SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp; A Kansas man is going to prison for a violent sex assault of a child.

This week, Judge Bruce Brown sentenced 21-year-old Jacob DeLeon to over 48-years in prison, according to the Sedgwick County district attorney's office. 

In January, DeLeon pleased guilty two counts of rape. The crimes occurred in June 2021 involving a victim under the age of 14, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625607024507.png" alt="Jacob Anton DeLeon -photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Anton DeLeon -photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp; A Kansas man is going to prison for a violent sex assault of a child.This week, Judge Bruce Brown sentenced 21-year-old Jacob DeLeon to over 48-years in prison, according to the Sedgwick County district attorney's office. In January, DeLeon pleased guilty two counts of rape. The crimes occurred in June 2021 involving a victim under the age of 14, according to Sedgwick County arrest records.&nbsp;&nbsp;.&nbsp;

Prison for Kansas man who admitted to violent child sex assault

BUTLER COUNTY —El Dorado Correctional Facility (EDCF) inmate Blade A. Floyd, 24, died Thursday, July 18, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Floyd was found unresponsive in his cell. Staff and EMS administered life-saving measures but were unable to revive him. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Floyd was serving a 96-month sentence for three counts of burglary, two counts of attempted aggravated burglary, and drug possession based on convictions in Wilson County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721421738385.png" alt="Floyd-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Floyd-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —El Dorado Correctional Facility (EDCF) inmate Blade A. Floyd, 24, died Thursday, July 18, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Floyd was found unresponsive in his cell. Staff and EMS administered life-saving measures but were unable to revive him. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Floyd was serving a 96-month sentence for three counts of burglary, two counts of attempted aggravated burglary, and drug possession based on convictions in Wilson County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is ongoing.

Kansas inmate serving time for burglary found dead in his cell

NEW YORK— One week after&nbsp;a gunman's attempt to assassinate&nbsp;former&nbsp;President Donald Trump&nbsp;at a Pennsylvania rally, the public has an update on his health.

On Saturday, Rep. Ronny Jackson of Texas, who was Donald Trump's White House physician, &nbsp;released a report that details&nbsp;the extent of his injuries, what treatment the Republican presidential nominee received in the hospital, and whether there may be any long-term effects on his health.

Trump's campaign had earlier refused to discuss his condition, release a medical report or records, or make the doctors who treated him available, leaving information to dribble out from Trump, his friends and family.

The first word on Trump's condition came about half an hour after shots rang out and Trump dropped to the ground after reaching for his ear and then pumped his fist defiantly to the crowd with blood streaming down his face. The campaign issued a statement saying he was “fine" and “being checked out at a local medical facility.”

“More details will follow,” his spokesperson said.

It wasn't until 8:42 p.m., however, that Trump told the public he had been struck by a bullet as opposed to shrapnel or debris. In a post on his social media network, Trump wrote that he was “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part” of his right ear.

“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” he wrote..

Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention this past week with a bandage over his right ear.&nbsp;

Dr. Jackson who served as Trump's White House doctor and traveled to be with him after the shooting, said in a podcast interview Monday that Trump was missing part of his ear — “a little bit at the top" — but that the wound would heal.

“He was lucky," Jackson said on “The Benny Show,” a conservative podcast hosted by Benny Johnson. ”It was far enough away from his head that there was no concussive effects from the bullet. And it just took the top of his ear off, a little bit of the top of his ear off as it passed through."

He said that the area would need to be treated with care to avoid further bleeding — “It's not like a clean laceration like you would have with a knife or a blade, it's a bullet track going by," he said — but that Trump is "not going to need anything to be done with it. It's going to be fine.”

&nbsp;Trump is holding his first public campaign since he survived the attempted assassination, returning to the battleground state of Michigan alongside his new running mate JD Vance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721353012709.png" alt="Trump at the RNC Thursday night-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Trump at the RNC Thursday night-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK— One week after&nbsp;a gunman's attempt to assassinate&nbsp;former&nbsp;President Donald Trump&nbsp;at a Pennsylvania rally, the public has an update on his health.On Saturday, Rep. Ronny Jackson of Texas, who was Donald Trump's White House physician, &nbsp;released a report that details&nbsp;the extent of his injuries, what treatment the Republican presidential nominee received in the hospital, and whether there may be any long-term effects on his health.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721510068404.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Trump's campaign had earlier refused to discuss his condition, release a medical report or records, or make the doctors who treated him available, leaving information to dribble out from Trump, his friends and family.The first word on Trump's condition came about half an hour after shots rang out and Trump dropped to the ground after reaching for his ear and then pumped his fist defiantly to the crowd with blood streaming down his face. The campaign issued a statement saying he was “fine" and “being checked out at a local medical facility.”“More details will follow,” his spokesperson said.It wasn't until 8:42 p.m., however, that Trump told the public he had been struck by a bullet as opposed to shrapnel or debris. In a post on his social media network, Trump wrote that he was “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part” of his right ear.“I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” he wrote..Trump appeared at the Republican National Convention this past week with a bandage over his right ear.&nbsp;Dr. Jackson who served as Trump's White House doctor and traveled to be with him after the shooting, said in a podcast interview Monday that Trump was missing part of his ear — “a little bit at the top" — but that the wound would heal.“He was lucky," Jackson said on “The Benny Show,” a conservative podcast hosted by Benny Johnson. ”It was far enough away from his head that there was no concussive effects from the bullet. And it just took the top of his ear off, a little bit of the top of his ear off as it passed through."He said that the area would need to be treated with care to avoid further bleeding — “It's not like a clean laceration like you would have with a knife or a blade, it's a bullet track going by," he said — but that Trump is "not going to need anything to be done with it. It's going to be fine.”&nbsp;Trump is holding his first public campaign since he survived the attempted assassination, returning to the battleground state of Michigan alongside his new running mate JD Vance.

Trump releases doctor report following assassination attempt

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A jury has convicted a Kansas man in the deadly shooting of a teen in 2023.

According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office, 25-year-old Rico Brown of Valley Center is guilty of first degree murder in the death of 16-year-old Elrecus Nolan, Jr. of Wichita.

Just before 10:30pm. July 3, 2023,&nbsp; police were dispatched to shots fired call at the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Ellis Street in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Police learned that a witness heard several gunshots before he noticed a silver 2002 Ford Taurus slowly rolling westbound on Mt. Vernon and striking the curb before stopping on the sidewalk.

