NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;is lashing out at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-trump-bondi-904822e788fa02fd6bd5c8181d0c9c08">his own supporters</a>, accusing them of being duped by Democrats, as he tries to clamp down on criticism over his administration's handling of much-hyped records in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;sex trafficking investigation, which Trump now calls a “Hoax.”

“Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this “bull——,” hook, line, and sinker,” Trump wrote Wednesday on his Truth Social site, using an expletive in his post. “They haven’t learned their lesson, and probably never will, even after being conned by the Lunatic Left for 8 long years.”

“Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats work, don’t even think about talking of our incredible and unprecedented success, because I don’t want their support anymore! Thank you for your attention to this matter,” he went on.

The rhetoric marks a dramatic escalation for the Republican president, who has broken with some of his most loyal backers in the past, but never with such fervor.

The schism centers on his administration's handling of documents surrounding Epstein, who was found dead in his New York jail cell in August 2019, weeks after his arrest on sex trafficking charges. Last week, the Justice Department and the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-justice-department-pam-bondi-03fbcd024f631440f7ed62b3c6927db3">acknowledged that Epstein</a>&nbsp;did not maintain a “client list" to whom underage girls were trafficked, and they said no more files related to the investigation would be made public,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-pam-bondi-trump-1a6af3e9fa1cfb6d267985a971a4929a">despite past promises from Attorney General Pam Bondi</a>&nbsp;that had raised the expectations of conservative influencers and conspiracy theorists.

Bondi had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-trump-bondi-904822e788fa02fd6bd5c8181d0c9c08">suggested in February</a>&nbsp;such a document was sitting on her desk waiting for review. Last week, however, she said she had been referring generally to the Epstein case file, not a client list.

“It’s a new administration and everything is going to come out to the public,” she had said at one point.

Trump has since defended Bondi and chided a reporter for asking about the documents.

“I don’t understand what the interest or what the fascination is,” he said Tuesday.

In an Oval Office appearance Wednesday, Trump made clear that he was done with the story, regardless of what his supporters think.

“It’s all been a big hoax,” he told reporters. “It’s perpetrated by the Democrats, and some stupid Republicans and foolish Republicans fall into the net.”

He complained that Bondi has been “waylaid” over her handling of the case and has given out all “credible information” about the wealthy financier. “If she finds anymore credible information she’ll give that, too,” Trump said. ”What more can she do than that?”

Bondi has “bigger problems” to work on, the president said, citing the administration’s work to remove criminals who are living in the United States illegally.

The blowup comes after Trump and many figures in his administration, including FBI Director&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patel-fbi-trump-maralago-january-6-2db2b3a27adb295df30a9ffa72208688">Kash Patel</a>&nbsp;and his deputy,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dan-bongino-podcasts-fbi-kash-patel-trump-6d47f60b59edb3dba45615104ed41a67">Dan Bongino</a>, have spent years stoking dark and disproved conspiracy theories, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-donald-trump-conspiracy-theories-government-and-politics-db50c6f709b1706886a876ae6ac298e2">embracing QAnon-tinged propaganda</a>&nbsp;that casts Trump as a savior sent to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-files-assassination-trump-fbi-conspiracies-aaeb07814bb8b6b3fe595f5b68e4163a">demolish the “deep state.”</a>

Trump's comments so far have not been enough to quell those who are still demanding answers.

Some of the podcasters and pro-Trump influencers who helped rally support for Trump in the 2024 campaign said Wednesday they were disappointed or puzzled by his comments on the issue.

Benny Johnson, a conservative podcaster who has called for the Epstein records to be released, said on his show that he is a fan of Trump’s movement but is trying to “give tough love and speak on behalf of the base.”

“Maybe it hasn’t been framed correctly for the president,” Johnson said. “I don’t know.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., in an interview on Benny Johnson's show Tuesday, had called for the Justice Department to “put everything out there and let the people decide.”

Far-right conspiracy theorist and podcaster Alex Jones called Trump’s handling of the Epstein situation “the biggest train wreck I’ve ever seen.”

“It’s not in character for you to be acting like this,” he said in a video reacting to Trump on Tuesday evening calling the case boring. “I support you, but we built the movement you rode in on. You’re not the movement. You just surfed in on it.”

Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on his podcast on Wednesday attempted some damage control on Trump’s behalf.

“Don’t take too seriously this whole Truth Social here,” Kirk told his audience. “I know some people are getting fired up about this. I don’t believe he was trying to insult anybody personally.”

Kirk said he thinks Trump’s supporters are “talking past each other a little bit” on the Epstein matter but are actually aligned in wanting to expose the “deep state.”

“The grassroots is not trying to make you look bad,” he said. “We want to try and make sure the bad people that have done such terrible things to you can finally be held accountable.”

Other Trump allies have stuck by his side, suggesting he does not need the influencers who have capitalized on Epstein conspiracy theories to make money and earn viewers.

“He lent you his clout and voters,” Brenden Dilley, the head of a group of meme makers who have lent their support to Trump, wrote on X on Wednesday. “They don’t belong to you.”

NEW YORK (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;is lashing out at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-trump-bondi-904822e788fa02fd6bd5c8181d0c9c08">his own supporters</a>, accusing them of being duped by Democrats, as he tries to clamp down on criticism over his administration's handling of much-hyped records in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;sex trafficking investigation, which Trump now calls a “Hoax.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump on Jeffrey Epstein: &quot;He&#39;s dead. He&#39;s gone. And all it is is certain Republicans got duped by the Democrats and they&#39;re following a Democrat playbook.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qdSnFacAbH">pic.twitter.com/qdSnFacAbH</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1945521873485279616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Their new SCAM is what we will forever call the Jeffrey Epstein Hoax, and my PAST supporters have bought into this “bull——,” hook, line, and sinker,” Trump wrote Wednesday on his Truth Social site, using an expletive in his post. “They haven’t learned their lesson, and probably never will, even after being conned by the Lunatic Left for 8 long years.”“Let these weaklings continue forward and do the Democrats work, don’t even think about talking of our incredible and unprecedented success, because I don’t want their support anymore! Thank you for your attention to this matter,” he went on.The rhetoric marks a dramatic escalation for the Republican president, who has broken with some of his most loyal backers in the past, but never with such fervor.The schism centers on his administration's handling of documents surrounding Epstein, who was found dead in his New York jail cell in August 2019, weeks after his arrest on sex trafficking charges. Last week, the Justice Department and the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-justice-department-pam-bondi-03fbcd024f631440f7ed62b3c6927db3">acknowledged that Epstein</a>&nbsp;did not maintain a “client list" to whom underage girls were trafficked, and they said no more files related to the investigation would be made public,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-pam-bondi-trump-1a6af3e9fa1cfb6d267985a971a4929a">despite past promises from Attorney General Pam Bondi</a>&nbsp;that had raised the expectations of conservative influencers and conspiracy theorists.Bondi had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-trump-bondi-904822e788fa02fd6bd5c8181d0c9c08">suggested in February</a>&nbsp;such a document was sitting on her desk waiting for review. Last week, however, she said she had been referring generally to the Epstein case file, not a client list.“It’s a new administration and everything is going to come out to the public,” she had said at one point.Trump has since defended Bondi and chided a reporter for asking about the documents.“I don’t understand what the interest or what the fascination is,” he said Tuesday.In an Oval Office appearance Wednesday, Trump made clear that he was done with the story, regardless of what his supporters think.“It’s all been a big hoax,” he told reporters. “It’s perpetrated by the Democrats, and some stupid Republicans and foolish Republicans fall into the net.”He complained that Bondi has been “waylaid” over her handling of the case and has given out all “credible information” about the wealthy financier. “If she finds anymore credible information she’ll give that, too,” Trump said. ”What more can she do than that?”Bondi has “bigger problems” to work on, the president said, citing the administration’s work to remove criminals who are living in the United States illegally.The blowup comes after Trump and many figures in his administration, including FBI Director&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/patel-fbi-trump-maralago-january-6-2db2b3a27adb295df30a9ffa72208688">Kash Patel</a>&nbsp;and his deputy,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dan-bongino-podcasts-fbi-kash-patel-trump-6d47f60b59edb3dba45615104ed41a67">Dan Bongino</a>, have spent years stoking dark and disproved conspiracy theories, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-donald-trump-conspiracy-theories-government-and-politics-db50c6f709b1706886a876ae6ac298e2">embracing QAnon-tinged propaganda</a>&nbsp;that casts Trump as a savior sent to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-files-assassination-trump-fbi-conspiracies-aaeb07814bb8b6b3fe595f5b68e4163a">demolish the “deep state.”</a>Trump's comments so far have not been enough to quell those who are still demanding answers.Some of the podcasters and pro-Trump influencers who helped rally support for Trump in the 2024 campaign said Wednesday they were disappointed or puzzled by his comments on the issue.Benny Johnson, a conservative podcaster who has called for the Epstein records to be released, said on his show that he is a fan of Trump’s movement but is trying to “give tough love and speak on behalf of the base.”“Maybe it hasn’t been framed correctly for the president,” Johnson said. “I don’t know.”House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., in an interview on Benny Johnson's show Tuesday, had called for the Justice Department to “put everything out there and let the people decide.”Far-right conspiracy theorist and podcaster Alex Jones called Trump’s handling of the Epstein situation “the biggest train wreck I’ve ever seen.”“It’s not in character for you to be acting like this,” he said in a video reacting to Trump on Tuesday evening calling the case boring. “I support you, but we built the movement you rode in on. You’re not the movement. You just surfed in on it.”Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk on his podcast on Wednesday attempted some damage control on Trump’s behalf.“Don’t take too seriously this whole Truth Social here,” Kirk told his audience. “I know some people are getting fired up about this. I don’t believe he was trying to insult anybody personally.”Kirk said he thinks Trump’s supporters are “talking past each other a little bit” on the Epstein matter but are actually aligned in wanting to expose the “deep state.”He also offered a message to Trump.“The grassroots is not trying to make you look bad,” he said. “We want to try and make sure the bad people that have done such terrible things to you can finally be held accountable.”Other Trump allies have stuck by his side, suggesting he does not need the influencers who have capitalized on Epstein conspiracy theories to make money and earn viewers.“He lent you his clout and voters,” Brenden Dilley, the head of a group of meme makers who have lent their support to Trump, wrote on X on Wednesday. “They don’t belong to you.”___

