KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michelle-obama">Michelle Obama</a>&nbsp;challenged men to support&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;' bid to be America's first female president, warning at a rally in Michigan on Saturday that women's lives would be at risk if Donald Trump returned to the White House.

The former first lady described the assault on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-ruling-texas-georgia-5c5d73c45274f90d40f7a4a07f00a27a">abortion rights</a>&nbsp;as the harbinger of dangerous limitations on healthcare for women. Some men may be tempted to vote for Trump because of their anger at the slow pace of progress, Obama said, but “your rage does not exist in a vacuum.”

”If we don’t get this election right, your wife, your daughter, your mother, we as women will become collateral damage to your rage,” Obama said. “So are you as men prepared to look into the eyes of the women and children you love and tell them you supported this assault on our safety?”

The rally in Kalamazoo was Obama’s first appearance on the campaign trail since she spoke at the Democratic National Convention over the summer, and her remarks were searing and passionate in their support of Harris.

“By every measure, she has demonstrated that she’s ready,” the former first lady said. “The real question is, as a country, are we ready for this moment?”

Obama added, “Do not buy into the lies that we do not know who Kamala is or what she stands for. This is somebody who understands you, all of you.”

Although Obama has been a reluctant campaigner over the years, she showed no hesitation on Saturday as her speech stretched from the political to the personal. Obama said she fears for the country and struggles to understand why the presidential race remains close.

“I lay awake at night wondering, 'What in the world is going on?'” she said.

Her voice vibrating with emotion, Obama talked about the struggle for women to understand and care for their own bodies, whether it’s their menstrual cycles or menopause. And she spoke about the dangers of childbirth, when a split-second decision can mean the difference between life and death for a mother and her baby.

“I am asking y’all from the core of my being to take our lives seriously," Obama pleaded.

Harris took the stage after Obama and promised the crowd that she would keep their interests in mind — unlike Trump, who she accused of only being interested in himself.

“There is a yearning in our country for a president who sees the people, not just looking in the mirror all the time, but sees the people, who gets you and who will fight for you," she said.

After the rally, Harris went to Trak Houz Bar &amp; Grill with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, where they drank a locally brewed beer.

“I want to have whatever she's having,” Harris said.

The politicians chatted and took photos with people at the bar. When they approached a table of young women, one of them burst into tears.

Before arriving in Kalamazoo, Harris visited a local doctor's office in Portage to talk with health care providers and medical students about the impact of abortion restrictions. One of them said they have patients visiting from other parts of the country where there are strict limitations on abortion, and another said she's worried that people won't want to practice in important areas of medicine because of fears about government intrusion.

“We are looking at a health care crisis in America that is affecting people of every background and gender," Harris told reporters before visiting the doctor's office.

Harris appeared with Beyoncé&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-abortion-rights-2024-election-democrats-f228eedd3308dab2e1125fdf6029a4a2">on Friday in Houston</a>, and she campaigned with former President Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-obama-springsteen-perry-mix-master-atlanta-1ef1c592180db8fcbe0d0480248f9fe6">on Thursday in Atlanta.</a>

It's a level of celebrity clout that surpasses anything that Trump, the Republican nominee, has been able to marshal this year. But there's no guarantee that will help Harris in the close race for the White House. In 2016, Hillary Clinton lost to Trump despite firing up her crowds with musical performances and Democratic allies.

Trump brushed off Harris' attempt to harness star power for her campaign.

“Kamala is at a dance party with Beyoncé,” the former president said Friday in Traverse City, Michigan. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-detroit-michigan-ee1dbcb59eaddd8b006ce57aad77c37e">held a rally in Novi</a>, a suburb of Detroit, on Saturday before a later event in State College, Pennsylvania.

Saturday is the first day that early in-person voting became available across Michigan. More than 1.4 million ballots have already been submitted, representing 20% of registered voters.

When Clinton was running against Trump, Michelle Obama inspired Democrats with the slogan “when they go low, we go high.”

But this year, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, she adopted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-harris-biden-obama-ffb55cee591f8f162ad77b5d6b91152b">a more biting approach</a>. She accused Trump of "doubling down on ugly, misogynistic, racist lies as a substitute for real ideas and solutions that will actually make people’s lives better.”

While Harris was with Obama in Michigan, President Joe Biden visited the Laborers’ International Union of North America in Pittsburgh. He mentioned that Harris once walked a picket line with the United Auto Workers — “she has a backbone like a ramrod” — while Trump has undermined organized labor.

“He views unions as getting in the way of the accumulation of wealth for individuals," Biden said. “It’s in labor’s interest to defeat Donald Trump, more than any other race you’ve been in.”

Biden's remarks to the mostly male audience referenced the gender divide that has been a consistent feature of this year's presidential race.

Speaking on Trump, Biden said, "I’m just gonna say straight up, he’s a loser as a man.”

He also said that women deserve more opportunities than they've received in the past.