First responders located Nolan unconscious and not breathing with a gunshot wound to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived. Nolan was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Three days later, police arrested 21-year-old Dougqualynn Patterson and 21-year-old Kameron Solomon both from Wichita in connection with the killing.&nbsp; They captured Brown five days after the crime.

Brown will be sentenced on August 28, according to the district attorney's office. Patterson is scheduled for a hearing on August 15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688845147553.png" alt="Brown-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Brown-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A jury has convicted a Kansas man in the deadly shooting of a teen in 2023.According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office, 25-year-old Rico Brown of Valley Center is guilty of first degree murder in the death of 16-year-old Elrecus Nolan, Jr. of Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688508501373.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation late Monday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation late Monday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 10:30pm. July 3, 2023,&nbsp; police were dispatched to shots fired call at the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Ellis Street in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688743977576.png" alt="Patterson photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Patterson photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police learned that a witness heard several gunshots before he noticed a silver 2002 Ford Taurus slowly rolling westbound on Mt. Vernon and striking the curb before stopping on the sidewalk.First responders located Nolan unconscious and not breathing with a gunshot wound to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived. Nolan was pronounced deceased at the scene.Three days later, police arrested 21-year-old Dougqualynn Patterson and 21-year-old Kameron Solomon both from Wichita in connection with the killing.&nbsp; They captured Brown five days after the crime.Brown will be sentenced on August 28, according to the district attorney's office. Patterson is scheduled for a hearing on August 15.

Jury: Man guilty in the murder of 16-year-old Kansas boy

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal domestic incident and have made an arrest.

Just before 6a.m. Friday, police responded to the 1300 Block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka on the report of a Domestic Disturbance, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

First responders found&nbsp; Dedra L. Simmons, 38, of Topeka, suffering from life threatening injuries. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.

Another individual believed to be involved in the incident was taken into custody and transported to the Law Enforcement Center to speak with Detectives.

&nbsp;As a result of the investigation, Demetris Gadson, 32, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 2 nd Degree, Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Aggravated Domestic Battery and Cruelty to Animals.

This death is the city’s 10th homicide of 2024, according to Connell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721475537869.png" alt="Gadson photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gadson photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal domestic incident and have made an arrest.Just before 6a.m. Friday, police responded to the 1300 Block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka on the report of a Domestic Disturbance, according to Topeka Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721435399295.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders found&nbsp; Dedra L. Simmons, 38, of Topeka, suffering from life threatening injuries. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.Another individual believed to be involved in the incident was taken into custody and transported to the Law Enforcement Center to speak with Detectives.&nbsp;As a result of the investigation, Demetris Gadson, 32, was transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections and booked on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 2 nd Degree, Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Aggravated Domestic Battery and Cruelty to Animals.This death is the city’s 10th homicide of 2024, according to Connell.

Police make arrest ID woman who died after assault at Kan. home

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Saturday, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330377104.png" alt="Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One on his return home-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One on his return home-image courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Saturday, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721499656652.png" alt="Biden " />
 <figcaption>Biden </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read doctor's Saturday update on Biden's COVID recovery

JOHNSON COUNTY —Earlier this month,&nbsp;&nbsp;members of the Lenexa Police Department's Directed Patrol Unit were patrolling hotels in the area of 95th Street and I-35 highway in Lenexa, according to a social media report.

 Officers contacted an individual from out of state parked at one of the hotels and began conversing with him. Through an investigation officers discovered nearly 2000 retail gift cards that had been altered illegally. Scammers often alter gift cards in such a way that an unsuspecting victim has the money drained remotely by the suspect.

Officers took the individual into custody and he has since been charged by the Johnson County District Attorney's Office with Destroying a Written Instrument, which is a felony.

The Lenexa Police Department's Directed Patrol Unit is tasked with a variety of different response actions and proactive enforcement, including narcotics, firearms crimes, prostitution/vice, human trafficking, pattern crimes, and more.

Police did not release the suspect's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721163082845.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Earlier this month,&nbsp;&nbsp;members of the Lenexa Police Department's Directed Patrol Unit were patrolling hotels in the area of 95th Street and I-35 highway in Lenexa, according to a social media report. Officers contacted an individual from out of state parked at one of the hotels and began conversing with him. Through an investigation officers discovered nearly 2000 retail gift cards that had been altered illegally. Scammers often alter gift cards in such a way that an unsuspecting victim has the money drained remotely by the suspect.Officers took the individual into custody and he has since been charged by the Johnson County District Attorney's Office with Destroying a Written Instrument, which is a felony.The Lenexa Police Department's Directed Patrol Unit is tasked with a variety of different response actions and proactive enforcement, including narcotics, firearms crimes, prostitution/vice, human trafficking, pattern crimes, and more.Police did not release the suspect's name.

Kansas officers discover 2,000 altered retail gift cards

NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. 

On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States."

"He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times"

"I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."

According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania."

"I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714052496496.png" alt="File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Donald Trump courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK —Former U.S. President Donald&nbsp; Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call Friday regarding the ongoing War with Russia and the possibility of Future Peace Negotiations. On his social media page, Trump wrote, " President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and I had a very good phone call earlier today. He congratulated me on a very successful Republican National Convention and becoming the Republican nominee for President of the United States.""He condemned the heinous assassination attempt last Saturday and remarked about the American people coming together in the spirit of Unity during these times""I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families. Both sides will be able to come together and negotiate a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."According to Zelenskyy' social media account of the call, "I spoke with Donald Trump&nbsp;to congratulate him on the Republican nomination and condemn the shocking assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.""I wished him strength and absolute safety in the future.

I noted the vital bipartisan and bicameral American support for protecting our nation's freedom and independence.
 
Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day.

We agreed with President Trump to discuss at a personal meeting what steps can make peace fair and truly lasting."

Trump, reports "very good phone call" from Ukraine President 

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Friday in Kansas City.

A motorcycle was westbound on Parvin Road, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino,&nbsp; A car was eastbound and turning left onto Belmont Ave when the motorcycle struck the passenger front fender. The motorcyclist was ejected and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased, according to DiMartino.

The driver of the car was uninjured and not impaired. The roadway was closed for approximately 2 hours.&nbsp; The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet, according to DiMartino.

This is fatality #52 compared to #47 at this time last year in KCMO.