🎥Trump slams supporters, calls the Epstein case a 'hoax'

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting in southwest Kansas that sent three victims to the hospital.

Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a shooting&nbsp; at&nbsp;the Continental Apartments, 1408 W. Buffalo Jones Avenue, in Garden City, according to Garden City police spokesperson Erinn Reyes. 

Officers arrived to find a victim had been shot, and the victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital by Finney County EMS in serious condition. 

After the victim was taken to the hospital, Officers were notified by hospital staff that before they arrived, two additional gunshot victims were dropped off at the emergency room by personal vehicle. The three victims were later transported to Wichita for further treatment.

To ensure the safety of staff and patients, St. Catherine Hospital was placed on lockdown following the arrival of the gunshot victims. The&nbsp;social media rumors regarding an active shooter at the hospital due to the lockdown were false, according to Reyes.&nbsp; "At no point was there an active shooter incident at the hospital."&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting in southwest Kansas that sent three victims to the hospital.Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of a shooting&nbsp; at&nbsp;the Continental Apartments, 1408 W. Buffalo Jones Avenue, in Garden City, according to Garden City police spokesperson Erinn Reyes. Officers arrived to find a victim had been shot, and the victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital by Finney County EMS in serious condition. After the victim was taken to the hospital, Officers were notified by hospital staff that before they arrived, two additional gunshot victims were dropped off at the emergency room by personal vehicle. The three victims were later transported to Wichita for further treatment.To ensure the safety of staff and patients, St. Catherine Hospital was placed on lockdown following the arrival of the gunshot victims. The&nbsp;social media rumors regarding an active shooter at the hospital due to the lockdown were false, according to Reyes.&nbsp; "At no point was there an active shooter incident at the hospital."&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

Hospital locked down after gun fight in southwest Kansas

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matt-brown">MATT BROWN</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — A former senior aide to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-gifts-foreign-leaders-diamond-45517bc782000329a1ae75e181f9c2ce">Jill Biden</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-doctor-kevin-oconnor-testimony-5c2a75c6bec319bb4ff8a417993e3d6c">second person</a>&nbsp;to invoke the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-does-pleading-the-fifth-mean-0d24abd45972cd80f82f95e4a8eec225">Fifth Amendment</a>&nbsp;and decline to answer questions from House Republicans who are investigating President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">Joe Biden’s</a>&nbsp;mental state and use of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-pardons-autopen-capitol-riot-1956c5dcb44ecba10cd9b01171ca9efa">autopen</a>&nbsp;while in office.

Anthony Bernal, who previously served as chief of staff to former first lady&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-cancer-prostate-be18c98abe341cd91277e1d3b75d5cd5">Jill Biden</a>, was subpoenaed for his testimony by the House Oversight Committee. He declined to answer questions, invoking the protections that prevent people from being forced to testify against themselves in government proceedings.

“Well, unfortunately, that was quick,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-doctor-oversight-testimony-1c749850ceab4f14d4239e623501854e">James Comer</a>, chair of the House Oversight Committee, after the deposition ended. “I believe the American people are concerned. They’re concerned that there were people making decisions in the White House that were not only unelected but no one to this day knows who they were.”

Bernal ignored questions from reporters as he entered and exited the House Oversight Committee’s hearing room on Capitol Hill. He was accompanied by his lawyer, Jonathan Su, who was a deputy White House counsel to the former president. Su in a statement provided to the committee noted that pleading the Fifth is not evidence of wrongdoing.

The former president has dismissed the inquiries as legally spurious. In a recent interview with the New York Times, Biden said that he delegated responsibilities when necessary as president but was actively involved and knowledgeable of all of his administration’s actions, including on granting clemency.

“I consciously made all those decisions,” Biden said.

Comer has has sought testimony from nearly a dozen former Biden aides as he conducts his investigation, including former White House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/susie-wiles-phone-impersonation-bc6ac99e5db06ac70307ca031ab8d647">chiefs of staff</a>&nbsp;Ron Klain and Jeff Zients; former senior advisers Mike Donilon and Anita Dunn; former deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, former counselor to the president Steve Ricchetti, former deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini and a former assistant to the president, Ashley Williams.

On Tuesday, Comer also subpoenaed Annie Tomasini, a former White House deputy chief of staff, to appear before the committee on July 18. She is the third former official to be subpoenaed by the committee.

Democrats have been dismissive of the Republican probe as mere political theater.

“They still look like losers,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crockett-abbott-wheelchair-a38d50b41e35cc6e05f5d72ad74ff54f">Jasmine Crockett</a>, D-Texas, who sat in on Bernal’s committee deposition.

But many Republicans see the investigation as a top priority for their caucus and a politically salient issue for voters ahead of the midterm election. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">Trump White House has launched its own probe</a>&nbsp;into Biden’s age while Senate Republicans have also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-senate-investigation-fitness-republicans-a39d86a556f0ffd862ae47e35dc5fb74">held hearings on the topic</a>.

“This is corruption at the highest level, because if you cannot answer a simple question about Joe Biden’s capabilities, then that further demonstrates that he was not in charge of his administration,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/byron-donalds-donald-trump-florida-governor-desantis-7cf12bdb0899d0165c4cbd98e5b3abe3">Byron Donalds</a>, R-Fla., who sat in on Bernal’s deposition.

Donalds said “every member of the Biden administration, at this point, needs to be subpoenaed,” including Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-view-president-trump-abc-interview-kamala-harris-0e7c4aba0b021e40540dcc68872ff0d1">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and Jill Biden.

Comer did not rule out seeking testimony from Harris or members of Biden’s family.

“We’re going to bring in everyone. We’re moving up the line,” Comer said. “We’ve started with the lower level staffers that we think were the ones that actually put the documents in the autopen and pressed power. Now we’re moving up to the people that we think told the staffers to use the autopen.”

“So we’ll we’ll see where that takes us,” Comer said. “But I think the possibility is very good that we’ll be asking members of the family to come in.”

