Salina Police have arrested a man of being under the influence of drugs, after a call was made about him 'screaming with a gun' in a Salina neighborhood.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Monday, August 18 at around 1:40 pm, a 20-year old man contacted police and said someone was 'chasing after him.' 

However, SPD received another call shortly about a man 'screaming with a gun' in the area of Eastgate and Beloit Ave.

Afterwards, SPD and Kansas state authorities arrived to the area and located the man who was reportedly 'screaming with a gun.' Authorities took the man into custody, but did not locate a gun on him. 

SPD stated the man who was arrested, was the same 20-year old male who called about someone 'chasing after him.'

Authorities stated the man was 'under the influence of drugs' and transported him to Salina Regional Health Center to be medically evaluated.&nbsp;

Furthermore, officers located a duffel bag in the area where the arrest was made. SPD stated inside the bag they found cocaine and handgun magazines and ammunition. A handgun was later located in front of a residence around the area.

SPD accused the man to be connected to the duffel bag and handgun.

According to SPD, the suspect is currently at the hospital. Once he is released, SPD will book him into the Saline County Jail for requested charges that include, Possession of drugs and possibly Intoxicated Possession of a Firearm.

SPD stated the name of the suspect cannot be released at this time, but will be once they officially press charges on him.&nbsp;

Salina PD arrest man of being under the influence of drugs and armed with a gun, pending requested charges 

Kansas Department of Transportation

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to temporarily close a portion of I-135 starting at mile marker 82 in Saline County on two separate occasions. The closures are necessary to swing and place beams for the new K-4 bridge construction over I-135.

Southbound I-135 will close at 7:00 pm Friday, August 22 and reopen at 6:00 am on Saturday, August 23.

Northbound I-135 will close at 7:00 pm Monday, August 25 and reopen at 6:00 am on Tuesday, August 26.

Traffic will be diverted up and down the interchange ramps at exit 82 during the closures.

King Construction of Hesston is the prime contractor of the bridge replacement project which is scheduled to be open to traffic by November, with all work scheduled to be complete by December, conditions permitting.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone.&nbsp; 

To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas, go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/http:%2F%2Fwww.kandrive.gov%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/01010198c2f079af-08ec8473-283a-43a5-a4d8-594cabd4afd8-000000/QJp_bO07nmOr11YyBzb-3DarLxK23dQeqCGNz4tGeb4=418">kandrive.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 5-1-1.

Portions of I-135 set to temporarily close in Saline County

Saline County Food Action Community Team

The Saline County Food Action Community Team (FACT) is reminding residents that two community listening sessions will take place&nbsp; Wednesday, August 20&nbsp;as part of the effort to create Saline County’s first comprehensive food system assessment.

The sessions are open to all community members and will help shape the future of food access, food security, and local food systems in the county.

Light refreshments will be provided, and all are welcome to attend. No registration is required.

“This is your chance to make your voice heard about food in Saline County,” said Michelle Coats, Chair of FACT. “Whether you’ve struggled with food access, use a food pantry, grow your own food, or just care about healthy food in our community, we want to hear from you.”

These sessions are the final step in building the Saline County Food Assessment, following a county-wide survey and a series of stakeholder interviews. Insights gathered will be included in the final report later this year.

This project is made possible through the generous support of the Salina Regional Health Foundation and the Kansas Health Foundation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Saline County Food Action Community Team (FACT)&nbsp;is a coalition of local organizations, businesses, and community members dedicated to improving food access and security in Saline County. FACT works collaboratively to identify food system challenges, support local food initiatives, and develop strategies that ensure all residents have access to healthy, affordable food. Through partnerships, advocacy, and community-driven solutions, FACT aims to strengthen the local food network, reduce food insecurity, and promote sustainable food practices across the county.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.eatwellsalinecounty.com/">www.eatwellsalinecounty.com</a>&nbsp;or email the Saline County Food Action Community Team at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:salinecountyfact@gmail.com">salinecountyfact@gmail.com</a>