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Friday in Kansas City.A motorcycle was westbound on Parvin Road, according to KCPD&nbsp;Sergeant Phil DiMartino,&nbsp; A car was eastbound and turning left onto Belmont Ave when the motorcycle struck the passenger front fender. The motorcyclist was ejected and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased, according to DiMartino.The driver of the car was uninjured and not impaired. The roadway was closed for approximately 2 hours.&nbsp; The motorcyclist was wearing a helmet, according to DiMartino.This is fatality #52 compared to #47 at this time last year in KCMO.

KCPD: Motorcyclist dies after crash with a car

JOHNSON COUNTY —During a driving under the influence traffic stop near 75th Street and Nieman Road this week, a suspect surprised officers by performing a handstand instead of raising his leg, according to a social media report from the Shawnee, Kansas Police Department.

"While this incident may seem amusing, it's a reminder that impaired driving puts everyone on the road at risk—pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers."

"Let's all make responsible choices to ensure road safety."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721419221599.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —During a driving under the influence traffic stop near 75th Street and Nieman Road this week, a suspect surprised officers by performing a handstand instead of raising his leg, according to a social media report from the Shawnee, Kansas Police Department."While this incident may seem amusing, it's a reminder that impaired driving puts everyone on the road at risk—pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.""Let's all make responsible choices to ensure road safety."

Suspect does handstand during Kan. DUI traffic stop

KANSAS CITY —Detectives are asking for assistance from the public in identifying an individual who police believe may have information regarding a homicide that occurred on on June 17, 2023 in the 6700 block of Richmond Avenue in Kansas City, according to a social media report from KCPD.

Please call the homicide/missing persons unit directly at 816-234-5043, or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721338918107.png" alt="photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Detectives are asking for assistance from the public in identifying an individual who police believe may have information regarding a homicide that occurred on on June 17, 2023 in the 6700 block of Richmond Avenue in Kansas City, according to a social media report from KCPD.Please call the homicide/missing persons unit directly at 816-234-5043, or the TIPS hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

KCPD needs help to ID man who may have info about deadly shooting

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.

The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.

Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.

Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.

Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330265336.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas.&nbsp; Late Friday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721431566073.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.Biden gingerly boarded Air Force One and told reporters traveling with him, “I feel good.” The president was not wearing a mask as he walked onto Air Force One.The president had previously been at the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he was greeting diners and sat for an interview with Univision.Biden has been vaccinated and is current on his recommended annual booster dose for COVID-19. The vaccines have proven highly effective at limiting serious illness and death from the virus, which killed more than 1 million people in the U.S. since the pandemic began in 2020. Paxlovid has been proven to curtail the chances of serious illness and death from COVID-19 when prescribed in the early days of an infection, but has also been associated with rebound infections, where the virus comes back a few days after clearing up.Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022, when he had a primary case and a rebound case of the virus.Health officials have reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations from COVID-19. There has also been a pronounced increase in positive test results in much of the country —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid19-vaccinations-cdc-coronavirus-a785acb4aca8e69f21b6f1a41c021e2c">particularly the southwestern U.S.</a>

Read Friday update from Biden's doctor on the President's  COVID recovery

&nbsp;WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri wrote&nbsp;a letter to&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas,&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fx.com%2fHawleyMO%2fstatus%2f1814278991605350726&amp;redir_log=668494987763288" target="_blank">demanding</a>&nbsp;answers behind the U.S. Secret Service’s botched security rollout at President Donald Trump’s July 13 rally.

The letter comes after multiple whistleblowers contacted Senator Hawley’s office with disturbing new information behind the assassination attempt on the former president.

“Whistleblowers who have direct knowledge of the event have approached my office. According to the allegations, the July 13 rally was considered to be a ‘loose’ security event,”&nbsp;wrote Senator Hawley.

“For example, detection canines were not used to monitor entry and detect threats in the usual manner. Individuals without proper designations were able to gain access to backstage areas. Department personnel did not appropriately police the security buffer around the podium and were also not stationed at regular intervals around the event’s security perimeter,”&nbsp;Senator Hawley continued.

Senator Hawley is a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee which&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14515QQQ9232341QQQ8086479QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=832193208462131" target="_blank">conducts</a>&nbsp;oversight of Secretary Mayorkas’ DHS.

Immediately following the assassination attempt against President Trump, Senator Hawley&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=646663966612131" target="_blank">demanded</a>&nbsp;that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee launch a comprehensive, transparent investigation into the incident with sworn testimony from DHS and Secret Service officials.&nbsp;That investigation was&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hsgac.senate.gov%252fmedia%252freps%252fpaul-and-peters-announce-bipartisan-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-investigation-into-security-failures-and-the-assassination-attempt-on-former-president-donald-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d287783080511620&amp;redir_log=448394230822865" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;this week along with plans to feature public testimony from agency leadership.

Senator Hawley then&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fhawley-requests-more-records-behind-assassination-attempt-on-president-trump-opens-office-whistleblower-tip-line%2f&amp;redir_log=745274266151011" target="_blank">opened</a>&nbsp;a whistleblower tip line within his office earlier this week, pledging to protect the anonymity of all who contact his staff in an effort to shed light on last Saturday’s disastrous security breach.&nbsp;

Senator Hawley has also written two additional oversight letters—<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-DHS-IG-.pdf%26redir_log%3d536796294054560&amp;redir_log=088027971831792" target="_blank">one</a>&nbsp;to the DHS Inspector General and a&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-BlackRock-re-Trump-investigation-.pdf%26redir_log%3d816819426384762&amp;redir_log=091259807621997" target="_blank">second</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;BlackRock’s CEO—requesting all records related to the staggering security failures on July 13.&nbsp;