Associated Press writer Michelle L. Price contributed reporting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721869081473.png" alt="Former first lady Jill Biden-White House image" />
 <figcaption>Former first lady Jill Biden-White House image</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/matt-brown">MATT BROWN</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — A former senior aide to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-gifts-foreign-leaders-diamond-45517bc782000329a1ae75e181f9c2ce">Jill Biden</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday became the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-doctor-kevin-oconnor-testimony-5c2a75c6bec319bb4ff8a417993e3d6c">second person</a>&nbsp;to invoke the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/what-does-pleading-the-fifth-mean-0d24abd45972cd80f82f95e4a8eec225">Fifth Amendment</a>&nbsp;and decline to answer questions from House Republicans who are investigating President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">Joe Biden’s</a>&nbsp;mental state and use of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-pardons-autopen-capitol-riot-1956c5dcb44ecba10cd9b01171ca9efa">autopen</a>&nbsp;while in office.Anthony Bernal, who previously served as chief of staff to former first lady&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-cancer-prostate-be18c98abe341cd91277e1d3b75d5cd5">Jill Biden</a>, was subpoenaed for his testimony by the House Oversight Committee. He declined to answer questions, invoking the protections that prevent people from being forced to testify against themselves in government proceedings.“Well, unfortunately, that was quick,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-doctor-oversight-testimony-1c749850ceab4f14d4239e623501854e">James Comer</a>, chair of the House Oversight Committee, after the deposition ended. “I believe the American people are concerned. They’re concerned that there were people making decisions in the White House that were not only unelected but no one to this day knows who they were.”Bernal ignored questions from reporters as he entered and exited the House Oversight Committee’s hearing room on Capitol Hill. He was accompanied by his lawyer, Jonathan Su, who was a deputy White House counsel to the former president. Su in a statement provided to the committee noted that pleading the Fifth is not evidence of wrongdoing.The former president has dismissed the inquiries as legally spurious. In a recent interview with the New York Times, Biden said that he delegated responsibilities when necessary as president but was actively involved and knowledgeable of all of his administration’s actions, including on granting clemency.“I consciously made all those decisions,” Biden said.Comer has has sought testimony from nearly a dozen former Biden aides as he conducts his investigation, including former White House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/susie-wiles-phone-impersonation-bc6ac99e5db06ac70307ca031ab8d647">chiefs of staff</a>&nbsp;Ron Klain and Jeff Zients; former senior advisers Mike Donilon and Anita Dunn; former deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, former counselor to the president Steve Ricchetti, former deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini and a former assistant to the president, Ashley Williams.On Tuesday, Comer also subpoenaed Annie Tomasini, a former White House deputy chief of staff, to appear before the committee on July 18. She is the third former official to be subpoenaed by the committee.Democrats have been dismissive of the Republican probe as mere political theater.“They still look like losers,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crockett-abbott-wheelchair-a38d50b41e35cc6e05f5d72ad74ff54f">Jasmine Crockett</a>, D-Texas, who sat in on Bernal’s committee deposition.But many Republicans see the investigation as a top priority for their caucus and a politically salient issue for voters ahead of the midterm election. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-investigation-autopen-james-comer-ae7013baea1f3da5417d02a6e83811ec">Trump White House has launched its own probe</a>&nbsp;into Biden’s age while Senate Republicans have also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-senate-investigation-fitness-republicans-a39d86a556f0ffd862ae47e35dc5fb74">held hearings on the topic</a>.“This is corruption at the highest level, because if you cannot answer a simple question about Joe Biden’s capabilities, then that further demonstrates that he was not in charge of his administration,” said Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/byron-donalds-donald-trump-florida-governor-desantis-7cf12bdb0899d0165c4cbd98e5b3abe3">Byron Donalds</a>, R-Fla., who sat in on Bernal’s deposition.Donalds said “every member of the Biden administration, at this point, needs to be subpoenaed,” including Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-view-president-trump-abc-interview-kamala-harris-0e7c4aba0b021e40540dcc68872ff0d1">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and Jill Biden.Comer did not rule out seeking testimony from Harris or members of Biden’s family.“We’re going to bring in everyone. We’re moving up the line,” Comer said. “We’ve started with the lower level staffers that we think were the ones that actually put the documents in the autopen and pressed power. Now we’re moving up to the people that we think told the staffers to use the autopen.”“So we’ll we’ll see where that takes us,” Comer said. “But I think the possibility is very good that we’ll be asking members of the family to come in.”___Associated Press writer Michelle L. Price contributed reporting.

Jill Biden aide invokes Fifth to decline testimony in GOP investigation

Washington –&nbsp;On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall hosted Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, alongside farmers from across the country and agriculture experts, for the inaugural Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) roundtable on Capitol Hill.

The conversation centered on how agriculture aligns with the MAHA movement, emphasizing the critical role of soil health in producing nutrient-dense food.

“As a fifth-generation Kansas farm kid and a physician, I recognize that producing nutrient-dense foods for a healthier America starts with healthy soil,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Today, I was privileged to welcome Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, farmers, and agriculture experts from across the country to Capitol Hill for the first MAHA roundtable. Focused on soil health, I believe healthy soil leads to healthy food and healthy people, fostering a healthier America. MAHA will thrive due to the dedication, collaboration, and partnership of those who joined us today.”

“America’s farmers and ranchers are not just stakeholders in this fight—they are the foundation of it,”&nbsp;Secretary Kennedy said.&nbsp;“I was proud to join Senator Marshall and Secretary Rollins today to meet directly with ranchers, farmers, and agricultural experts who are driving our shared mission to Make America Healthy Again.”

“Farmers are at the heart of the Trump Administration’s mission to Make America Healthy Again. Thank you to Senator Marshall for gathering our great farmers and ranchers to discuss the role soil health plays in growing healthy foods. I look forward to continuing to support American agriculture as producers work towards healthier, more fertile soil,”&nbsp;said Secretary Rollins.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752626608873.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington –&nbsp;On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall hosted Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, alongside farmers from across the country and agriculture experts, for the inaugural Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) roundtable on Capitol Hill. The conversation centered on how agriculture aligns with the MAHA movement, emphasizing the critical role of soil health in producing nutrient-dense food.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, for championing the MAHA agenda. <a href="https://t.co/IrzZAHav2z">https://t.co/IrzZAHav2z</a>&mdash; Secretary Kennedy (@SecKennedy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecKennedy/status/1945274050550362363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“As a fifth-generation Kansas farm kid and a physician, I recognize that producing nutrient-dense foods for a healthier America starts with healthy soil,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Today, I was privileged to welcome Secretary Kennedy, Secretary Rollins, farmers, and agriculture experts from across the country to Capitol Hill for the first MAHA roundtable. Focused on soil health, I believe healthy soil leads to healthy food and healthy people, fostering a healthier America. MAHA will thrive due to the dedication, collaboration, and partnership of those who joined us today.”“America’s farmers and ranchers are not just stakeholders in this fight—they are the foundation of it,”&nbsp;Secretary Kennedy said.&nbsp;“I was proud to join Senator Marshall and Secretary Rollins today to meet directly with ranchers, farmers, and agricultural experts who are driving our shared mission to Make America Healthy Again.”“Farmers are at the heart of the Trump Administration’s mission to Make America Healthy Again. Thank you to Senator Marshall for gathering our great farmers and ranchers to discuss the role soil health plays in growing healthy foods. I look forward to continuing to support American agriculture as producers work towards healthier, more fertile soil,”&nbsp;said Secretary Rollins.

Kan. U.S. Senator hosts inaugural MAHA roundtable on Capitol Hill

RUSSELL COUNTY —The death of a Kansas felon who was in custody in Russell County is under investigation.

Just after 9a.m. July 12, 43-year-old James T. Barrows was found unresponsive in his cell at the Russell County Jail, according to a media release.

&nbsp;Russell County EMS was immediately called and life saving measures were attempted. Barrows was transported to Russell Regional Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Barrows had been in custody of the Russell County Jail since July 11,&nbsp; for a Central Kansas Community Corrections Probation Violation Warrant. He was also being held on a care and treatment evaluation and was awaiting bed space at Larned State Hospital.

&nbsp;By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.

An autopsy for the Barrows is scheduled for this week, according to the KBI.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752687877944.png" alt="Barrows photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Barrows photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY —The death of a Kansas felon who was in custody in Russell County is under investigation.Just after 9a.m. July 12, 43-year-old James T. Barrows was found unresponsive in his cell at the Russell County Jail, according to a media release.&nbsp;Russell County EMS was immediately called and life saving measures were attempted. Barrows was transported to Russell Regional Hospital where he was pronounced deceased.Barrows had been in custody of the Russell County Jail since July 11,&nbsp; for a Central Kansas Community Corrections Probation Violation Warrant. He was also being held on a care and treatment evaluation and was awaiting bed space at Larned State Hospital.&nbsp;By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.An autopsy for the Barrows is scheduled for this week, according to the KBI.