“They can do anything any man can do, including be president of the United States of America," Biden said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729994005608.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/michelle-obama">Michelle Obama</a>&nbsp;challenged men to support&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;' bid to be America's first female president, warning at a rally in Michigan on Saturday that women's lives would be at risk if Donald Trump returned to the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MichelleObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MichelleObama</a>: &quot;I am asking y&#39;all from the core of my being to take our lives seriously. Please do not put our lives in the hands of politicians, mostly men, who have no clue or do not care about what we as women are going through...Please do not hand our fates over to the… <a href="https://t.co/XGrnOlDeC8">pic.twitter.com/XGrnOlDeC8</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1850332497323667881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The former first lady described the assault on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-ruling-texas-georgia-5c5d73c45274f90d40f7a4a07f00a27a">abortion rights</a>&nbsp;as the harbinger of dangerous limitations on healthcare for women. Some men may be tempted to vote for Trump because of their anger at the slow pace of progress, Obama said, but “your rage does not exist in a vacuum.””If we don’t get this election right, your wife, your daughter, your mother, we as women will become collateral damage to your rage,” Obama said. “So are you as men prepared to look into the eyes of the women and children you love and tell them you supported this assault on our safety?”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/MichelleObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MichelleObama</a>: &quot;I am praying that those of us contemplating voting for Trump or not voting at all will snap out of whatever fog we are in...I am worried that we will blow this opportunity to finally turn the page on the ugliness once and for all.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/TYPbINKmge">pic.twitter.com/TYPbINKmge</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1850331506121851001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The rally in Kalamazoo was Obama’s first appearance on the campaign trail since she spoke at the Democratic National Convention over the summer, and her remarks were searing and passionate in their support of Harris.“By every measure, she has demonstrated that she’s ready,” the former first lady said. “The real question is, as a country, are we ready for this moment?”Obama added, “Do not buy into the lies that we do not know who Kamala is or what she stands for. This is somebody who understands you, all of you.”Although Obama has been a reluctant campaigner over the years, she showed no hesitation on Saturday as her speech stretched from the political to the personal. Obama said she fears for the country and struggles to understand why the presidential race remains close.“I lay awake at night wondering, 'What in the world is going on?'” she said.Her voice vibrating with emotion, Obama talked about the struggle for women to understand and care for their own bodies, whether it’s their menstrual cycles or menopause. And she spoke about the dangers of childbirth, when a split-second decision can mean the difference between life and death for a mother and her baby.“I am asking y’all from the core of my being to take our lives seriously," Obama pleaded.Harris took the stage after Obama and promised the crowd that she would keep their interests in mind — unlike Trump, who she accused of only being interested in himself.“There is a yearning in our country for a president who sees the people, not just looking in the mirror all the time, but sees the people, who gets you and who will fight for you," she said.After the rally, Harris went to Trak Houz Bar &amp; Grill with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, where they drank a locally brewed beer.“I want to have whatever she's having,” Harris said.The politicians chatted and took photos with people at the bar. When they approached a table of young women, one of them burst into tears.Before arriving in Kalamazoo, Harris visited a local doctor's office in Portage to talk with health care providers and medical students about the impact of abortion restrictions. One of them said they have patients visiting from other parts of the country where there are strict limitations on abortion, and another said she's worried that people won't want to practice in important areas of medicine because of fears about government intrusion.“We are looking at a health care crisis in America that is affecting people of every background and gender," Harris told reporters before visiting the doctor's office.Harris appeared with Beyoncé&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-abortion-rights-2024-election-democrats-f228eedd3308dab2e1125fdf6029a4a2">on Friday in Houston</a>, and she campaigned with former President Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-obama-springsteen-perry-mix-master-atlanta-1ef1c592180db8fcbe0d0480248f9fe6">on Thursday in Atlanta.</a>It's a level of celebrity clout that surpasses anything that Trump, the Republican nominee, has been able to marshal this year. But there's no guarantee that will help Harris in the close race for the White House. In 2016, Hillary Clinton lost to Trump despite firing up her crowds with musical performances and Democratic allies.Trump brushed off Harris' attempt to harness star power for her campaign.“Kamala is at a dance party with Beyoncé,” the former president said Friday in Traverse City, Michigan. Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-detroit-michigan-ee1dbcb59eaddd8b006ce57aad77c37e">held a rally in Novi</a>, a suburb of Detroit, on Saturday before a later event in State College, Pennsylvania.Saturday is the first day that early in-person voting became available across Michigan. More than 1.4 million ballots have already been submitted, representing 20% of registered voters.When Clinton was running against Trump, Michelle Obama inspired Democrats with the slogan “when they go low, we go high.”But this year, at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, she adopted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-harris-biden-obama-ffb55cee591f8f162ad77b5d6b91152b">a more biting approach</a>. She accused Trump of "doubling down on ugly, misogynistic, racist lies as a substitute for real ideas and solutions that will actually make people’s lives better.”While Harris was with Obama in Michigan, President Joe Biden visited the Laborers’ International Union of North America in Pittsburgh. He mentioned that Harris once walked a picket line with the United Auto Workers — “she has a backbone like a ramrod” — while Trump has undermined organized labor.“He views unions as getting in the way of the accumulation of wealth for individuals," Biden said. “It’s in labor’s interest to defeat Donald Trump, more than any other race you’ve been in.”Biden's remarks to the mostly male audience referenced the gender divide that has been a consistent feature of this year's presidential race.Speaking on Trump, Biden said, "I’m just gonna say straight up, he’s a loser as a man.”He also said that women deserve more opportunities than they've received in the past.“They can do anything any man can do, including be president of the United States of America," Biden said.

🎥'Take our lives seriously,' Michelle Obama pleads as she rallies for Harris in Michigan

NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump is finally getting his Madison Square Garden moment.

With just over a week to go before Election Day, the former president will take the stage at one of the country's most iconic venues, hosting a hometown rally to deliver his campaign's closing message against Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris.

"Madison Square Garden is the center of the universe," said Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller, noting the venue's storied history hosting events including the 1971 "Fight of the Century."

The rally is one of a series of detours Trump has made from battleground states, including a recent rally in Coachella, California — best known for the famous music festival named after the town — and one over the summer on the Jersey Shore. This summer he campaigned in the South Bronx.

While some Democrats and TV pundits have questioned Trump's decision to hold what they dismiss as vanity events, the rally guarantees Trump what he most craves: the spotlight, wall-to-wall coverage and a national audience.

Along with trying to energize his base, Trump's campaign has been trying to court the few remaining undecided voters, many of whom don't get their news from traditional outlets.

To reach them, Trump has spent hours appearing on popular podcasts. And his campaign has worked to create viral moments like his visit last weekend to a McDonald's restaurant, where he made fries and served supporters through the drive-thru window. Video of the stop posted by his campaign has been viewed more than 40 million times on TikTok alone.

"He's not just going to be speaking to the attendees inside Madison Square Garden. There will be people tuning in from battleground states all across the country," said former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin, a New York Republican and ally of the former president, who said Trump has been talking about holding an event at the venue since the start of his campaign.

Harris has also traveled to non-battleground states for major events intended to drive a national message. She appeared in Houston Friday with music superstar Beyoncé to speak about reproductive rights, and will deliver her own closing argument Tuesday from the Ellipse in Washington, where Trump spoke ahead of the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot.

Trump will be joined at the rally by supporters including Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who has spent tens of millions of dollars to boost his campaign.

Trump often compares himself to the country's greatest entertainers. The former reality TV star has long talked about wanting to hold a rally at the venue dubbed "The World's Most Famous Arena," raising the idea in interviews and private conversations.

"New York is part of his DNA. Madison Square Garden is part of his DNA," said New York State Republican Chairman Ed Cox.

While Trump continues to insist the rally is part of his effort to win New York — a state President Joe Biden carried four years ago with more than 60% of the vote — he's made clear it's also personal.

"It's the New York, but it's also, you know, it's MSG, it's Madison Square Garden," Trump said during a recent radio interview. "Guys like you and I, that means a lot, those words. Madison Square Garden, right? Don't you think so? ... It's a very big stop."

The venue also has a history in politics, hosting events with Dwight Eisenhower and Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1962, John F. Kennedy Jr. held a birthday celebration at the stadium where Marilyn Monroe famously sang "Happy Birthday to You, Mr. President."

But if there's one bit of Garden history Trump might want to replicate, it's when Grover Cleveland accepted his party's nomination in 1892, three years after leaving the White House. He went on to win the election, becoming the first and only president to serve two non-consecutive terms.

House control could run through New York's suburbs

Beyond the national spotlight and the appeal of appearing on one of the world's most famous stages, Republicans in the state say the rally will also help down-ballot candidates.