Click here to read the full letter&nbsp;sent Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720911723876.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;WASHINGTON —U.S. Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri wrote&nbsp;a letter to&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas,&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fx.com%2fHawleyMO%2fstatus%2f1814278991605350726&amp;redir_log=668494987763288" target="_blank">demanding</a>&nbsp;answers behind the U.S. Secret Service’s botched security rollout at President Donald Trump’s July 13 rally. The letter comes after multiple whistleblowers contacted Senator Hawley’s office with disturbing new information behind the assassination attempt on the former president.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721410507537.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Whistleblowers who have direct knowledge of the event have approached my office. According to the allegations, the July 13 rally was considered to be a ‘loose’ security event,”&nbsp;wrote Senator Hawley.“For example, detection canines were not used to monitor entry and detect threats in the usual manner. Individuals without proper designations were able to gain access to backstage areas. Department personnel did not appropriately police the security buffer around the podium and were also not stationed at regular intervals around the event’s security perimeter,”&nbsp;Senator Hawley continued.Senator Hawley is a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee which&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14515QQQ9232341QQQ8086479QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=832193208462131" target="_blank">conducts</a>&nbsp;oversight of Secretary Mayorkas’ DHS.Immediately following the assassination attempt against President Trump, Senator Hawley&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fhawley-demands-full-scale-investigation-by-congress-into-attempted-assassination-of-president-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d794174422822921&amp;redir_log=646663966612131" target="_blank">demanded</a>&nbsp;that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee launch a comprehensive, transparent investigation into the incident with sworn testimony from DHS and Secret Service officials.&nbsp;That investigation was&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hsgac.senate.gov%252fmedia%252freps%252fpaul-and-peters-announce-bipartisan-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-investigation-into-security-failures-and-the-assassination-attempt-on-former-president-donald-trump%252f%26redir_log%3d287783080511620&amp;redir_log=448394230822865" target="_blank">confirmed</a>&nbsp;this week along with plans to feature public testimony from agency leadership.Senator Hawley then&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fhawley-requests-more-records-behind-assassination-attempt-on-president-trump-opens-office-whistleblower-tip-line%2f&amp;redir_log=745274266151011" target="_blank">opened</a>&nbsp;a whistleblower tip line within his office earlier this week, pledging to protect the anonymity of all who contact his staff in an effort to shed light on last Saturday’s disastrous security breach.&nbsp;Senator Hawley has also written two additional oversight letters—<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-DHS-IG-.pdf%26redir_log%3d536796294054560&amp;redir_log=088027971831792" target="_blank">one</a>&nbsp;to the DHS Inspector General and a&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=14341QQQ9232312QQQ8086450QQQ8019990&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2foutreach.senate.gov%2fiqextranet%2fiqClickTrk.aspx%3f%26cid%3dSenHawley%26crop%3d14392QQQ9230180QQQ8085138QQQ8019990%26report_id%3d%26redirect%3dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.hawley.senate.gov%252fwp-content%252fuploads%252f2024%252f07%252fHawley-letter-to-BlackRock-re-Trump-investigation-.pdf%26redir_log%3d816819426384762&amp;redir_log=091259807621997" target="_blank">second</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;BlackRock’s CEO—requesting all records related to the staggering security failures on July 13.&nbsp;Click here to read the full letter&nbsp;sent Friday.

Whistleblower: Most of Trump’s security detail last Saturday not Secret Service

BILLINGS, Montana — A Kansas man accused of devising a scheme to steal from Montana and Wyoming ranchers who were trying to find hay to feed their livestock during a drought admitted to a fraud charge Thursday, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

The defendant, Jory D. Parks, 43, of Logan, Kansas, was arraigned on and pleaded guilty to an information charging him with wire fraud. Parks faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Parks was released pending further proceedings.

In court documents, the government alleged that a drought in the summer of 2021 created a hay shortage for ranchers in Montana and Wyoming, and ranchers were struggling to find enough hay to feed their livestock.

During this time, Parks intentionally devised a scheme to defraud these ranchers. Parks advertised on Facebook, claiming that he was selling large amounts of hay and was willing to deliver to Montana and Wyoming from out of state.

Parks, operating as Heart Cross Ranch, LLC, received money from customers in exchange for promises to deliver hay. Instead, Parks used the money for unrelated business and personal expenses and made false promises about what he would deliver and the scale and success of his business.

In September 2021, when Parks was trying to convince a prospective customer that he had a successful business selling high-quality hay, he told the victim that he had sold all his hay the previous year to a known horse racing facility in Nebraska to feed racehorses. After interviewing the CEO of the facility and analyzing Parks’ financials, the FBI determined that Parks’ statements were false.

In Montana, a ranching business owned by a couple in Ingomar responded to one of Parks’ Facebook ads in which he claimed to be selling hay cheaper than they had been able to find.

The couple signed a contract with Parks to buy 190 tons of hay from Parks for $43,300 and mailed half of the amount, $21,650, as a down payment to Heart Cross Ranch.

Parks deposited the check into his business account in a bank in Colorado. Three weeks later, Parks delivered the couple’s first shipment of 23 tons of the 190 tons they had purchased but never delivered the additional hay or repaid the remainder of the downpayment.

U.S. Attorney's Office-MontanaBILLINGS, Montana — A Kansas man accused of devising a scheme to steal from Montana and Wyoming ranchers who were trying to find hay to feed their livestock during a drought admitted to a fraud charge Thursday, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.The defendant, Jory D. Parks, 43, of Logan, Kansas, was arraigned on and pleaded guilty to an information charging him with wire fraud. Parks faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Parks was released pending further proceedings.In court documents, the government alleged that a drought in the summer of 2021 created a hay shortage for ranchers in Montana and Wyoming, and ranchers were struggling to find enough hay to feed their livestock.During this time, Parks intentionally devised a scheme to defraud these ranchers. Parks advertised on Facebook, claiming that he was selling large amounts of hay and was willing to deliver to Montana and Wyoming from out of state.Parks, operating as Heart Cross Ranch, LLC, received money from customers in exchange for promises to deliver hay. Instead, Parks used the money for unrelated business and personal expenses and made false promises about what he would deliver and the scale and success of his business.In September 2021, when Parks was trying to convince a prospective customer that he had a successful business selling high-quality hay, he told the victim that he had sold all his hay the previous year to a known horse racing facility in Nebraska to feed racehorses. After interviewing the CEO of the facility and analyzing Parks’ financials, the FBI determined that Parks’ statements were false.In Montana, a ranching business owned by a couple in Ingomar responded to one of Parks’ Facebook ads in which he claimed to be selling hay cheaper than they had been able to find.The couple signed a contract with Parks to buy 190 tons of hay from Parks for $43,300 and mailed half of the amount, $21,650, as a down payment to Heart Cross Ranch.Parks deposited the check into his business account in a bank in Colorado. Three weeks later, Parks delivered the couple’s first shipment of 23 tons of the 190 tons they had purchased but never delivered the additional hay or repaid the remainder of the downpayment.

Kan. man admits defrauding rancher in hay scam during drought

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>

Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.

Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.

The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.

CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.

“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.

The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.

Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.

“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.

Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.

By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.

Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721398046262.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/paige-gross/">PAIGE GROSS</a>Air travel, banking, media and hospital systems are just some of the industries affected by a bug in a software update that has scrambled business operations for many globally Friday morning.Many of those who use Microsoft Windows are likely experiencing a “blue screen of death” or an error page. The issue is due to a single bug in a software update from cybersecurity company CrowdStrike, which provides antivirus software for Microsoft users.The company pushed out an update to the software overnight, and at 1:30 a.m. EST, CrowdStrike said its “Falcon Sensor” software was causing Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/global-cyber-outage-grounds-flights-hits-media-financial-telecoms-2024-07-19/" target="_blank">Reuters reported</a>.CrowdStrike President and CEO George Kurtz released a statement early Friday morning<a href="https://x.com/George_Kurtz/status/1814235001745027317" target="_blank">&nbsp;on X</a>, saying that the incident was not a security concern or a cyberattack. He added that the issue has been identified and that the company has been deploying a fix.“We refer customers to the support portal for the latest updates and will continue to provide complete and continuous updates on our website,” Kurtz said.The bug was causing major delays and cancellations at airports across the globe. Flight tracking data site&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/cancelled" target="_blank">FlightAware&nbsp;</a>noted nearly 24,000 delays and 2,300 cancellations globally by 9:30 a.m. Friday. While some airlines have been able to resume operation of their digital systems, others are finding analogue solutions in the meantime.The U.S. Department of Transportation said it was monitoring the situation and suggested those experiencing travel delays and cancellations to use its&nbsp;<a href="http://flightrights.gov/" target="_blank">FlightRights.gov</a>&nbsp;website to help navigate their delays in travel.Some states’ 911 and non-emergency lines were experiencing issues, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2024/07/19/alaska-experiencing-statewide-911-outage/" target="_blank">Alaska</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/microsoft-global-outage-metro-service-dc-virginia-maryland-fairfax-county-systems-down-impacts-it-tech-airports-dulles-regean-dca-iad-airlines-banks-media-reporting-issues-widespread-911-call-centers-police-fire-ems" target="_blank">Virginia</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240719a.shtml" target="_blank">New Jersey</a>.New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy released a statement early Friday morning saying that the state had activated its State Emergency Operations Center in response to the disruptions and has provided guidance to other agencies about how to work through the situation.“We are also engaging county and local governments, 911 call centers, and utilities to assess the impact and offer our assistance.,” he said.Microsoft released&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MSFT365Status/status/1814251159537729592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1814251159537729592%7Ctwgr%5E5f8cc315987d34735a3ace896336faf95a49a44f%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2F6abc.com%2Fpost%2Fhow-global-outage-is-impacting-services-philadelphia%2F15070804%2F" target="_blank">a trouble shooting guide</a>&nbsp;on X early Friday morning.By 10 a.m. Friday, some global companies were seeing relief in their outages.&nbsp;<a href="https://downdetector.com/" target="_blank">Downdetector</a>, which tracks real-time outages, showed companies like Visa, Zoom, UPS and Southwest Airlines gaining more normal operations than they were experiencing in the early morning hours.Speaking to the hosts of Today this morning, Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry for the impact we’ve caused to customers, to travelers, to anyone affected.” He said some customers have been able to reboot and are seeing progress getting online, and that trend will likely continue throughout the day.

IT glitch causing delays in flights, business operations globally

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

Just after 4:30a.m. police responded on a shots fired call at 54th and Prospect, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders located a man identified as 45-year-old&nbsp;Ernest J. Scott suffering from gunshot wounds in a grassy area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police say they are interviewing witnesses and checking for surveillance video in an effort to identify the suspect.

This is 80th homicide of 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to an arrest in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721406797743.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just after 4:30a.m. police responded on a shots fired call at 54th and Prospect, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders located a man identified as 45-year-old&nbsp;Ernest J. Scott suffering from gunshot wounds in a grassy area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.Police say they are interviewing witnesses and checking for surveillance video in an effort to identify the suspect.This is 80th homicide of 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD.Anyone with information is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to an arrest in the case.

Homicide: KCPD IDs victim found in grassy area

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal carjacking in Kansas City reported early Friday they located the vehicle, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

On Thursday, police released images of the truck involved in the fatality

&nbsp;The victim is the registered owner of the vehicle.

Just after 1p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp;a suspect was attempting to steal a white Ford F350 in the&nbsp;2900 Block of Paseo in Kansas City, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

The owner attempted to stop the suspect from stealing the truck.&nbsp; The suspect drove away while dragging the owner with the vehicle. The victim was dislodged from the vehicle. and thrown to the pavement. The suspect left the scene in the stolen Ford without stopping. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to DiMaratino.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721341702302.png" alt="Photos KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photos KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal carjacking in Kansas City reported early Friday they located the vehicle, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.On Thursday, police released images of the truck involved in the fatality&nbsp;The victim is the registered owner of the vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721341746351.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 1p.m. Wednesday,&nbsp;a suspect was attempting to steal a white Ford F350 in the&nbsp;2900 Block of Paseo in Kansas City, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.The owner attempted to stop the suspect from stealing the truck.&nbsp; The suspect drove away while dragging the owner with the vehicle. The victim was dislodged from the vehicle. and thrown to the pavement. The suspect left the scene in the stolen Ford without stopping. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to DiMaratino.

KCPD: Vehicle in deadly carjacking located 

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide&nbsp; continue asking for the public’s help in locating 19-year-old Nassir Gill of Topeka, according to a media release from police.

 Gill is a person of interest in the homicide of Brian M. Wright Jr., 23, that occurred on June 21, in the 3100 block of SW Westover Road in Topeka.

Gill is described as 5-foot-6 and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He may no longer have blue/green hair, as seen in the photo released by police.

If you see or know where Gill may be, please call or email investigators at 785-368-9551 and telltpd@topeka.org. You can also report anonymously to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or online at www.p3tips.com/128.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719693545861.png" alt="Gill is described as 5-foot-6 and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He may no longer have blue/green hair, as seen in the photo released by police." />
 <figcaption>Gill is described as 5-foot-6 and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He may no longer have blue/green hair, as seen in the photo released by police.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide&nbsp; continue asking for the public’s help in locating 19-year-old Nassir Gill of Topeka, according to a media release from police. Gill is a person of interest in the homicide of Brian M. Wright Jr., 23, that occurred on June 21, in the 3100 block of SW Westover Road in Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719001082126.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Gill is described as 5-foot-6 and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He may no longer have blue/green hair, as seen in the photo released by police.If you see or know where Gill may be, please call or email investigators at 785-368-9551 and telltpd@topeka.org. You can also report anonymously to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or online at www.p3tips.com/128.

