KANSAS CITY– A former Grain Valley, Missouri police officer was sentenced this week by U.S. District Judge D. Gregory Kays to 20 years in the Bureau of Prisons to be followed by supervised release for Life.

August Price Gildehaus, 30, of Blue Springs, Mo., previously pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and one count of producing child pornography.

Gildehaus admitted that he engaged in illegal sexual activity with a 15-year-old female victim. Gildehaus and the victim met on an online social media platform. Gildehaus met with the victim on five separate occasions between Aug. 5, 2022, and Jan. 5, 2023, to engage in illicit sexual activity at different locations, including a middle school parking lot.

Gildehaus admitted that the child victim took photographs of herself when she was home, and he took photographs of himself that he sent to her. Gildehaus also admitted that he recorded videos of their sexual encounters.

Gildehaus will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen Brackett. It was investigated by the Grain Valley, Mo., Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681393419659.png" alt="Gildehaus-photo Grain Valley Police" />
 <figcaption>Gildehaus-photo Grain Valley Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– A former Grain Valley, Missouri police officer was sentenced this week by U.S. District Judge D. Gregory Kays to 20 years in the Bureau of Prisons to be followed by supervised release for Life.August Price Gildehaus, 30, of Blue Springs, Mo., previously pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity and one count of producing child pornography.Gildehaus admitted that he engaged in illegal sexual activity with a 15-year-old female victim. Gildehaus and the victim met on an online social media platform. Gildehaus met with the victim on five separate occasions between Aug. 5, 2022, and Jan. 5, 2023, to engage in illicit sexual activity at different locations, including a middle school parking lot.Gildehaus admitted that the child victim took photographs of herself when she was home, and he took photographs of himself that he sent to her. Gildehaus also admitted that he recorded videos of their sexual encounters.Gildehaus will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maureen Brackett. It was investigated by the Grain Valley, Mo., Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Prison: KC area police officer admitted to sex crimes with 15-year-old

Contender Vicki Schmidt skips debate to protest mandatory $10,000 payment to state party

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

WICHITA — Six Republican candidates for Kansas governor stepped onto the debate stage Friday intent on finding separation from their rivals despite unanimity on key issues of abortion, marijuana, judicial bias and praise for President Donald Trump.

The goal of offering voters a distinct vision of themselves at the event sponsored by the Kansas Republican Party surfaced quickly as Charlotte O’Hara, a former Johnson County commissioner and Kansas House member, launched into an opening statement that sought to undercut a couple of her peers.

“We’re going to have some real difficult discussions this evening because Kansas has a real problem, within the Republican Party, of a vast sea of RINOs masquerading as Republicans,” said O’Hara, who directly chastised Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt and Senate President Ty Masterson for being too chummy with Democrats.

Masterson, an Andover Republican, said O’Hara’s broadside against fellow Republicans had been shown to be toxic for voters.

“That type of thing is why we lose in the general election. We spend time cutting each other off at the legs,” he said, glancing at the other GOP candidates. “This is not the enemy. The Democrats are the enemy.”

Philip Sarnecki, a financial services executive who has never before run for elected office, picked up the attack thread by noting Trump carried Kansas three times by double-digits in the same era that Kansans twice elected Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. Without naming names, he criticized longstanding politicians next to him, including former Gov. Jeff Colyer, Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Masterson. He apparently wasn’t referring to Joy Eakins, who only has won election to the Wichita school board.

“Career politicians are failing us,” Sarnecki said. “I am tired of watching Republicans lose in Kansas. No more losing. It’s time to start winning again, and that’s why I’m running for governor.”

Eakins jumped into the fray by declaring that veteran politicians in Kansas were undermining the American dream. She said the state’s established politicians “have been stewarding our decline. You see it everywhere.”

Colyer, who was lieutenant governor to Gov. Sam Brownback before assuming the top job for one year, said he didn’t appreciate the notion experience working as the state’s chief executive was a handicap.

“Kansas needs a proven, strong, competent conservative governor who will fight for you and who will stand shoulder to shoulder with President Trump,” Colyer said. “This is about winning. This is about taking back our state so that we are the beating heart of America once again.”

Schwab, who struggled with a health issue that weakened his speaking voice, said he grew as a leader by working as secretary of state and serving in the Kansas House.

“Having experience to understand the terrain has always been a plus in America,” he said. “They call be a career politician, but no one’s insulting my integrity.”

Absent from the GOP debate was Schmidt, the state’s insurance commissioner. In a letter to GOP officials, Schmidt said she strongly opposed the state party’s $10,000 “pay-to-play” requirement for candidates who wanted to participate in the debate. She said the Republican Party should remain neutral during the primary campaign and that every GOP candidate for office ought to have equal opportunities to share their views at party-sanctioned events.

“Under this agreement, the party picks winners and losers,” Schmidt said. “President Trump has brought new voters to the party and we need to be encouraging good folks to run for office as Republicans, not creating road blocks and challenges that discourage them.”

Despite a bit of theatrical elbowing on the stage, the six candidates found harmony on the goal of reducing the number of abortions performed at Kansas clinics, rejecting legalization of medicinal or recreational marijuana in Kansas and endorsing a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution — on the August ballot — that would require justices of the Kansas Supreme Court to be elected by popular vote.

In 2024, the state reported more than 19,000 abortions due to an influx of women from states that essentially banned the procedure. The state Supreme Court issued an opinion in 2019 that said a foundational right in the Kansas Constitution to bodily autonomy granted women the ability to decide whether to end a pregnancy. Despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022, abortion has remained legal in Kansas.

Colyer said at the current rate of growth in abortions in Kansas, there would be more abortions reported than live births in the state by 2030.

“How do we defend innocent life? I think this is one of the civil rights issues of our time,” Colyer said. “We have a Supreme Court that has found this right to abortion that is nowhere found in that constitution. It’s our fastest-growing industry in the state of Kansas.”

In lockstep, each of the other candidates — Schwab, Masterson, Eakins, Sarnecki and O’Hara — outlined their revulsion with Kansas’ status as an abortion destination state.

“It is frustration that the court hates its Legislature,” Schwab said. “That’s unholy. I feel horrible that a young woman can be manipulated to have an abortion, and there’s no recourse.”

The candidates had a lively conversation about marijuana use that at times appeared to clash with scientific reality.

Eakins, a businesswoman who was on the school board in Wichita, said she didn’t want high school students thinking about where to score a joint rather than focusing on their reading and math test scores. Where marijuana had been legalized, she said, states collected $1 in taxes for every $4 expended to deal with health problems resulting from pot.

“It creates all kinds of problems inside a culture that then need services,” she said. “I’ve watched families raise there children in states with this legalized marijuana … and all of them had struggles.”

Sarnecki, who said he’d never tried marijuana, said he opposed legalization because chemicals in the product would lead to a swift dumbing down of the nation. He said the active ingredient in pot these days was much higher than what was in the 1970s or 1980s.

“This is not you mom and dad’s marijuana,” he said. “Marijuana is a gateway drug. It creates massive problems — hallucinations, schizophrenia, massive anxiety.”

Masterson, who controls the Kansas Senate debate calendar, said he wouldn’t welcome legislation to legalize marijuana in Kansas, but he endorsed Trump’s decision to open the door to research on marijuana because pot was pervasive in the United States. He predicted research would demonstrate it was “damaging.”

All six candidates threw their weight behind the proposed constitutional amendment to transform how Kansas Supreme Court justices were placed on the high court. Currently, applicants for openings were interviewed by a committee that included a majority of attorneys. The committee forwarded up to three finalists to the state’s governor, who selected a person to fill the vacancy.

The amendment would eliminate that merit-selection process and replace it with statewide elections for justices. Other states that have chosen this method fostered a wild political atmosphere in which millions of dollars were spent on elections.

O’Hara, the former Johnson County commissioner, said the current process was dominated by the Kansas Bar Association. It resulted in appointment of justices who forced the state to increase spending on K-12 education and found a loophole in the constitution to keep abortion legal.

“We have to have direct elections of our justices,” she said. “It needs to be a partisan election. We have to stop allowing the Kansas Bar Association control our life through their erroneous judicial decisions.”

Danedri Herbert, chairwoman of the state Republican Party, told about 500 people gathered for the debate the primary election result wouldn’t satisfy everyone in the room. She urged Republicans to come together in November to defeat the Democratic Party’s choice.

“The one that walks away with the crown may not be your favorite,” she said. “At the end of it, we still want all of you on board because when all Republicans are united, we win.”

The dust in what could be a boisterous campaign for the Republican nomination won’t settle until votes are counted in Aug. 4 election in Kansas.

Johanna Warshaw, a spokeswoman for the Democratic Governors Association, said the “crowded, messy race to the right where attacks are already flying and candidates are staking out the most extreme positions” was on display at the Wichita Marriott. She asserted the Kansas GOP’s potential candidates to replace Kelly had aligned themselves with the Trump administration.