New York is home to a handful of competitive congressional races that could determine which party controls the House next year.

Zeldin ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2022, but did better than expected, driving turnout in competitive districts that helped House Republicans win a tiny majority. That underscored, he said, the importance of the top of the ticket doing as well as possible. He said the Garden event is sure to be featured on newscasts in areas with high-stakes races like suburban Long Island, where Trump held a packed, raucous rally last month.

Trump will also use the stop as a major fundraising opportunity as he continues to seriously lag Harris in the money race.

A native returns to the city that made him and convicted him

New York has not voted for a Republican for president in 40 years. But that hasn't stopped Trump from continuing to insist he believes he can win.

"We think there's a chance," he said on "The Brian Kilmeade Show" earlier this week, pointing to frustrations over an influx of migrants to the city and concerns over crime.

Trump routinely uses his hometown as a foil before audiences in other states, painting a dark vision of the city that bears little resemblance to reality. He's cast it as crime-ridden and overrun by violent, immigrant gangs who have taken over Fifth and Madison avenues and occupied Times Square.

Trump has a complicated history with the place where he built his business empire and that made him a tabloid and reality TV star. Its residents indicted him last year on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He was found guilty in that case, and also found liable in civil court for business fraud and sexual abuse.

Associated Press writer Michelle L. Price in Novi, Michigan, contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730025413603.png" alt="Donald Trump walks off stage in Michigan on Saturday to greet his supporters-image courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications" />
 <figcaption>Donald Trump walks off stage in Michigan on Saturday to greet his supporters-image courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>By JILL COLVIN &nbsp;Associated PressNEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump is finally getting his Madison Square Garden moment.With just over a week to go before Election Day, the former president will take the stage at one of the country's most iconic venues, hosting a hometown rally to deliver his campaign's closing message against Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris."Madison Square Garden is the center of the universe," said Trump campaign senior adviser Jason Miller, noting the venue's storied history hosting events including the 1971 "Fight of the Century."The rally is one of a series of detours Trump has made from battleground states, including a recent rally in Coachella, California — best known for the famous music festival named after the town — and one over the summer on the Jersey Shore. This summer he campaigned in the South Bronx.While some Democrats and TV pundits have questioned Trump's decision to hold what they dismiss as vanity events, the rally guarantees Trump what he most craves: the spotlight, wall-to-wall coverage and a national audience.Along with trying to energize his base, Trump's campaign has been trying to court the few remaining undecided voters, many of whom don't get their news from traditional outlets.To reach them, Trump has spent hours appearing on popular podcasts. And his campaign has worked to create viral moments like his visit last weekend to a McDonald's restaurant, where he made fries and served supporters through the drive-thru window. Video of the stop posted by his campaign has been viewed more than 40 million times on TikTok alone."He's not just going to be speaking to the attendees inside Madison Square Garden. There will be people tuning in from battleground states all across the country," said former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin, a New York Republican and ally of the former president, who said Trump has been talking about holding an event at the venue since the start of his campaign.Harris has also traveled to non-battleground states for major events intended to drive a national message. She appeared in Houston Friday with music superstar Beyoncé to speak about reproductive rights, and will deliver her own closing argument Tuesday from the Ellipse in Washington, where Trump spoke ahead of the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot.Trump will be joined at the rally by supporters including Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who has spent tens of millions of dollars to boost his campaign.'The world's most famous arena'Trump often compares himself to the country's greatest entertainers. The former reality TV star has long talked about wanting to hold a rally at the venue dubbed "The World's Most Famous Arena," raising the idea in interviews and private conversations."New York is part of his DNA. Madison Square Garden is part of his DNA," said New York State Republican Chairman Ed Cox.While Trump continues to insist the rally is part of his effort to win New York — a state President Joe Biden carried four years ago with more than 60% of the vote — he's made clear it's also personal."It's the New York, but it's also, you know, it's MSG, it's Madison Square Garden," Trump said during a recent radio interview. "Guys like you and I, that means a lot, those words. Madison Square Garden, right? Don't you think so? ... It's a very big stop."The venue also has a history in politics, hosting events with Dwight Eisenhower and Franklin D. Roosevelt. In 1962, John F. Kennedy Jr. held a birthday celebration at the stadium where Marilyn Monroe famously sang "Happy Birthday to You, Mr. President."But if there's one bit of Garden history Trump might want to replicate, it's when Grover Cleveland accepted his party's nomination in 1892, three years after leaving the White House. He went on to win the election, becoming the first and only president to serve two non-consecutive terms.House control could run through New York's suburbsBeyond the national spotlight and the appeal of appearing on one of the world's most famous stages, Republicans in the state say the rally will also help down-ballot candidates.New York is home to a handful of competitive congressional races that could determine which party controls the House next year.Zeldin ran unsuccessfully for governor in 2022, but did better than expected, driving turnout in competitive districts that helped House Republicans win a tiny majority. That underscored, he said, the importance of the top of the ticket doing as well as possible. He said the Garden event is sure to be featured on newscasts in areas with high-stakes races like suburban Long Island, where Trump held a packed, raucous rally last month.Trump will also use the stop as a major fundraising opportunity as he continues to seriously lag Harris in the money race.A native returns to the city that made him and convicted himNew York has not voted for a Republican for president in 40 years. But that hasn't stopped Trump from continuing to insist he believes he can win."We think there's a chance," he said on "The Brian Kilmeade Show" earlier this week, pointing to frustrations over an influx of migrants to the city and concerns over crime.Trump routinely uses his hometown as a foil before audiences in other states, painting a dark vision of the city that bears little resemblance to reality. He's cast it as crime-ridden and overrun by violent, immigrant gangs who have taken over Fifth and Madison avenues and occupied Times Square.Trump has a complicated history with the place where he built his business empire and that made him a tabloid and reality TV star. Its residents indicted him last year on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. He was found guilty in that case, and also found liable in civil court for business fraud and sexual abuse.___Associated Press writer Michelle L. Price in Novi, Michigan, contributed to this report.

Trump veers away from swing states for his Madison Square Garden moment

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man is going to prison for violent child sex crimes.

This week, Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 36-year-old Timothy Ryan Hugo to Life without the possibility of parole for 25-years for aggravated indecent liberties, rape of a child under 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office. The crimes were committed in 2019, according to online jail records.

In July, a jury found Hugo guilty of two counts of aggravated indecent liberties, two counts of rape of a child under 14 and aggravated sodomy. He has in the Johnson County Detention Center since October 2021, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1722275116463.png" alt="Hugo-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hugo-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man is going to prison for violent child sex crimes.This week, Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 36-year-old Timothy Ryan Hugo to Life without the possibility of parole for 25-years for aggravated indecent liberties, rape of a child under 14 and aggravated criminal sodomy, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office. The crimes were committed in 2019, according to online jail records.He registered a sex offender this week.In July, a jury found Hugo guilty of two counts of aggravated indecent liberties, two counts of rape of a child under 14 and aggravated sodomy. He has in the Johnson County Detention Center since October 2021, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

Kansas man going to prison for violent child sex crimes

GRANT COUNTY, Nebraska —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 5:30 p.m. October 24, while working traffic North of Hyannis on Hwy 61, a Grant County Deputy stopped a Kansas registered vehicle traveling south bound doing 75 mph in a 60 mph zone, according to a media release.