Saline County Food Action hosting two community listening sessions on Wednesday

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Domestic battery: Knowing/reckless bodily harm

NAME:&nbsp;Curtis, Raelynne Elizebeth

REQUESTED CHARGE: Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Probation Violation; Return for court testimony

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Agg. weapons violation by felon; 21-6301 a1-a3/21-6302 a1-a4 no expunge/pardon; Crim. carry weapon; Concealed billy/blackjack

REQUESTED CHARGE:&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

NAME:&nbsp;Schimmel, Tevin Lawrence

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Contribute to child misconduct; Encourage to commit a felony; Contribute to a child misconduct; Shelter/conceal a runaway; Use/poss. drug paraphernalia/human body; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose felony warrant; Poss. of marijuana; Poss. of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

REQUESTED CHARGES: Failure to appear (2 requested charges)&nbsp;

NAME:&nbsp;Suenram, Benjamin Stroda

REQUESTED CHARGES: Failure to appear (3 requested charges);&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGES:&nbsp;Domestic Battery: rude physical contact; Interf. w/LEO; obstr./resist/oppose misd. warrant

Saline County Jail Bookings, August 19

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina is expanding its innovative mentoring initiative, Beyond School Walls, now entering its fourth year. 

Originally launched in 2022 as a pilot in partnership with Vortex and Salina Public Schools, the program connects high school students with professional mentors to help prepare them for future careers. Since its inception, the initiative has gained momentum, welcoming partners including Great Plains Manufacturing, the Salina Family YMCA, and the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce.

Beyond School Walls was created in response to a growing workforce challenge—nearly 40% of employers globally struggle to find candidates with the skills they need. By fostering one-to-one mentoring relationships within professional settings, the program equips students with practical skills and career exposure while helping businesses enhance employee engagement.

Through regular visits to participating businesses, students gain firsthand experience in professional environments and explore career paths ranging from financial literacy to STEM fields. These experiences not only broaden their horizons but also build lasting, supportive relationships with mentors who help guide them toward post-graduation success.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters creates life-changing relationships, and at Vortex, we understand how vital that is, not only for the youth being mentored, but for the mentors, too. When we support programs like this, we’re investing in stronger individuals, stronger families, and ultimately a stronger community," said Travis Young, CEO of Vortex.

“The Beyond Schools Walls program has been great for our employees and the students. We get to incorporate them into our workdays. They can see what local companies and the community have to offer for future career options," said Slade Spratlen, Manufacturing Recruiter/Human Resources of Great Plains Manufacturing.

"We’re thrilled to team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters to help more kids in our community find the support and encouragement they deserve. The Beyond School Walls program is such a powerful idea, it brings mentorship right into the spaces where kids already feel safe and supported. Our Y staff is genuinely excited to be part of this and can’t wait to build real connections with the youth we serve. We’re thankful to be included in something that’s making a real difference, and we’ve got the people, the heart, and the energy to help it grow," said&nbsp; Chris Lehecka, President &amp; CEO of Salina Family YMCA.

“Beyond School Walls was developed to reach more young people and build a stronger, more connected community,” said Amanda Otto, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Salina. “We’re thrilled to see this program grow and expand its impact, helping even more youth find the support they need. Our goal is for every student to graduate with a clear path forward—and a mentor whose influence stays with them for life. We couldn’t do this amazing work without the dedicated business partners, volunteers and our generous community.”

To learn more, contact Amanda Otto at amandao@bbbssalina.org or (785) 825-5509.

BBBS of Salina expands workplace mentoring program for the future careers of high school students 

The Salina Police Department (SPD) are currently investigating and awaiting the results of a final forensic pathologist report  for a 7-week old infant who died late July.

According to the SPD, they are staying updated with Kansas City medical examiners on the cause of death.

SPD stated once they receive an update, they will release that information as soon as received.