“The GOP candidates running for governor have all embraced the administration’s unpopular, cost-raising agenda,” Warshaw said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769894326015.png" alt="Former Gov. Jeff Colyer makes a point during the Kansas Republican Party’s gubernatorial candidate debate in Wichita. Six contenders took part, but Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt declined because the state GOP demanded a $10,000 contribution to take part. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Former Gov. Jeff Colyer makes a point during the Kansas Republican Party’s gubernatorial candidate debate in Wichita. Six contenders took part, but Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt declined because the state GOP demanded a $10,000 contribution to take part. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Contender Vicki Schmidt skips debate to protest mandatory $10,000 payment to state party</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>WICHITA — Six Republican candidates for Kansas governor stepped onto the debate stage Friday intent on finding separation from their rivals despite unanimity on key issues of abortion, marijuana, judicial bias and praise for President Donald Trump.The goal of offering voters a distinct vision of themselves at the event sponsored by the Kansas Republican Party surfaced quickly as Charlotte O’Hara, a former Johnson County commissioner and Kansas House member, launched into an opening statement that sought to undercut a couple of her peers.“We’re going to have some real difficult discussions this evening because Kansas has a real problem, within the Republican Party, of a vast sea of RINOs masquerading as Republicans,” said O’Hara, who directly chastised Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt and Senate President Ty Masterson for being too chummy with Democrats.Masterson, an Andover Republican, said O’Hara’s broadside against fellow Republicans had been shown to be toxic for voters.“That type of thing is why we lose in the general election. We spend time cutting each other off at the legs,” he said, glancing at the other GOP candidates. “This is not the enemy. The Democrats are the enemy.”Philip Sarnecki, a financial services executive who has never before run for elected office, picked up the attack thread by noting Trump carried Kansas three times by double-digits in the same era that Kansans twice elected Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly. Without naming names, he criticized longstanding politicians next to him, including former Gov. Jeff Colyer, Secretary of State Scott Schwab and Masterson. He apparently wasn’t referring to Joy Eakins, who only has won election to the Wichita school board.“Career politicians are failing us,” Sarnecki said. “I am tired of watching Republicans lose in Kansas. No more losing. It’s time to start winning again, and that’s why I’m running for governor.”Eakins jumped into the fray by declaring that veteran politicians in Kansas were undermining the American dream. She said the state’s established politicians “have been stewarding our decline. You see it everywhere.”Colyer, who was lieutenant governor to Gov. Sam Brownback before assuming the top job for one year, said he didn’t appreciate the notion experience working as the state’s chief executive was a handicap.“Kansas needs a proven, strong, competent conservative governor who will fight for you and who will stand shoulder to shoulder with President Trump,” Colyer said. “This is about winning. This is about taking back our state so that we are the beating heart of America once again.”Schwab, who struggled with a health issue that weakened his speaking voice, said he grew as a leader by working as secretary of state and serving in the Kansas House.“Having experience to understand the terrain has always been a plus in America,” he said. “They call be a career politician, but no one’s insulting my integrity.”Absent from the GOP debate was Schmidt, the state’s insurance commissioner. In a letter to GOP officials, Schmidt said she strongly opposed the state party’s $10,000 “pay-to-play” requirement for candidates who wanted to participate in the debate. She said the Republican Party should remain neutral during the primary campaign and that every GOP candidate for office ought to have equal opportunities to share their views at party-sanctioned events.“Under this agreement, the party picks winners and losers,” Schmidt said. “President Trump has brought new voters to the party and we need to be encouraging good folks to run for office as Republicans, not creating road blocks and challenges that discourage them.”Despite a bit of theatrical elbowing on the stage, the six candidates found harmony on the goal of reducing the number of abortions performed at Kansas clinics, rejecting legalization of medicinal or recreational marijuana in Kansas and endorsing a proposed amendment to the Kansas Constitution — on the August ballot — that would require justices of the Kansas Supreme Court to be elected by popular vote.In 2024, the state reported more than 19,000 abortions due to an influx of women from states that essentially banned the procedure. The state Supreme Court issued an opinion in 2019 that said a foundational right in the Kansas Constitution to bodily autonomy granted women the ability to decide whether to end a pregnancy. Despite the U.S. Supreme Court’s reversal of Roe v. Wade in 2022, abortion has remained legal in Kansas.Colyer said at the current rate of growth in abortions in Kansas, there would be more abortions reported than live births in the state by 2030.“How do we defend innocent life? I think this is one of the civil rights issues of our time,” Colyer said. “We have a Supreme Court that has found this right to abortion that is nowhere found in that constitution. It’s our fastest-growing industry in the state of Kansas.”In lockstep, each of the other candidates — Schwab, Masterson, Eakins, Sarnecki and O’Hara — outlined their revulsion with Kansas’ status as an abortion destination state.“It is frustration that the court hates its Legislature,” Schwab said. “That’s unholy. I feel horrible that a young woman can be manipulated to have an abortion, and there’s no recourse.”The candidates had a lively conversation about marijuana use that at times appeared to clash with scientific reality.Eakins, a businesswoman who was on the school board in Wichita, said she didn’t want high school students thinking about where to score a joint rather than focusing on their reading and math test scores. Where marijuana had been legalized, she said, states collected $1 in taxes for every $4 expended to deal with health problems resulting from pot.“It creates all kinds of problems inside a culture that then need services,” she said. “I’ve watched families raise there children in states with this legalized marijuana … and all of them had struggles.”Sarnecki, who said he’d never tried marijuana, said he opposed legalization because chemicals in the product would lead to a swift dumbing down of the nation. He said the active ingredient in pot these days was much higher than what was in the 1970s or 1980s.“This is not you mom and dad’s marijuana,” he said. “Marijuana is a gateway drug. It creates massive problems — hallucinations, schizophrenia, massive anxiety.”Masterson, who controls the Kansas Senate debate calendar, said he wouldn’t welcome legislation to legalize marijuana in Kansas, but he endorsed Trump’s decision to open the door to research on marijuana because pot was pervasive in the United States. He predicted research would demonstrate it was “damaging.”All six candidates threw their weight behind the proposed constitutional amendment to transform how Kansas Supreme Court justices were placed on the high court. Currently, applicants for openings were interviewed by a committee that included a majority of attorneys. The committee forwarded up to three finalists to the state’s governor, who selected a person to fill the vacancy.The amendment would eliminate that merit-selection process and replace it with statewide elections for justices. Other states that have chosen this method fostered a wild political atmosphere in which millions of dollars were spent on elections.O’Hara, the former Johnson County commissioner, said the current process was dominated by the Kansas Bar Association. It resulted in appointment of justices who forced the state to increase spending on K-12 education and found a loophole in the constitution to keep abortion legal.“We have to have direct elections of our justices,” she said. “It needs to be a partisan election. We have to stop allowing the Kansas Bar Association control our life through their erroneous judicial decisions.”Danedri Herbert, chairwoman of the state Republican Party, told about 500 people gathered for the debate the primary election result wouldn’t satisfy everyone in the room. She urged Republicans to come together in November to defeat the Democratic Party’s choice.“The one that walks away with the crown may not be your favorite,” she said. “At the end of it, we still want all of you on board because when all Republicans are united, we win.”The dust in what could be a boisterous campaign for the Republican nomination won’t settle until votes are counted in Aug. 4 election in Kansas.Johanna Warshaw, a spokeswoman for the Democratic Governors Association, said the “crowded, messy race to the right where attacks are already flying and candidates are staking out the most extreme positions” was on display at the Wichita Marriott. She asserted the Kansas GOP’s potential candidates to replace Kelly had aligned themselves with the Trump administration.“The GOP candidates running for governor have all embraced the administration’s unpopular, cost-raising agenda,” Warshaw said.

Six Kansas GOP candidates for governor toss haymakers in first debate, find unity on key issues

KANSAS CITY —One person died in shooting at a restaurant in Kansas City.

Just&nbsp;after 8p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at a restaurant at 31st and Prospect in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

First responders located two shooting victims inside the restaurant, one of the victims was alert and responsive, the second victim was unresponsive.&nbsp;

Officers rendered aid and called for EMS to the scene.&nbsp;EMS transported one vicim to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, he was last listed in stable condition, according to Becchina.