Death of Kansas felon in county jail under investigation

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Wichita have made an arrest.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, police in Hutchinson arrested 31-year-old Andrew R. Presley after a brief standoff, according to a media release from the Wichita Police Department.

Presley, identified from Sedgwick County arrest records. is being held in connection with the death of&nbsp;32-year-old Kelly Black.

Just before 6p.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting in the 7000 block of E. Lincoln in Wichita.. First responders found&nbsp; Black lying on the ground with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but was later pronounced dead.

Pressley is being held on requested charges of second degree murder, a parole violation and for criminal possession of a firearm, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752662206536.png" alt="Presley-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Presley-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Wichita have made an arrest.&nbsp; On Tuesday night, police in Hutchinson arrested 31-year-old Andrew R. Presley after a brief standoff, according to a media release from the Wichita Police Department.Presley, identified from Sedgwick County arrest records. is being held in connection with the death of&nbsp;32-year-old Kelly Black.Just before 6p.m. Sunday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting in the 7000 block of E. Lincoln in Wichita.. First responders found&nbsp; Black lying on the ground with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital in critical condition but was later pronounced dead.Pressley is being held on requested charges of second degree murder, a parole violation and for criminal possession of a firearm, according to online jail records.

Police arrest Kansas murder suspect after standoff

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Education Department is handing off the administration of its workforce development programs to the Department of Labor, part of the Trump administrations plan to wind down the federal education agency.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced the interagency agreement on Tuesday, a day after the Supreme Court cleared the way for the administration to move ahead with its plan to dismantle the department.

The Associated Press&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-education-department-scotus-layoffs-student-loans-f24637f2a1d57432f6dc24d082e95b9b">reported Monday</a>&nbsp;that the department had recently struck a deal to outsource the management of several grant programs for workforce training and adult education to the Department of Labor.

The Education Department said the shift streamlines federal workforce programs, the majority of which are already administered by the Department of Labor.

The department on Tuesday called it a “major step in shifting management of select ED programs to partner agencies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741729690736.png" alt="AP photo" />
 <figcaption>AP photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The Education Department is handing off the administration of its workforce development programs to the Department of Labor, part of the Trump administrations plan to wind down the federal education agency.Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced the interagency agreement on Tuesday, a day after the Supreme Court cleared the way for the administration to move ahead with its plan to dismantle the department.The Associated Press&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-education-department-scotus-layoffs-student-loans-f24637f2a1d57432f6dc24d082e95b9b">reported Monday</a>&nbsp;that the department had recently struck a deal to outsource the management of several grant programs for workforce training and adult education to the Department of Labor.The Education Department said the shift streamlines federal workforce programs, the majority of which are already administered by the Department of Labor.The department on Tuesday called it a “major step in shifting management of select ED programs to partner agencies.

Dept. of Education now handing off programs to other departments

CRAWFORD COUNTY —A Kansas teen avoided injury in an accident that occurred just after 6p.m. Tuesday in Crawford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Escape driven by 17-year-old Onna&nbsp;Jorge-Thelisma of Pittsburg, Kansas was westbound on E 515th Avenue just east of S 240th Street. The driver attempted to drive through an activated railroad crossing arm.&nbsp; A southbound train struck the SUV.&nbsp;

 &nbsp;Jorge-Thelisma, who was properly restrained, was not injured, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726674440367.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>CRAWFORD COUNTY —A Kansas teen avoided injury in an accident that occurred just after 6p.m. Tuesday in Crawford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2014 Ford Escape driven by 17-year-old Onna&nbsp;Jorge-Thelisma of Pittsburg, Kansas was westbound on E 515th Avenue just east of S 240th Street. The driver attempted to drive through an activated railroad crossing arm.&nbsp; A southbound train struck the SUV.&nbsp; &nbsp;Jorge-Thelisma, who was properly restrained, was not injured, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patrol: Kan. teen drove through activated railroad crossing arm

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/joshmerchant/">Josh Merchant</a>

Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. has proposed a new path forward for the Chiefs to remain at Arrowhead Stadium.

In a letter sent to Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe on July 8, obtained through a Sunshine Law request by The Beacon, White suggested renewing the same three-eighths-cent sales tax that failed last year — but with a big asterisk.

Under this proposal the Chiefs would only receive one-third of that sales tax revenue — equivalent to one-eighth of a cent — rather than half of the revenue under the current tax. The remaining revenue generated by the tax would support health care and public safety.

White’s proposal follows the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/06/11/missouri-special-session-what-did-lawmakers-pass/" target="_blank">special session called by Kehoe</a>&nbsp;to, among other things, approve a state funding plan to support potential stadium projects for the Chiefs and Royals. Under the&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/amendpdf/0755S04.06H.pdf" target="_blank">“Show-Me Sports Investment Act,”</a>&nbsp;the state would appropriate some tax revenue generated by new stadium projects to help pay off the bonds used to finance construction.

White, who played for the Royals for 18 years, was one of the most vocal critics of last year’s stadium sales tax proposal that was resoundingly rejected by Jackson County voters. Indeed, some have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article295554094.html" target="_blank">linked an ongoing recall effort against White to the construction lobby</a>, which was frustrated by his opposition to the Crossroads stadium proposal for the Royals.

“Governor, I’m aware that some have tried to suggest that I’m opposed to any level of public funding for these teams,” he wrote in the&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_stLRE8xU7vyLZ2akTpJ6rhf7jLFZnmd/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">letter</a>. “That’s just not true … I believe we owe our residents something better: a balanced approach that protects their interests and secures a stronger future for everyone.”

Here’s what White’s plan would mean for Kansas City.

Under last year’s proposal, all of the three-eighths-cent sales tax’s revenue would have been evenly split by the Royals and the Chiefs. The Royals would have effectively gotten three-sixteenths of a cent to help finance a new downtown ballpark, and the Chiefs would have gotten the other three-sixteenths of a cent to upgrade Arrowhead.

The new plan is still a three-eighths-cent sales tax. But it’s divided into thirds, with each recipient getting one-eighth of a cent:

White’s plan would require the Missouri General Assembly to take action —&nbsp;again

There are some hiccups in White’s plan.

Under state law, a sales tax question can be put to voters in order to fund a “capital improvement&nbsp;purpose.”

So if Jackson County wanted to put this question to voters, it would need to be three separate ballot questions — one-eighth-cent for the Chiefs, one-eighth-cent for University Health and one-eighth-cent for courthouse and justice center improvements.

White’s letter called that an “impractical path for a unified community plan.”

So he asked Kehoe to support a statutory change that would allow counties to put sales tax questions that fund multiple projects to voters.

Moreover, any sales tax ballot measure likely wouldn’t happen until the next regularly scheduled election in Jackson County, in August 2026.

White’s proposal doesn’t outline any funding for the Royals. But that doesn’t mean he’s opposed to a future proposal focused on the baseball side of things.

Local officials around the metro area are waiting for the Royals to take the next step for a new ballpark.

That includes officials in Jackson County, as well as Clay County and Overland Park.

“I can’t imagine why we would want to take any action until (the Royals) have committed to a site and resources that they’re willing to contribute,”&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/06/27/new-royals-stadium-kansas-city/" target="_blank">Jackson County Legislator Sean Smith told The Beacon last month</a>. “Until they do something, we’re kind of just, you know, waiting in the wings.”

“I also want to be clear about the Royals: I fully support keeping them in Jackson County,” White wrote. “Since the April 2024 vote,&nbsp;the City of Kansas City has taken the lead on identifying a new site and working with the team, and I’ve respected their desire to do so. At the same time, I’ve made it clear to the Royals that Jackson County is ready to support the City’s efforts and is willing to step back in, should the team present a proposal for us to consider or express interest in reengaging. To date, the Royals have not done so.”

“We’ve been consistent that we’re exploring all options,” Royals spokesperson Sam Mellinger wrote in an email to The Beacon last month, “and when we have something that’s ready to share we will do it.”