Search continues for Kansas teen homicide suspect

MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech

The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.

Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."

Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721382561480.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE —&nbsp;Donald Trump accepted the GOP presidential nomination on Thursday at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/republican-national-convention">the Republican National Convention</a>&nbsp;in Milwaukee.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?c5124681/presidential-nominee-donald-trump">Click here to watch</a> Trump's full acceptance speech<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Balloon drop <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPconvention</a>. <a href="https://t.co/FebXGCL3nk">pic.twitter.com/FebXGCL3nk</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814153606767210595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump kisses the helmet of firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed during Saturday&#39;s rally. <a href="https://t.co/qdGdcwr9G9">pic.twitter.com/qdGdcwr9G9</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814133511626031333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Donald Trump: “I am running to be president for all America, not half of America because there is no victory in winning for half of America. So, tonight with faith and devotion I proudly accept your nomination for president of the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/HuspXIyYGL">pic.twitter.com/HuspXIyYGL</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814128352028205504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former president began his acceptance speech with a personal message that drew directly from his brush with death at the campaign rally on Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELANIATRUMP</a> enters the Republican National Convention. <a href="https://t.co/h2GI4sZggJ">pic.twitter.com/h2GI4sZggJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814122476194156875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Trump Dance Cam at <a href="https://twitter.com/GOPconvention?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GOPConvention</a> <a href="https://t.co/NcHThSRH84">pic.twitter.com/NcHThSRH84</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814101438294839807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump said, "I’m not supposed to be here tonight."Meanwhile, Trump and his campaign have&nbsp;not released information&nbsp;about his injury or the treatment he received. The former president on Thursday described his story of surviving the attack — and vowed he would not talk about it again.

🎥Trump urges unity after assassination attempt during RNC finale

KANSAS CITY— A Mexican national residing in Kansas City was indicted by a federal grand jury this week after law enforcement officers seized more than 54 kilograms of methamphetamine and a large amount of fentanyl from his residence, according to the United State's Attorney.

Jose Feliciano Cordova Rodriguez, 36, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.&nbsp; The indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Rodriguez on June 24, 2024, and includes additional charges.

The indictment alleges that Cordova Rodriguez participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Jan. 1 to June 22, 2024. The indictment also charges Cordova Rodriguez with one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, law enforcement officers searched Cordova Rodriguez’s residence on June 22, 2024, after surveillance indicated he was involved in a large drug shipment. Officers found five brown boxes that each contained 10 bundles with a total of 54.6 kilograms of methamphetamine. Officers also found a heat-sealed bag in a hole in the wall in the basement that contained 431.1 grams of fentanyl. Officers also found $12,800 in cash in the basement.

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

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther. It was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

KANSAS CITY— A Mexican national residing in Kansas City was indicted by a federal grand jury this week after law enforcement officers seized more than 54 kilograms of methamphetamine and a large amount of fentanyl from his residence, according to the United State's Attorney.Jose Feliciano Cordova Rodriguez, 36, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.&nbsp; The indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Rodriguez on June 24, 2024, and includes additional charges.The indictment alleges that Cordova Rodriguez participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from Jan. 1 to June 22, 2024. The indictment also charges Cordova Rodriguez with one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and one count of possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, law enforcement officers searched Cordova Rodriguez’s residence on June 22, 2024, after surveillance indicated he was involved in a large drug shipment. Officers found five brown boxes that each contained 10 bundles with a total of 54.6 kilograms of methamphetamine. Officers also found a heat-sealed bag in a hole in the wall in the basement that contained 431.1 grams of fentanyl. Officers also found $12,800 in cash in the basement.The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther. It was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Officers in KC seize fentanyl, meth from home of Mexican national 

By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT&nbsp;Hays Post

Law enforcement across the country will be on the lookout for a man from Mexico who skipped out on a sentencing hearing in a sex crimes case this week in Ellis County.

Fabiel Perez Zavala, 30, was scheduled for sentencing Thursday afternoon in Ellis County District Court but failed to show up.

He also failed to show up to a Zoom hearing on Wednesday.

Zavala pleaded no contest via Zoom on March 6 to two counts of aggravated sexual battery.

As a result of the plea agreement, the Ellis County Attorney’s office agreed to drop one count rape, two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy and one count of unlawfully hosting minors consuming alcohol charges against Zavala.

According to court documents, Zavala was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two women who were incapable of giving consent on May 7, 2022, in Ellis County.

Under Kansas sentencing guidelines, with Zavala’s criminal history, he is facing between 67 and 72 months in prison.

Zavala also failed to attend a psychosexual exam in Wichita in June, and as a result, a prior sentencing hearing was postponed.

Zavala’s defense attorney had scheduled the exam to use in support of a motion to have his sentence reduced to probation instead of prison time.

His attorney said Zavala had been good about staying in touch with her until recent months.

As the result of his absence District Judge Tom Drees ordered a bench warrant for Zavala’s arrest. It is a nation-wide warrant extraditable back to Ellis County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721342930715.png" alt="Zavala photo Ellis Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Zavala photo Ellis Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT&nbsp;Hays PostLaw enforcement across the country will be on the lookout for a man from Mexico who skipped out on a sentencing hearing in a sex crimes case this week in Ellis County.Fabiel Perez Zavala, 30, was scheduled for sentencing Thursday afternoon in Ellis County District Court but failed to show up.He also failed to show up to a Zoom hearing on Wednesday.Zavala pleaded no contest via Zoom on March 6 to two counts of aggravated sexual battery.As a result of the plea agreement, the Ellis County Attorney’s office agreed to drop one count rape, two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy and one count of unlawfully hosting minors consuming alcohol charges against Zavala.According to court documents, Zavala was arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two women who were incapable of giving consent on May 7, 2022, in Ellis County.Under Kansas sentencing guidelines, with Zavala’s criminal history, he is facing between 67 and 72 months in prison.Zavala also failed to attend a psychosexual exam in Wichita in June, and as a result, a prior sentencing hearing was postponed.Zavala’s defense attorney had scheduled the exam to use in support of a motion to have his sentence reduced to probation instead of prison time.His attorney said Zavala had been good about staying in touch with her until recent months.As the result of his absence District Judge Tom Drees ordered a bench warrant for Zavala’s arrest. It is a nation-wide warrant extraditable back to Ellis County.

