WASHINGTON&nbsp;—&nbsp; U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/hawley-vows-hold-democrats-feet-fire-new-government-shutdown-funding-bills">introduced</a>&nbsp;two bills to reinstate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and critical farm programs during the government shutdown, according to a statement from his office.

“Since the Democrats refuse to fund the government, I’m introducing legislation to reinstate food stamps and farm programs immediately,”&nbsp;said Senator Hawley.“Missourians shouldn’t go hungry because of the Left’s incompetence. Our kids deserve to eat.”

More than 650,000 Missourians stand to lose their access to food benefits next month because Democrats refuse to fund the government. The vast majority of those Missourians are families with children.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Keep SNAP Funded Act&nbsp;would ensure full funding for the SNAP program during the government shutdown. Under the bill, Congress would appropriate the necessary funding to provide uninterrupted SNAP benefits, retroactive to the start of the shutdown.

The&nbsp;Fund Farm Programs Act&nbsp;would reopen all Farm Service Agency (FSA) Offices and&nbsp;ensure resumed services for all FSA programs that farmers rely on. The USDA will be appropriated the necessary funding to provide resumed services for farmers through FSA offices, retroactive to the start of the shutdown.

Read the full bill text for the&nbsp;Keep SNAP Funded Act&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=15365.11191843.8917142.8424141&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2025%2f10%2fKeep-SNAP-Funded-Act.pdf&amp;redir_log=707316794103533" target="_blank">here.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Read the full bill text for the&nbsp;Fund Farm Programs Act&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=15365.11191843.8917142.8424141&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2025%2f10%2fFund-Our-Farmers-Act.pdf&amp;redir_log=996771207702541" target="_blank">here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750772403338.png" alt="&nbsp;Photo by Lance Cheung/USDA" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo by Lance Cheung/USDA</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;—&nbsp; U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/hawley-vows-hold-democrats-feet-fire-new-government-shutdown-funding-bills">introduced</a>&nbsp;two bills to reinstate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and critical farm programs during the government shutdown, according to a statement from his office.“Since the Democrats refuse to fund the government, I’m introducing legislation to reinstate food stamps and farm programs immediately,”&nbsp;said Senator Hawley.“Missourians shouldn’t go hungry because of the Left’s incompetence. Our kids deserve to eat.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Since the Democrats REFUSE to fund the government, I’m introducing legislation to reinstate SNAP benefits immediately. Even during the government shutdown Missourians shouldn&#39;t go hungry because of the Left&#39;s incompetence. Our kids deserve to eat&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1980407877748797481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>More than 650,000 Missourians stand to lose their access to food benefits next month because Democrats refuse to fund the government. The vast majority of those Missourians are families with children.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Keep SNAP Funded Act&nbsp;would ensure full funding for the SNAP program during the government shutdown. Under the bill, Congress would appropriate the necessary funding to provide uninterrupted SNAP benefits, retroactive to the start of the shutdown.The&nbsp;Fund Farm Programs Act&nbsp;would reopen all Farm Service Agency (FSA) Offices and&nbsp;ensure resumed services for all FSA programs that farmers rely on. The USDA will be appropriated the necessary funding to provide resumed services for farmers through FSA offices, retroactive to the start of the shutdown.Read the full bill text for the&nbsp;Keep SNAP Funded Act&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=15365.11191843.8917142.8424141&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2025%2f10%2fKeep-SNAP-Funded-Act.pdf&amp;redir_log=707316794103533" target="_blank">here.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Read the full bill text for the&nbsp;Fund Farm Programs Act&nbsp;<a href="https://outreach.senate.gov/iqextranet/iqClickTrk.aspx?&amp;cid=SenHawley&amp;crop=15365.11191843.8917142.8424141&amp;report_id=&amp;redirect=https%3a%2f%2fwww.hawley.senate.gov%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2025%2f10%2fFund-Our-Farmers-Act.pdf&amp;redir_log=996771207702541" target="_blank">here.</a>

Mo. U.S. Senator's bill would fund SNAP, farm programs during shutdown

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery that that occurred Wednesday afternoon in Kansas City, according to a statement from the FBI.

The masked suspect demanded money from the U.S. Bank branch at 221 W. Gregory Boulevard.&nbsp; &nbsp;The suspect is described as approximately 5-foot-10 with a medium build and was&nbsp; wearing a grey hoodie with a black New Balance jacked and sunglasses over a mask that covered the lower half of his face.

After the robbery, the suspect ran on foot from the bank. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761179822531.png" alt="Image from security cameras FBI" />
 <figcaption>Image from security cameras FBI</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a bank robbery that that occurred Wednesday afternoon in Kansas City, according to a statement from the FBI.The masked suspect demanded money from the U.S. Bank branch at 221 W. Gregory Boulevard.&nbsp; &nbsp;The suspect is described as approximately 5-foot-10 with a medium build and was&nbsp; wearing a grey hoodie with a black New Balance jacked and sunglasses over a mask that covered the lower half of his face.After the robbery, the suspect ran on foot from the bank. There were no injuries reported.

Suspect wearing sunglasses over a mask robbed Kansas City bank

JOHNSON COUNTY, MO. — On Wednesday,&nbsp;the Johnson County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with Leeton Police Chief Rick Stropes and the Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office, assisted in the investigation of the arson incident at the Leeton United Methodist Church, according to a media release.

During the investigation, authorities identified juveniles as having committed the arson fire. Due to their age, further information regarding their identities cannot be released in compliance with Missouri law governing juvenile information.

This case will be referred to the Johnson County Juvenile Office for appropriate actions.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri- Investigators confirmed that a fire Monday night at the Leeton United Methodist Church was intentionally set, prompting an arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to a statement from the Johnson County Fire Protection District.

Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton.

When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours.

Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.

The Leeton United Methodist Church, built in 1896, has long served as a cornerstone of the Leeton community.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit.

Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“

It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings. “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton.

Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said. “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice. No tip is too small.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761096204652.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY, MO. — On Wednesday,&nbsp;the Johnson County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with Leeton Police Chief Rick Stropes and the Missouri State Fire Marshal's Office, assisted in the investigation of the arson incident at the Leeton United Methodist Church, according to a media release.During the investigation, authorities identified juveniles as having committed the arson fire. Due to their age, further information regarding their identities cannot be released in compliance with Missouri law governing juvenile information.This case will be referred to the Johnson County Juvenile Office for appropriate actions.----------JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri- Investigators confirmed that a fire Monday night at the Leeton United Methodist Church was intentionally set, prompting an arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to a statement from the Johnson County Fire Protection District.Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton.When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours.Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.The Leeton United Methodist Church, built in 1896, has long served as a cornerstone of the Leeton community.The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit.Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings. “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton.Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said. “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice. No tip is too small.”

Arson: Sheriff reports who started fire at 129-year-old Methodist church

KANSAS CITY —The staff at the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium are mourning the loss of African elephant Lois, who lived at the KCZoo for more than four decades, according to a statement from the zoo.

At 47-years old, Lois was considered a geriatric elephant, so her long life is really a testament to the excellent care of the Zoo’s animal care and veterinary health teams. 

Lois was beloved by Zoo staff and guests, and most easily identified by her pointed left tusk and red hair on top of her head. Lois was born in 1978 and arrived in Kansas City on September 17, 1982, with another African elephant, Lea, who still resides at the Zoo. 

Due to her age, Lois showed signs of degenerative joints and had also ruptured the caudal cruciate ligament (CCL) in one of her hind legs 15 years ago. 