This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/07/14/arrowhead-stadium-chiefs-sales-tax-letter/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752668107237.png" alt=" Arrowhead Stadium was built for the Chiefs about half a century ago. Now, the Chiefs are exploring a possible stadium across the state line, enticing Missouri politicians to offer the team a public subsidy. (Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon)" />
 <figcaption> Arrowhead Stadium was built for the Chiefs about half a century ago. Now, the Chiefs are exploring a possible stadium across the state line, enticing Missouri politicians to offer the team a public subsidy. (Vaughn Wheat/The Beacon)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/joshmerchant/">Josh Merchant</a>Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. has proposed a new path forward for the Chiefs to remain at Arrowhead Stadium.In a letter sent to Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe on July 8, obtained through a Sunshine Law request by The Beacon, White suggested renewing the same three-eighths-cent sales tax that failed last year — but with a big asterisk.Under this proposal the Chiefs would only receive one-third of that sales tax revenue — equivalent to one-eighth of a cent — rather than half of the revenue under the current tax. The remaining revenue generated by the tax would support health care and public safety.White’s proposal follows the recent&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/06/11/missouri-special-session-what-did-lawmakers-pass/" target="_blank">special session called by Kehoe</a>&nbsp;to, among other things, approve a state funding plan to support potential stadium projects for the Chiefs and Royals. Under the&nbsp;<a href="https://documents.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills251/amendpdf/0755S04.06H.pdf" target="_blank">“Show-Me Sports Investment Act,”</a>&nbsp;the state would appropriate some tax revenue generated by new stadium projects to help pay off the bonds used to finance construction.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752668060379.png" alt="Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. (Courtesy of Jackson County)" />
 <figcaption>Jackson County Executive Frank White Jr. (Courtesy of Jackson County)</figcaption>
 </figure>White, who played for the Royals for 18 years, was one of the most vocal critics of last year’s stadium sales tax proposal that was resoundingly rejected by Jackson County voters. Indeed, some have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article295554094.html" target="_blank">linked an ongoing recall effort against White to the construction lobby</a>, which was frustrated by his opposition to the Crossroads stadium proposal for the Royals.“Governor, I’m aware that some have tried to suggest that I’m opposed to any level of public funding for these teams,” he wrote in the&nbsp;<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_stLRE8xU7vyLZ2akTpJ6rhf7jLFZnmd/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">letter</a>. “That’s just not true … I believe we owe our residents something better: a balanced approach that protects their interests and secures a stronger future for everyone.”Here’s what White’s plan would mean for Kansas City.<h2>A sales tax split three ways</h2>Under last year’s proposal, all of the three-eighths-cent sales tax’s revenue would have been evenly split by the Royals and the Chiefs. The Royals would have effectively gotten three-sixteenths of a cent to help finance a new downtown ballpark, and the Chiefs would have gotten the other three-sixteenths of a cent to upgrade Arrowhead.The new plan is still a three-eighths-cent sales tax. But it’s divided into thirds, with each recipient getting one-eighth of a cent:<ul>
 <li>The Chiefs would get one-third of the sales tax revenue to fund maintenance, repairs and improvements to Arrowhead Stadium.</li><li>Another third would go to University Health to fund capital improvements. That would help fill some of the&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/07/09/kansas-city-missouri-medicaid-trump-budget/" target="_blank">gaps left by Trump administration cuts</a>.</li><li>Another third would fund improvements and repairs at the historic downtown Jackson County courthouse, as well as the Family Justice Center at 26th and Holmes streets.</li>
 </ul><h2>White’s plan would require the Missouri General Assembly to take action —&nbsp;again</h2>There are some hiccups in White’s plan.Under state law, a sales tax question can be put to voters in order to fund a “capital improvement&nbsp;purpose.”That’s singular, not plural.So if Jackson County wanted to put this question to voters, it would need to be three separate ballot questions — one-eighth-cent for the Chiefs, one-eighth-cent for University Health and one-eighth-cent for courthouse and justice center improvements.White’s letter called that an “impractical path for a unified community plan.”So he asked Kehoe to support a statutory change that would allow counties to put sales tax questions that fund multiple projects to voters.Moreover, any sales tax ballot measure likely wouldn’t happen until the next regularly scheduled election in Jackson County, in August 2026.<h2>What about the Royals?</h2>White’s proposal doesn’t outline any funding for the Royals. But that doesn’t mean he’s opposed to a future proposal focused on the baseball side of things.Local officials around the metro area are waiting for the Royals to take the next step for a new ballpark.That includes officials in Jackson County, as well as Clay County and Overland Park.“I can’t imagine why we would want to take any action until (the Royals) have committed to a site and resources that they’re willing to contribute,”&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/06/27/new-royals-stadium-kansas-city/" target="_blank">Jackson County Legislator Sean Smith told The Beacon last month</a>. “Until they do something, we’re kind of just, you know, waiting in the wings.”And White stated as much in his letter.“I also want to be clear about the Royals: I fully support keeping them in Jackson County,” White wrote. “Since the April 2024 vote,&nbsp;the City of Kansas City has taken the lead on identifying a new site and working with the team, and I’ve respected their desire to do so. At the same time, I’ve made it clear to the Royals that Jackson County is ready to support the City’s efforts and is willing to step back in, should the team present a proposal for us to consider or express interest in reengaging. To date, the Royals have not done so.”The Royals remain mum.“We’ve been consistent that we’re exploring all options,” Royals spokesperson Sam Mellinger wrote in an email to The Beacon last month, “and when we have something that’s ready to share we will do it.”This&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/stories/2025/07/14/arrowhead-stadium-chiefs-sales-tax-letter/" target="_blank">article</a>&nbsp;first appeared on&nbsp;<a href="https://thebeaconnews.org/" target="_blank">Beacon: Kansas City</a>&nbsp;and is republished here under a&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License</a>.

Jackson County Executive pitches new plan to keep the Chiefs at Arrowhead

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a business burglery.

On Monday, police were informed of a burglary at Progress Rail, an industrial plant located at 2604 Industrial Road in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

It has been determined the burglary occurred shortly after 3a.m. on Sunday. Miscellaneous items including headphones, food, a flashlight, and other items were taken. 

An investigation has led to the arrest of 36-year-old Keith D. Williams of Atchison, who was booked by officers on Tuesday afternoon on requested charges of burglary and theft. He was already in the custody of the county jail after police had arrested him on Monday on a Desota Kansas Municipal Court warrant. Officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Tuesday and recovered most of items taken.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752624279768.png" alt="Williams photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Williams photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect in connection with a business burglery.On Monday, police were informed of a burglary at Progress Rail, an industrial plant located at 2604 Industrial Road in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.It has been determined the burglary occurred shortly after 3a.m. on Sunday. Miscellaneous items including headphones, food, a flashlight, and other items were taken. An investigation has led to the arrest of 36-year-old Keith D. Williams of Atchison, who was booked by officers on Tuesday afternoon on requested charges of burglary and theft. He was already in the custody of the county jail after police had arrested him on Monday on a Desota Kansas Municipal Court warrant. Officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Tuesday and recovered most of items taken.

Police catch Kansas business burglary suspect, locate items taken

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans on Tuesday advanced President Donald Trump's request to cancel some $9 billion in previously approved spending, overcoming concerns from some lawmakers about what the rescissions could mean for impoverished people around the globe and for public radio and television stations in their home states.

The Senate vote was 50-50, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie.&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted with the majority.

A final vote in the Senate could occur as early as Wednesday. The bill would then return to the House for another vote before it would go to Trump's desk for his signature before a Friday deadline.

Republicans winnowed down the president's request by taking out his proposed $400 million cut to a program known as PEPFAR. That change increased the prospects for the bill's passage. The politically popular program is credited with saving millions of lives since its creation under then-President George W. Bush to combat HIV/AIDS.

The president is also looking to claw back money for foreign aid programs targeted by his Department of Government Efficiency and for the&nbsp;<a href="https://cpb.org/aboutcpb">Corporation for Public Broadcasting</a>.

“When you’ve got a $36 trillion debt, we have to do something to get spending under control," said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.

The White House tries to win over skeptics

Republicans met with Russ Vought, the director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, during their weekly conference luncheon as the White House worked to address their concerns. He fielded about 20 questions from senators.

The White House campaign to win over potential holdouts had some success. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., tweeted that he would vote to support the measure after working with the administration to “find Green New Deal money that could be reallocated to continue grants to tribal radio stations without interruption.”

Some senators worried that the cuts to public media could decimate many of the 1,500 local radio and television stations around the country that rely on some federal funding to operate. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting distributes more than 70% of its funding to those stations.