Salina Post will follow up on more information once received.

SPD awaiting final forensic reports on the death of a 7-week old infant

After the <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">public meet &amp; greet and&nbsp;closed interviews with the Salina City Commission</a>, the decision on a new City Manager is still pending.

The decision on the fulfillment of the City Manager position for Salina has yet to be announced. Finalists <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Jacob Wood</a>, <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Darrin Tangeman</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5106497e-8227-4adb-9d83-5c279472700b">Michael Tremblay</a> each made an appearance at the public meet &amp; greet that took place at the Stiefel Theatre on Monday, August 11.

According to the Human Resources Director for the City of Salina, Natalie Fischer, after closed interviews the Commissioners conducted with the finalists on Tuesday, August 12th, no decision was made. 

Fischer mentioned City of Salina staff are currently awaiting a decision from the Commissioners.

Fischer is unsure of the Commissioner's timeline on a decision.

Salina Post will provide updates and the decision on the new City Manager once received.

UPDATE: Decision on Salina City Manager still pending

A 2-year old girl from Salina has been nominated as part of a nationwide competition for a chance to win "Toddler of the Year," by <a href="https://www.toysfortots.org/">Toys for Tots</a>.

Salina born, Londyn Carter has a chance to win $25,000.00, a photoshoot campaign for brands, lead the "Hollywood Christmas Parade," and visiting the Peppa Pig Amusement Park in Florida. Carter has been&nbsp;a competitor for the last several weeks for "Toddler of the Year" in partnership with <a href="https://shop.hasbro.com/en-us">Hasbro</a> and <a href="https://www.toysfortots.org/">Toys for Tots. </a>&nbsp;She has placed top 20, top 15 and top 10.

If given the chance to win, the money would go towards Londyn and her siblings college funds.&nbsp;

Her parents are Casey Herring (Joel Lutz) and Andrew Aronson of Salina, KS. Herring stated Londyn was born in Salina two months premature and spent a short time in the NICU with her twin brother. 

"Londyn now enjoys playing with her siblings, feeding farm animals, riding tractors and keeping everyone on their toes," said Herring. "$25,000 would be a blessing for our family as we have endured several obstacles over the years. This would help start schooling funds for Londyn and her siblings."

Londyn is now in running for top 5 that ends Thursday August 21st. After the voting ends, the start of group finals occurs. But the competition still has several stages to go, beginning and ending every Thursday until September 25th.

Voting is free once daily through:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftoddleroftheyear.org%2F2025%2Flondyn-70df%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExRFBRb1VPSUh6U2RiSUZvYwEeWlbnHAODcwMiQtpuHlHrwJfC_2POC0XmJsbtXF4fy7CEYxWv2BWDBYkS6Tw_aem_9byjolzcJPn5xKq2ry4V2g&amp;h=AT3Gr4WG1Ln8GH-EHIiLLBQTfj6arjKf30jkmoZVUURhXd0uY9uGFiLMk5PX-ktNRafOfCe33j9xt-RsfvqL7a88TJO6GDjB_7TDkzrw7OQS3y4Y9gdGFKqmgKsyEdNrxzW7R-jLFtY">https://toddleroftheyear.org/2025/londyn-70df</a>

Buying votes is also an option through the link. All proceeds from buying votes goes towards donations for Toys for Tots.

Vote Salina born Londyn for nationwide competition "Toddler of the Year"

Central Kansas shoppers now have a brand-new way to score deals on jewelry, dining, entertainment, and more with the launch of&nbsp;<a href="http://SalinaMarketplace.com">SalinaMarketplace.com</a>.

The&nbsp;Salina Marketplace&nbsp;features over&nbsp;$10,000 worth of items and experiences, including restaurant gift cards, jewelry, zoo passes, concert tickets, advertising packages and unique gifts from local businesses. Shoppers can browse the catalog and&nbsp;pay what they want&nbsp;for each item.