An investigation revealed a 38- year old man from Wichita was in possession of suspected large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamines, marijuana, cash and paraphernalia.

With the assistance of Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office, the man was arrested for multiple drug charges and transported to the Box Butte County Jail without incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729785025424.jpeg" alt="Photos Grant Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Grant Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>GRANT COUNTY, Nebraska —Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations after a traffic stop.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729785041197.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 5:30 p.m. October 24, while working traffic North of Hyannis on Hwy 61, a Grant County Deputy stopped a Kansas registered vehicle traveling south bound doing 75 mph in a 60 mph zone, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729785056243.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>An investigation revealed a 38- year old man from Wichita was in possession of suspected large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamines, marijuana, cash and paraphernalia.With the assistance of Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff's Office, the man was arrested for multiple drug charges and transported to the Box Butte County Jail without incident.

Kan. man, driving 75mph in a 60,  caught with large quantities of cocaine

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have received reports about people standing in medians and intersections around Wichita, asking for money for a young girl named Carla, who they claim passed away from leukemia.

On Saturday, officers questioned one individual who couldn’t provide any additional photos, even though he claimed Carla was his niece. He said he came from out of state to Wichita on a friend’s suggestion.

After investigating, police discovered the Tulsa Police Department had reported a similar scam involving identical signs with a different photo. "Please be aware—this appears to be a scam."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729979470928.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police have received reports about people standing in medians and intersections around Wichita, asking for money for a young girl named Carla, who they claim passed away from leukemia.On Saturday, officers questioned one individual who couldn’t provide any additional photos, even though he claimed Carla was his niece. He said he came from out of state to Wichita on a friend’s suggestion.After investigating, police discovered the Tulsa Police Department had reported a similar scam involving identical signs with a different photo. "Please be aware—this appears to be a scam."

Police in Kansas alert public to leukemia fundraising scam

TOPEKA —A Kansas man pleaded guilty this week to preparing and filing false income tax returns on behalf of his clients, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Hophine Bwosinde, of Lenexa, operated Ambroseli Professional Services, a tax preparation business. From 2018 through 2022, Bwosinde prepared and filed false tax returns on behalf of his clients by either inflating legitimate business expenses or by claiming losses related to fake businesses. In addition, Bwosinde falsely reported negative income on clients’ returns. These false items caused his clients to significantly underreport their income to the IRS, which reduced the amount of taxes the clients owed and generated refunds for many to which they were not entitled.

In total, Bwosinde caused a total tax loss exceeding $1.5 million.

A sentencing hearing will take place on Feb. 18, 2025. Bwosinde faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

TOPEKA —A Kansas man pleaded guilty this week to preparing and filing false income tax returns on behalf of his clients, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents and statements made in court, Hophine Bwosinde, of Lenexa, operated Ambroseli Professional Services, a tax preparation business. From 2018 through 2022, Bwosinde prepared and filed false tax returns on behalf of his clients by either inflating legitimate business expenses or by claiming losses related to fake businesses. In addition, Bwosinde falsely reported negative income on clients’ returns. These false items caused his clients to significantly underreport their income to the IRS, which reduced the amount of taxes the clients owed and generated refunds for many to which they were not entitled.In total, Bwosinde caused a total tax loss exceeding $1.5 million.A sentencing hearing will take place on Feb. 18, 2025. Bwosinde faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Kan. tax preparer faces prison time for filing false returns for clients

NEW YORK (AP) — Health officials said Thursday that there's no evidence bird flu is spreading between people after investigating a mysterious infection in Missouri.

The illness reported last month was different from the 30 other bird flu infections in people in the U.S. so far this year. Those cases have been in farmworkers who had contact with infected dairy cows or chickens.

There was no known contact with an infected animal in the Missouri case, but health officials said Thursday that’s the only remaining explanation.

"There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission,” said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The H5N1 bird flu&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bird-flu-humans-animals-deaths-ae01d3717783f0cf41e23f3fedb97017">has been spreading widely</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. among wild birds, poultry, cows and a number of other animals. Its growing presence increases the chances that people will be exposed, and potentially catch it, officials say.

The most recent of the 31 confirmed human cases are two workers at a commercial egg farm in Franklin County, in southeast Washington state. The rest: 15 in California, 10 in Colorado, two in Michigan, one in Texas and the unusual one in Missouri. Symptoms have been mostly mild, including eye redness.

Few details have been released about the Missouri case. The person had preexisting health problems and was hospitalized in late August. The patient was given a test for flu that was positive for influenza A, a broad virus category. Further testing found partial genetic sequences similar to bird flu viruses from U.S. dairy cows.

Because the Missouri person did not work at a farm and had no known contact with an infected animal, health officials have been looking into the possibility it had come from another person with an undetected infection. That kind of spread would be a worrisome sign the virus might be turning into a more common threat to humans.

They did complicated blood testing of the patient, five hospital workers, and a person described as a “household contact” of the patient — looking for antibodies that would serve as proof of a past infection. The household contact got a stomach illness at the same time as the patient, but was not initially tested.

On Thursday, CDC officials said test results were negative for the health care workers. The patient and the household contact showed signs of past infection in one round of testing, but not in others. Neither met the World Health Organization's blood testing threshold for a bird flu case. The household contact is not part of the U.S. tally.