This type of injury would have been fatal in her native range, but the specialized care provided at the Zoo gave her many more years of wellbeing. 

While treating an elephant is complex, Lois responded well to laser therapy, anti-inflammatories, changes to the substrate in the barn stall, and other accommodations to make her comfortable. 

Recently, Lois had been experiencing more challenges with movement, and she did not respond to additional treatment options over the past week. 

The difficult decision to euthanize her was made on October 21 due to diminished quality of life. The care specialists that knew her best described Lois as “a strong-willed girl with an unwavering spirit.”

 They say she was a fiery redhead with a spunky personality who loved snacks and lots of attention. Her favorite game was showering her unsuspecting caregivers with water, soaking them and all their paperwork and supplies. Those early morning showers will be remembered fondly.

With the loss of Lois, the Zoo is home to eight elephants, four of which are considered geriatric. Lady is the oldest African elephant in North America at the age of 57, and Lea, Megan, and Tattoo, are also all 47 years old. Zoe, 40, Christy, 38, Zuri, 15, and Tamani, a 20-year-old male, round out the herd

.Lois was a beloved ambassador for her endangered species and helped to inspire the Zoo’s conservation efforts to save elephants and other wildlife through programs in Zambia and South Africa.  Lois will be dearly missed by all her Zoo family, including staff, volunteers, and guests.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761178925460.png" alt="Lois photo Kansas City Zoo" />
 <figcaption>Lois photo Kansas City Zoo</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The staff at the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium are mourning the loss of African elephant Lois, who lived at the KCZoo for more than four decades, according to a statement from the zoo.At 47-years old, Lois was considered a geriatric elephant, so her long life is really a testament to the excellent care of the Zoo’s animal care and veterinary health teams. Lois was beloved by Zoo staff and guests, and most easily identified by her pointed left tusk and red hair on top of her head. Lois was born in 1978 and arrived in Kansas City on September 17, 1982, with another African elephant, Lea, who still resides at the Zoo. Due to her age, Lois showed signs of degenerative joints and had also ruptured the caudal cruciate ligament (CCL) in one of her hind legs 15 years ago. This type of injury would have been fatal in her native range, but the specialized care provided at the Zoo gave her many more years of wellbeing. While treating an elephant is complex, Lois responded well to laser therapy, anti-inflammatories, changes to the substrate in the barn stall, and other accommodations to make her comfortable. Recently, Lois had been experiencing more challenges with movement, and she did not respond to additional treatment options over the past week. The difficult decision to euthanize her was made on October 21 due to diminished quality of life. The care specialists that knew her best described Lois as “a strong-willed girl with an unwavering spirit.” They say she was a fiery redhead with a spunky personality who loved snacks and lots of attention. Her favorite game was showering her unsuspecting caregivers with water, soaking them and all their paperwork and supplies. Those early morning showers will be remembered fondly.With the loss of Lois, the Zoo is home to eight elephants, four of which are considered geriatric. Lady is the oldest African elephant in North America at the age of 57, and Lea, Megan, and Tattoo, are also all 47 years old. Zoe, 40, Christy, 38, Zuri, 15, and Tamani, a 20-year-old male, round out the herd.Lois was a beloved ambassador for her endangered species and helped to inspire the Zoo’s conservation efforts to save elephants and other wildlife through programs in Zambia and South Africa. Lois will be dearly missed by all her Zoo family, including staff, volunteers, and guests.

 Kansas City Zoo mourns loss of 47-year-old elephant

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces felony charges in connection with the fatal overdose of a teenager in 2023, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2744/Sajdak-Redacted-Complaint">Blake A. Sajdak</a>, 22, faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder and Delivery of a Controlled Substance to a Minor.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2743/Sajdak-Redacted-Probable-Cause-2">According to court records</a>, Independence police responded to an address on a call for medical service on January 10, 2023, and located the juvenile victim. She was transported to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;

The Jackson County Medical Examiner listed her cause of death as acute fentanyl intoxication.&nbsp; During the investigation over the last couple years, detectives identified Sajdak through messages between him and the victim clearly indicating drug transactions.&nbsp;

Based on the messages, the Sajdak delivered narcotics to the victim the day before her death. On the message thread that day, Sajdak said, “these ain’t the regular ones these are stronger…” He is being held on a $200,000/10% bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761077945031.png" alt="Sajdak photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Sajdak photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces felony charges in connection with the fatal overdose of a teenager in 2023, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2744/Sajdak-Redacted-Complaint">Blake A. Sajdak</a>, 22, faces 2nd Degree Felony Murder and Delivery of a Controlled Substance to a Minor.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2743/Sajdak-Redacted-Probable-Cause-2">According to court records</a>, Independence police responded to an address on a call for medical service on January 10, 2023, and located the juvenile victim. She was transported to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced deceased.&nbsp;The Jackson County Medical Examiner listed her cause of death as acute fentanyl intoxication.&nbsp; During the investigation over the last couple years, detectives identified Sajdak through messages between him and the victim clearly indicating drug transactions.&nbsp;Based on the messages, the Sajdak delivered narcotics to the victim the day before her death. On the message thread that day, Sajdak said, “these ain’t the regular ones these are stronger…” He is being held on a $200,000/10% bond.&nbsp;

KC fentanyl dealer: These ain’t the regular ones, these are stronger

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out yet another lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO). Yet again, the now-deceased terrorists were engaged in narco-trafficking in the Eastern Pacific. The… <a href="https://t.co/PEaKmakivD">pic.twitter.com/PEaKmakivD</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1981167670989926902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yesterday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel being operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization and conducting narco-trafficking in the Eastern Pacific. The vessel was known by our intelligence to be… <a href="https://t.co/BayDhUZ4Ac">pic.twitter.com/BayDhUZ4Ac</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1981049943306752361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on strikes against narcoterrorists: &quot;This is a national security problem... They killed 300,000 Americans last year.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/eKwaKMgGnT">pic.twitter.com/eKwaKMgGnT</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1981109926526132687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>: &quot;These are drug boats. If people want to stop seeing drug boats blown up, stop sending drugs to the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qACz92D54g">pic.twitter.com/qACz92D54g</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1981109821031272738?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

US strikes two alleged drug boats, expanding attacks to Pacific

The shift is part of a USPS push to cut costs by shifting mail transport from air travel to ground transportation, which has slowed delivery times across America

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/megcunningham/">Meg Cunningham</a>

In 2025, almost everyone is online. Overnight shipping, online bill pay and endless streaming services are at our fingertips.

And as technology and society shift to meet those changes, people living in rural Missouri don’t want to be left out of the conversation just because their packages may take more time to arrive.

Under a recent consolidation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.govexec.com/management/2025/01/ig-regulator-bash-usps-plans-slow-some-mail-delivery/401975/" target="_blank">effort</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Postal Service, though, rural areas farther away from processing hubs are seeing more reductions in service compared to their urban counterparts, even in areas that haven’t technically seen parts of the plan go into effect yet.

“The mail, it’s awful. Sometimes we don’t even get things that were sent to us,” said Leah Lawson, vice president of the Bank of New Madrid in southeast Missouri.

The bank and its customers rely heavily on mail delivery to pay their bills. But more and more people are getting slapped with late fees because their payments don’t make it on time.

“It’s their light bill or water bill, and if it gets lost it doesn’t matter,” said Lawson. “You’re getting a late fee, because they say it’s your responsibility.”

In late July, USPS cut back on services in 540 — nearly half — of Missouri’s ZIP codes by reducing mail collection from morning and evening to morning-only collection.