From dinner-and-a-show packages at the Stiefel Theatre and Martinelli’s, to premium jewelry from Vernon Jewelers, to radio advertising campaigns and family experiences, there’s something for everyone.

But hurry—all Marketplace items close this Friday, August 22nd at 5:00 pm. Once they’re gone, they’re gone!

“Salina Marketplace is a chance for shoppers to support local businesses and get great deals at the same time,” said [Insert Name/Title if you want a quote]. “It’s a win-win for the community.”

Visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.salinamarketplace.com/">www.SalinaMarketplace.com</a>&nbsp;today to shop, save, and discover something new!

Man arrested after throwing rocks at operating vehicles in Salina

A woman was arrested after threatening a teenage girl with a knife inside a home.

According to the Salina Police Department (SPD) on Sunday, August 17th at around noon, a teenage girl called police about her female relative threatening her with a knife inside a home in South Salina.

SPD immediately arrived to the home and arrested 30-year old, Maria Perez-Aguilar without incident. According to SPD, Perez-Aguilar was going through a 'mental-health crisis' when she threatened the girl.

Perez-Aguilar was transported to Salina Regional Health Center for a medical evaluation. She is facing requested charges of Aggravated Assault and Child Endangerment.

Woman arrested after threatening a teenage girl with a knife inside a home

After the high temperatures and over 100 heat indices, a possibility of rain is expected to occur throughout Central Kansas this week.

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), an anticipation of showers and thunderstorms are expected to happen throughout Central Kansas. Reportedly, there is a better chance on Tuesday, August 19 and into the following day on Wednesday.

Slightly cooler weather is expected for Wednesday and Thursday with highs being in the range of 89-93.

Monitor local weather updates frequently in multiple ways by listening to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/nwr/">NOAA Weather Radio</a>, checking local news and emergency notifications. You can also stay informed by following Saline County and the National Weather Service on social media.

For the latest forecast updates, visit the National Weather Service Wichita office at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/ict/">https://www.weather.gov/ict/</a>. To check forecasts frequently, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.weather.gov/">weather.gov</a>.

Chances of showers and t-storms expected for Tuesday & Wednesday

<a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Salina&amp;state=KS&amp;site=ICT&amp;lat=38.8158&amp;lon=-97.6178">For a full look at the weather forecast, click here.</a>

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 18 - August 20

High temperatures and breezy winds are expected to occur throughout Central Kansas this weekend and into Monday, August 18.&nbsp;

According to the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), heat indices are expected to reach as high as 105 in Central Kansas this weekend. Breezy conditions are anticipated to occur as well.

Hot and dry weather will remain through the weekend before chances rain return moving into next week on Monday.

High temps returning this weekend with breezy conditions, rain expected on Monday  

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 15 - August 17

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 13 - August 15

After isolated scattered storms until Wednesday, heat indices are expected to reach back up to the 100's from Thursday and into the weekend in Central Kansas.

According to the US National Weather Service, isolated to widely scattered thunderstorms will remain possible areawide on Tuesday and over southeast Kansas till Wednesday. 

A return to triple digit heat indices is expected by Thursday and persisting through at least the weekend.

Central Kansas Weather Forecast: August 12 - August 16

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 11 - August 13

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 8 - August 10

Temperatures are ramping back up after a dropdown last week in Central Kansas.

According the US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS), heat indices throughout the Central Kansas region are expected to reach over 100 degrees. 

Areas such as Salina, Russell, Hutchinson, Wichita, Harper and Winfield are under a heat advisory for Thursday, August 7 and Friday, August 8. 

Additional areas include Emporia, Eureka, Chanute and Coffeyville for Friday

US National Weather Service (Wichita, KS) advises everyone to take precaution during these times.

Temperatures ramping back up in Central Kansas with heat indices over 100

Three day weather forecast Salina, August 6 - August 8

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a violent robbery in Manhattan.