Since they both got sick at the same time, officials believe the patient and the contact were exposed together to some unknown animal or animal product — ruling out spread of the virus from one of them to the other, Daskalakis said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1725718440042.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Health officials said Thursday that there's no evidence bird flu is spreading between people after investigating a mysterious infection in Missouri.The illness reported last month was different from the 30 other bird flu infections in people in the U.S. so far this year. Those cases have been in farmworkers who had contact with infected dairy cows or chickens.There was no known contact with an infected animal in the Missouri case, but health officials said Thursday that’s the only remaining explanation."There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission,” said Dr. Demetre Daskalakis of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The H5N1 bird flu&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bird-flu-humans-animals-deaths-ae01d3717783f0cf41e23f3fedb97017">has been spreading widely</a>&nbsp;in the U.S. among wild birds, poultry, cows and a number of other animals. Its growing presence increases the chances that people will be exposed, and potentially catch it, officials say.The most recent of the 31 confirmed human cases are two workers at a commercial egg farm in Franklin County, in southeast Washington state. The rest: 15 in California, 10 in Colorado, two in Michigan, one in Texas and the unusual one in Missouri. Symptoms have been mostly mild, including eye redness.Few details have been released about the Missouri case. The person had preexisting health problems and was hospitalized in late August. The patient was given a test for flu that was positive for influenza A, a broad virus category. Further testing found partial genetic sequences similar to bird flu viruses from U.S. dairy cows.Because the Missouri person did not work at a farm and had no known contact with an infected animal, health officials have been looking into the possibility it had come from another person with an undetected infection. That kind of spread would be a worrisome sign the virus might be turning into a more common threat to humans.They did complicated blood testing of the patient, five hospital workers, and a person described as a “household contact” of the patient — looking for antibodies that would serve as proof of a past infection. The household contact got a stomach illness at the same time as the patient, but was not initially tested.On Thursday, CDC officials said test results were negative for the health care workers. The patient and the household contact showed signs of past infection in one round of testing, but not in others. Neither met the World Health Organization's blood testing threshold for a bird flu case. The household contact is not part of the U.S. tally.Since they both got sick at the same time, officials believe the patient and the contact were exposed together to some unknown animal or animal product — ruling out spread of the virus from one of them to the other, Daskalakis said.

Health officials update on bird flu spreading between people 

BAGHDAD –&nbsp;During the early morning of Oct. 22, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by Coalition Forces as part of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), conducted strikes and follow raids on multiple ISIS locations in Central Iraq, targeting several senior ISIS leaders and killing at least seven ISIS operatives, according to a media release from the U.S. Central Command.

 During the Iraqi-led operation, two U.S. military personnel were wounded while assisting Iraqi forces with site exploitation. They are in stable condition.&nbsp; U.S. officials have released no additional details on them.

 Also as previously released, Iraqi Security Forces, enabled by&nbsp;Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, conducted precision airstrikes in Northeastern Iraq, Oct. 14-15, that killed four members of ISIS, including an ISIS senior leader. Both Iraqi-led strikes were conducted to disrupt and degrade ISIS attack networks in Iraq.&nbsp;

Also in the past week, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed 15 drones, Land Attack Cruise Missiles and Surface-to-Air Missiles in the CENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR). T

These Iranian-supplied weapons, launched episodically by the Houthis and Iranian-Aligned Militia Groups (IAMGs) over several days during the week, posed a significant risk to United States, allies, and partner forces, as well as civilians in the region. The weapons systems were downed by a combination of U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets deployed to the region.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707001115180.png" alt="File photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Central Command&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BAGHDAD –&nbsp;During the early morning of Oct. 22, Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), enabled by Coalition Forces as part of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), conducted strikes and follow raids on multiple ISIS locations in Central Iraq, targeting several senior ISIS leaders and killing at least seven ISIS operatives, according to a media release from the U.S. Central Command. During the Iraqi-led operation, two U.S. military personnel were wounded while assisting Iraqi forces with site exploitation. They are in stable condition.&nbsp; U.S. officials have released no additional details on them. Also as previously released, Iraqi Security Forces, enabled by&nbsp;Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, conducted precision airstrikes in Northeastern Iraq, Oct. 14-15, that killed four members of ISIS, including an ISIS senior leader. Both Iraqi-led strikes were conducted to disrupt and degrade ISIS attack networks in Iraq.&nbsp;Also in the past week, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed 15 drones, Land Attack Cruise Missiles and Surface-to-Air Missiles in the CENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR). TThese Iranian-supplied weapons, launched episodically by the Houthis and Iranian-Aligned Militia Groups (IAMGs) over several days during the week, posed a significant risk to United States, allies, and partner forces, as well as civilians in the region. The weapons systems were downed by a combination of U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets deployed to the region.

U.S. military personnel injured during raid in Iraq continue recovery

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JONEL%20ALECCIA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JONEL ALECCIA AP Health Writer</a>

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-e-coli-outbreak-sick-onions-d4a37726f2669016decedcf9f928a9d9">deadly outbreak of E. coli poisoning</a>&nbsp;tied to McDonald's Quarter Pounders has expanded, with at least 75 people sick in 13 states, federal health officials said Friday.

A total of 22 people have now been hospitalized, and two have developed a dangerous kidney disease complication, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. One person has died in Colorado.

No definitive source of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-boars-head-ecoli-listeria-food-safety-1256564e2ec8baf6a96b27c7102e833e">the outbreak</a>&nbsp;has been identified, officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said. Early information analyzed by the FDA showed that uncooked slivered onions used on the burgers “are a likely source of contamination,” the agency said.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-outbreak-e-coli-onions-2bc3fc2d4198d9a5bad52c0028316165">McDonald’s has confirmed</a>&nbsp;that Taylor Farms, a California-based produce company, was the supplier of the fresh onions used in the restaurants involved in the outbreak, and that they had come from a facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

“We have made the decision to stop sourcing onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado Springs facility indefinitely,” McDonald's said in a statement released late Friday.

Taylor Farms said Friday it had preemptively recalled yellow onions sent to its customers from its Colorado facility and continues to work with the CDC and the FDA as they investigate.

“It saddens us to see the illnesses and affected individuals and families,” from the outbreak, the family-owned company said.

McDonald's pulled the Quarter Pounder burger from menus in several states — mostly in the Midwest and Mountain states — when the outbreak was announced Tuesday. McDonald's said Friday that slivered onions from the Colorado Springs facility were distributed to approximately 900 of its restaurants, including some in transportation hubs like airports.

The new cases reported Friday were a sharp increase from the original tally of 49 in 10 states. Most illnesses were reported in Colorado, with 26 cases. At least 13 people were sickened in Montana, 11 in Nebraska, 5 each in New Mexico and Utah, 4 each in Missouri and Wyoming, two in Michigan and one each in Iowa, Kansas, Oregon, Wisconsin and Washington, the CDC reported.

McDonald's said Friday it didn't pull the Quarter Pounder from any additional restaurants due to the increase in the CDC's illness count. The company noted that some cases in states outside the original region were tied to travel.

The CDC said some people who got sick reported traveling to other states before their symptoms started. At least three people said they ate at McDonald's during their travel. Illnesses were reported between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11.

Taylor Farms notified its customers directly about the onion recall but did not tell the public about it, an FDA official said. Companies often issue press releases and the FDA sends public notifications for recalls, but they are not required.

While it remains unclear if the recalled onions were the source of the outbreak, several other fast-food restaurants — including Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC and Burger King — pulled onions from some menus in certain areas this week.

Restaurant Brands International, which owns Burger King, said that 5% of its restaurants use whole onions distributed by Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility. They are washed, peeled and sliced by employees.

Even though it wasn’t contacted by health officials and it had no indications of illness, Restaurant Brands said it asked the restaurants that received onions from the Colorado facility to get rid of them.