EMS took over treatment of the second, unresponsive victim and ultimately declared him deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives were at the scene and took over the investigation.&nbsp;

Preliminary information indicates that one or more people were inside the restaurant when an interaction between multiple people escalated to gunfire. That gunfire struck both victims. The suspect or suspects then left the restaurant in an unknown direction.&nbsp;

If anyone was in the restaurant or nearby and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1769955887917.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —One person died in shooting at a restaurant in Kansas City.Just&nbsp;after 8p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at a restaurant at 31st and Prospect in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.First responders located two shooting victims inside the restaurant, one of the victims was alert and responsive, the second victim was unresponsive.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/2/1769955867317.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Officers rendered aid and called for EMS to the scene.&nbsp;EMS transported one vicim to the hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries, he was last listed in stable condition, according to Becchina.EMS took over treatment of the second, unresponsive victim and ultimately declared him deceased at the scene.&nbsp;Homicide detectives were at the scene and took over the investigation.&nbsp;Preliminary information indicates that one or more people were inside the restaurant when an interaction between multiple people escalated to gunfire. That gunfire struck both victims. The suspect or suspects then left the restaurant in an unknown direction.&nbsp;If anyone was in the restaurant or nearby and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

One dead, another wounded in KC restaurant shooting

United States Department of Treasury

History will remember President Trump as the leader who brought financial market opportunity to all American families. It will remember him as the President who oversaw the largest merger in history between Main Street and Wall Street. And it will remember him for redefining the social contract through the creation of a shareholder society.&nbsp;

And how did he achieve all this? Through Trump Accounts.&nbsp;

Trump Accounts are among the most significant policy innovations of modern times. They mark a&nbsp;singular moment&nbsp;in economic history by expanding the benefits of private ownership and compound growth to all Americans. Today, I will explain where Trump Accounts came from, how they work, and why they will render socialist notions moot by making every citizen a shareholder. &nbsp;

The idea of opening investment accounts for young Americans first arose in the form of “Baby Bonds” decades ago. But the idea was flawed because the accounts could be invested only in US government bonds.&nbsp;

President Trump recognized the shortcomings of this idea while also grasping its promise. So he set out to perfect it.&nbsp;

Working with some of the most talented businessmen in the country, including Brad Gerstner and Michael Dell, he pioneered Trump Accounts—investment accounts that newborn Americans can receive on Day 1. Trump Accounts allow for private ownership, multiple funding pathways, and direct investment across a broad swath of the American economy. &nbsp;

Where President Trump’s predecessors created debt and dependency, President Trump creates assets and expands ownership. This is a signature characteristic of his presidency.&nbsp;

With Trump Accounts,&nbsp;every&nbsp;American child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, is eligible to receive a $1,000 contribution from the Treasury Department that will be immediately invested in an index fund. To claim this investment, most families need merely check a box on Form 4547, the most aptly named tax document of all time. We are just three days into the 2026 tax filing season—and already, approximately 500,000 Americans have elected to open a Trump Account for their children.&nbsp;

The compound growth from Treasury’s initial seed funding alone stands to make young Americans wealthy. Assuming historical growth rates continue, a single $1,000 deposit into a Trump Account at birth should grow to an&nbsp;estimated&nbsp;amount of at least half a million dollars by the age of retirement.

The $1,000 seed from Treasury is exclusive to newborns. But keep in mind that&nbsp;any&nbsp;American below the age of 18 is also eligible to receive a tax-advantaged Trump Account to begin saving for the future. Philanthropists, family, friends, employers, and states can backfill Trump Accounts for these children to help them build a strong financial foundation before graduating high school. Our objective is to provide every American child with a Trump account. And the men and women in this audience will help make that possible.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In addition to the $1,000 seed from Treasury, there are three other channels for funding Trump Accounts: first, through the donations of parents, friends, and employers; second, through the generous donations of wealthy Americans and philanthropic organizations; and third, through donations from state governments.&nbsp;

Funding through Family, Friends, and Employers

President Trump wanted to make it especially easy for family, friends, and employers to give to Trump Accounts. And he has succeeded in that goal. Donations to a Trump Account will soon be the best gift a child could ever receive.

Starting July 4—our nation’s 250th anniversary—family, friends, and employers will be able to contribute up to $5,000 to each Trump Account each year. By contributing the maximum amount annually, the Council of Economic Advisers estimates that a child’s Trump Account could be worth more than $1 million at age 28 and tens of millions by the age of retirement.&nbsp;

Donations from employers are essential to bringing the President’s vision to life.&nbsp; Already, we have seen a large number of US businesses across a wide range of industries step up to support Trump Accounts.

Companies like Charles Schwab, Uber, Charter Communications, Bank of New York Mellon, State Street, Mastercard, Visa, Block, Robinhood, SoFi, Chime, Russel Investments, and Dell Technologies have all announced that they will match employee contributions to Trump Accounts in a variety of forms that work best for their employees. And today, Steak ‘n Shake, Broadcom, Intel, IBM, JP Morgan, Chipotle, Coinbase, and Comcast all announced that they will offer matching contributions as well. The President foresees a day where matching contributions to Trump Accounts will be as integral to an employee benefits package as a matching 401(k).&nbsp;

Through Trump Accounts, our President is putting the American Dream within reach of every citizen, no matter the circumstances of birth. When young Americans turn 18, they can use their Trump Accounts to keep saving for their retirement. Or they can use them to help purchase a new home or further their education—two hallmarks of the American Dream.

Funding through Philanthropists and Charitable Organizations

The next means of funding is through generous donations from wealthy Americans and charitable organizations. Consider how Trump Accounts are revolutionizing not only investing but philanthropy as well.&nbsp;

The United States is the most generous country in the history of the world. In 2024 alone, our citizens gave over half a trillion dollars to charity. That’s more than the GDP of advanced countries like Singapore, Austria, and the UAE.&nbsp;

Many Americans want to give back to their fellow citizens through charitable donations. But our country has long lacked a platform of private ownership from birth that facilitated philanthropy at-scale direct to American children.

Trump Accounts are the most capital-efficient form of philanthropy ever devised.&nbsp;

Typically, middlemen, overhead costs, and administrative expenses dilute the money Americans donate to charity. But Trump Accounts remove those obstacles entirely to put money directly in the hands of American children.&nbsp;

That’s why America’s savviest capital allocators have devoted enormous sums of wealth to seeding Trump Accounts.&nbsp;

Michael and Susan Dell led the way by pledging to donate $6.25 billion of their own money to help fund Trump Accounts for 25 million children under the age of 10. Ray and Barbara Dalio then followed suit by pledging $75 million to help fund Trump Accounts for more than 300,000 children in Connecticut.&nbsp;

The Dalios were among the first to join “The 50 State Challenge”—a special initiative Treasury has launched to rally the nation’s philanthropists around a common cause. As the President said in his remarks earlier today, the 50 State Challenge is a crucial element of this revolutionary program. Expect to see more philanthropists adopting states in the months to come as the Administration prepares to launch Trump Accounts on the Fourth of July.&nbsp;

The final way of funding Trump Accounts is through state governments.&nbsp;

The administration has been working closely with a number of governors to determine the best way states can work with the federal government to expand access to Trump Accounts to as many children as possible. States are the laboratories of our democracy, and their experiments with Trump Accounts will surface the best methods for funding over time.&nbsp;

Why Trump Accounts Mark A Singular Moment in Economic History

At their core, Trump Accounts represent the triumph of capitalism over socialism.&nbsp;

Socialism left in its wake a trail of economic ruin, all in pursuit of the belief that abolishing private ownership would lead to greater equality and human flourishing. In fact, the opposite was true. &nbsp;

The last century of economic history showed us that the answer was never to abolish private ownership; it was to&nbsp;democratize&nbsp;it. To protect, strengthen, and&nbsp;expand&nbsp;it to as many people as possible so that everyone can benefit from the prosperity only capitalism can provide.

Trump Accounts do exactly that. They collapse the distinction between earners and owners by making everyone an owner—all while keeping ownership private. In the decades-long contest between capitalism and socialism, this is the Trump card.&nbsp;

Through Trump Accounts, our President is creating an ownership economy where all citizens become shareholders in America’s wealth. Today, 38% of American adults do not own stocks. But with Trump accounts, over time, we can get that number down to zero.&nbsp;

I have talked in the past about the importance of promoting Parallel Prosperity—an era of economic expansion where Wall Street and Main Street grow together. But the beauty of Trump Accounts is that prosperity no longer runs parallel; it fuses together. Under Trump Accounts, Wall Street’s success becomes Main Street’s success and vice versa. This is the greatest merger in world history, the merger of Wall Street and Main Street. And it will forever change the relationship Americans have with their own economy.&nbsp;

Trump Accounts represent a fundamental redefinition of the social contract. They offer a radically new platform that returns us to a social contract anchored in individual ownership where everyone starts life on an investing journey.&nbsp;

Creating Laboratories of Financial Literacy

Trump Accounts also create a real-time laboratory of financial literacy for all Americans.&nbsp;

Consider an alarming statistic: Approximately two-thirds of Generation Z Americans fail to answer more than half of the basic financial literacy questions on the Nation’s Personal Finance Index. We need to better educate the generation of Americans being born now. Trump Accounts will give us an opportunity to correct course by instilling financial literacy in America’s youth in a way no book, test, or school curriculum could.&nbsp;

Trump Accounts will achieve this goal by providing students with a hands-on education in the power of compound growth. Students with Trump Accounts will be able to watch their investment accounts compound in real time—from a value of a couple thousand dollars in kindergarten to potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Importantly, students will not be able to access their accounts during this time. Keeping accounts locked until age 18 will require Americans to learn the art of long-term savings and compound growth. States, philanthropists, and charitable organizations can also tie funding of individual Trump Accounts to students passing financial literacy courses. This flexibility creates space for states, philanthropies, and educators to innovate and identify what works best in building financial skills.