Maine Sen. Susan Collins, the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said she was particularly concerned about a lack of specifics from the White House.

“The rescissions package has a big problem — nobody really knows what program reductions are in it," Collins said. “That isn’t because we haven’t had time to review the bill. Instead, the problem is that OMB has never provided the details that would normally be part of this process.”

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said she didn't want the Senate to be going through numerous rounds of rescissions.

“We are lawmakers. We should be legislating,” Murkowski said. “What we're getting now is a direction from the White House and being told: 'This is the priority and we want you to execute on it. We'll be back with you with another round.' I don't accept that.”

Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., Collins and Murkowski joined with Democrats in voting against the Senate taking up the measure.

McConnell said he wanted to make clear he didn't have any problem with reducing spending, but agreed with Collins that lawmakers didn't have enough details from the White House.

“They would like a blank check is what they would like. And I don’t think that’s appropriate," McConnell said.

But the large majority of Republicans were supportive of Trump's request.

“This bill is a first step in a long but necessary fight to put our nation’s fiscal house in order," said Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo.

Democrats warned that it’s absurd to expect them to work with Republicans on bipartisan spending measures if Republicans turn around a few months later and use their majority to cut the parts they don’t like.

“It shreds the appropriations process,” said Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine who caucuses with Democrats. “The Appropriations Committee, and indeed this body, becomes a rubber stamp for whatever the administration wants.”

Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said that tens of millions of Americans rely on local public radio and television stations for local news, weather alerts and educational programs. He warned that many could lose access to that information because of the rescissions.

“And these cuts couldn't come at a worse time,” Schumer said. "The floods in Texas remind us that speedy alerts and up-to-the-minute forecasts can mean the difference between life and death.”

Democrats also scoffed at the GOP's stated motivation for taking up the bill. The amount of savings pales compared to the $3.4 trillion in projected deficits over the next decade that Republicans put in motion in passing Trump's big tax and spending cut bill two weeks ago.

“Now, Republicans are pretending they are concerned about the debt," said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash. “So concerned that they need to shut down local radio stations, so concerned they are going to cut off ‘Sesame Street.’ ... The idea that that is about balancing the debt is laughable.”

With Republicans providing enough votes to take up the bill, it sets up the potential for 10 hours of debate plus votes on scores of potentially thorny amendments in what is known as a vote-a-rama. The House has already shown its support for the president’s request with a mostly party line 214-212 vote, but since the Senate is amending the bill, it will have to go back to the House for another vote.

Republicans who vote against the measure also face the prospect of incurring Trump's wrath. He has issued a warning on his social media site directly aimed at individual Senate Republicans who may be considering voting against the rescissions package. He said it was important that all Republicans adhere to the bill and in particular defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

“Any Republican that votes to allow this monstrosity to continue broadcasting will not have my support or Endorsement,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752606245570.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans on Tuesday advanced President Donald Trump's request to cancel some $9 billion in previously approved spending, overcoming concerns from some lawmakers about what the rescissions could mean for impoverished people around the globe and for public radio and television stations in their home states.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">.<a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JDVance</a> breaks the tie! Recission package is PASSED! PBS and NPR are defunded!<a href="https://t.co/u9oGHbF5tx">pic.twitter.com/u9oGHbF5tx</a>&mdash; Spitfire (@DogRightGirl) <a href="https://twitter.com/DogRightGirl/status/1945294326373765510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Senate vote was 50-50, with Vice President JD Vance breaking the tie.&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted with the majority.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1746181587274.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>A final vote in the Senate could occur as early as Wednesday. The bill would then return to the House for another vote before it would go to Trump's desk for his signature before a Friday deadline.Republicans winnowed down the president's request by taking out his proposed $400 million cut to a program known as PEPFAR. That change increased the prospects for the bill's passage. The politically popular program is credited with saving millions of lives since its creation under then-President George W. Bush to combat HIV/AIDS.The president is also looking to claw back money for foreign aid programs targeted by his Department of Government Efficiency and for the&nbsp;<a href="https://cpb.org/aboutcpb">Corporation for Public Broadcasting</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/VOUaKmKaR1">pic.twitter.com/VOUaKmKaR1</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1945207047533855032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“When you’ve got a $36 trillion debt, we have to do something to get spending under control," said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D.<h2>The White House tries to win over skeptics</h2>Republicans met with Russ Vought, the director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, during their weekly conference luncheon as the White House worked to address their concerns. He fielded about 20 questions from senators.The White House campaign to win over potential holdouts had some success. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., tweeted that he would vote to support the measure after working with the administration to “find Green New Deal money that could be reallocated to continue grants to tribal radio stations without interruption.”Some senators worried that the cuts to public media could decimate many of the 1,500 local radio and television stations around the country that rely on some federal funding to operate. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting distributes more than 70% of its funding to those stations.Maine Sen. Susan Collins, the Republican chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said she was particularly concerned about a lack of specifics from the White House.“The rescissions package has a big problem — nobody really knows what program reductions are in it," Collins said. “That isn’t because we haven’t had time to review the bill. Instead, the problem is that OMB has never provided the details that would normally be part of this process.”Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, said she didn't want the Senate to be going through numerous rounds of rescissions.“We are lawmakers. We should be legislating,” Murkowski said. “What we're getting now is a direction from the White House and being told: 'This is the priority and we want you to execute on it. We'll be back with you with another round.' I don't accept that.”Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., Collins and Murkowski joined with Democrats in voting against the Senate taking up the measure.McConnell said he wanted to make clear he didn't have any problem with reducing spending, but agreed with Collins that lawmakers didn't have enough details from the White House.“They would like a blank check is what they would like. And I don’t think that’s appropriate," McConnell said.But the large majority of Republicans were supportive of Trump's request.“This bill is a first step in a long but necessary fight to put our nation’s fiscal house in order," said Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo.<h2>Democrats warn of the consequences</h2>Democrats warned that it’s absurd to expect them to work with Republicans on bipartisan spending measures if Republicans turn around a few months later and use their majority to cut the parts they don’t like.“It shreds the appropriations process,” said Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine who caucuses with Democrats. “The Appropriations Committee, and indeed this body, becomes a rubber stamp for whatever the administration wants.”Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said that tens of millions of Americans rely on local public radio and television stations for local news, weather alerts and educational programs. He warned that many could lose access to that information because of the rescissions.“And these cuts couldn't come at a worse time,” Schumer said. "The floods in Texas remind us that speedy alerts and up-to-the-minute forecasts can mean the difference between life and death.”Democrats also scoffed at the GOP's stated motivation for taking up the bill. The amount of savings pales compared to the $3.4 trillion in projected deficits over the next decade that Republicans put in motion in passing Trump's big tax and spending cut bill two weeks ago.“Now, Republicans are pretending they are concerned about the debt," said Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash. “So concerned that they need to shut down local radio stations, so concerned they are going to cut off ‘Sesame Street.’ ... The idea that that is about balancing the debt is laughable.”<h2>What's ahead in the Senate</h2>With Republicans providing enough votes to take up the bill, it sets up the potential for 10 hours of debate plus votes on scores of potentially thorny amendments in what is known as a vote-a-rama. The House has already shown its support for the president’s request with a mostly party line 214-212 vote, but since the Senate is amending the bill, it will have to go back to the House for another vote.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/zMYMcrzbxu">pic.twitter.com/zMYMcrzbxu</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1943446385501614262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republicans who vote against the measure also face the prospect of incurring Trump's wrath. He has issued a warning on his social media site directly aimed at individual Senate Republicans who may be considering voting against the rescissions package. He said it was important that all Republicans adhere to the bill and in particular defund the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.“Any Republican that votes to allow this monstrosity to continue broadcasting will not have my support or Endorsement,” he said.

Moran, Marshall vote to advance bill that guts funding for NPR,  PBS 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating two homicides that occurred on Tuesday in Kansas City.

Just before noon, patrol officers responded to the 8700 block of Countryshire Lane on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

As officers arrived at an apartment building they were directed inside to an apartment. They located a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics responded and declared the victim deceased on scene

This is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed there was an argument between two individuals that led to shots being fired and the victim being struck. On scene, a subject of interest was taken into custody pending further investigation.

About the same time, police were called to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 5200 block of Oak Leaf Drive, according to DiMartino.&nbsp;

Officers were directed to an apartment building within the complex. Inside of an apartment officers located an adult male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD medics responded to the scene and pronounced the victim deceased.