Warrant issued: Sex offender skipped sentencing in Kansas

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden preparing to board Air Force One on his way to Delaware Wednesday- image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721329858359.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330819270.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The president's diagnosis comes amid intense scrutiny of his health and stamina after a disastrous debate with former President Donald Trump that sparked a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-trump-poll-drop-out-debate-democrats-59eebaca6989985c2bfbf4f72bdfa112">flurry of concern</a>&nbsp;among Democrats that Biden is not up to the rigors of winning another presidential term.

Read Thurs. update from Biden's doctor on the President's health

Five candidates delve into campaign rhetoric, gun violence and Trump

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas congressional candidate Chad Young said the federal government was plagued by feeble members of Congress who sold out to big business after settling in Washington, D.C.

During a televised WIBW forum with all five Republican candidates in the 2nd District primary, Young said he would never shed to special-interest lobbyists and big-money influencers the bold stripes of a conservative Republican and limited-government constitutionalist. He chose to devote a portion of his time for closing remarks to a demonstration of his God-first, politics-second philosophy.

“You know me and you know what I stand for, so I’m going to give the next 30 seconds to my God. And, I’m going to bow my head to it,” Young said.

And, he did. The silence lasted 25 extraordinary seconds until ended by co-moderator David Oliver.

Fellow Republican candidate Michael Ogle of Topeka, not to be upstaged by Young’s contemplative demonstration of faith, skipped through several closing points about advocating for veterans, growing hemp and admiring George Washington so he could pose an on-air question.

He looked directly into a camera’s lens and pulled a ring from his suit pocket.

“A good woman is all you really need,” Ogle said. “A bad woman will put a man on his knees, and I found a good woman. So, Nikoe Pulley, if you’re out there, will you marry me?”

“Proposals of all kinds,” said co-moderator Melissa Brunner.

On Wednesday, Ogle said Pulley replied in the affirmative.

Voters of the 2nd District have their own choice to make by the Aug. 6 primary in terms of selecting Republican and Democratic nominees for the general election. The eastern Kansas races help decide who might replace U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Republican who chose not to seek reelection in November.

The GOP candidate forum also featured former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, former LaTurner staff member Jeff Kahrs and feedlot operator Shawn Tiffany. WIBW plans to broadcast a forum next week with Democrats Nancy Boyda and Matt Kleinmann, both running in the 2nd District primary.

The WIBW hosts quizzed the Republican candidates on inflation, immigration, bureaucracy, mental health and Social Security. They asked about the value of government experience in terms of serving in Congress and about proposals to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education.

The candidates were queried about elevation of campaign rhetoric in light of the Saturday assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign event.

Schmidt, who served in the Kansas Senate before elected to three terms as attorney general, said he thanked the Lord the assailant didn’t more seriously injure the Republican Party’s nominee for president.

“There have been terrible acts of violence throughout American history,” Schmidt said. “Most done by people who are deranged, who are imbalanced, who are improperly motivated, whatever it may be. To blame anybody but the shooter, or whoever may be behind all of this, distracts us from what’s really going on here. We have to focus on the interests of you, the viewers and the people of the 2nd congressional district. We have to put those needs front and center, but we can’t shy away from that simply because some individual in Pennsylvania did a terrible, horrendous, unthinkable act.”

Tiffany said God “kept his hand” on Trump so he could win election in the presidential campaign. He said the attack on Trump “steeled our nation” and brought unity to the Republican Party. Tiffany said Congress would benefit from the influence of additional “outsiders” such as himself.

“It’s time to send outsiders to Washington, D.C., who are bold enough to say what the people in the district are thinking, and say it out loud. That way the left knows exactly what we’re thinking,” Tiffany said.

Kahrs, who worked in the administrations of Gov. Sam Brownback and Trump, likewise proclaimed God intervened to save Trump’s life. Kahrs said President Joe Biden acknowledged “his rhetoric needed to be toned down” in wake of violent attack on Trump. Kahrs didn’t characterize Trump’s rhetorical style.

Ogle, who deployed overseas with the Kansas Army National Guard, said violence in America didn’t warrant alteration of the Second Amendment. He did advocate for a crackdown on armed militias in the United States. Young argued the government should hire military veterans to serve as security guards in U.S. schools.

Schmidt said he opposed sweeping gun control legislation because justice had to be directed at individual offenders rather than weapons used in crimes.

“I don’t believe that firearms, which are a tool, are the problem,” he said. “I believe the misconduct of individuals in our society, whether they are deranged or ill-motivated, those are the problem.”

Tiffany said he was raised in Council Grove amid a culture that embraced gun rights. He asserted that when he was young the prevalence of firearms didn’t prompt school shootings and assassination attempts. He said violence in America was partially linked to the nation’s failure to address mental illness.