Three pillars of America’s social contract are embedded in the Declaration of Independence: “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Few know that Jefferson borrowed this phrase from John Locke, who famously underscored the centrality of “life, liberty, and&nbsp;property.”&nbsp;

Property and the pursuit of happiness, in other words, are deeply intertwined—and for our Founding Fathers, they were one and the same. Property, or put another way,&nbsp;ownership&nbsp;is essential to dignity and human flourishing. This was the ideal our nation was founded on in 1776. And it is the ideal our nation is being re-founded on in 2026.&nbsp;

In that sense, Trump Accounts are&nbsp;the&nbsp;defining policy of America’s 250th&nbsp;anniversary. By expanding equity ownership to all citizens, President Trump is restoring the promise of our Founding, revitalizing the social contract, and helping secure American prosperity for the next 250 years. All families can participate and own part of the American Dream.&nbsp;

Whether you are a philanthropist, a family member, or an employer, all of you here will play a critical role in this effort. So join us in growing economic opportunity, future-proofing capitalism, and carrying the promise of the Founding forward for the next century. Join us by investing in Trump Accounts.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769636019017.png" alt="President Donald Trump celebrates the launch of “Trump Accounts” for newborn children. During the summit, President Trump was joined by rapper Nicki Minaj, who proclaimed herself “his number one fan.”-image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump celebrates the launch of “Trump Accounts” for newborn children. During the summit, President Trump was joined by rapper Nicki Minaj, who proclaimed herself “his number one fan.”-image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>United States Department of TreasuryHistory will remember President Trump as the leader who brought financial market opportunity to all American families. It will remember him as the President who oversaw the largest merger in history between Main Street and Wall Street. And it will remember him for redefining the social contract through the creation of a shareholder society.&nbsp;And how did he achieve all this? Through Trump Accounts.&nbsp;Trump Accounts are among the most significant policy innovations of modern times. They mark a&nbsp;singular moment&nbsp;in economic history by expanding the benefits of private ownership and compound growth to all Americans. Today, I will explain where Trump Accounts came from, how they work, and why they will render socialist notions moot by making every citizen a shareholder. &nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpAccounts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TrumpAccounts</a>: &quot;Every President in modern history has left our children with nothing but debt — but under this Administration, we&#39;re going to leave every child with real assets and a shot at financial freedom.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/FG9YkGWk56">pic.twitter.com/FG9YkGWk56</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2016548765159608437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</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>: Dozens of major employers have signed up to add <a href="https://twitter.com/TrumpAccounts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TrumpAccounts</a> contributions to their employee benefit packages — including Uber, Schwab, Charter, Intel, Nvidia, Broadcom, IBM, Steak &#39;n Shake, Coinbase, Continental Resources, Comcast, and many others. <a href="https://t.co/U2a0o1CKtK">pic.twitter.com/U2a0o1CKtK</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2016554283630579843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</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/NICKIMINAJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NICKIMINAJ</a>: &quot;I am probably <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>&#39; number one fan, and that’s not going to change... We&#39;re not going to let them get away with bullying him, and the smear campaigns... He has a lot of force behind him, and God is protecting him.&quot; ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/kQaNgCx4eO">https://t.co/kQaNgCx4eO</a> <a href="https://t.co/jUAZlwbIOW">pic.twitter.com/jUAZlwbIOW</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2016553004220964978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</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 Trump Accounts: &quot;For the first time ever, we&#39;re going to give every newborn American child a financial stake in the future, a head start at life, and a fair shot at the American Dream.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Kw1RaFg5BL">pic.twitter.com/Kw1RaFg5BL</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2016546217237369225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Origin of Trump AccountsFirst, the origin story.&nbsp;The idea of opening investment accounts for young Americans first arose in the form of “Baby Bonds” decades ago. But the idea was flawed because the accounts could be invested only in US government bonds.&nbsp;President Trump recognized the shortcomings of this idea while also grasping its promise. So he set out to perfect it.&nbsp;Working with some of the most talented businessmen in the country, including Brad Gerstner and Michael Dell, he pioneered Trump Accounts—investment accounts that newborn Americans can receive on Day 1. Trump Accounts allow for private ownership, multiple funding pathways, and direct investment across a broad swath of the American economy. &nbsp;Where President Trump’s predecessors created debt and dependency, President Trump creates assets and expands ownership. This is a signature characteristic of his presidency.&nbsp;How Trump Accounts WorkWith Trump Accounts,&nbsp;every&nbsp;American child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, is eligible to receive a $1,000 contribution from the Treasury Department that will be immediately invested in an index fund. To claim this investment, most families need merely check a box on Form 4547, the most aptly named tax document of all time. We are just three days into the 2026 tax filing season—and already, approximately 500,000 Americans have elected to open a Trump Account for their children.&nbsp;The compound growth from Treasury’s initial seed funding alone stands to make young Americans wealthy. Assuming historical growth rates continue, a single $1,000 deposit into a Trump Account at birth should grow to an&nbsp;estimated&nbsp;amount of at least half a million dollars by the age of retirement.The $1,000 seed from Treasury is exclusive to newborns. But keep in mind that&nbsp;any&nbsp;American below the age of 18 is also eligible to receive a tax-advantaged Trump Account to begin saving for the future. Philanthropists, family, friends, employers, and states can backfill Trump Accounts for these children to help them build a strong financial foundation before graduating high school. Our objective is to provide every American child with a Trump account. And the men and women in this audience will help make that possible.&nbsp; &nbsp;In addition to the $1,000 seed from Treasury, there are three other channels for funding Trump Accounts: first, through the donations of parents, friends, and employers; second, through the generous donations of wealthy Americans and philanthropic organizations; and third, through donations from state governments.&nbsp;Funding through Family, Friends, and EmployersPresident Trump wanted to make it especially easy for family, friends, and employers to give to Trump Accounts. And he has succeeded in that goal. Donations to a Trump Account will soon be the best gift a child could ever receive.Starting July 4—our nation’s 250th anniversary—family, friends, and employers will be able to contribute up to $5,000 to each Trump Account each year. By contributing the maximum amount annually, the Council of Economic Advisers estimates that a child’s Trump Account could be worth more than $1 million at age 28 and tens of millions by the age of retirement.&nbsp;Donations from employers are essential to bringing the President’s vision to life.&nbsp; Already, we have seen a large number of US businesses across a wide range of industries step up to support Trump Accounts.Companies like Charles Schwab, Uber, Charter Communications, Bank of New York Mellon, State Street, Mastercard, Visa, Block, Robinhood, SoFi, Chime, Russel Investments, and Dell Technologies have all announced that they will match employee contributions to Trump Accounts in a variety of forms that work best for their employees. And today, Steak ‘n Shake, Broadcom, Intel, IBM, JP Morgan, Chipotle, Coinbase, and Comcast all announced that they will offer matching contributions as well. The President foresees a day where matching contributions to Trump Accounts will be as integral to an employee benefits package as a matching 401(k).&nbsp;Through Trump Accounts, our President is putting the American Dream within reach of every citizen, no matter the circumstances of birth. When young Americans turn 18, they can use their Trump Accounts to keep saving for their retirement. Or they can use them to help purchase a new home or further their education—two hallmarks of the American Dream.Funding through Philanthropists and Charitable OrganizationsThe next means of funding is through generous donations from wealthy Americans and charitable organizations. Consider how Trump Accounts are revolutionizing not only investing but philanthropy as well.&nbsp;The United States is the most generous country in the history of the world. In 2024 alone, our citizens gave over half a trillion dollars to charity. That’s more than the GDP of advanced countries like Singapore, Austria, and the UAE.&nbsp;Many Americans want to give back to their fellow citizens through charitable donations. But our country has long lacked a platform of private ownership from birth that facilitated philanthropy at-scale direct to American children.Not anymore.Trump Accounts are the most capital-efficient form of philanthropy ever devised.&nbsp;Typically, middlemen, overhead costs, and administrative expenses dilute the money Americans donate to charity. But Trump Accounts remove those obstacles entirely to put money directly in the hands of American children.&nbsp;That’s why America’s savviest capital allocators have devoted enormous sums of wealth to seeding Trump Accounts.&nbsp;Michael and Susan Dell led the way by pledging to donate $6.25 billion of their own money to help fund Trump Accounts for 25 million children under the age of 10. Ray and Barbara Dalio then followed suit by pledging $75 million to help fund Trump Accounts for more than 300,000 children in Connecticut.&nbsp;The Dalios were among the first to join “The 50 State Challenge”—a special initiative Treasury has launched to rally the nation’s philanthropists around a common cause. As the President said in his remarks earlier today, the 50 State Challenge is a crucial element of this revolutionary program. Expect to see more philanthropists adopting states in the months to come as the Administration prepares to launch Trump Accounts on the Fourth of July.&nbsp;Funding through StatesThe final way of funding Trump Accounts is through state governments.&nbsp;The administration has been working closely with a number of governors to determine the best way states can work with the federal government to expand access to Trump Accounts to as many children as possible. States are the laboratories of our democracy, and their experiments with Trump Accounts will surface the best methods for funding over time.&nbsp;Why Trump Accounts Mark A Singular Moment in Economic HistoryAt their core, Trump Accounts represent the triumph of capitalism over socialism.&nbsp;Socialism left in its wake a trail of economic ruin, all in pursuit of the belief that abolishing private ownership would lead to greater equality and human flourishing. In fact, the opposite was true. &nbsp;The last century of economic history showed us that the answer was never to abolish private ownership; it was to&nbsp;democratize&nbsp;it. To protect, strengthen, and&nbsp;expand&nbsp;it to as many people as possible so that everyone can benefit from the prosperity only capitalism can provide.Trump Accounts do exactly that. They collapse the distinction between earners and owners by making everyone an owner—all while keeping ownership private. In the decades-long contest between capitalism and socialism, this is the Trump card.&nbsp;Redefining the Social ContractThrough Trump Accounts, our President is creating an ownership economy where all citizens become shareholders in America’s wealth. Today, 38% of American adults do not own stocks. But with Trump accounts, over time, we can get that number down to zero.&nbsp;I have talked in the past about the importance of promoting Parallel Prosperity—an era of economic expansion where Wall Street and Main Street grow together. But the beauty of Trump Accounts is that prosperity no longer runs parallel; it fuses together. Under Trump Accounts, Wall Street’s success becomes Main Street’s success and vice versa. This is the greatest merger in world history, the merger of Wall Street and Main Street. And it will forever change the relationship Americans have with their own economy.&nbsp;Trump Accounts represent a fundamental redefinition of the social contract. They offer a radically new platform that returns us to a social contract anchored in individual ownership where everyone starts life on an investing journey.&nbsp;Creating Laboratories of Financial LiteracyTrump Accounts also create a real-time laboratory of financial literacy for all Americans.&nbsp;Consider an alarming statistic: Approximately two-thirds of Generation Z Americans fail to answer more than half of the basic financial literacy questions on the Nation’s Personal Finance Index. We need to better educate the generation of Americans being born now. Trump Accounts will give us an opportunity to correct course by instilling financial literacy in America’s youth in a way no book, test, or school curriculum could.&nbsp;Trump Accounts will achieve this goal by providing students with a hands-on education in the power of compound growth. Students with Trump Accounts will be able to watch their investment accounts compound in real time—from a value of a couple thousand dollars in kindergarten to potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars.Importantly, students will not be able to access their accounts during this time. Keeping accounts locked until age 18 will require Americans to learn the art of long-term savings and compound growth. States, philanthropists, and charitable organizations can also tie funding of individual Trump Accounts to students passing financial literacy courses. This flexibility creates space for states, philanthropies, and educators to innovate and identify what works best in building financial skills.ConclusionThree pillars of America’s social contract are embedded in the Declaration of Independence: “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Few know that Jefferson borrowed this phrase from John Locke, who famously underscored the centrality of “life, liberty, and&nbsp;property.”&nbsp;Property and the pursuit of happiness, in other words, are deeply intertwined—and for our Founding Fathers, they were one and the same. Property, or put another way,&nbsp;ownership&nbsp;is essential to dignity and human flourishing. This was the ideal our nation was founded on in 1776. And it is the ideal our nation is being re-founded on in 2026.&nbsp;In that sense, Trump Accounts are&nbsp;the&nbsp;defining policy of America’s 250th&nbsp;anniversary. By expanding equity ownership to all citizens, President Trump is restoring the promise of our Founding, revitalizing the social contract, and helping secure American prosperity for the next 250 years. All families can participate and own part of the American Dream.&nbsp;And with your help, we will succeed.Whether you are a philanthropist, a family member, or an employer, all of you here will play a critical role in this effort. So join us in growing economic opportunity, future-proofing capitalism, and carrying the promise of the Founding forward for the next century. Join us by investing in Trump Accounts.&nbsp;