Meanwhile, just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday officers responded to 38th and Baltimore on a medical nature unknown call for service. Callers reported a male rolling around on the ground and thought he may need medical help.

As officers arrived they located an individual without any clothes on.&nbsp; He was detained, in handcuffs, for his safety and the safety of those around him. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, which had been dispatched along with the police, the man became unresponsive. KCFD medics arrived simultaneously and began performing life saving measures. He was transported to a local hospital in life threatening condition. He was declared deceased at the hospital. KCPD Detectives have responded for a death investigation and&nbsp; will work with the medical examiner to determine the cause and manner of death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752627140858.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating two homicides that occurred on Tuesday in Kansas City.Just before noon, patrol officers responded to the 8700 block of Countryshire Lane on a reported shooting, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752627065091.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>As officers arrived at an apartment building they were directed inside to an apartment. They located a woman suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics responded and declared the victim deceased on sceneThis is being investigated as a homicide. Preliminary investigation revealed there was an argument between two individuals that led to shots being fired and the victim being struck. On scene, a subject of interest was taken into custody pending further investigation.About the same time, police were called to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 5200 block of Oak Leaf Drive, according to DiMartino.&nbsp;Officers were directed to an apartment building within the complex. Inside of an apartment officers located an adult male victim suffering from gunshot wounds. KCFD medics responded to the scene and pronounced the victim deceased.Meanwhile, just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday officers responded to 38th and Baltimore on a medical nature unknown call for service. Callers reported a male rolling around on the ground and thought he may need medical help.As officers arrived they located an individual without any clothes on.&nbsp; He was detained, in handcuffs, for his safety and the safety of those around him. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, which had been dispatched along with the police, the man became unresponsive. KCFD medics arrived simultaneously and began performing life saving measures. He was transported to a local hospital in life threatening condition. He was declared deceased at the hospital. KCPD Detectives have responded for a death investigation and&nbsp; will work with the medical examiner to determine the cause and manner of death.

Deadly Tuesday in Kansas City: 2 more homicide investigations

FINNEY COUNTY —Staff at the Lee Richardson Zoo are mourning the loss of eastern black rhinoceros “Jabari."

On Tuesday the zoo reported their Animal Care Staff entered the rhino barn on July 11 and found the Zoo’s eldest male rhino deceased, according to a statement from the zoo. A necropsy was performed, and the final results are pending. 

Jabari was born in 2013 and arrived at the Zoo in May of 2016 as part of the Association of Zoo &amp; Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Eastern Black Rhinoceros, a critically endangered species. 

 The SSP matched Jabari with resident female rhino “Johari”.  The pair was a success and welcomed their son “Ayubu” in January of 2021.   “Jabari was definitely a favorite for many staff and guests. He was a gentle giant who absolutely loved melons and pumpkins.  He would eat the whole thing in a matter of minutes. 

 He will be greatly missed,” said Animal Keeper Jarrett Ho.   Black rhinos can currently be found in 12 countries in Africa with fewer than 6,500 individuals remaining in the wild.  Populations of black rhinos decreased by 96% between 1970 and 1993, due to poaching. 

Rhinos are illegally hunted due to the demand for their horn (which is made of keratin, the same material as your hair and fingernails) on the black market. Since 1996, conservation efforts, including intense anti-poaching efforts and translocation to safer areas, have allowed the species to slowly recover.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752614754667.png" alt="Jabari photo courtesy Lee Richardson&nbsp; Zoo" />
 <figcaption>Jabari photo courtesy Lee Richardson&nbsp; Zoo</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Staff at the Lee Richardson Zoo are mourning the loss of eastern black rhinoceros “Jabari."On Tuesday the zoo reported their Animal Care Staff entered the rhino barn on July 11 and found the Zoo’s eldest male rhino deceased, according to a statement from the zoo. A necropsy was performed, and the final results are pending. Jabari was born in 2013 and arrived at the Zoo in May of 2016 as part of the Association of Zoo &amp; Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) for Eastern Black Rhinoceros, a critically endangered species. The SSP matched Jabari with resident female rhino “Johari”. The pair was a success and welcomed their son “Ayubu” in January of 2021. “Jabari was definitely a favorite for many staff and guests. He was a gentle giant who absolutely loved melons and pumpkins. He would eat the whole thing in a matter of minutes. He will be greatly missed,” said Animal Keeper Jarrett Ho. Black rhinos can currently be found in 12 countries in Africa with fewer than 6,500 individuals remaining in the wild. Populations of black rhinos decreased by 96% between 1970 and 1993, due to poaching. Rhinos are illegally hunted due to the demand for their horn (which is made of keratin, the same material as your hair and fingernails) on the black market. Since 1996, conservation efforts, including intense anti-poaching efforts and translocation to safer areas, have allowed the species to slowly recover.

Endangered eastern black rhino found dead at Kansas zoo

Kansas Task Force 1 completed a Hasty Search, a fast-paced, methodical search of the assigned area of operation to locate victims who are in immediate need of evacuation from harm, according to a social media report from the Office of the Kansas Fire Marshal.

Four HDR K9s have been added to the task forces and2 boat crews and are searching the water.

On Saturday, Governor Laura Kelly announce the state deployed Kansas Task Force 1, consisting of two Type 3 swift-water search and rescue teams, through the Office of the State Fire Marshal, to assist the State of Texas in areas impacted by flooding from recent heavy rains. KS-TF1 departed on July 12 from Olathe and were assigned to Kerrville in Kerr County.

A request from Texas was sent to the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, and this task force was sent as part of an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which is a multistate, mutual aid agreement that facilitates interstate assistance in response and recovery operations during a disaster.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752615640998.png" alt="Photo Kansas Fire Marshal's office" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas Fire Marshal's office</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Task Force 1 completed a Hasty Search, a fast-paced, methodical search of the assigned area of operation to locate victims who are in immediate need of evacuation from harm, according to a social media report from the Office of the Kansas Fire Marshal.Four HDR K9s have been added to the task forces and2 boat crews and are searching the water.On Saturday, Governor Laura Kelly announce the state deployed Kansas Task Force 1, consisting of two Type 3 swift-water search and rescue teams, through the Office of the State Fire Marshal, to assist the State of Texas in areas impacted by flooding from recent heavy rains. KS-TF1 departed on July 12 from Olathe and were assigned to Kerrville in Kerr County.A request from Texas was sent to the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, and this task force was sent as part of an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which is a multistate, mutual aid agreement that facilitates interstate assistance in response and recovery operations during a disaster.

Kansas swift-water rescue teams continue work in Texas

The Marion County Health Department has identified a suspected rabies case in a feral (stray) cat at the Marion County Lake, according to a media release.

The cat was in a residential area exhibiting suspicious behavior including aggression, confusion, and stilted movement the evening of Wednesday, July 9. The animal was disposed of but was unable to be tested.

Rabies is a serious and fatal viral disease that affects mammals, including humans. Rabies is transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal, or when saliva or brain tissue from a rabid animal comes into contact with broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth.

While this specific animal is no longer a threat, the public is urged to be observant and to take the following precautions:

• Avoid contact with wild or feral animals.

• Keep pets up to date on rabies vaccinations.

• Report any suspicious or aggressive animal behavior to the County Sheriff’s Office&nbsp;

For questions regarding possible rabies exposure, contact the Marion County Health Department at 620-382-2550.

The Marion County Health Department has identified a suspected rabies case in a feral (stray) cat at the Marion County Lake, according to a media release.The cat was in a residential area exhibiting suspicious behavior including aggression, confusion, and stilted movement the evening of Wednesday, July 9. The animal was disposed of but was unable to be tested.Rabies is a serious and fatal viral disease that affects mammals, including humans. Rabies is transmitted through a bite or scratch from an infected animal, or when saliva or brain tissue from a rabid animal comes into contact with broken skin, eyes, nose, or mouth.While this specific animal is no longer a threat, the public is urged to be observant and to take the following precautions:• Avoid contact with wild or feral animals.• Keep pets up to date on rabies vaccinations.• Report any suspicious or aggressive animal behavior to the County Sheriff’s Office&nbsp;For questions regarding possible rabies exposure, contact the Marion County Health Department at 620-382-2550.