The outbreak involves infections&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e-coli-mcdonalds-outbreak-bacteria-quarter-pounder-080847096a6b7062b4fb17037393fc99">with E. coli 0157:H7, a type of bacteria</a>&nbsp;that produces a dangerous toxin. It causes about 74,000 infections in the U.S. annually, leading to more than 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths each year, according to CDC.

People sickened in the outbreak have already moved to sue McDonald's, according to court records. According to her lawsuit, Clarissa DeBock ate food from a local McDonald's in Nebraska on Sept. 18, fell ill on Sept. 23 and sought emergency care two days later before she was diagnosed with an E. coli infection.

Symptoms of E. coli poisoning can occur quickly, within a day or two of eating contaminated food. They typically include fever, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea and signs of dehydration — little or no peeing, increased thirst and dizziness. The infection is especially dangerous for children younger than 5, people who are elderly, pregnant or who have weakened immune systems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729872051879.png" alt="CDC image" />
 <figcaption>CDC image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JONEL%20ALECCIA%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JONEL ALECCIA AP Health Writer</a>A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-e-coli-outbreak-sick-onions-d4a37726f2669016decedcf9f928a9d9">deadly outbreak of E. coli poisoning</a>&nbsp;tied to McDonald's Quarter Pounders has expanded, with at least 75 people sick in 13 states, federal health officials said Friday.A total of 22 people have now been hospitalized, and two have developed a dangerous kidney disease complication, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. One person has died in Colorado.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729882011911.png" alt="CDC map" />
 <figcaption>CDC map</figcaption>
 </figure>No definitive source of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-boars-head-ecoli-listeria-food-safety-1256564e2ec8baf6a96b27c7102e833e">the outbreak</a>&nbsp;has been identified, officials with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said. Early information analyzed by the FDA showed that uncooked slivered onions used on the burgers “are a likely source of contamination,” the agency said.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mcdonalds-outbreak-e-coli-onions-2bc3fc2d4198d9a5bad52c0028316165">McDonald’s has confirmed</a>&nbsp;that Taylor Farms, a California-based produce company, was the supplier of the fresh onions used in the restaurants involved in the outbreak, and that they had come from a facility in Colorado Springs, Colorado.“We have made the decision to stop sourcing onions from Taylor Farms’ Colorado Springs facility indefinitely,” McDonald's said in a statement released late Friday.Taylor Farms said Friday it had preemptively recalled yellow onions sent to its customers from its Colorado facility and continues to work with the CDC and the FDA as they investigate.“It saddens us to see the illnesses and affected individuals and families,” from the outbreak, the family-owned company said.McDonald's pulled the Quarter Pounder burger from menus in several states — mostly in the Midwest and Mountain states — when the outbreak was announced Tuesday. McDonald's said Friday that slivered onions from the Colorado Springs facility were distributed to approximately 900 of its restaurants, including some in transportation hubs like airports.The new cases reported Friday were a sharp increase from the original tally of 49 in 10 states. Most illnesses were reported in Colorado, with 26 cases. At least 13 people were sickened in Montana, 11 in Nebraska, 5 each in New Mexico and Utah, 4 each in Missouri and Wyoming, two in Michigan and one each in Iowa, Kansas, Oregon, Wisconsin and Washington, the CDC reported.McDonald's said Friday it didn't pull the Quarter Pounder from any additional restaurants due to the increase in the CDC's illness count. The company noted that some cases in states outside the original region were tied to travel.The CDC said some people who got sick reported traveling to other states before their symptoms started. At least three people said they ate at McDonald's during their travel. Illnesses were reported between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11.Taylor Farms notified its customers directly about the onion recall but did not tell the public about it, an FDA official said. Companies often issue press releases and the FDA sends public notifications for recalls, but they are not required.While it remains unclear if the recalled onions were the source of the outbreak, several other fast-food restaurants — including Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC and Burger King — pulled onions from some menus in certain areas this week.Restaurant Brands International, which owns Burger King, said that 5% of its restaurants use whole onions distributed by Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility. They are washed, peeled and sliced by employees.Even though it wasn’t contacted by health officials and it had no indications of illness, Restaurant Brands said it asked the restaurants that received onions from the Colorado facility to get rid of them.The outbreak involves infections&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/e-coli-mcdonalds-outbreak-bacteria-quarter-pounder-080847096a6b7062b4fb17037393fc99">with E. coli 0157:H7, a type of bacteria</a>&nbsp;that produces a dangerous toxin. It causes about 74,000 infections in the U.S. annually, leading to more than 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths each year, according to CDC.People sickened in the outbreak have already moved to sue McDonald's, according to court records. According to her lawsuit, Clarissa DeBock ate food from a local McDonald's in Nebraska on Sept. 18, fell ill on Sept. 23 and sought emergency care two days later before she was diagnosed with an E. coli infection.Symptoms of E. coli poisoning can occur quickly, within a day or two of eating contaminated food. They typically include fever, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea and signs of dehydration — little or no peeing, increased thirst and dizziness. The infection is especially dangerous for children younger than 5, people who are elderly, pregnant or who have weakened immune systems.___

Sharp increase in hospitalizations from McDonald's E. coli outbreak

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Two former educators who are vying for a Manhattan-area state Senate seat are drawing lines in the sand on religion and partisan politics ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

Incumbent Sen. Usha Reddi, a Democrat and former school teacher, faces a challenge from Republican Brad Starnes, a former district superintendent. In the undercurrent of their race is an effort by Democrats&nbsp; to break Republican supermajorities in the Kansas House and Senate. A Republican hasn’t won the 22nd District seat in Riley County since 2008.

Reddi has expressed concerns about Starnes’ stance on the separation of church and state. He said at a recent forum “there is no such thing in the law.”

“At every forum and discussion, the topic of public education and school vouchers comes up,” Reddi told Kansas Reflector. “One of my concerns is my opponent’s stance on the separation of church and state. He denies this principle, which raises serious questions about the kind of policies he would promote.”

She suggested Starnes would prioritize “his personal beliefs over the constitution” as a decision-maker.

Those are pure speculations, Starnes told Kansas Reflector.

“The bottom line is I’m a constitutionalist,” he said.

He said no state should dictate what religion ought to be practiced or how and where someone should worship, which is guaranteed by the First Amendment. Instead, he sees the topic of religion in campaign conversations as a way to “educate people about their constitutional rights,” he said.

However, he added the United States is “founded on Judeo-Christian values. We pledge allegiance to the republic under God.”

While superintendent of Wabaunsee public schools, Starnes supported a program focused on religion in education. The RESPECT&nbsp;<a href="https://whschargercom.wordpress.com/2022/05/10/329-board-approves-staff-changes-6th-grade-sports-respect-program/" target="_blank">project</a>, which stands for Religious Expression Supports Positive Equity-Centered Teaching, was aimed at educating teachers and students about their First Amendment right to freedom of religion, Starnes said.