How your baby could qualify for $1,000 with a Trump Account

LEAVENWORTH—On Saturday at approximately 12:15 a.m., Leslie Bruce Larcade was found unresponsive at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Leavenworth in Leavenworth, Kansas, according to a statement from the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

<a>Responding employees&nbsp;</a>initiated life-saving measures.&nbsp; Emergency medical services (EMS) were requested while life-saving efforts continued.&nbsp;

Larcade was subsequently pronounced deceased by EMS personnel. The Federal Bureau of Investigation was notified. No employees or other incarcerated individuals were injured,&nbsp;and at no time was the public in danger.

Larcade was a 61-year-old&nbsp; who was sentenced in the Western District of Arkansas to a 360-month sentence for Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping.&nbsp; 

He had been in custody at FCI Leavenworth since August 12, 2025.&nbsp;

In 2012, Leslie Bruce Larcade and Chrystal Lynn Larcade appeared in federal court for arraignment on charges of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping resulting in death, according to a statement from the FBI.

Leslie Larcade, 47, and his wife Chrystal Larcade, 37, both of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Harry F. Barnes who scheduled trial for April 18, 2012. If convicted of the conspiracy charge Leslie and Chrystal Larcade face up to life imprisonment and up to $250,000 in fines and if convicted of kidnapping resulting in death, Leslie and Chrystal Larcade face punishment of life imprisonment or death. A federal grand jury returned the indictment in this matter on January 25, 2012.

The indictment alleges that on August 13, 2011, the defendants handcuffed the victim, placed him in a vehicle, and drove him from McCurtain County, Oklahoma to Miller County, Arkansas. It is also alleged that the defendants placed a noose around the neck of the victim causing various injuries to the victim which resulted in his death. The indictment further alleges that the defendants dumped the body of the victim at the Texarkana Speedway in Miller County, Arkansas.

In April of 2014, Larcade and his wife were sentenced to 30-years in prison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754061661114.png" alt=" Leavenworth Federal Correctional Institution photo by Tim Carpenter" />
 <figcaption> Leavenworth Federal Correctional Institution photo by Tim Carpenter</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH—On Saturday at approximately 12:15 a.m., Leslie Bruce Larcade was found unresponsive at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Leavenworth in Leavenworth, Kansas, according to a statement from the Federal Bureau of Prisons.<a>Responding employees&nbsp;</a>initiated life-saving measures.&nbsp; Emergency medical services (EMS) were requested while life-saving efforts continued.&nbsp; Larcade was subsequently pronounced deceased by EMS personnel. The Federal Bureau of Investigation was notified. No employees or other incarcerated individuals were injured,&nbsp;and at no time was the public in danger.Larcade was a 61-year-old&nbsp; who was sentenced in the Western District of Arkansas to a 360-month sentence for Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping.&nbsp; He had been in custody at FCI Leavenworth since August 12, 2025.&nbsp;In 2012, Leslie Bruce Larcade and Chrystal Lynn Larcade appeared in federal court for arraignment on charges of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping resulting in death, according to a statement from the FBI.Leslie Larcade, 47, and his wife Chrystal Larcade, 37, both of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, appeared before U.S. District Court Judge Harry F. Barnes who scheduled trial for April 18, 2012. If convicted of the conspiracy charge Leslie and Chrystal Larcade face up to life imprisonment and up to $250,000 in fines and if convicted of kidnapping resulting in death, Leslie and Chrystal Larcade face punishment of life imprisonment or death. A federal grand jury returned the indictment in this matter on January 25, 2012.The indictment alleges that on August 13, 2011, the defendants handcuffed the victim, placed him in a vehicle, and drove him from McCurtain County, Oklahoma to Miller County, Arkansas. It is also alleged that the defendants placed a noose around the neck of the victim causing various injuries to the victim which resulted in his death. The indictment further alleges that the defendants dumped the body of the victim at the Texarkana Speedway in Miller County, Arkansas.In April of 2014, Larcade and his wife were sentenced to 30-years in prison.

Man serving time in kidnapping death found dead in Federal prison in Kansas

Washington&nbsp;– This week, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. received the PROMISE (Protecting Our Most Important Students Early) Award from the National Head Start Association. The award is given to Members of Congress who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to Head Start and serving our nation’s most vulnerable children and their families, according to a media release from Marshall's office.

The National Head Start Association is a nonprofit organization that believes that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, can succeed in school and in life. NHSA represents nearly 700,000 children across the country and has locations in all 50 states.

“I’m deeply honored to receive the PROMISE Award and to stand with the National Head Start Association,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“After delivering more than 5,000 babies during my medical career, I know the miracle of life doesn’t end at birth — it’s just the beginning. Programs like Head Start come alongside families with early education, nutrition, health services, and encouragement when it matters most. The earliest years shape a child’s future, and if we want a stronger country tomorrow, we must invest in children and families today. I’ll continue fighting for strong early childhood programs that support parents, strengthen communities, and give every child a fair shot at the American Dream.”