Kan. county health dept. reports rabies case in stray cat 

Father of 5-year-old victim says justice for daughter calls for death penalty

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 — A perpetually homeless man abused by his parents and shuffled as a youth among more than 17 foster homes and two psychiatric hospitals received a life sentence in prison Tuesday without possibility of parole for half a century in the rape and murder of a Topeka preschool girl entrusted to his care.

Shawnee County District Judge Jessica Heinen ordered Mickel Cherry, who admitted to smothering 5-year-old Zoey Felix in 2023, to serve consecutive life sentences requiring incarceration for a minimum of 50 years before being evaluated for possible release. Defense counsel recommended their developmentally disabled client serve the pair of life sentences concurrently so parole could be an option after 25 years. The prosecution argued the extreme depravity of the crimes necessitated at least 50 years behind bars.

Cherry pleaded guilty to both offenses in exchange for the district attorney not pursuing the death penalty.

“The evidence shows you violently, forcibly and inhumanely raped Zoey,” Heinen told Cherry at close of a heart-wrenching two-day hearing. “You then murdered Zoey.”

Heinen, who had the authority to order concurrent or consecutive life sentences, said her decision reflected Cherry’s attempt to conceal his involvement by blaming an imaginary Mexican man and lying repeatedly to Topeka law enforcement officers. In a police station interrogation on the day of Zoey’s death, Cherry confessed and has remained at the Shawnee County Jail for the past 650 days.

The judge asked Cherry if he wanted to make a statement to the court, and his response — “No, Ma’am” — frustrated some family members looking for a glimmer of remorse. They had spent two days studying his mostly blank expression and tendency to bury his chin in his chest. He spoke periodically to his attorneys, but made few hand gestures given that his wrists were handcuffed to a chain linked to ankle shackles.

Zeke Felix, Zoey’s father, said in an interview that he wasn’t content with the decision of District Attorney Mike Kagay to set aside the capital punishment option. He understood there were potential legal complications with seeking the death penalty because of Cherry’s diminished mental capacity, but thought an attempt should have been made to achieve what he viewed as full justice for his daughter.

“I’m not content, but satisfied,” said Zeke Felix, who sat during the proceeding in the front row behind prosecutors. “The death penalty was off the table.”

Kagay, who handled the sentencing phase with two colleagues from the district attorney’s office, said there was no easy way to talk about what the defendant did to the victim. He said in most criminal cases there were thin slices of humanity or fractured pieces of a puzzle to provide context or explain the horror.

“Not here,” he said. “Not in this case.”

Kagay said it was outrageous that Cherry, while divulging how he squeezed the life from Zoey, informed a Topeka police detective that sometimes a “good person” such as himself committed senseless crimes.

“Mickel Cherry made the conscious decision to kill Zoey. Why? In a failed attempt to avoid responsibility,” Kagay said. “The most egregious crimes demand the heaviest penalties. Each of these crimes call out today for justice.”

The district attorney responded to defense witness testimony and court filings dedicated to outlining how Cherry emerged from a Texas childhood marked by abuse and mental instability to land in an isolated Kansas tent encampment where Zoey’s life ended. Kagay conceded state foster care systems allowed children to fall through the cracks, but he rejected that required mercy beyond setting aside the death penalty for Cherry.

“The law has already shown him clemency,” Kagay said. “There is no question who is to blame here. No failure of any system caused him to rape and murder Zoey Felix.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696342029742.png" alt="Cherry photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Cherry photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Father of 5-year-old victim says justice for daughter calls for death penalty</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 — A perpetually homeless man abused by his parents and shuffled as a youth among more than 17 foster homes and two psychiatric hospitals received a life sentence in prison Tuesday without possibility of parole for half a century in the rape and murder of a Topeka preschool girl entrusted to his care.Shawnee County District Judge Jessica Heinen ordered Mickel Cherry, who admitted to smothering 5-year-old Zoey Felix in 2023, to serve consecutive life sentences requiring incarceration for a minimum of 50 years before being evaluated for possible release. Defense counsel recommended their developmentally disabled client serve the pair of life sentences concurrently so parole could be an option after 25 years. The prosecution argued the extreme depravity of the crimes necessitated at least 50 years behind bars.Cherry pleaded guilty to both offenses in exchange for the district attorney not pursuing the death penalty.“The evidence shows you violently, forcibly and inhumanely raped Zoey,” Heinen told Cherry at close of a heart-wrenching two-day hearing. “You then murdered Zoey.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696600819324.png" alt="Zoey Felix photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Zoey Felix photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>Heinen, who had the authority to order concurrent or consecutive life sentences, said her decision reflected Cherry’s attempt to conceal his involvement by blaming an imaginary Mexican man and lying repeatedly to Topeka law enforcement officers. In a police station interrogation on the day of Zoey’s death, Cherry confessed and has remained at the Shawnee County Jail for the past 650 days.The judge asked Cherry if he wanted to make a statement to the court, and his response — “No, Ma’am” — frustrated some family members looking for a glimmer of remorse. They had spent two days studying his mostly blank expression and tendency to bury his chin in his chest. He spoke periodically to his attorneys, but made few hand gestures given that his wrists were handcuffed to a chain linked to ankle shackles.Zeke Felix, Zoey’s father, said in an interview that he wasn’t content with the decision of District Attorney Mike Kagay to set aside the capital punishment option. He understood there were potential legal complications with seeking the death penalty because of Cherry’s diminished mental capacity, but thought an attempt should have been made to achieve what he viewed as full justice for his daughter.“I’m not content, but satisfied,” said Zeke Felix, who sat during the proceeding in the front row behind prosecutors. “The death penalty was off the table.”<h2>‘Conscious decision’</h2>Kagay, who handled the sentencing phase with two colleagues from the district attorney’s office, said there was no easy way to talk about what the defendant did to the victim. He said in most criminal cases there were thin slices of humanity or fractured pieces of a puzzle to provide context or explain the horror.“Not here,” he said. “Not in this case.”Kagay said it was outrageous that Cherry, while divulging how he squeezed the life from Zoey, informed a Topeka police detective that sometimes a “good person” such as himself committed senseless crimes.“Mickel Cherry made the conscious decision to kill Zoey. Why? In a failed attempt to avoid responsibility,” Kagay said. “The most egregious crimes demand the heaviest penalties. Each of these crimes call out today for justice.”The district attorney responded to defense witness testimony and court filings dedicated to outlining how Cherry emerged from a Texas childhood marked by abuse and mental instability to land in an isolated Kansas tent encampment where Zoey’s life ended. Kagay conceded state foster care systems allowed children to fall through the cracks, but he rejected that required mercy beyond setting aside the death penalty for Cherry.“The law has already shown him clemency,” Kagay said. “There is no question who is to blame here. No failure of any system caused him to rape and murder Zoey Felix.”<h2>Heart of the issue’</h2>Defense attorney Peter Conley, who is the state’s deputy capital defender, presented evidence Cherry endured persistent abuse while a minor. There were Texas reports showing his mother put a lit cigarette to his head, leaving a permanent scar. Domestic violence was a routine occurrence in his parents’ home, reports showed. He was beaten with sticks, fists and even a hammer by adults in his life.The large but incomplete file on Cherry’s upbringing indicated he lived in places where adults required disobedient children to stand in a cold shower all night or remain crouched in stress positions for hours. Elsewhere, he was forced to spend long periods of time in a yard with a dangerous dog. He was adopted at age 14, but was subsequently left on his own at 18 without the skills to live independently.“The system failed him utterly and completely,” said Beth Robinson, a professor at Colorado Christian University who was the first Texas counselor Cherry encountered when taken from his parents at age 5. “He needed a whole different type of therapy and intervention.”She testified for the defense that one-third of children who spent extended time in foster care ended up homeless and about half eventually found their way into criminal entanglements.Conley said it was important the sentencing judge in Kansas respond to the odious offenses committed by Cherry by imposing a life sentence. It was equally significant for the court to factor into the equation the role of a dysfunctional Texas foster care system as well as the Kansas Department for Children and Families’ failure to sufficiently respond to reports Zoey was being neglected, he said.That history argued for a sentence that provided Cherry a thin but reasonable hope of walking out of a prison in something closer to 25 years instead of 50 years, Conley said.“The heart of this issue is DCF had information about unsafe environments for Zoey Felix and didn’t do enough about it,” Conley said. “Actions have consequences. Mickel needs to be punished. Inaction also has consequences.”