It’s part of USPS efforts to cut costs under former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s “<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/" target="_blank">Delivering for America</a>” plan, which launched in 2021.

During a June Congressional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/usps-hearing-delivering-for-america-shipping-changes/752096/" target="_blank">hearing</a>, commercial mailing groups and package shippers pushed for a pause on the plan, citing negative performance impacts and increased costs.

“Some days you don’t get mail,” Lawson said. “It seems like I’ve gone a whole week without getting anything, then get a whole stack of it in one day.”

How Kansas City and St. Louis power mail for all of Missouri&nbsp;

USPS handled over&nbsp;<a href="https://facts.usps.com/table-facts/" target="_blank">112 billion</a>&nbsp;pieces of mail in 2024, down from 154 billion in 2015. In&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2024/1114-usps-reports-fiscal-year-2024-results.htm#:~:text=Total%20operating%20revenue%20was%20$79.5,Chief%20Financial%20Officer%20Joseph%20Corbett." target="_blank">fiscal year 2024</a>, the Postal Service’s total operating expenses were $89.5 billion, while the agency had a net loss of $9.5 billion.

USPS said that shifting from a focus on air transportation to primarily moving mail across the country on trucks would save the agency money. Pickup schedules started changing in 2023. Since then, the Postal Service has loosened its requirements for mail delivery times and has struggled to meet even those lower benchmarks.

Under the plan, post offices no longer have afternoon mail pickup, which collects mail and moves it to a larger plant in Kansas City or St. Louis for processing. The mail is now collected the next day, including priority mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-056-r25.pdf" target="_blank">delaying</a>&nbsp;its entry into processing by a day.

In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-056-r25.pdf" target="_blank">April</a>, the Postal Service changed its service standards to account for the change, by changing priority mail from a next-day guarantee to a one-to-three-day guarantee.

Even still, the agency has had trouble meeting those standards, said Christopher Shaw, a historian and author on the Postal Service.

“They’re changing the goalposts, but they’re also having trouble meeting the new standards they’ve set,” Shaw said. “There just hasn’t been a track record of success in terms of the results for the American public … or the claimed cost savings to the agency.”

In a statement, the Postal Service said the agency does not expect rural customers in Missouri and Kansas to see service downgrades

“These service standard refinements do not depend on whether an area is urban or rural, but rather a collection point’s distance from an origin (regional processing and distribution center),” regional spokeswoman Tara Jarrett said in an email.

“The changes add one day to the delivery expectation for mail and packages sent from certain ZIP Codes, but they also include improvements to the processing and transportation of mail and packages within our network. For some mail and packages, the changes will shorten expected delivery times by a full day,” she said.

Assessments of the plan by the Postal Regulatory Commission, a federal agency that oversees the Postal Service, found that the agency used&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prc.gov/sites/default/files/Advisory-Opinion.pdf" target="_blank">flawed methods</a>&nbsp;to justify the service changes.

“The Commission finds that the Postal Service’s proposal relies on defective modeling, overly optimistic financial and cost saving projects, and unclear timeframes for the rollout of the changes,” the group wrote in an advisory opinion in January.

“In addition, the Commission finds that the proposal fails to fully consider the significant, negative impact of these changes on rural communities across the country,” the group wrote.

The mail system is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">interdependent</a>, and flaws at one point of processing lead to flaws until the mail shows up at your doorstep, the commission wrote.

Even before evening mail collection ended, persistent challenges at the Kansas City and St. Louis processing centers — which process mail for the region, including parts of Kansas and Illinois — had residents questioning the reliability of the Postal Service.

At the request of the region’s elected officials, including Republican Sens. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Roger Marshall of Kansas and Republican Rep. Ann Wagner of Missouri, the Office of the Inspector General performed audits of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-07/24-106-r24.pdf" target="_blank">Kansas City&nbsp;</a>and St. Louis processing and distribution centers in recent years.

The audits found persistent staffing issues and inefficiencies. For example, in St. Louis the processing plant failed to use automation to process all of the mail it could, leaving millions of pieces of mail to be sorted manually by local post offices.

The recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-097-r25.pdf" target="_blank">audit</a>&nbsp;found that in St. Louis processing went past the time target on 39 out of 75 days from February to April. In June, the auditors identified 2.2 million delayed letters, 355,259 delayed flats and more than 1,000 delayed packages.

Since fiscal year 2022, on-time first class mail deliveries have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">dropped 4.5% nationwide</a>, an OIG report found.

In Missouri and Kansas, first class mail met performance standards&nbsp;<a href="https://spm.usps.com/#/main" target="_blank">74% of the time</a>&nbsp;in fiscal year 2025, compared to 88% three years prior, and takes an average of three days to deliver. In September alone, mail met the performance standard 86% of the time.

“There are some areas closer to the new transportation hubs where they’re saying delivery time has improved a little bit,” Shaw said. “Then there’s other areas where they explicitly admitted that the time of delivery wouldn’t improve. And that’s kind of the purpose — to degrade the delivery standards so that way they can run less trucks.”

Is there an argument for reducing Postal Service operations?

The Postal Service points to a decline in single-piece mail, such as bills, letters or other communications, as a reason to reduce services. The agency has stated that volume has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">dropped</a>&nbsp;by 80% since the 1990s.

But Shaw said reducing those services harms those who still rely on the mail the most.

“The impact is greatest for the average citizen, for the person who is mailing a single letter,” Shaw said.

While some communities may be able to transition to paying their bills online or using a different shipping service for their business, there are still millions who rely on what the Postal Service provides.

“We have a lot of elderly customers who are not tech savvy and who flat out refuse to pay online or use a computer,” Lawson said. “For some people, the funds are not there enough to begin with for them to survive, let alone deal with these kinds of issues. You should still be able to count on it.”

That’s exactly the argument Shaw makes against scaling back the services.

“It’s not a company that exists to make a profit,” Shaw said. “It’s set up as a service, not a business. That’s the idea, and it’s because a for-profit business does not want to deliver to those rural areas.”

The Postal Service often steps into the delivery process when it becomes too costly for other companies to complete the delivery, mostly in rural areas, Shaw added.

Still, Missourians rely on the Postal Service for essential documents and medications.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/covid-19/analysis-finds-14-million-medicare-part-d-and-large-employer-plan-enrollees-used-mail-order-pharmacies-pre-pandemictop-drugs-filled-were-to-treat-chronic-conditions/" target="_blank">KFF</a>&nbsp;analysis found that in 2018, nearly 14 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Part D or large employer plans used mail-order pharmacies for at least one prescription.

The Department of Veterans Affairs also fills a majority of its prescriptions through the mail. A 2016 study&nbsp;<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10397763/" target="_blank">found</a>&nbsp;that prescriptions filled through the mail contributed to better medication adherence for those with chronic conditions.

For rural Missouri businesses and farmers, poor mail delivery can put their operations at risk.

Katie Nixon, a farmer and vice president of the Missouri Farmers Union, hasn’t noticed much of a change in her service since the plan went into effect in July. But she and her members have noticed the deterioration of service over the past handful of years.

Live plants have arrived at farmers’ doorsteps dried out, and poultry farmers have dealt with birds that died during delayed shipping processes.

Aside from the impact it has on business operations, Nixon worries it will only push potential customers of these small businesses to other, more convenient options.

“If an urban person is waiting two weeks for their product, they’re going to say, ‘I don’t know if I’ll get it from there next time, because Amazon can just get it to me the next day,’” she said.