Senator Marshall was presented the award by NHSA’s Deputy Director Tommy Sheridan, and was joined on stage by members of the Kansas Head Start team.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769619433450.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington&nbsp;– This week, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. received the PROMISE (Protecting Our Most Important Students Early) Award from the National Head Start Association. The award is given to Members of Congress who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to Head Start and serving our nation’s most vulnerable children and their families, according to a media release from Marshall's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769619658200.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The National Head Start Association is a nonprofit organization that believes that every child, regardless of circumstances at birth, can succeed in school and in life. NHSA represents nearly 700,000 children across the country and has locations in all 50 states.“I’m deeply honored to receive the PROMISE Award and to stand with the National Head Start Association,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“After delivering more than 5,000 babies during my medical career, I know the miracle of life doesn’t end at birth — it’s just the beginning. Programs like Head Start come alongside families with early education, nutrition, health services, and encouragement when it matters most. The earliest years shape a child’s future, and if we want a stronger country tomorrow, we must invest in children and families today. I’ll continue fighting for strong early childhood programs that support parents, strengthen communities, and give every child a fair shot at the American Dream.”Senator Marshall was presented the award by NHSA’s Deputy Director Tommy Sheridan, and was joined on stage by members of the Kansas Head Start team.

National Head Start honors Kansas U.S. Senator 

BUTLER COUNTY —A Kansas pilot avoided injury after a mishap just after 10a.m. Saturday in Butler County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported, during the 4th take off attempt, a 2023 Cesnna Skyhawk, piloted by a 40-year-old Wichita woman, began to track towards the left side of the runway at the Augusta Municipal Airport. The aircraft continued drifting left and control inputs were applied in an attempt to maintain centerline and regain directional control. The aircraft continued traveling to the left, entered the snow area and came to rest upside down.

The pilot was not injured.&nbsp; The NTSB and FAA will investigate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769890933266.png" alt="Google map" />
 <figcaption>Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —A Kansas pilot avoided injury after a mishap just after 10a.m. Saturday in Butler County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported, during the 4th take off attempt, a 2023 Cesnna Skyhawk, piloted by a 40-year-old Wichita woman, began to track towards the left side of the runway at the Augusta Municipal Airport. The aircraft continued drifting left and control inputs were applied in an attempt to maintain centerline and regain directional control. The aircraft continued traveling to the left, entered the snow area and came to rest upside down.The pilot was not injured.&nbsp; The NTSB and FAA will investigate.

Aircraft came to rest upside down in the snow at Kan. airport

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —A family lost their home to a fire on Thursday.

Just before 10:30a.m., the&nbsp;Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a house fire located at 25098 P. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The Holton, Mayetta and Solder Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene along with Jackson County EMS and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. 

The&nbsp; fire resulted in the complete loss of the h9ome The residents of the address were not home at the time of the fire. There were no injuries reported. A relief account has been established at the Denison State Bank for the family, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769824887505.png" alt="Photos Jackson County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Jackson County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —A family lost their home to a fire on Thursday.Just before 10:30a.m., the&nbsp;Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a house fire located at 25098 P. Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769824865138.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Holton, Mayetta and Solder Fire Departments were dispatched to the scene along with Jackson County EMS and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The&nbsp; fire resulted in the complete loss of the h9ome The residents of the address were not home at the time of the fire. There were no injuries reported. A relief account has been established at the Denison State Bank for the family, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Rural Kansas home destroyed by fire

On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly welcomed 35 new Americans as they took the Oath of Allegiance and officially became citizens of the United States—and Kansans during a ceremony at the Statehouse.

On her social media account the Governor wrote, "Today’s Naturalization Ceremony serves as a powerful reminder that our nation is strengthened by those who choose to call it home."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769826102085.png" alt="Photos from the governor's social media account" />
 <figcaption>Photos from the governor's social media account</figcaption>
 </figure>On Friday, Governor Laura Kelly welcomed 35 new Americans as they took the Oath of Allegiance and officially became citizens of the United States—and Kansans during a ceremony at the Statehouse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769826082001.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>On her social media account the Governor wrote, "Today’s Naturalization Ceremony serves as a powerful reminder that our nation is strengthened by those who choose to call it home."

Governor welcomes 35 new Americans during ceremony at Kan. Statehouse

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement made an arrest after a suspect had a difficult time navigating a fast food restaurant drive-through.

Just before 10:30p.m. January 25, police&nbsp;responded to a report of a vehicle stuck near a fast-food drive-through in the 12000 block of Shawnee Mission Parkway, according to a social media report from the Shawnee, Kansas Police. The driver was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.

"Driving impaired puts everyone at risk. Please help keep our roads safe by planning responsibly. Use a designated driver, a ride-share service, or food delivery instead of driving under the influence."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769599495942.png" alt="Photos Shawnee Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Shawnee Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement made an arrest after a suspect had a difficult time navigating a fast food restaurant drive-through.Just before 10:30p.m. January 25, police&nbsp;responded to a report of a vehicle stuck near a fast-food drive-through in the 12000 block of Shawnee Mission Parkway, according to a social media report from the Shawnee, Kansas Police. The driver was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769599480143.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Driving impaired puts everyone at risk. Please help keep our roads safe by planning responsibly. Use a designated driver, a ride-share service, or food delivery instead of driving under the influence."

Police: Impaired Kan. driver struck in restaurant drive-through

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a> <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — The federal government began a partial shutdown early Saturday, even though Senate Democrats and President Donald Trump reached a deal that allows lawmakers more time to negotiate new constraints on immigration enforcement.&nbsp;

The Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1192/vote_119_2_00020.htm" target="_blank">voted 71-29</a>&nbsp;on Friday evening to pass the reworked government funding package before a midnight deadline. But the earliest the House could clear it for Trump’s signature is Monday evening, when members return from a recess.

The scheduling problem guarantees the current spending law, which Congress approved in November at the end of the last shutdown, will expire without a replacement.&nbsp;

However, the effects on the nation are not expected to be as dramatic as those during the historic 43-day shutdown last year. Since Congress has already passed half of the dozen annual appropriations bills, this shutdown will only affect part of the government, and possibly with moderate impacts since it may only last a few days until the House acts.

The unexpected hitch in progress toward passing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7148/text" target="_blank">the $1.2 trillion package</a>&nbsp;came about after immigration agents killed a second person in Minneapolis and Senate Democrats demanded reforms be included in the Department of Homeland Security spending bill. Trump has agreed to two weeks of negotiations on the DHS bill, which includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Customs and Border Protection and other immigration enforcement agencies.

Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Susan Collins, R-Maine, said the full-year measures are “fiscally responsible bills that reflect months of hard work and deliberation from members from both parties and both sides of the Capitol.”

“The package also continues funding for the Department of Homeland Security for two weeks to allow us additional time to evaluate further changes in ICE procedures beyond those that we have already included in this bill,” she said.&nbsp;

Once the package becomes law, she said, 96% of government will be funded for the fiscal year that began back on Oct. 1.&nbsp;

Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray, ranking member on the Appropriations Committee, said approving the five full-year bills and a stopgap for the Homeland Security Department represented “a simple, commonsense path forward.”

“It is good news we have a deal to fund these key programs families count on while work continues on serious DHS accountability over the next two weeks,” Murray said. “It could not be more clear that ICE and CBP are out of control and that we cannot just wait for the same president who caused this mess to address it.”

Senators from North Carolina, South Carolina tangle

South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham said in a floor speech several hours before voting began that he would hold up quick consideration of the funding package until leaders agreed to schedule floor votes on two separate proposals.&nbsp;

The first would establish some sort of criminal penalty for local or state officials who do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement agents, often called sanctuary cities. The second would clear the way for conservative organizations to file lawsuits against former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith for his investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.&nbsp;

“What is the right answer when a state or a mayor says, ‘I don’t like this federal law, I’m not going to do it because there’s good politics for me.’ I think you risk going to jail,” Graham said. “We cannot live in a country this way, where you get to pick and choose the laws you don’t like.”

A spokesperson for Graham later confirmed to States Newsroom that the senator didn’t want the votes Friday but “just sometime down the road.” Graham released a statement later in the afternoon that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., had agreed to schedule floor votes “at a time to be determined.”

North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis spoke directly after Graham and rebuked him for delaying the entire funding package.&nbsp;

Tillis called on senators from both political parties to start negotiations about “common sense sorts of ways to lower the temperature” on immigration enforcement.

He said officials should “hold people accountable when they’re harming ICE agents, and hold ICE agents accountable if they reacted in a way that’s not consistent with their law enforcement training.”

Tillis argued that Graham’s approach to pushing for amendment votes that are unlikely to succeed wouldn’t have any tangible, real-world impacts.&nbsp;

“One senator has a lot of power. And if you use it judiciously, you can be productive and make a difference,” Tillis said. “But if you use it in the heat of the moment, you can make a point that not a damn person is going to remember a month later.”