Just&nbsp; before 6p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault and aggravated robbery in the 700 block of Riley Lane in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;An 18-year-old man and a 14-year-old man reported that a 43-year-old suspect identified as Steven Renner of Manhattan threatened them with a crowbar and took a moped. 

Police later arrested Renner on requested charges of aggravated assault, aggravated robbery and a Riley County District Court warrant for failure to appear. Renner remains jailed on a bond of $50,250.

Police: Kan. man threatened victims with crowbar during robbery

SHAWNEE COUNTY —One person died after a&nbsp; pedestrian accident that occurred just before 9:30p.m. Monday in Topeka.

According to Topeka Police Lt. Michael Hren, a vehicle struck a man at SE 15th and SE Adams in reference to a report that a subject was struck by a vehicle. 

American Medical Response transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; Police released no additional details early Tuesday.

Police: Kansas man killed after struck by a vehicle

WASHINGTON (AP)—President Donald Trump on Monday vowed more changes to the way elections are conducted in the U.S., but based on the Constitution there is little to nothing he can do on his own.

Relying on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-trump-election-lies-explainer-816a43ed964e6d35f03b0930e6e56c82?utm_source=homepage&amp;utm_medium=RelatedStories&amp;utm_campaign=position_03">false information and conspiracy theories</a>&nbsp;that he's regularly used to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jan-6-trump-capitol-riot-debate-harris-trump-election-walz-vance-144e136901013ddc9c8fab6a1d2bdf07">explain away his 2020 election loss</a>, Trump pledged on his social media site that he would do away with both mail voting — which&nbsp;<a href="https://roughly%2030%25%20of%20voters%20last%20fall%20used%20a%20mail%20ballot,/">remains popular and is used by about one-third</a>&nbsp;of all voters — and voting machines — some form of which are used in almost all of the country's thousands of election jurisdictions. These are the same systems&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-voting-fraud-claims-election-security-694c5084f970432b05045f951618e1c9">that enabled Trump to win</a>&nbsp;the 2024 election and Republicans to gain control of Congress.

Trump's post marks an escalation even in his normally overheated election rhetoric. He issued a wide-ranging&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-elections-trump-executive-order-4e9edb53f47e61e241a43ceef8164022">executive order</a>&nbsp;earlier this year that,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elections-voting-executive-order-citizenship-proof-4bbcf7e13183d8c5004ceb0ca53c7845">among other changes,</a>&nbsp;would have required documented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-republicans-citizenship-voting-elections-texas-b6b9298092c84266bc7515209e5aea42">proof-of-citizenship</a>&nbsp;before registering to vote. His Monday post promised another election executive order to “help bring HONESTY to the 2026 Midterm elections.”

The same post also pushed falsehoods about voting. He claimed the U.S. is the only country to use mail voting, when it's actually used by dozens, including Germany, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Similar complaints to Trump's, when aired on conservative and conservative-leaning networks such as Newsmax and Fox News, have led to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fox-news-dominion-lawsuit-trial-trump-2020-0ac71f75acfacc52ea80b3e747fb0afe?utm_source=homepage&amp;utm_medium=TopNews&amp;utm_campaign=position_01">multimillion dollar</a>&nbsp;defamation settlements,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dominion-voting-newsmax-defamation-trump-2020-3b2366dfdae3a8432afe822bf14fe1ef">including one announced Monday,</a>&nbsp;because they are full of false information and the outlets have not been able to present&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-government-news-media-donald-trump-fraud-b52914ec21a97dec8b5d878a908d566f">any evidence</a>&nbsp;to support them.