“We have radicalized a segment of the population to where they don’t even respect human life anymore,” Tiffany said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721319928940.png" alt=" Michael Ogle, a Topeka Republican seeking the 2nd District nomination for U.S. House, issued a marriage proposal at conclusion of his closing remarks during a televised WIBW candidate forum. (Kansas Reflector screen capture courtesy WIBW-TV)" />
 <figcaption> Michael Ogle, a Topeka Republican seeking the 2nd District nomination for U.S. House, issued a marriage proposal at conclusion of his closing remarks during a televised WIBW candidate forum. (Kansas Reflector screen capture courtesy WIBW-TV)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Five candidates delve into campaign rhetoric, gun violence and Trump</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas congressional candidate Chad Young said the federal government was plagued by feeble members of Congress who sold out to big business after settling in Washington, D.C.During a televised WIBW forum with all five Republican candidates in the 2nd District primary, Young said he would never shed to special-interest lobbyists and big-money influencers the bold stripes of a conservative Republican and limited-government constitutionalist. He chose to devote a portion of his time for closing remarks to a demonstration of his God-first, politics-second philosophy.“You know me and you know what I stand for, so I’m going to give the next 30 seconds to my God. And, I’m going to bow my head to it,” Young said.And, he did. The silence lasted 25 extraordinary seconds until ended by co-moderator David Oliver.Fellow Republican candidate Michael Ogle of Topeka, not to be upstaged by Young’s contemplative demonstration of faith, skipped through several closing points about advocating for veterans, growing hemp and admiring George Washington so he could pose an on-air question.He looked directly into a camera’s lens and pulled a ring from his suit pocket.“A good woman is all you really need,” Ogle said. “A bad woman will put a man on his knees, and I found a good woman. So, Nikoe Pulley, if you’re out there, will you marry me?”“Proposals of all kinds,” said co-moderator Melissa Brunner.On Wednesday, Ogle said Pulley replied in the affirmative.Voters of the 2nd District have their own choice to make by the Aug. 6 primary in terms of selecting Republican and Democratic nominees for the general election. The eastern Kansas races help decide who might replace U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Republican who chose not to seek reelection in November.The GOP candidate forum also featured former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, former LaTurner staff member Jeff Kahrs and feedlot operator Shawn Tiffany. WIBW plans to broadcast a forum next week with Democrats Nancy Boyda and Matt Kleinmann, both running in the 2nd District primary.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721319878155.png" alt=" Lawrence resident Chad Young, one of five Republican candidates for the U.S. House in Kansas’ 2nd District, said he demonstrated his religious faith by bowing his head for 25 seconds during his closing remarks in a WIBW candidate forum. (Kansas Reflector screen courtesy WIBW-TV)" />
 <figcaption> Lawrence resident Chad Young, one of five Republican candidates for the U.S. House in Kansas’ 2nd District, said he demonstrated his religious faith by bowing his head for 25 seconds during his closing remarks in a WIBW candidate forum. (Kansas Reflector screen courtesy WIBW-TV)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Political rhetoric</h2>The WIBW hosts quizzed the Republican candidates on inflation, immigration, bureaucracy, mental health and Social Security. They asked about the value of government experience in terms of serving in Congress and about proposals to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education.The candidates were queried about elevation of campaign rhetoric in light of the Saturday assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign event.Schmidt, who served in the Kansas Senate before elected to three terms as attorney general, said he thanked the Lord the assailant didn’t more seriously injure the Republican Party’s nominee for president.“There have been terrible acts of violence throughout American history,” Schmidt said. “Most done by people who are deranged, who are imbalanced, who are improperly motivated, whatever it may be. To blame anybody but the shooter, or whoever may be behind all of this, distracts us from what’s really going on here. We have to focus on the interests of you, the viewers and the people of the 2nd congressional district. We have to put those needs front and center, but we can’t shy away from that simply because some individual in Pennsylvania did a terrible, horrendous, unthinkable act.”Tiffany said God “kept his hand” on Trump so he could win election in the presidential campaign. He said the attack on Trump “steeled our nation” and brought unity to the Republican Party. Tiffany said Congress would benefit from the influence of additional “outsiders” such as himself.“It’s time to send outsiders to Washington, D.C., who are bold enough to say what the people in the district are thinking, and say it out loud. That way the left knows exactly what we’re thinking,” Tiffany said.Kahrs, who worked in the administrations of Gov. Sam Brownback and Trump, likewise proclaimed God intervened to save Trump’s life. Kahrs said President Joe Biden acknowledged “his rhetoric needed to be toned down” in wake of violent attack on Trump. Kahrs didn’t characterize Trump’s rhetorical style.<h2>Guns, immigration</h2>Ogle, who deployed overseas with the Kansas Army National Guard, said violence in America didn’t warrant alteration of the Second Amendment. He did advocate for a crackdown on armed militias in the United States. Young argued the government should hire military veterans to serve as security guards in U.S. schools.Schmidt said he opposed sweeping gun control legislation because justice had to be directed at individual offenders rather than weapons used in crimes.“I don’t believe that firearms, which are a tool, are the problem,” he said. “I believe the misconduct of individuals in our society, whether they are deranged or ill-motivated, those are the problem.”Tiffany said he was raised in Council Grove amid a culture that embraced gun rights. He asserted that when he was young the prevalence of firearms didn’t prompt school shootings and assassination attempts. He said violence in America was partially linked to the nation’s failure to address mental illness.“We have radicalized a segment of the population to where they don’t even respect human life anymore,” Tiffany said.On illegal immigration, Young said the federal government had to create an iron-clad barrier at the border. He said the millions of undocumented residents in the United States had to be sent home, but each should be given a Bible before deported. He said nobody in this country was safe amid the flow of undocumented intruders.“It’s not going to end by allowing China to come across the border, allowing our enemies across the world to come across the border to hunt us. We are looking at a massive terrorist attack across the board,” Young said. “We ask ourselves this question: Why aren’t our borders closed? Because big corporations do not want them closed.”Kahrs recommended the U.S. military be deployed to the border with Mexico until a security barrier could be constructed. He called for deportation of undocumented migrants that “Biden let in,” but didn’t say what ought to be done with migrants who entered the country under other presidents.Ogle, who didn’t object to military deployments along the southern border, opposed federal actions to separate immigrant parents from their children.<h2>Efficiency, and the race</h2>Young and Kahrs said they were certain more than one federal agency had to be eliminated in an effort to bring wasteful spending under control.Kahrs, who lauded trickle-down economics of tax cuts endorsed by Trump, said his sights were on getting rid of the U.S. departments of commerce and education. Young and Tiffany endorsed the education department cut, but Young said he would expand the list to include demise of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Central Intelligence Agency.“It’s time to homeschool,” Young said. “It’s time to teach our children what we want.”Schmidt said Congress should consider reorganizing, consolidating or eliminating the Department of Education. He said key functions of the federal agency had to be retained, including a division to enforce civil rights law.During the candidate forum, Kahrs claimed the GOP primary in the 2nd District was a two-person race between himself and Schmidt.“I’m running because our country is in serious trouble,” Kahrs said. “Our culture is collapsing. It seems like families, children, our common values and our culture are under attack from the extreme left.”Schmidt, who had a wide lead in a May poll, said he stood up to President Barack Obama’s water regulation overreach, Biden’s student loan giveaway and added the state to lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies “peddling addiction to kids and our neighbors.” He said he personally argued and won three cases before the U.S. Supreme Court.“It’s going to take more than talk to get American running again,” Schmidt said. “I have a proven record of standing tall for our conservative values.”