The departments of Defense, Education, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, State, Transportation and Treasury will all experience the funding lapse. The Executive Office of the President, Supreme Court and judicial branch will also be affected.&nbsp;

All other federal programs will continue uninterrupted, since their spending bills have become law, including those at the departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Justice and Veterans Affairs, as well as military construction projects and funding for Congress.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts wrote in a statement earlier this week that “operations would continue using court fees and other available balances through Wednesday, February 4.&nbsp;

“The following day, on February 5, the Judiciary would begin operating under the terms of the Anti-Deficiency Act. Federal courts would continue operating, but would be limited to activities needed to support the exercise of the Judiciary’s constitutional functions and to address emergency circumstances.”

House Democrats demand changes in DHS bill

A spokesperson for the White House budget office said the departments and agencies affected by the funding lapse can use their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/how-federal-shutdown-playing-out-across-government" target="_blank">contingency plans from the last shutdown</a>&nbsp;unless they had “big changes.”

Those documents detail how many employees continue working without pay during a shutdown and how many are furloughed.&nbsp;

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats wouldn’t support the spending bill unless major reforms are made in the way immigration officers conduct enforcement.

“We’re going to have to evaluate what the real opportunity is to get dramatic changes at the Department of Homeland Security. It has to be bold,” he said during a morning press conference. “The Senate has to do its thing before we have anything to evaluate.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759315749226.png" alt="Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a> <a href="https://statesnewsroom.com/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — The federal government began a partial shutdown early Saturday, even though Senate Democrats and President Donald Trump reached a deal that allows lawmakers more time to negotiate new constraints on immigration enforcement.&nbsp;The Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1192/vote_119_2_00020.htm" target="_blank">voted 71-29</a>&nbsp;on Friday evening to pass the reworked government funding package before a midnight deadline. But the earliest the House could clear it for Trump’s signature is Monday evening, when members return from a recess.The scheduling problem guarantees the current spending law, which Congress approved in November at the end of the last shutdown, will expire without a replacement.&nbsp;However, the effects on the nation are not expected to be as dramatic as those during the historic 43-day shutdown last year. Since Congress has already passed half of the dozen annual appropriations bills, this shutdown will only affect part of the government, and possibly with moderate impacts since it may only last a few days until the House acts.The unexpected hitch in progress toward passing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7148/text" target="_blank">the $1.2 trillion package</a>&nbsp;came about after immigration agents killed a second person in Minneapolis and Senate Democrats demanded reforms be included in the Department of Homeland Security spending bill. Trump has agreed to two weeks of negotiations on the DHS bill, which includes funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Customs and Border Protection and other immigration enforcement agencies.Senate Appropriations Chairwoman Susan Collins, R-Maine, said the full-year measures are “fiscally responsible bills that reflect months of hard work and deliberation from members from both parties and both sides of the Capitol.”“The package also continues funding for the Department of Homeland Security for two weeks to allow us additional time to evaluate further changes in ICE procedures beyond those that we have already included in this bill,” she said.&nbsp;Once the package becomes law, she said, 96% of government will be funded for the fiscal year that began back on Oct. 1.&nbsp;Washington Democratic Sen. Patty Murray, ranking member on the Appropriations Committee, said approving the five full-year bills and a stopgap for the Homeland Security Department represented “a simple, commonsense path forward.”“It is good news we have a deal to fund these key programs families count on while work continues on serious DHS accountability over the next two weeks,” Murray said. “It could not be more clear that ICE and CBP are out of control and that we cannot just wait for the same president who caused this mess to address it.”<h2>Senators from North Carolina, South Carolina tangle</h2>South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham said in a floor speech several hours before voting began that he would hold up quick consideration of the funding package until leaders agreed to schedule floor votes on two separate proposals.&nbsp;The first would establish some sort of criminal penalty for local or state officials who do not cooperate with federal immigration enforcement agents, often called sanctuary cities. The second would clear the way for conservative organizations to file lawsuits against former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith for his investigation into efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.&nbsp;“What is the right answer when a state or a mayor says, ‘I don’t like this federal law, I’m not going to do it because there’s good politics for me.’ I think you risk going to jail,” Graham said. “We cannot live in a country this way, where you get to pick and choose the laws you don’t like.”A spokesperson for Graham later confirmed to States Newsroom that the senator didn’t want the votes Friday but “just sometime down the road.” Graham released a statement later in the afternoon that Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., had agreed to schedule floor votes “at a time to be determined.”North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis spoke directly after Graham and rebuked him for delaying the entire funding package.&nbsp;Tillis called on senators from both political parties to start negotiations about “common sense sorts of ways to lower the temperature” on immigration enforcement.He said officials should “hold people accountable when they’re harming ICE agents, and hold ICE agents accountable if they reacted in a way that’s not consistent with their law enforcement training.”Tillis argued that Graham’s approach to pushing for amendment votes that are unlikely to succeed wouldn’t have any tangible, real-world impacts.&nbsp;“One senator has a lot of power. And if you use it judiciously, you can be productive and make a difference,” Tillis said. “But if you use it in the heat of the moment, you can make a point that not a damn person is going to remember a month later.”<h2>Some departments, judiciary affected</h2>The departments of Defense, Education, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, State, Transportation and Treasury will all experience the funding lapse. The Executive Office of the President, Supreme Court and judicial branch will also be affected.&nbsp;All other federal programs will continue uninterrupted, since their spending bills have become law, including those at the departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, Interior, Justice and Veterans Affairs, as well as military construction projects and funding for Congress.&nbsp;A spokesperson for the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts wrote in a statement earlier this week that “operations would continue using court fees and other available balances through Wednesday, February 4.&nbsp;“The following day, on February 5, the Judiciary would begin operating under the terms of the Anti-Deficiency Act. Federal courts would continue operating, but would be limited to activities needed to support the exercise of the Judiciary’s constitutional functions and to address emergency circumstances.”<h2>House Democrats demand changes in DHS bill</h2>A spokesperson for the White House budget office said the departments and agencies affected by the funding lapse can use their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/how-federal-shutdown-playing-out-across-government" target="_blank">contingency plans from the last shutdown</a>&nbsp;unless they had “big changes.”Those documents detail how many employees continue working without pay during a shutdown and how many are furloughed.&nbsp;House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats wouldn’t support the spending bill unless major reforms are made in the way immigration officers conduct enforcement.“We’re going to have to evaluate what the real opportunity is to get dramatic changes at the Department of Homeland Security. It has to be bold,” he said during a morning press conference. “The Senate has to do its thing before we have anything to evaluate.”

Partial federal government shutdown begins, amid hopes it won’t last long

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.&nbsp;

Just before 10:30p.m. Thursday Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 300 block of NE 86th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. On arrival, crews reported fire showing from a single-story house, and advanced 2 hose lines on an offensive fire attack.

Searches were performed and were all clear. The fire was brought under control at 10:42 p.m.&nbsp; Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. There were no injuries have been reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769811354565.png" alt="Photo KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769811330200.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 10:30p.m. Thursday Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported house fire in the 300 block of NE 86th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. On arrival, crews reported fire showing from a single-story house, and advanced 2 hose lines on an offensive fire attack.Searches were performed and were all clear. The fire was brought under control at 10:42 p.m.&nbsp; Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. There were no injuries have been reported.

Cause of Kansas City house fire under investigation

WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today published over 3 million additional pages responsive to the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on November 19, 2025.

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here t</a>o view the latest files

More than 2,000 videos and 180,000 images are included in today’s additional publication. Combined with prior releases, this makes the total production nearly 3.5 million pages released in compliance with the Act, according to a media release on the DOJ website.

These files were collected from five primary sources including the Florida and New York cases against Epstein, the New York case against Maxwell, the New York cases investigating Epstein’s death, the Florida case investigating a former butler of Epstein, Multiple FBI investigations, and the Office of Inspector General investigation into Epstein’s death.

The Department erred on the side of over-collecting materials, and any materials not produced fall within one of the following categories:

More than 500 attorneys and reviewers from the Department contributed to this effort. In addition, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (USAO-SDNY) employed an additional review protocol to ensure compliance with a Court order requiring United States Attorney Jay Clayton to certify that no victim identifying information would be produced unredacted as part of the public production.

Through the process, the Department provided clear instructions to reviewers that the redactions were to be limited to the protection of victims and their families. Some pornographic images, whether commercial or not, were redacted, given the Department treated all women in those images as victims. Notable individuals and politicians were not redacted in the release of any files.

This production may include fake or falsely submitted images, documents or videos, as everything that was sent to the FBI by the public was included in the production that is responsive to the Act. Some of the documents contain untrue and sensationalist claims against President Trump that were submitted to the FBI right before the 2020 election. To be clear, the claims are unfounded and false, and if they have a shred of credibility, they certainly would have been weaponized against President Trump already.