She worries about the precedent it sets for serving rural communities in the future.

“It’s hard to say whether or not these small changes are going to affect me day to day,” she said. “But once those smaller changes start getting into bigger changes … that’s really going to be a problem.”

This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/20/usps-missouri-service-priority-mail-2025/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Missouri</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671636970425.jpg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The shift is part of a USPS push to cut costs by shifting mail transport from air travel to ground transportation, which has slowed delivery times across America</h2>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/megcunningham/">Meg Cunningham</a>In 2025, almost everyone is online. Overnight shipping, online bill pay and endless streaming services are at our fingertips.And as technology and society shift to meet those changes, people living in rural Missouri don’t want to be left out of the conversation just because their packages may take more time to arrive.Under a recent consolidation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.govexec.com/management/2025/01/ig-regulator-bash-usps-plans-slow-some-mail-delivery/401975/" target="_blank">effort</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. Postal Service, though, rural areas farther away from processing hubs are seeing more reductions in service compared to their urban counterparts, even in areas that haven’t technically seen parts of the plan go into effect yet.“The mail, it’s awful. Sometimes we don’t even get things that were sent to us,” said Leah Lawson, vice president of the Bank of New Madrid in southeast Missouri.The bank and its customers rely heavily on mail delivery to pay their bills. But more and more people are getting slapped with late fees because their payments don’t make it on time.“It’s their light bill or water bill, and if it gets lost it doesn’t matter,” said Lawson. “You’re getting a late fee, because they say it’s your responsibility.”In late July, USPS cut back on services in 540 — nearly half — of Missouri’s ZIP codes by reducing mail collection from morning and evening to morning-only collection.It’s part of USPS efforts to cut costs under former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s “<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/" target="_blank">Delivering for America</a>” plan, which launched in 2021.During a June Congressional&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/usps-hearing-delivering-for-america-shipping-changes/752096/" target="_blank">hearing</a>, commercial mailing groups and package shippers pushed for a pause on the plan, citing negative performance impacts and increased costs.Missourians have noticed the shift.“Some days you don’t get mail,” Lawson said. “It seems like I’ve gone a whole week without getting anything, then get a whole stack of it in one day.”<h2>How Kansas City and St. Louis power mail for all of Missouri&nbsp;</h2>USPS handled over&nbsp;<a href="https://facts.usps.com/table-facts/" target="_blank">112 billion</a>&nbsp;pieces of mail in 2024, down from 154 billion in 2015. In&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2024/1114-usps-reports-fiscal-year-2024-results.htm#:~:text=Total%20operating%20revenue%20was%20$79.5,Chief%20Financial%20Officer%20Joseph%20Corbett." target="_blank">fiscal year 2024</a>, the Postal Service’s total operating expenses were $89.5 billion, while the agency had a net loss of $9.5 billion.USPS said that shifting from a focus on air transportation to primarily moving mail across the country on trucks would save the agency money. Pickup schedules started changing in 2023. Since then, the Postal Service has loosened its requirements for mail delivery times and has struggled to meet even those lower benchmarks.Under the plan, post offices no longer have afternoon mail pickup, which collects mail and moves it to a larger plant in Kansas City or St. Louis for processing. The mail is now collected the next day, including priority mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-056-r25.pdf" target="_blank">delaying</a>&nbsp;its entry into processing by a day.In&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-056-r25.pdf" target="_blank">April</a>, the Postal Service changed its service standards to account for the change, by changing priority mail from a next-day guarantee to a one-to-three-day guarantee.Even still, the agency has had trouble meeting those standards, said Christopher Shaw, a historian and author on the Postal Service.“They’re changing the goalposts, but they’re also having trouble meeting the new standards they’ve set,” Shaw said. “There just hasn’t been a track record of success in terms of the results for the American public … or the claimed cost savings to the agency.”In a statement, the Postal Service said the agency does not expect rural customers in Missouri and Kansas to see service downgrades“These service standard refinements do not depend on whether an area is urban or rural, but rather a collection point’s distance from an origin (regional processing and distribution center),” regional spokeswoman Tara Jarrett said in an email.“The changes add one day to the delivery expectation for mail and packages sent from certain ZIP Codes, but they also include improvements to the processing and transportation of mail and packages within our network. For some mail and packages, the changes will shorten expected delivery times by a full day,” she said.Assessments of the plan by the Postal Regulatory Commission, a federal agency that oversees the Postal Service, found that the agency used&nbsp;<a href="https://www.prc.gov/sites/default/files/Advisory-Opinion.pdf" target="_blank">flawed methods</a>&nbsp;to justify the service changes.“The Commission finds that the Postal Service’s proposal relies on defective modeling, overly optimistic financial and cost saving projects, and unclear timeframes for the rollout of the changes,” the group wrote in an advisory opinion in January.“In addition, the Commission finds that the proposal fails to fully consider the significant, negative impact of these changes on rural communities across the country,” the group wrote.The mail system is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">interdependent</a>, and flaws at one point of processing lead to flaws until the mail shows up at your doorstep, the commission wrote.Even before evening mail collection ended, persistent challenges at the Kansas City and St. Louis processing centers — which process mail for the region, including parts of Kansas and Illinois — had residents questioning the reliability of the Postal Service.At the request of the region’s elected officials, including Republican Sens. Josh Hawley of Missouri and Roger Marshall of Kansas and Republican Rep. Ann Wagner of Missouri, the Office of the Inspector General performed audits of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2024-07/24-106-r24.pdf" target="_blank">Kansas City&nbsp;</a>and St. Louis processing and distribution centers in recent years.The audits found persistent staffing issues and inefficiencies. For example, in St. Louis the processing plant failed to use automation to process all of the mail it could, leaving millions of pieces of mail to be sorted manually by local post offices.The recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-08/25-097-r25.pdf" target="_blank">audit</a>&nbsp;found that in St. Louis processing went past the time target on 39 out of 75 days from February to April. In June, the auditors identified 2.2 million delayed letters, 355,259 delayed flats and more than 1,000 delayed packages.Since fiscal year 2022, on-time first class mail deliveries have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">dropped 4.5% nationwide</a>, an OIG report found.In Missouri and Kansas, first class mail met performance standards&nbsp;<a href="https://spm.usps.com/#/main" target="_blank">74% of the time</a>&nbsp;in fiscal year 2025, compared to 88% three years prior, and takes an average of three days to deliver. In September alone, mail met the performance standard 86% of the time.“There are some areas closer to the new transportation hubs where they’re saying delivery time has improved a little bit,” Shaw said. “Then there’s other areas where they explicitly admitted that the time of delivery wouldn’t improve. And that’s kind of the purpose — to degrade the delivery standards so that way they can run less trucks.”<h2>Is there an argument for reducing Postal Service operations?</h2>The Postal Service points to a decline in single-piece mail, such as bills, letters or other communications, as a reason to reduce services. The agency has stated that volume has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uspsoig.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2025-05/25-028-r25.pdf" target="_blank">dropped</a>&nbsp;by 80% since the 1990s.But Shaw said reducing those services harms those who still rely on the mail the most.“The impact is greatest for the average citizen, for the person who is mailing a single letter,” Shaw said.While some communities may be able to transition to paying their bills online or using a different shipping service for their business, there are still millions who rely on what the Postal Service provides.“We have a lot of elderly customers who are not tech savvy and who flat out refuse to pay online or use a computer,” Lawson said. “For some people, the funds are not there enough to begin with for them to survive, let alone deal with these kinds of issues. You should still be able to count on it.”That’s exactly the argument Shaw makes against scaling back the services.“It’s not a company that exists to make a profit,” Shaw said. “It’s set up as a service, not a business. That’s the idea, and it’s because a for-profit business does not want to deliver to those rural areas.”The Postal Service often steps into the delivery process when it becomes too costly for other companies to complete the delivery, mostly in rural areas, Shaw added.Still, Missourians rely on the Postal Service for essential documents and medications.A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/covid-19/analysis-finds-14-million-medicare-part-d-and-large-employer-plan-enrollees-used-mail-order-pharmacies-pre-pandemictop-drugs-filled-were-to-treat-chronic-conditions/" target="_blank">KFF</a>&nbsp;analysis found that in 2018, nearly 14 million Americans enrolled in Medicare Part D or large employer plans used mail-order pharmacies for at least one prescription.The Department of Veterans Affairs also fills a majority of its prescriptions through the mail. A 2016 study&nbsp;<a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10397763/" target="_blank">found</a>&nbsp;that prescriptions filled through the mail contributed to better medication adherence for those with chronic conditions.For rural Missouri businesses and farmers, poor mail delivery can put their operations at risk.Katie Nixon, a farmer and vice president of the Missouri Farmers Union, hasn’t noticed much of a change in her service since the plan went into effect in July. But she and her members have noticed the deterioration of service over the past handful of years.Live plants have arrived at farmers’ doorsteps dried out, and poultry farmers have dealt with birds that died during delayed shipping processes.Aside from the impact it has on business operations, Nixon worries it will only push potential customers of these small businesses to other, more convenient options.“If an urban person is waiting two weeks for their product, they’re going to say, ‘I don’t know if I’ll get it from there next time, because Amazon can just get it to me the next day,’” she said.She worries about the precedent it sets for serving rural communities in the future.“It’s hard to say whether or not these small changes are going to affect me day to day,” she said. “But once those smaller changes start getting into bigger changes … that’s really going to be a problem.”This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/10/20/usps-missouri-service-priority-mail-2025/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Missouri</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://thebeaconnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/iconbeacon-150x150.png?crop=1" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Half of Missouri ZIP codes see postal service cuts under consolidation plan