Reddi called out the project as problematic at an Oct. 9 candidate debate at Kansas State University.

“My concern is this blurs the lines between separation of church especially when there are private schools and churches that are set up for this purpose,” she wrote in an email.

Reddi, a Hindu, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article234491367.html" target="_blank">Kansas City Star in 2019</a>&nbsp;that religion rarely came up in her campaign for Manhattan City Commission. Now, as she seeks to retain her state senate seat, religion and the separation of church and state have differentiated her and her opponent.

Reddi was an Ogden Elementary School teacher. She was first elected to the city commission in 2013. She served as Manhattan’s mayor between 2016 and 2017 and again in 2020 before unsuccessfully seeking the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. She was appointed to the Riley County district seat in the Kansas Senate in 2023 after her predecessor, Tom Hawk, retired on the first day of the session.&nbsp;

In the 2024 session, Reddi co-sponsored a bill to abolish the death penalty and a bill to allow local governments to set their own minimum wage rates, both of which died in committee. She has promised to support Medicaid expansion if reelected.

Starnes, who is active in K-State’s Catholic student center, was the superintendent of the Wabaunsee Unified School District 329 from 2015 until 2022 after serving as superintendent of Riley County Unified School District 328. He lost a 2022 primary bid for the district’s House seat. He has said he’s in favor of less government and more local control.

He and Reddi have both made promises on the campaign trail to fully fund public schools and defend abortion. Starnes also said he supports “school choice” but is against tax dollars following students from public to private schools.&nbsp;

Starnes said in an interview Republicans and Democrats can often agree on 60-80% of issues.&nbsp;

“We’re so caught in these political gains,” he said. “We’ve got to move things forward.”&nbsp;

If Reddi retains her seat, Democrats could break the veto-proof Republican supermajority in the Senate by flipping three other districts. Starnes said retaining the Republican supermajority has been on the back of his mind but that he is focused on “running to help people.”

Reddi said breaking the supermajority ensures “good governance.”&nbsp;

“If the supermajority remains intact, we are likely to see more&nbsp;extreme legislation, including expanded voucher programs that undermine public education, zero corporate income tax, blocked Medicaid expansion, and additional restrictions on women’s health care,” she said. “Without the need to work across the aisle, the majority party would have little incentive to compromise, making it difficult to stop harmful legislation.“

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729943477064.jpeg" alt="Sen. Usha Reddi, D-Manhattan, talks with Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, left, and Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, on Jan. 17, 2024, on the Senate floor. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Usha Reddi, D-Manhattan, talks with Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, left, and Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, on Jan. 17, 2024, on the Senate floor. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Two former educators who are vying for a Manhattan-area state Senate seat are drawing lines in the sand on religion and partisan politics ahead of the Nov. 5 election.Incumbent Sen. Usha Reddi, a Democrat and former school teacher, faces a challenge from Republican Brad Starnes, a former district superintendent. In the undercurrent of their race is an effort by Democrats&nbsp; to break Republican supermajorities in the Kansas House and Senate. A Republican hasn’t won the 22nd District seat in Riley County since 2008.Reddi has expressed concerns about Starnes’ stance on the separation of church and state. He said at a recent forum “there is no such thing in the law.”“At every forum and discussion, the topic of public education and school vouchers comes up,” Reddi told Kansas Reflector. “One of my concerns is my opponent’s stance on the separation of church and state. He denies this principle, which raises serious questions about the kind of policies he would promote.”She suggested Starnes would prioritize “his personal beliefs over the constitution” as a decision-maker.Those are pure speculations, Starnes told Kansas Reflector.“The bottom line is I’m a constitutionalist,” he said.He said no state should dictate what religion ought to be practiced or how and where someone should worship, which is guaranteed by the First Amendment. Instead, he sees the topic of religion in campaign conversations as a way to “educate people about their constitutional rights,” he said.However, he added the United States is “founded on Judeo-Christian values. We pledge allegiance to the republic under God.”While superintendent of Wabaunsee public schools, Starnes supported a program focused on religion in education. The RESPECT&nbsp;<a href="https://whschargercom.wordpress.com/2022/05/10/329-board-approves-staff-changes-6th-grade-sports-respect-program/" target="_blank">project</a>, which stands for Religious Expression Supports Positive Equity-Centered Teaching, was aimed at educating teachers and students about their First Amendment right to freedom of religion, Starnes said.Reddi called out the project as problematic at an Oct. 9 candidate debate at Kansas State University.“My concern is this blurs the lines between separation of church especially when there are private schools and churches that are set up for this purpose,” she wrote in an email.Reddi, a Hindu, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article234491367.html" target="_blank">Kansas City Star in 2019</a>&nbsp;that religion rarely came up in her campaign for Manhattan City Commission. Now, as she seeks to retain her state senate seat, religion and the separation of church and state have differentiated her and her opponent.Reddi was an Ogden Elementary School teacher. She was first elected to the city commission in 2013. She served as Manhattan’s mayor between 2016 and 2017 and again in 2020 before unsuccessfully seeking the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. She was appointed to the Riley County district seat in the Kansas Senate in 2023 after her predecessor, Tom Hawk, retired on the first day of the session.&nbsp;In the 2024 session, Reddi co-sponsored a bill to abolish the death penalty and a bill to allow local governments to set their own minimum wage rates, both of which died in committee. She has promised to support Medicaid expansion if reelected.Starnes, who is active in K-State’s Catholic student center, was the superintendent of the Wabaunsee Unified School District 329 from 2015 until 2022 after serving as superintendent of Riley County Unified School District 328. He lost a 2022 primary bid for the district’s House seat. He has said he’s in favor of less government and more local control.He and Reddi have both made promises on the campaign trail to fully fund public schools and defend abortion. Starnes also said he supports “school choice” but is against tax dollars following students from public to private schools.&nbsp;Starnes said in an interview Republicans and Democrats can often agree on 60-80% of issues.&nbsp;“We’re so caught in these political gains,” he said. “We’ve got to move things forward.”&nbsp;If Reddi retains her seat, Democrats could break the veto-proof Republican supermajority in the Senate by flipping three other districts. Starnes said retaining the Republican supermajority has been on the back of his mind but that he is focused on “running to help people.”Reddi said breaking the supermajority ensures “good governance.”&nbsp;“If the supermajority remains intact, we are likely to see more&nbsp;extreme legislation, including expanded voucher programs that undermine public education, zero corporate income tax, blocked Medicaid expansion, and additional restrictions on women’s health care,” she said. “Without the need to work across the aisle, the majority party would have little incentive to compromise, making it difficult to stop harmful legislation.“

Manhattan-area state Senate race defined by religion, education and GOP control of Statehouse

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;centered their attention on Texas on Friday with both presidential candidates holding events in the staunchly Republican state. The vice president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-abortion-rights-2024-election-democrats-f228eedd3308dab2e1125fdf6029a4a2">teamed up with Beyoncé</a>&nbsp;for a rally aimed at highlighting the perilous medical fallout from the state’s strict abortion ban and putting the blame squarely on Trump.