Trump's post came after the president told Fox News that Russian President Vladimir Putin, in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-ukraine-war-takeaways-b9ff04c4143c6ac228e196ddaf6dd6d3">their Friday meeting in Alaska</a>, echoed his grievances about mail voting and the 2020 election. Trump continued his attack on mail voting and voting machines in the Oval Office on Monday,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-zelenskyy-russia-ukraine-war-d0ad768453210db23fe4b108f7b87135">during a meeting</a>&nbsp;with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The announcement signals yet another way that Trump intends to stack the cards in his favor in the 2026 midterm elections, after he already has directed his attorney general to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-actblue-winred-fundraising-justice-department-3e73d4022bb47e0533f9dcfd35d37371">investigate a Democratic fundraising platform</a>&nbsp;and urged states to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-democrats-redistricting-texas-california-newsom-9422a8300f5bcc2aa587bcb3811a1479?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">redraw their congressional districts</a>&nbsp;to help the GOP maintain its majority in the House of Representatives.

Here's a breakdown of Trump's latest election post and why&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-executive-order-elections-voting-constitution-8908477167fd65dc9cd485e1fde5b804">Congress is the one entity</a>&nbsp;that can implement national election rules.

Trump for years has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-2020-election-lies-debunked-4fc26546b07962fdbf9d66e739fbb50d?utm_source=RecoReel&amp;utm_medium=articlePage&amp;utm_id=Taboola">promoted false information</a>&nbsp;about voting, and Monday was no exception.

He claimed there is “MASSIVE FRAUD” due to mail voting, when in fact voting fraud in the U.S. is rare. As an example, an Associated Press review after the 2020 election found&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voter-fraud-election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-7fcb6f134e528fee8237c7601db3328f">fewer than 475 cases of potential fraud</a>&nbsp;in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-arizona-donald-trump-voter-registration-tucson-c64bba90b8c074bf8bdfd2c751b6b0f2">six battleground states</a>&nbsp;where he disputed his loss, far too few to tip that election to Trump.

Washington and Oregon, which conduct elections entirely by mail, have sued to challenge Trump’s earlier executive order — which sought to require that all ballots must be received by Election Day and not just postmarked by then. The states argue that the president has no such authority, and they are seeking a declaration from a federal judge in Seattle that their postmark deadlines do not conflict with federal law setting the date of U.S. elections.

Trump also alleged that voting machines are more expensive than “Watermark Paper." That's a little-used system that has gained favor and investments among some voting conspiracy theorists who believe it would help prevent fraudulent ballots from being introduced into the vote count. Watermarks would not provide a way to count ballots, so they would not on their own replace vote tabulating machines.

While some jurisdictions still have voters use electronic ballot-marking devices to cast their votes, the vast majority of voters in the U.S. already vote on paper ballots, creating an auditable record of votes that provides an extra safeguard for election security.

In his post, Trump also claimed that states “are merely an ‘agent’ for the Federal Government in counting and tabulating the votes” and must do what the federal government “as represented by the President of the United States” tells them to do.

Election lawyers said that's a misrepresentation of the U.S. Constitution. It also flies in the face of what had been a core Republican Party value of prioritizing states' rights.

Thousands of elections, none under presidential control

Unlike in most countries, elections in the U.S. are run by the states. But it gets more complicated — each state then allows smaller jurisdictions, such as counties, cities or townships, to run their own elections. Election officials estimate there are as many as 10,000 different election jurisdictions across the country.

A frequent complaint of Trump and other election conspiracy theorists is that the U.S. doesn't run its election like France, which hand counts presidential ballots and usually has a national result on election night. But that's because France is only running that single election, and every jurisdiction has the same ballot with no other races.

A ballot in the U.S. might contain dozens of races, from president on down to city council and including state and local ballot measures.

The Constitution makes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/advance-early-voting-absentee-mail-ballots-0dcd5e94b91410d39c66586a6020464d">the states</a>&nbsp;the entities that determine the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-california-wait-times-vote-count-florida-170cb591062f8fad8f619b2cc02ff3e7https://apnews.com/article/election-california-wait-times-vote-count-florida-170cb591062f8fad8f619b2cc02ff3e7">“time, place and manner” of elections</a>, but does allow Congress to “make” or “alter” rules for federal elections.