SALINE COUNTY —Police are investigating a report of scammers who deceive three people in Salina who were attempting to earn US citizenship.

On Monday afternoon, three people including two 49-year-old women and a 34-year-old man, seeking US citizenship visited the Salina Police station to report the scam, according to statement from police.

In January, the three reported they were contacted via email by scammers claiming to be 'immigration lawyers.' These scammers advised they could 'assist them with their immigration status.'

The victims received various phone calls, followed by requests of money for filing fees and other reasons since the first initial contact in January.

According to police the women each lost $2,180 and the man lost $5,550.

SPD told Salina Post, they want to inform the community to be aware of scams, such as this crime.&nbsp;

SALINE COUNTY —Police are investigating a report of scammers who deceive three people in Salina who were attempting to earn US citizenship.On Monday afternoon, three people including two 49-year-old women and a 34-year-old man, seeking US citizenship visited the Salina Police station to report the scam, according to statement from police.In January, the three reported they were contacted via email by scammers claiming to be 'immigration lawyers.' These scammers advised they could 'assist them with their immigration status.'The victims received various phone calls, followed by requests of money for filing fees and other reasons since the first initial contact in January.According to police the women each lost $2,180 and the man lost $5,550.SPD told Salina Post, they want to inform the community to be aware of scams, such as this crime.&nbsp;

Police: 3 lost thousands of dollars to immigration scam 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 39-year-old Vincent Taylor, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot.

First responders located Taylor suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. 

EMS pronounced him deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. 

Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and Taylor being struck. Police released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 39-year-old Vincent Taylor, according to&nbsp;KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino. Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot.First responders located Taylor suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. EMS pronounced him deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and Taylor being struck. Police released no additional details.

Homicide: Police ID man found just inside KC apartment building

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident outside a Kansas City area high school.

Just after 9a.m. Tuesday, a&nbsp;School Resource Officer was patrolling the parking lot of Liberty High School,&nbsp;200 Blue Jay Drive in Liberty, Missouri, when he noticed a suspicious person standing near several vehicles, according to a media release from Independence Police.

The officer stopped to check on the individual, and an altercation ensued when the person resisted being detained. The School Resource Officer called for emergency assistance from other officers. The individual was able to break free, and a foot chase followed.

Due to the unknown reason for the person’s presence on school property and their resistance to the officer, the resources officer requested assistance from surrounding agencies to help locate the suspect. 

At approximately 9:15a.m., the suspect was located at a nearby business and taken into custody without further incident. The suspect is a juvenile and is being referred to the Clay County Juvenile Office. 

CLAY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with an incident outside a Kansas City area high school.Just after 9a.m. Tuesday, a&nbsp;School Resource Officer was patrolling the parking lot of Liberty High School,&nbsp;200 Blue Jay Drive in Liberty, Missouri, when he noticed a suspicious person standing near several vehicles, according to a media release from Independence Police.The officer stopped to check on the individual, and an altercation ensued when the person resisted being detained. The School Resource Officer called for emergency assistance from other officers. The individual was able to break free, and a foot chase followed.Due to the unknown reason for the person’s presence on school property and their resistance to the officer, the resources officer requested assistance from surrounding agencies to help locate the suspect. At approximately 9:15a.m., the suspect was located at a nearby business and taken into custody without further incident. The suspect is a juvenile and is being referred to the Clay County Juvenile Office.

Police: Juvenile arrested after fight with resource officer outside KC area school

Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton. 

 When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours. 

 Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit. 

 Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“

It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings.  “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton. 

 Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said.  “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice.  No tip is too small.”

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766).  A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761096204652.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY, Missouri- Investigators confirmed that a fire Monday night at the Leeton United Methodist Church was intentionally set, prompting an arson investigation led by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, according to a statement from the Johnson County Fire Protection District.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1285842890014232%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="314" 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>Just after 9p.m. Monday, firefighters from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department, responding through automatic mutual aid for a ladder truck to 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton. When crews arrived, heavy smoke and flames were visible from inside the 129-year-old church. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior and exterior attack, bringing the fire under control after nearly three hours. Despite extensive damage throughout the structure, the church remains standing, and crews were able to save some items from inside.The Leeton United Methodist Church, built in 1896, has long served as a cornerstone of the Leeton community.The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire with assistance from the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit. Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set, prompting a formal arson investigation.“It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” said JCFPD Captain Joe Jennings. “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton. Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”Captain Jennings urged anyone with information to come forward.“Someone knows something,” Jennings said. “We’re asking the public to do the right thing and help bring whoever is responsible to justice. No tip is too small.”Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766). A cash reward is available for information leading to an arrest.

Arson fire damages 129-year-old Methodist church

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.