Meanwhile, the former president held a news conference in Austin on Friday afternoon and sat down with podcaster Joe Rogan later in the day.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;visited a reservation in Arizona, a long-promised trip to Indian Country that Democrats hope could boost Harris' turnout effort in a key battleground state.

Trump’s three-hour interview with podcaster Joe Rogan has been released

The nation’s most listened-to podcaster pressed the former president on whether he’s “completely committed” to bringing Robert F. Kennedy Jr., into his administration.

“Oh, I completely am,” Trump responded. “But the only thing I want to be a little careful about with him is the environmental. Because he doesn’t like oil, I love oil and gas.”

He said he’ll tell Kennedy to “focus on health, do whatever you want.” Trump said he’s faced pressure not to work with Kennedy, citing “big Pharma” as one example.

Kennedy has been instrumental in spreading skepticism about vaccines, rejecting the overwhelming consensus among scientists that the benefits of inoculations outweigh the rare risk of side effects.

He also claims pharmaceutical companies conspire to prevent health improvements because they make so much money selling drugs to people with chronic illnesses.

Rogan also is skeptical of vaccines. Trump noted that “they’ve come up with some amazing things” such as the polio vaccine.

After embracing Beyoncé and Rowland, Harris took her spot at the mic, as the crowd cheered her name.

“It’s good to be back in Texas,” she said.

Harris started speaking at 10:20p ET, nearly an hour later than scheduled.

In her hometown of Houston, Beyoncé gave the city’s neighborhoods shoutouts, to raucous cheers from the crowd.

“We are all part of something much bigger,” she said. “We must vote, and we need you.”

“Our moment right now. it’s time for America to sing a new song. Our voices sing a chorus of unity,” she said, casting her remarks forward, and introducing Harris. “Are y’all ready to add your voice to the new American song? So let’s do this, ladies and gentlemen.”

Beyonce and Kelly Rowland take stage at Harris rally

Hometown hero&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/beyonce-knowles">Beyoncé</a>&nbsp;showed up at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris’</a>&nbsp;presidential campaign rally in Houston on Friday night. Her mother, Tina Knowles, introduced Beyoncé and her Destiny’s Child bandmate Kelly Rowland, who took the stage.

Rowland kicked things off, describing this as “a moment where we grab back the pen from those who are trying to write an American story of division and hatred,” she said. “We are grabbing back the pen.” She concluded, “Now Houston, you’ve already had a hand in creating destiny. So do what you do, and do this thing again.”

Texas Senate candidate Colin Allred takes stage at Harris rally

Allred thanked Harris for “coming to Texas and shining a light on what’s happening to Texas families and Texas women.”

The crowd broke out in cheers of “beat Ted Cruz” after the Democratic congressman said that, “with y’all’s help and God’s grace, we’re gonna beat Ted Cruz.”

“Do you hear that, Ted?” Allred asked.

Allred likened both his opponent and Trump to being too “small” to be effective leaders.

“Everything is bigger in Texas, but Ted Cruz is too small for Texas,” Allred said, eliciting cheers and laughter from the crowd.

Allred also remembered being at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when he said he “was going to defend the House floor from that mob,” while “Ted Cruz was hiding in a supply closet.

“I went to public school in Texas,” the former football linebacker said. “I’m not just going to sit there.”

Actress Jessica Alba kicks off Harris’ rally in Houston

Actress Jessica Alba kicked off Harris’ star-studded rally in Houston on Friday evening to praise the Democratic nominee as someone who “protects our freedoms and creates a brighter future, a more inclusive future for all.”

Harris is expected to focus her rally on abortion restrictions in the state and the consequences of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

Alba said: “As a woman I know we need a leader like Kamala Harris who is dedicated to protecting reproductive freedom, ensuring that decisions about your body are made by you, never by the government, because Kamala Harris understands that protecting reproductive freedom isn’t about politics, it’s about our right to choose.”

There doesn’t seem to be an empty seat at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, the site of Harris’ rally with Beyonce.

The more than 20,000-seat stadium is awash in light: flashing red, white and blue lights held by supporters in the stands and strobe lights. Large screens are flashing messages that say “Reproductive Freedom,” “Vote, “Trust Women,” Freedom” and “Vote for Reproductive Freedom.”

Harris is scheduled to speak at 9:30 p.m. ET.

Attendees are leaving Trump’s rally en masse as word spread the former president will be arriving late

Trump’s plane did not leave Austin, where he was taping a podcast interview, until not long before the rally was set to start.

It’s a chilly night, with temperatures in the low 50’s.

“Well, we rather they were on time,” said Medine Dahlquist from Bay City, Michigan. But, she said, it’s “worth the wait.”

Roughly 35 million people have voted early as of today

About 35 million people have voted early in the 2024 presidential election.

That’s roughly one-fifth the number of people who cast ballots in 2020. The robust total is due to Republicans voting ahead of time after largely refusing to do so the prior two elections because former President Donald Trump criticized the process.

Now, Trump wants his supporters to vote early.

Remember, early vote statistics don’t tell you who won, merely who showed up. We won’t see who they picked until votes are tallied after polls close on Nov. 5.

▶ Find out how many early votes have been cast&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/election-results-2024/2024-early-voting-tracker/">in your state</a>

Appeals court in Georgia declines to expedite review election ruling

An appeals court in the battleground state of Georgia has declined Friday to expedite the review of an appeal of a judge’s order that county election officials&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-election-rules-certification-03f6bc623d9f6aeeb3f9dc47823d03f9">must vote to certify results</a>&nbsp;by the deadline set in law.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney ruled this month that county election officials cannot refuse to certify election results. His ruling came in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-elections-fulton-county-julie-adams-79c93a5820eb8a9ecf6856171db72c10">lawsuit filed by Julie Adams</a>&nbsp;a Republican member of the election board in Fulton County, which includes most of Atlanta and is a Democratic stronghold.

Adams appealed that order Wednesday and asked the Georgia Court of Appeals to hear it on an expedited basis.

But the appeals court’s decision means that McBurney’s order will almost certainly remain in effect through the deadline for county officials to certify results, which this year falls on Nov. 12.

South Carolina judge rules it’s too late to re-open voter registration after DMV mishap

A judge in South Carolina ruled Friday it is too late for the state to reopen voter registration for nearly 1,900 teens after the state Department of Motor Vehicles failed to notify election officials that they checked the box to register as they got their driver’s licenses.

The teens were 17 at the time they went to the DMV, but would be 18 by Election Day.