To access the full letter the Justice Department sent to Congress today, visit:

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/letter-to-congress.pdf">https://www.justice.gov/letter-to-congress.pdf</a>

To access all files produced, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">https://www.justice.gov/epstein</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769812323594.png" alt="Image previously released by the U.S. Department of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Image previously released by the U.S. Department of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice today published over 3 million additional pages responsive to the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which was signed into law by President Trump on November 19, 2025.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here t</a>o view the latest filesMore than 2,000 videos and 180,000 images are included in today’s additional publication. Combined with prior releases, this makes the total production nearly 3.5 million pages released in compliance with the Act, according to a media release on the DOJ website.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769817863085.png" alt="Email exchange from Elon Musk in the files released Friday" />
 <figcaption>Email exchange from Elon Musk in the files released Friday</figcaption>
 </figure>These files were collected from five primary sources including the Florida and New York cases against Epstein, the New York case against Maxwell, the New York cases investigating Epstein’s death, the Florida case investigating a former butler of Epstein, Multiple FBI investigations, and the Office of Inspector General investigation into Epstein’s death.The Department erred on the side of over-collecting materials, and any materials not produced fall within one of the following categories:<ul>
 <li>Duplicate documents between SDNY and SDFL investigations.</li><li>Withheld under privilege- deliberative process privilege, attorney client privilege.</li><li>Withheld based upon exceptions under the act (depictions of violence);</li><li>Items that were that are not part of the case file for Epstein or Maxwell and were completely unrelated to these cases.</li>
 </ul>More than 500 attorneys and reviewers from the Department contributed to this effort. In addition, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York (USAO-SDNY) employed an additional review protocol to ensure compliance with a Court order requiring United States Attorney Jay Clayton to certify that no victim identifying information would be produced unredacted as part of the public production.Through the process, the Department provided clear instructions to reviewers that the redactions were to be limited to the protection of victims and their families. Some pornographic images, whether commercial or not, were redacted, given the Department treated all women in those images as victims. Notable individuals and politicians were not redacted in the release of any files.This production may include fake or falsely submitted images, documents or videos, as everything that was sent to the FBI by the public was included in the production that is responsive to the Act. Some of the documents contain untrue and sensationalist claims against President Trump that were submitted to the FBI right before the 2020 election. To be clear, the claims are unfounded and false, and if they have a shred of credibility, they certainly would have been weaponized against President Trump already.To access the full letter the Justice Department sent to Congress today, visit:<a href="https://www.justice.gov/letter-to-congress.pdf">https://www.justice.gov/letter-to-congress.pdf</a>To access all files produced, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">https://www.justice.gov/epstein</a>

View the latest release of millions of pages of Epstein file documents

Panel rejects trial judge’s sanction against KHP for using ‘Kansas Two-Step’

TOPEKA — The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a federal district court decision that the Kansas Highway Patrol engaged in unconstitutional targeting of out-of-state motorists, but it decided an injunction issued by the trial judge against the state law enforcement agency went too far.

On Thursday, the 10th Circuit affirmed the Kansas district court’s decision requiring KHP to alter trooper training related to targeting of motorists so those procedures adhered to the Fourth Amendment standard in the U.S. Constitution regarding searches and seizures. However, the appellate panel reviewing the outcome of Shaw v. Jones directed U.S. District Court Judge Kathryn Vratil to revise her injunction imposing further restraints on KHP.

Monica Bennett, legal director of the ACLU of Kansas, said the result was KHP must retrain its troopers to “observe and respect the rights of all people traveling Kansas highways.”

“Motorists in Kansas and across the country are entitled to expect law enforcement to comply with the Constitution,” said Patrick McInerney, a partner at the Spencer Fane law firm. “The court’s decision today demands it, and we are proud to have been part of the effort to hold the KHP accountable.”

The lawsuit was filed in 2020 by ACLU of Kansas and Spencer Fane to challenge KHP’s policy of homing in on motorists with out-of-state license plates. Under this KHP practice, troopers on Interstate 70 focused on vehicles traveling to or from Colorado, which allows recreational sales of marijuana.

Under the 2016 decision in Vasquez v. Lewis, the 10th Circuit previously held “a driver’s state of residency is a completely innocuous factor in determining whether a driver is suspicious.”

KHP declined to incorporate the Vasquez ruling into its training programs and continued to rely on a person’s residency for the basis of traffic stops along I-70. The reality of the 2016 Court of Appeals decision didn’t become part of KHP training materials until after plaintiffs in the case filed the lawsuit.

Statistical evidence presented during trial found out-of-state drivers comprised 35% of drivers on the I-70, but made up 77% of KHP traffic stops and 90% of KHP canine searches.

“Despite repeated warnings from the 10th Circuit, the Kansas Highway Patrol has continued to unconstitutionally target out-of-state drivers for suspicionless roadside detentions,” said Brian Hauss, deputy director of the ACLU’s Speech, Privacy and Technology Project.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586208701830.png" alt="The 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals published an opinion affirming a Kansas judge's conclusion the Kansas Highway Patrol engaged in unconstitutional traffic stops by targeting out-of-state motorists, but reversing a majority of sanctions imposed on the law enforcement agency for its controversial "Kansas Two-Step" approach to extending traffic stops to justify vehicle searches.-photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>The 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals published an opinion affirming a Kansas judge's conclusion the Kansas Highway Patrol engaged in unconstitutional traffic stops by targeting out-of-state motorists, but reversing a majority of sanctions imposed on the law enforcement agency for its controversial "Kansas Two-Step" approach to extending traffic stops to justify vehicle searches.-photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Panel rejects trial judge’s sanction against KHP for using ‘Kansas Two-Step’</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a federal district court decision that the Kansas Highway Patrol engaged in unconstitutional targeting of out-of-state motorists, but it decided an injunction issued by the trial judge against the state law enforcement agency went too far.On Thursday, the 10th Circuit affirmed the Kansas district court’s decision requiring KHP to alter trooper training related to targeting of motorists so those procedures adhered to the Fourth Amendment standard in the U.S. Constitution regarding searches and seizures. However, the appellate panel reviewing the outcome of Shaw v. Jones directed U.S. District Court Judge Kathryn Vratil to revise her injunction imposing further restraints on KHP.Monica Bennett, legal director of the ACLU of Kansas, said the result was KHP must retrain its troopers to “observe and respect the rights of all people traveling Kansas highways.”“Motorists in Kansas and across the country are entitled to expect law enforcement to comply with the Constitution,” said Patrick McInerney, a partner at the Spencer Fane law firm. “The court’s decision today demands it, and we are proud to have been part of the effort to hold the KHP accountable.”The lawsuit was filed in 2020 by ACLU of Kansas and Spencer Fane to challenge KHP’s policy of homing in on motorists with out-of-state license plates. Under this KHP practice, troopers on Interstate 70 focused on vehicles traveling to or from Colorado, which allows recreational sales of marijuana.Under the 2016 decision in Vasquez v. Lewis, the 10th Circuit previously held “a driver’s state of residency is a completely innocuous factor in determining whether a driver is suspicious.”KHP declined to incorporate the Vasquez ruling into its training programs and continued to rely on a person’s residency for the basis of traffic stops along I-70. The reality of the 2016 Court of Appeals decision didn’t become part of KHP training materials until after plaintiffs in the case filed the lawsuit.Statistical evidence presented during trial found out-of-state drivers comprised 35% of drivers on the I-70, but made up 77% of KHP traffic stops and 90% of KHP canine searches.“Despite repeated warnings from the 10th Circuit, the Kansas Highway Patrol has continued to unconstitutionally target out-of-state drivers for suspicionless roadside detentions,” said Brian Hauss, deputy director of the ACLU’s Speech, Privacy and Technology Project.The lawsuit’s plaintiffs also sought to stop KHP officers from using a roadside tactic, referred to as the “Kansas Two-Step.” It involves KHP troopers taking a couple of steps toward a patrol vehicle to leave the impression of terminating traffic stops before reengaging drivers in a conversation designed to develop reasonable suspicion of drug trafficking and prompt a vehicle search for contraband.Vratil’s injunction, put in place for up to four years, required KHP to reform its training to address the nonresident motorist problem.She also forbid use by KHP of the two-step strategy for motorists on I-70, I-35, U.S. Route 54 or U.S. Route 36. She ordered KHP to alter its training curriculum so troopers informed drivers of their right to refuse whenever asked for consent to search their vehicle. She mandated a driver’s consent had to be documented in writing by KHP.In addition, Vratil ordered KHP to collect data on traffic stops and seizures. She directed KHP to create video and audio recordings of all traffic stops and mandated KHP supervisors review the recordings within 72 hours for policy infractions.After the district court ruled against KHP and ordered the agency to reform enforcement practices, KHP Superintendent Eric Smith appealed to the Court of Appeals.The appellate judges considering the Kansas case agreed KHP should have long ago abandoned the “pretense that state citizenship is a permissible basis upon which to justify the detention and search of out-of-state motorists.”The Court of Appeals also held the “district court abused its discretion by granting injunctive relief beyond ordering further training regarding the irrelevance of a driver’s state of origin.”Specifically, the Court of Appeals faulted Vratil’s comprehensive injunction for inhibiting KHP’s use of the controversial two-step approach when engaged in traffic stops.“This circuit has never held that this practice has violated a driver’s constitutional rights and has repeatedly upheld that practice in specific cases,” the appeals court said.The KHP didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment about the decision of the federal Court of Appeals.