The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

The nation is feeling the financial hit of the government shutdown, which is on track to become among the longest in U.S. history. Hundreds of thousands of federal workers are&nbsp;going without pay and there are few signs of any end to the stalemate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Democrats attempt to be recognized during House Pro Forma Session. <a href="https://t.co/VcH9hZqGVu">pic.twitter.com/VcH9hZqGVu</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980699082415874173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Leader Thune is offering to negotiate on the Affordable Care Act with you if you re-open the government. Why won&#39;t you take the deal?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenSchumer</a>: &quot;The bottom line is that&#39;s no deal, that&#39;s a partisan plan that leaves the American people high and dry.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zDYUyqlyhr">pic.twitter.com/zDYUyqlyhr</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1980713747120275965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/LeaderJohnThune?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LeaderJohnThune</a>: &quot;People keep saying, &#39;Negotiate!&#39; — Negotiate what? I don&#39;t know what that is right now. The government needs to open up, and then we&#39;re happy to sit down and talk about any other issues the Democrats want to talk about.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/LCms5PQq3K">pic.twitter.com/LCms5PQq3K</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980706435945119745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SenJohnBarrasso?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJohnBarrasso</a>: &quot;The government has been closed now for 21 days and the Democrats have had a chance to open it 11 times — and each time, they voted no... The Democrats are holding this country hostage. It&#39;s time for it to END. It&#39;s time to reopen the government...&quot; <a href="https://t.co/fp7UYE8iXR">pic.twitter.com/fp7UYE8iXR</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980702533929607441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;From the beginning, our message has been very simple: we will NOT be extorted&quot; by Democrats, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> tells Senate Republicans. &quot;Chuck Schumer and the Senate Democrats need to vote for the clean, bipartisan CR and reopen our government!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/g4GaTYWB8s">pic.twitter.com/g4GaTYWB8s</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1980682137264144490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The U.S. Senate will vote again Wednesday on whether to end the shutdown.

🎥What Congressional leaders are saying about the gov't shutdown

CASS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Cass County.

The Missouri State Highway reported a 2022 GMC Savana driven by a 42-year-old Kansas City, Missouri man traveled northbound into the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 just south of Belton. 

The van struck the front of a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by a 51-year-old Ames, Iowa man. After impact the Freightliner struck the passenger side of a 1992 Peterbilt semi driven by a 66-year-old Webb City man.&nbsp; The van caught fire and caused the other two vehicle to also catch fire. 

The van driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported the Freightliner driver to Research Medical Center. There were no other injuries. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims. The accident kept I-49 closed in both diretions until early Tuesday evening.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761076272230.png" alt="Photo MSHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo MSHP</figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Tuesday in Cass County.The Missouri State Highway reported a 2022 GMC Savana driven by a 42-year-old Kansas City, Missouri man traveled northbound into the southbound lanes of Interstate 49 just south of Belton. The van struck the front of a 2025 Freightliner semi driven by a 51-year-old Ames, Iowa man. After impact the Freightliner struck the passenger side of a 1992 Peterbilt semi driven by a 66-year-old Webb City man.&nbsp; The van caught fire and caused the other two vehicle to also catch fire. The van driver was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; EMS transported the Freightliner driver to Research Medical Center. There were no other injuries. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt usage information. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims. The accident kept I-49 closed in both diretions until early Tuesday evening.

Kansas City man killed in 3-vehicle wrong-way crash and fire

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

A circuit court judge was correct to dismiss a lawsuit&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/11/judge-dismisses-whistleblower-lawsuit-against-missouri-house-speaker/">claiming former Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher retaliated against a legislative staffer</a>&nbsp;who reported allegations of misconduct, an appeals court ruled on Tuesday.

The reason, Judge Lisa White Hardwick&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file/WD/Opinion_WD87809.pdf" target="_blank">wrote in the unanimous decision</a>, is because Plocher was not former House Clerk Dana Miller’s supervisor and could not fire her or discipline her for speaking out about his alleged wrongdoing.&nbsp;

Plocher may have believed he had power over Miller, Hardwick wrote, but in reality the most he could do was seek a full House vote to remove her — something he never formally attempted.&nbsp;

“…while Plocher may have expressed a desire to supervise, control and remove Miller as chief clerk,” the decision said, “he had no authority to do so.”

The lawsuit was filed by Miller last year accusing Plocher of trying to get her removed from her job after she cooperated with a House Ethics Committee investigation into his attempts to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/22/missouri-lawmaker-accused-of-unlawful-conduct-in-push-for-contract-drawing-fbi-scrutiny/">steer an $800,000 software contract for the House</a>&nbsp;around the standard bidding process and revelations that he&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/23/records-show-dean-plocher-charged-the-state-for-travel-already-paid-for-by-his-campaign/">illegally sought taxpayer reimbursement from the legislature</a>&nbsp;for airfare, hotels and other travel costs already paid for by his campaign.

Plocher denied any wrongdoing, but the allegations sparked a months-long investigation. Though it was ultimately dismissed, the Republican legislator leading the inquiry said Plocher pressured potential witnesses and used his office to obstruct the committee’s work.&nbsp;

An investigator’s report released by the ethics committee detailed how some potential witnesses allegedly refused to speak out of fear Plocher would use his power as speaker to retaliate against them, while others did not appear because Plocher decided who the committee could compel to testify.&nbsp;

The speaker and chief clerk of the House are the two officers of the chamber named in the Missouri Constitution. Both are elected by a majority vote as the chamber reorganizes after an election.

Miller argued that after she reported “what she reasonably believed were violations of the law, rules and/or regulations, and policy; mismanagement; a gross waste of funds; abuse of authority; a waste of public resources; and/or breaches of professional ethical canons,” she was subjected to acts of retaliation and threats of disciplinary action directed against her by Plocher.&nbsp;

She should be considered a whistleblower, her lawsuit argues, because her decision to report alleged misconduct was the motivating factor in Plocher targeting her for retaliation and threatening her employment.&nbsp;

Plocher’s attorneys asserted that Miller’s claims to be a whistleblower fell short because Plocher was not her supervisor and was incapable of taking any disciplinary action against her.&nbsp;

The case was dismissed by a Cole County judge in December. The appeals court upheld the dismissal Tuesday.

“Plocher had no more authority over Miller than any other House member had over her,” Hardwick wrote in the court’s decision.&nbsp;

Miller retired last year after 31 years in state government, including 23 years as a member of the House staff. She was elected chief clerk in 2018 and held that post under four Republican speakers.&nbsp;