Congress can change the way states run congressional and presidential elections but has no say in the way a state runs its own elections. The president is not mentioned at all in the Constitution's list of entities with powers over elections.

“The president has very limited to zero authority over things related to the conduct of elections,” said Rick Hasen, an election law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles.

Courts have agreed — no presidential involvement

Parts of Trump's earlier executive order on elections were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-elections-executive-order-citizenship-lawsuit-4b683fe2e1106316fdb05621be9b7d0e">swiftly blocked by the courts</a>, on the grounds that Congress, and not the president, sets federal election rules.

It's unclear what Trump plans to do now, but the only path to change federal election rules is through Congress.

Although Republicans control Congress, it's unclear that even his party would want to eliminate voting machines nationwide, possibly delaying vote tallies in their own races by weeks or months. Even if they did, legislation would likely be unable to pass because Democrats could filibuster it in the U.S. Senate.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-republicans-rnc-mailed-ballots-voting-759f2277e00532dedaaa93e17f7329a1">Mail voting</a>&nbsp;had bipartisan support before Trump turned against it during the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 election, but it's still widely used in Republican-leaning states, including several he won last November — Arizona, Florida and Utah. It's also how members of the military stationed overseas cast their ballots, and fully eliminating it would disenfranchise those GOP-leaning voters.

The main significance of Trump's Monday statement is that it signals his continuing obsession with trying to change how elections are run.

“These kinds of claims could provide a kind of excuse for him to try to meddle,” Hasen said. “Very concerned about that.”

Associated Press writer Eugene Johnson in Seattle contributed to this report.

Trump vows to change how elections are run

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas have identified the victims as Victor Loza, 23, Bonner Springs and Tyler Wheeler, 26, of Kansas City, Kansas..

Just after 7p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to a shooting in the&nbsp; 1600 block of Washington Boulevard in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release.

First responders located Loza, Wheeler and a woman with gunshot wounds. One man was pronounced dead on at the scene and the other two victims were transported to a local hospital where the second man was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; The woman sustained non-life threatening injuries.

The suspects fled before officers arrived. Police have not released details on possible suspects.

Police ID victims in Kansas double-homicide

SEDGWICK COUNTY—An Oklahoma truck driver accused of intentionally backing over and killing a Georgia man in the parking lot of a Wichita truck stop made his first court appearance on Monday.

Travis Briscoe, 46, is charged with 2nd degree murder for the death of 57-year-old Abdelmuttalib Mohammed, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On Wednesday afternoon, police responded to the Love's Travel Stop in the 1500 block of East 21st Street North for an injury crash, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. They found 57-year-old Abdelmuttalib Mohammed of Georgia, under a truck. Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Services pronounced him dead at 5:32 p.m.

Investigators with the Wichita Police Department determined Mohammed had been in a verbal altercation with Briscoe. The two men do not know each other, according to Gupilan. During the altercation, Briscoe began backing into a parking stall with his semitractor-trailer striking Mr. Mohammed.

Brisco remains jailed on a $250,000 bond and is due back in court September 2, according to the district attorney's office.

Driver who backed over, killed man at Kan. truck stop faces a judge

BARRY COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 2p.m. Monday at Table Rock Lake.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Jon boat driven by a 57-year-old Shell Knob man and a&nbsp;2015 Regal open motorboat driven by a 61-year-old Cassville man collided on the Kings River Arm of Table Rock Lake.

The 57-year-old was pronounced dead and transported to Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. EMS transported a 63-year-old female passenger in the motorboat to Mercy Hospital in Springfield.&nbsp; The 61-year-old man was not injured. None of those involved were wearing life jackets, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Man dies after boats collide on Table Rock Lake

FINNEY COUNTY—A sheriff's deputy was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Finney County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Dodge 1500 driven by Finney County Sheriff's Deputy Riley&nbsp;Muniz, 24,&nbsp;Pierceville, was responding to a prior dispatched injury collision involving a teen driver. 

