas Statehouse" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly at Equality Day at the Kansas Statehouse</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —On Tuesday,&nbsp; Kansans gathered at the Statehouse to celebrate Equality Day. The rotunda was packed for the event.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FEqualityKansas%2Fvideos%2F1822755748264207%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=40" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Packed rotunda for <a href="https://twitter.com/EqualityKansas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EqualityKansas</a> Equality Day in Topeka 🏳️‍🌈 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/Girv6ZNNqT">pic.twitter.com/Girv6ZNNqT</a>&mdash; Kansas House Democrats (@KSHouseDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems/status/1896958501395828893?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Kansas has a long tradition of standing on the right side of history, Governor Laura Kelly wrote on her social media account. "We must ensure our state remains a place that embraces everyone and protects the dignity and rights of all people."

🎥Governor attends Equality Day event at the Kansas Statehouse

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

Just before 4p.m. Tuesday, patrol officers were dispatched to the 6800 block of North Madison on a check the welfare call for service, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Officers were directed to a home on North Madison and located an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound. &nbsp;They also located an adult female victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Both parties were pronounced deceased on scene.

This is being investigated as a homicide, according to DiMartino

 Detectives are not looking for any suspects at this time. Investigators and crime scene personnel are working to determine what led up to the shooting.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just before 4p.m. Tuesday, patrol officers were dispatched to the 6800 block of North Madison on a check the welfare call for service, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.Officers were directed to a home on North Madison and located an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound. &nbsp;They also located an adult female victim suffering from a gunshot wound. Both parties were pronounced deceased on scene.This is being investigated as a homicide, according to DiMartino Detectives are not looking for any suspects at this time. Investigators and crime scene personnel are working to determine what led up to the shooting.

Homicide: Man and woman found dead in Kansas City home

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/anna-liz-nichols/">ANNA LIZ NICHOLS</a>

U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin used Democrats’ response to President Donald Trump’s congressional address Tuesday the way she campaigned into a swing state win: By seeking middle ground and urging people to get involved.

Slotkin, a freshman senator from Michigan called a “rising star” by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, represented a party still coming to grips with the blitz that has been the second Trump administration. She spoke from the city of Wyandotte, just south of Detroit and across the border from Canada, pointing out that she won there in November just like Trump.

“It might not seem like it, but plenty of places like this still exist across the United States,” Slotkin said. “Places where people believe that if you work hard, play by the rules, you should do well, and your kids should do better.”

But from the middle ground, Slotkin kept her 10-minute message focused on just how Trump’s rapid-fire transformation of the federal government during his first six weeks in office — raising tariffs on economic allies and unprecedented deportation operations, among the actions — will hurt the people who elected him.

Tuesday night’s speeches follow the start of Trump’s sweeping, 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Trump asserts the taxes on imported goods will bolster the economy, but&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2025/02/03/michigan-braces-for-fallout-as-trump-tariffs-target-states-top-3-trading-partners/" target="_blank">economists warn they will ignite a trade war</a>&nbsp;that forces Americans to pay higher prices for food, housing and vehicles – a particularly dour prediction in Michigan, home to the American auto industry.

The economy is not separated from a nation’s higher ideals, though, said Slotkin, who served three tours in Iraq as an analyst for the CIA, then worked in national security roles in both Republican George W. Bush and Democrat Barack Obama’s presidential administrations.

In her time working for the U.S. government in other countries, Slotkin said she’s seen democracies “flicker out” when a government is “rigged” towards leaders helping out their billionaire friends.

Immigrants, Slotkin said, are also an important part of the U.S. economy. Democrats want a secure border, too, but not the way Trump says the nation will achieve it.

“America is a nation of immigrants. We need a functional system keyed to the needs of our economy that allows vetted people to come and work here legally. So I look forward to the President’s plan on that,” Slotkin said.

In his marathon speech that lasted more than an hour-and-a-half, Trump touted his array of executive orders including his ban on transgender women and girls from competing in sports that match their gender, as well as his order to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion policies within the federal government.

The House floor was split in half as Trump’s Republican supporters rose from their seats and cheered as he rattled off the actions of his early days in office, and Democrats largely sat solemnly, holding signs decrying his speech as false.

Democracy is at risk when the president pits Americans against Americans, Slotkin said, when he “demonizes” individuals for being different and tells his followers some people should not be included.