Plocher left office last year due to term limits after running unsuccessfully for Missouri secretary of state. He is currently&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/former-missouri-house-speaker-dean-plocher-hopes-to-be-named-a-judge-in-st-louis-county/">seeking a judicial appointment in St. Louis County</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761094933102.png" alt=" Dana Rademan Miller, former chief clerk of the Missouri House of Representatives, tells reporters about alleged mistreatment from House speakers after filing a lawsuit in Cole County in May 2024 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Dana Rademan Miller, former chief clerk of the Missouri House of Representatives, tells reporters about alleged mistreatment from House speakers after filing a lawsuit in Cole County in May 2024 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A circuit court judge was correct to dismiss a lawsuit&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/11/judge-dismisses-whistleblower-lawsuit-against-missouri-house-speaker/">claiming former Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher retaliated against a legislative staffer</a>&nbsp;who reported allegations of misconduct, an appeals court ruled on Tuesday.The reason, Judge Lisa White Hardwick&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/file/WD/Opinion_WD87809.pdf" target="_blank">wrote in the unanimous decision</a>, is because Plocher was not former House Clerk Dana Miller’s supervisor and could not fire her or discipline her for speaking out about his alleged wrongdoing.&nbsp;Plocher may have believed he had power over Miller, Hardwick wrote, but in reality the most he could do was seek a full House vote to remove her — something he never formally attempted.&nbsp;“…while Plocher may have expressed a desire to supervise, control and remove Miller as chief clerk,” the decision said, “he had no authority to do so.”The lawsuit was filed by Miller last year accusing Plocher of trying to get her removed from her job after she cooperated with a House Ethics Committee investigation into his attempts to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/22/missouri-lawmaker-accused-of-unlawful-conduct-in-push-for-contract-drawing-fbi-scrutiny/">steer an $800,000 software contract for the House</a>&nbsp;around the standard bidding process and revelations that he&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/10/23/records-show-dean-plocher-charged-the-state-for-travel-already-paid-for-by-his-campaign/">illegally sought taxpayer reimbursement from the legislature</a>&nbsp;for airfare, hotels and other travel costs already paid for by his campaign.Plocher denied any wrongdoing, but the allegations sparked a months-long investigation. Though it was ultimately dismissed, the Republican legislator leading the inquiry said Plocher pressured potential witnesses and used his office to obstruct the committee’s work.&nbsp;An investigator’s report released by the ethics committee detailed how some potential witnesses allegedly refused to speak out of fear Plocher would use his power as speaker to retaliate against them, while others did not appear because Plocher decided who the committee could compel to testify.&nbsp;The speaker and chief clerk of the House are the two officers of the chamber named in the Missouri Constitution. Both are elected by a majority vote as the chamber reorganizes after an election.Miller argued that after she reported “what she reasonably believed were violations of the law, rules and/or regulations, and policy; mismanagement; a gross waste of funds; abuse of authority; a waste of public resources; and/or breaches of professional ethical canons,” she was subjected to acts of retaliation and threats of disciplinary action directed against her by Plocher.&nbsp;She should be considered a whistleblower, her lawsuit argues, because her decision to report alleged misconduct was the motivating factor in Plocher targeting her for retaliation and threatening her employment.&nbsp;Plocher’s attorneys asserted that Miller’s claims to be a whistleblower fell short because Plocher was not her supervisor and was incapable of taking any disciplinary action against her.&nbsp;The case was dismissed by a Cole County judge in December. The appeals court upheld the dismissal Tuesday.“Plocher had no more authority over Miller than any other House member had over her,” Hardwick wrote in the court’s decision.&nbsp;Miller retired last year after 31 years in state government, including 23 years as a member of the House staff. She was elected chief clerk in 2018 and held that post under four Republican speakers.&nbsp;Plocher left office last year due to term limits after running unsuccessfully for Missouri secretary of state. He is currently&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/former-missouri-house-speaker-dean-plocher-hopes-to-be-named-a-judge-in-st-louis-county/">seeking a judicial appointment in St. Louis County</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Appeals court upholds dismissal of whistleblower suit against Missouri House

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent attack in downtown Lawrene.

Just after 11:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;found a man with significant facial injuries near 8th and Massachusetts in Lawrence, according to a social media report from Lawrence Police.

The man told police he was hit several times with a large piece of wood by a man he knew. The suspect had already left the area, but an alert officer found him in Burroughs Creek Park about 2:30 in the morning and took him into custody.&nbsp; Police released no additional details including the name of the suspect or possible charges.

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged violent attack in downtown Lawrene.Just after 11:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp;found a man with significant facial injuries near 8th and Massachusetts in Lawrence, according to a social media report from Lawrence Police.The man told police he was hit several times with a large piece of wood by a man he knew. The suspect had already left the area, but an alert officer found him in Burroughs Creek Park about 2:30 in the morning and took him into custody.&nbsp; Police released no additional details including the name of the suspect or possible charges.

Police: Kan. man attacked with large piece of wood 

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

Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

First responders located a man suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. 

EMS declared the victim deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. 

Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and the victim being struck. Police released no additional details including the name of the victims.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; Just before 12:30a.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers were dispatched to the 900 block of Jefferson in Kansas City on report of someone who was shot, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.First responders located a man suffering from gunshot wounds, just inside of an apartment building at the Quality Hill Towers. Officers began performing life saving measures as KCFD Medics arrived. EMS declared the victim deceased on scene. This is being investigated as a homicide. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shots being fired and the victim being struck. Police released no additional details including the name of the victims.

Homicide: Man found dead just inside KC apartment building

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Monday in Shawnee County.

According to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian, a &nbsp;2002 Honda Odyssey driven by&nbsp;Terry L. Friesen, 63, of Ozawkie, was eastbound in the 900 block of NE 62nd Street.&nbsp; The minivan traveled off the roadway to the left, through&nbsp;a ditch continued over a driveway, through a field, and came to rest at the tree line.

American Medical Response transported Friesen to a local hospital&nbsp;with life-threatening injuries and she was later pronounced deceasd.

 She did not appear to be wearing a seat belt, according to Deputy Christian.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Monday in Shawnee County.According to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian, a &nbsp;2002 Honda Odyssey driven by&nbsp;Terry L. Friesen, 63, of Ozawkie, was eastbound in the 900 block of NE 62nd Street.&nbsp; The minivan traveled off the roadway to the left, through&nbsp;a ditch continued over a driveway, through a field, and came to rest at the tree line.American Medical Response transported Friesen to a local hospital&nbsp;with life-threatening injuries and she was later pronounced deceasd. She did not appear to be wearing a seat belt, according to Deputy Christian.

Kansas woman dies after violent minivan crash

It the fourth week of the government shutdown, Senate Republicans including Missouri U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall are gathering at White House for a display of unity with President Donald Trump.

(Notice Senator Josh Hawley in the following video)

It the fourth week of the government shutdown, Senate Republicans including Missouri U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt and Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall are gathering at White House for a display of unity with President Donald Trump.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Senate Republicans are at the Rose Garden for lunch with President Trump. One team. For America <a href="https://t.co/oqXCk26uCO">pic.twitter.com/oqXCk26uCO</a>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1980664165707796594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>(Notice Senator Josh Hawley in the following video)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Senate Republicans at White House for Rose Garden lunch with President Trump. <a href="https://t.co/MipUP7469J">pic.twitter.com/MipUP7469J</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1980670311248093460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Senate Republicans at the White House for Rose Garden lunch with President Trump. <a href="https://t.co/rWGnnY72kl">pic.twitter.com/rWGnnY72kl</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1980677135087071349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, President Trump for your leadership and hospitality! Republicans are standing strong together — it’s time for Chuck Schumer to stop playing games and reopen the government. <a href="https://t.co/GEe7HD5DDh">pic.twitter.com/GEe7HD5DDh</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1980666177497276458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Mo. U.S. Senators at the Rose Garden for lunch with President Trump

Girod described ‘productive’ dialogue on strategy to reshape colleges, universities

TOPEKA — The University of Kansas said Monday the chancellor privately shared insights about a proposed compact offering preferential treatment by the Trump administration in exchange for freezing tuition rates, limiting international student enrollment and restraining campus employees from expressing political views.

KU Chancellor Doug Girod, vice chair of the prestigious Association of American Universities, responded to a request Friday to provide feedback on President Donald Trump’s unprecedented plan to bring higher education institutions into line with his agenda.

Seven of nine universities originally offered the Trump deal have rejected the offer, which was denounced in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acenet.edu/Documents/Statement-Compact-101725.pdf" target="_blank">statement by the American Council on Education</a>&nbsp;and dozens of other education associations. KU’s last-minute role in a virtual meeting was sought along with that of Washington University in St. Louis, as well as Arizona State University. It wasn’t clear if KU was asked to sign the deal with Trump.

“Chancellor Girod was invited to provide feedback to federal officials on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education and related matters impacting universities,” said Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, director of media relations at KU. “The chancellor described the discussion as productive, and federal officials were interested in his perspective.”

After the meeting, Linda McMahon, secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, said on X that the gathering with Girod and others was “an important step toward defending a shared vision.”