The Dodge had emergency lights and siren activated and passed a northbound 2018 Mack Truck driven by Jon&nbsp;Olomon, 61, Garden City,&nbsp; near the entrance to the TA Travel Center near the north junction of Highway 83 and Highway 50. The Mack truck was traveling within the left turn lane preparing to turn onto North Solar Avenue. 

The Dodge passed the Mack Truck on the left as Olomon initiated the left turn. The Mack Truck collided with the passenger side of the Dodge causing the Dodge to travel off the roadway into the ditch at the northwest corner of the intersection. 

The Dodge overturned and came to rest on its roof. The Mack Truck came to a controlled stop on North Solar Avenue.

 The Deputy was transported to St. Catherine's Hospital where he was monitored and treated for minor injuries. The truck driver was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. deputy injured in crash while responding to earlier crash

WASHINGTON (AP) —U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;says he has called Russian President Vladimir Putin and begun to arrange a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-zelenskyy-russia-ukraine-war-d0ad768453210db23fe4b108f7b87135">meeting</a>&nbsp;between Putin and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/zelenskyy-trump-blazer-white-house-russia-ukraine-war-81ce5677450d039552aa12e134739da6">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy</a>, a critical step toward bringing a possible end to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia’s war on Ukraine</a>. Trump said the meeting’s location will be determined later.

Trump, Zelenskyy and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/european-leaders-white-house-meeting-zelenskyy-trump-d7b082bae4136ef8932e16ac2d166303">European leaders</a>&nbsp;met at the White House earlier Monday for hastily assembled multilateral talks, which came after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-putin-summit-alaska-russia-ukraine-a7b167f17a3e06fbce2f583c93f8bae1">Trump met with Putin</a>&nbsp;on Aug. 15 and shut the other leaders out. European political leaders joined discussions as they pursue means to safeguard Ukraine and the continent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-witkoff-ukraine-russia-putin-war-048aa829a69b4020ca368577bfe18aee">from any widening aggression</a>&nbsp;from Moscow.

Zelenskyy says meeting with Putin should be held ‘without any conditions’

Zelenskyy says that if he starts to set conditions for the meeting, regarding a potential ceasefire or other matters, then Russia will want to set conditions, too, potentially jeopardizing those talks.

“That’s why I believe that we must meet without any conditions,” he told reporters.

Zelenskyy said Trump showed him a map of the Ukraine front lines in the Oval Office and they got into a little debate about territories it showed. But they didn’t argue, he said.

“We had a truly warm, good and substantial conversation,” Zelenskyy said.

Macron says takeaway from today’s meeting is US agreement to work with Europe to support Ukraine

The “most important” outcome of the meeting was the “U.S. commitment to work with us on providing security guarantees” to Ukraine, French President Emmanuel Macron said.

Macron told reporters that the participants of Monday’s talks are willing to set up a bilateral meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy “in the coming days” and the trilateral meeting including Trump “by two to three weeks.”

Macron said he has “the greatest doubt” about Putin’s will to stop the war.

Rutte praises Trump’s negotiation efforts

The NATO leader also heaped praise on Trump for convincing European nations to increase their own defense spending.

“Today the conversation was a conversation among friends, among close allies who respect each other, who like each other, who know each other very well, discussing how we can bring this terrible war to an end,” he said. “This is a goal we all have in common, and without President Trump this deadlock with Putin would not have been broken. He’s the only one who could do it.”

NATO leader says ‘Article 5 kind of security guarantees’ will be discussed in coming days

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte says Trump agreed that the United States would contribute to Ukraine’s security following a peace deal, a development he called “a breakthrough.”

Membership in NATO is not on the table, but the U.S. and European leaders are discussing “Article 5 kind of security guarantees for Ukraine,” Rutte said in an interview with Fox News host Laura Ingraham. Article 5 of the NATO treaty says an attack on one member nation is an attack on all members, the heart of the transatlantic defense compact.

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