“Generations have fought and died to secure the fundamental rights that define us. Those rights and the fight for them make us who we are. We’re a nation of strivers, risk takers, innovators, and we are never satisfied,” Slotkin said “That is America’s super power.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741168407482.png" alt="Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) image from video of her speech&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) image from video of her speech&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/anna-liz-nichols/">ANNA LIZ NICHOLS</a>U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin used Democrats’ response to President Donald Trump’s congressional address Tuesday the way she campaigned into a swing state win: By seeking middle ground and urging people to get involved.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">WATCH: Complete Democratic Response from Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin <a href="https://t.co/luPxKm02DB">pic.twitter.com/luPxKm02DB</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1897154192327761952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Slotkin, a freshman senator from Michigan called a “rising star” by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, represented a party still coming to grips with the blitz that has been the second Trump administration. She spoke from the city of Wyandotte, just south of Detroit and across the border from Canada, pointing out that she won there in November just like Trump.“It might not seem like it, but plenty of places like this still exist across the United States,” Slotkin said. “Places where people believe that if you work hard, play by the rules, you should do well, and your kids should do better.”But from the middle ground, Slotkin kept her 10-minute message focused on just how Trump’s rapid-fire transformation of the federal government during his first six weeks in office — raising tariffs on economic allies and unprecedented deportation operations, among the actions — will hurt the people who elected him.Tuesday night’s speeches follow the start of Trump’s sweeping, 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada. Trump asserts the taxes on imported goods will bolster the economy, but&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2025/02/03/michigan-braces-for-fallout-as-trump-tariffs-target-states-top-3-trading-partners/" target="_blank">economists warn they will ignite a trade war</a>&nbsp;that forces Americans to pay higher prices for food, housing and vehicles – a particularly dour prediction in Michigan, home to the American auto industry.The economy is not separated from a nation’s higher ideals, though, said Slotkin, who served three tours in Iraq as an analyst for the CIA, then worked in national security roles in both Republican George W. Bush and Democrat Barack Obama’s presidential administrations.In her time working for the U.S. government in other countries, Slotkin said she’s seen democracies “flicker out” when a government is “rigged” towards leaders helping out their billionaire friends.Immigrants, Slotkin said, are also an important part of the U.S. economy. Democrats want a secure border, too, but not the way Trump says the nation will achieve it.“America is a nation of immigrants. We need a functional system keyed to the needs of our economy that allows vetted people to come and work here legally. So I look forward to the President’s plan on that,” Slotkin said.In his marathon speech that lasted more than an hour-and-a-half, Trump touted his array of executive orders including his ban on transgender women and girls from competing in sports that match their gender, as well as his order to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion policies within the federal government.The House floor was split in half as Trump’s Republican supporters rose from their seats and cheered as he rattled off the actions of his early days in office, and Democrats largely sat solemnly, holding signs decrying his speech as false.Democracy is at risk when the president pits Americans against Americans, Slotkin said, when he “demonizes” individuals for being different and tells his followers some people should not be included.“Generations have fought and died to secure the fundamental rights that define us. Those rights and the fight for them make us who we are. We’re a nation of strivers, risk takers, innovators, and we are never satisfied,” Slotkin said “That is America’s super power.”Slotkin&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2024/11/06/by-a-whisker-slotkin-keeps-michigans-u-s-senate-seat-in-democratic-hands/" target="_blank">narrowly won her Senate seat in November&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;against Republican and former Rep. Mike Rogers as the GOP was eager to fill the seat that former Democratic U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow had held since 2001 before&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2023/01/05/stabenow-announces-she-wont-run-again-in-2024-sets-off-speculation-on-possible-successors/" target="_blank">retiring</a>. Slotkin at 48 is the youngest Democratic woman elected to the U.S. Senate. She previously served three terms representing Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives starting in 2018 when she&nbsp;<a href="https://michiganadvance.com/2021/08/12/why-arent-dems-targeting-any-michigan-u-s-reps-in-2022/" target="_blank">flipped a congressional district that had been historically Republican</a>.Ending her speech, she used that relative youth to engage in a time of constant connection on smart phones. Don’t doomscroll, she said, but get involved with a causes that motivate.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Thank you tonight for caring about your country, just by watching you qualify as engaged citizens,” Slotkin said. “I promise that I and my fellow Democrats will do everything in our power to be the principled leaders that you deserve.”