“With continued federal investment and strong institutional leadership, the higher education sector can do more to enhance American leadership in the world and build tomorrow’s workforce,” she said. “A renewed commitment to the time-honored principles that helped make American universities great will strengthen the country and deepen public confidence in higher education.”

The White House convened the group ahead of Monday’s deadline for reaction and comment from nine private and public institutions — KU wasn’t on that list — initially contacted by the Trump administration. No institutions have signed the agreement.

On Saturday, Dartmouth President&nbsp;<a href="https://president.dartmouth.edu/news/2025/10/dartmouths-feedback-compact" target="_blank">Sian Beilock issued a statement</a>&nbsp;that said she shared on the call that “I do not believe that a compact — with any administration — is the right approach to achieve academic excellence, as it would compromise our academic freedom, our ability to govern ourselves and the principle that federal research funds should be awarded to the best, most promising ideas.”

Paul Mahoney, interim president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://news.virginia.edu/content/community-message-interim-president-paul-mahoney" target="_blank">University of Virginia, said a contract with the federal government</a>&nbsp;predicating assessment of students on anything other than merit would erode confidence in U.S. higher education and threatened to undermine lifesaving research.

In addition to Dartmouth and UVA, the answer was “no” from Brown University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California and University of Arizona. Vanderbilt University and University of Texas had yet to provide conclusive answers.

The Trump administration since taking office in January has blocked billions of dollars in research grants in an effort to compel operational changes at U.S. universities and colleges. Reasons for the budget cuts included alleged antisemitism on campus; policies ensuring LGBTQ+ equality; and programs tied to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Frustrated by pushback from higher education, the White House delivered letters Oct. 1 to select colleges and universities on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The strategy was to invite voluntary compliance with changes the Trump administration could have difficult enforcing.

The Trump administration’s compact would mandate that schools freeze tuition for five years, limit international students to 15% of undergraduate enrollment, impose standardized tests for admission, abide by a ban on DEI programs and adopt a definition of gender that would block transgender individuals from using restrooms or participating in sports that aligned with their gender identity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761050638542.png" alt=" Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, participated in a White House virtual meeting about President Donald Trump’s campaign to exchange special access to federal funding or grants when colleges and universities agree to freeze tuition, limit international student enrollment, ban DEI and transgender policies and restrain employees from sharing political views on behalf of a higher education institution. In this Oct. 17, 2025, image, Girod delivers the annual State of the University speech at KU. (Photo taken by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Doug Girod, chancellor at the University of Kansas, participated in a White House virtual meeting about President Donald Trump’s campaign to exchange special access to federal funding or grants when colleges and universities agree to freeze tuition, limit international student enrollment, ban DEI and transgender policies and restrain employees from sharing political views on behalf of a higher education institution. In this Oct. 17, 2025, image, Girod delivers the annual State of the University speech at KU. (Photo taken by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Girod described ‘productive’ dialogue on strategy to reshape colleges, universities</h2>TOPEKA — The University of Kansas said Monday the chancellor privately shared insights about a proposed compact offering preferential treatment by the Trump administration in exchange for freezing tuition rates, limiting international student enrollment and restraining campus employees from expressing political views.KU Chancellor Doug Girod, vice chair of the prestigious Association of American Universities, responded to a request Friday to provide feedback on President Donald Trump’s unprecedented plan to bring higher education institutions into line with his agenda.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am grateful to the university presidents who joined White House and Agency officials for a positive and wide-ranging conversation about the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. American universities power our economy, drive innovation, and prepare young people…&mdash; Secretary Linda McMahon (@EDSecMcMahon) <a href="https://twitter.com/EDSecMcMahon/status/1979323613548364278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Seven of nine universities originally offered the Trump deal have rejected the offer, which was denounced in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acenet.edu/Documents/Statement-Compact-101725.pdf" target="_blank">statement by the American Council on Education</a>&nbsp;and dozens of other education associations. KU’s last-minute role in a virtual meeting was sought along with that of Washington University in St. Louis, as well as Arizona State University. It wasn’t clear if KU was asked to sign the deal with Trump.“Chancellor Girod was invited to provide feedback to federal officials on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education and related matters impacting universities,” said Erinn Barcomb-Peterson, director of media relations at KU. “The chancellor described the discussion as productive, and federal officials were interested in his perspective.”After the meeting, Linda McMahon, secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, said on X that the gathering with Girod and others was “an important step toward defending a shared vision.”“With continued federal investment and strong institutional leadership, the higher education sector can do more to enhance American leadership in the world and build tomorrow’s workforce,” she said. “A renewed commitment to the time-honored principles that helped make American universities great will strengthen the country and deepen public confidence in higher education.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761050707809.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The White House convened the group ahead of Monday’s deadline for reaction and comment from nine private and public institutions — KU wasn’t on that list — initially contacted by the Trump administration. No institutions have signed the agreement.On Saturday, Dartmouth President&nbsp;<a href="https://president.dartmouth.edu/news/2025/10/dartmouths-feedback-compact" target="_blank">Sian Beilock issued a statement</a>&nbsp;that said she shared on the call that “I do not believe that a compact — with any administration — is the right approach to achieve academic excellence, as it would compromise our academic freedom, our ability to govern ourselves and the principle that federal research funds should be awarded to the best, most promising ideas.”Paul Mahoney, interim president of the&nbsp;<a href="https://news.virginia.edu/content/community-message-interim-president-paul-mahoney" target="_blank">University of Virginia, said a contract with the federal government</a>&nbsp;predicating assessment of students on anything other than merit would erode confidence in U.S. higher education and threatened to undermine lifesaving research.In addition to Dartmouth and UVA, the answer was “no” from Brown University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Pennsylvania, University of Southern California and University of Arizona. Vanderbilt University and University of Texas had yet to provide conclusive answers.The Trump administration since taking office in January has blocked billions of dollars in research grants in an effort to compel operational changes at U.S. universities and colleges. Reasons for the budget cuts included alleged antisemitism on campus; policies ensuring LGBTQ+ equality; and programs tied to diversity, equity and inclusion.Frustrated by pushback from higher education, the White House delivered letters Oct. 1 to select colleges and universities on the Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. The strategy was to invite voluntary compliance with changes the Trump administration could have difficult enforcing.The Trump administration’s compact would mandate that schools freeze tuition for five years, limit international students to 15% of undergraduate enrollment, impose standardized tests for admission, abide by a ban on DEI programs and adopt a definition of gender that would block transgender individuals from using restrooms or participating in sports that aligned with their gender identity.In addition, the arrangement would forbid participating colleges and universities from allowing employees to express political views on behalf of their institutions. Academic departments offering opinions counter to views held by conservatives would have to be closed. Students and employees would be polled on compact compliance and the results released publicly. There would be financial penalties for institutions that violated pledges included in the deal.Trump wrote on Truth Social that other colleges or universities beyond those contacted so far could be signers of the deal.The American Council on Education’s statement, with 35 other organizations in opposition to the compact, said Trump’s maneuvering raised concern about undermining qualities that made the U.S. educational system exceptional.“The compact offers nothing less than government control of a university’s basic and necessary freedoms — the freedoms to decide who we teach, what we teach and who teaches,” the statement said. “The compact is just the kind of excessive federal overreach and regulation, to the detriment of state and local input and control, that this administration says it is against.”The joint statement said the proposed compact would hamper ability of colleges and universities to innovate and make advancements that contributed to the nation’s economic well-being and security.“It would hinder, not safeguard, freedom of expression for all points of view, and it will not assist in expanding social and economic mobility for all of our students,” the statement read.