NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Toby Keith, a sometimes polarizing figure in country music who crafted an identity around his macho, pro-American swagger, has died. He was 62.

The “Beer For My Horses” singer-songwriter, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/toby-keith-cancer-return-to-stage-2288efe6edabee0f57208b6dc6700363">was battling stomach cancer</a>, died peacefully Monday surrounded by his family, according to a statement posted on the country singer's website. “He fought his fight with grace and courage,” the statement said. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-health-country-music-7f96982e300407c47899a904423d070f">was diagnosed in 2022</a>.

The 6-foot-4 singer broke out in the country boom years of the 1990s, writing songs that fans loved to hear. Over his career he publicly clashed with other celebrities and journalists and often pushed back against record executives who wanted to smooth his rough edges.

He was known for his overt patriotism on post 9/11 songs like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” and boisterous barroom tunes like “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup.” He had a powerful booming voice, a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor and range that carried love songs as well as drinking songs.

Among his 20 No. 1 Billboard hits were “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “As Good As I Once Was,” “My List” and “Beer for My Horses,” a duet with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/willie-nelson-book-songwriting-7e20e3adf314637c2f36dd5d88265392">Willie Nelson</a>.

Keith worked as a roughneck in the oil fields of Oklahoma as a young man, then played semi-pro football before launching his career as a singer.

“I write about life, and I sing about life, and I don’t overanalyze things,” Keith told The Associated Press in 2001, following the success of his song “I’m Just Talking About Tonight.”

Keith learned good lessons in the booming oil fields, which toughened him up, but also showed him the value of money.

“The money to be made was unbelievable,” Keith told the AP in 1996. “I came out of high school in 1980 and they gave me this job December of 1979, $50,000 a year. I was 18-years-old.”

But the domestic oil field industry collapsed and Keith had not saved. “It about broke us,” he said. “So I just learned. I’ve taken care of my money this time.”

He spent a couple seasons as a defensive end for the Oklahoma City Drillers, a farm team for the now-defunct United States Football League. But he found consistent money playing music with his band throughout the red dirt roadhouse circuit in Oklahoma and Texas.

“All through this whole thing the only constant thing we had was music,” he said. “But it’s hard to sit back and say, ‘I’m going to go make my fortune singing music, or writing music. I had no contacts.”‘

Eventually his path took him to Nashville, where he attracted the interest of Mercury Records head Harold Shedd, who was best known as a producer for the hit group Alabama. Shedd brought him to Mercury, where he released his platinum debut record “Toby Keith,” in 1993.

“Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” his breakout hit, was played 3 million times on radio stations, making it the most played country song of the 1990s.

But label’s focus on global star Shania Twain overshadowed the rest of the roster and Keith felt that the executives were trying to push him in a pop direction.

“They were trying to get me to compromise, and I was living a miserable existence,” Keith told the AP. “Everybody was trying to mold me into something I was not.”

After a series of albums that produced hits like “Who’s That Man,” and cover of Sting’s “I’m So Happy I Can’t Stop Crying,” Keith moved to DreamWorks Records in 1999.

That’s when his multi-week “How Do You Like Me Now?!” took off and became his first song to crossover to Top 40 charts. In 2001, he won the male vocalist of the year and album of the year at the Academy of Country Music Awards, exclaiming from the stage: “I’ve waited a long time for this. Nine years!”

Songs like “I Wanna Talk About Me,” a spoken-word song written by Bobby Braddock about a man frustrated by a talkative partner, got him attention for its similarity to the cadence of rap, which Keith dismissed. “They’re going to call it a rap song, (although) there ain’t nobody doing rap who would call it rap,” he told “Billboard” magazine in 2001.

Keith often wore his politics on his sleeve, especially after the terrorist attacks on U.S. soil in 2001, and early on he said was a conservative Democrat, but later claimed he was an independent. He’s played at events for Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, the latter giving him a National Medal of the Arts in 2021. His songs and his blunt opinions sometimes caused him controversy, which he seemed to court.

His 2002 song, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” included a threat— “We’ll put a boot in your ass — It’s the American way” — to anyone who dared to mess with America.

That song got pulled from a patriotic ABC Fourth of July special after producers deemed it too angry for the show. Singer-songwriter Steve Earle called Keith’s song “pandering to people’s worst instincts at a time they are hurt and scared.”

Then there was the feud between Keith and The Chicks (formerly called the Dixie Chicks), who became a target of Keith’s ire when singer Natalie Maines told a crowd that they were ashamed of then President George W. Bush. Maines had also previously called Keith’s song “ignorant.”

Keith, who had previously claimed that he supported any artist’s freedom to voice their opinion about politics, used a doctored photo of Maines with an image of Saddam Hussein at his concerts, further ramping up angry fans.

Maines responded by wearing a shirt with the letters “FUTK” onstage at the 2003 ACM Awards, which many people believed was a vulgar message to Keith.

He also publicly called out actor Ethan Hawke, who had written a story in “Rolling Stone” that described an argument between Kris Kristofferson and an unnamed country star that sounded a lot like Keith. During a backstage press conference during an awards show, Keith was furious at Hawke (and reporters for repeating the story) for what he called a “fictitious (expletive) lie.”

Keith, who has acknowledged that he holds onto grudges, walked out of the ACM Awards in 2003 early because he had gotten snubbed in earlier categories, causing him to miss out when he was announced as entertainer of the year. Vince Gill accepted on his behalf. He came back the next year and won the top prize for a second year in a row, along with top male vocalist and album of the year for “Shock ’n Y’all.”

His pro-military stance wasn’t just fodder for songs, however. He went on 11 USO tours to visit and play for troops serving overseas. He also helped to raised millions for charity over his career, including building a home in Oklahoma City for kids and their families who are battling cancer.

After Universal Music Group acquired DreamWorks, Keith started anew again, starting his own record label, Show Dog, in 2005 with record executive Scott Borchetta, who launched his own label Big Machine at the same time.

“Probably 75% of the people in this town think I’ll fail, and the other 25% hope I fail,” he said that year.

Later the label became Show Dog-Universal Music and had Keith, Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, Josh Thompson, Clay Walker and Phil Vassar on its roster.

His later hits included “Love Me If You Can,” “She Never Cried In Front of Me,” and “Red Solo Cup.” He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.

He was honored by the performance rights organization BMI in November 2022 with the BMI Icon award, a few months after announcing his stomach cancer diagnosis.

“I always felt like that the songwriting was the most important part of this whole industry,” Keith told the crowd of fellow singers and writers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707216570029.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NORMAN, Okla. (AP) — Toby Keith, a sometimes polarizing figure in country music who crafted an identity around his macho, pro-American swagger, has died. He was 62.The “Beer For My Horses” singer-songwriter, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/toby-keith-cancer-return-to-stage-2288efe6edabee0f57208b6dc6700363">was battling stomach cancer</a>, died peacefully Monday surrounded by his family, according to a statement posted on the country singer's website. “He fought his fight with grace and courage,” the statement said. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-health-country-music-7f96982e300407c47899a904423d070f">was diagnosed in 2022</a>.The 6-foot-4 singer broke out in the country boom years of the 1990s, writing songs that fans loved to hear. Over his career he publicly clashed with other celebrities and journalists and often pushed back against record executives who wanted to smooth his rough edges.He was known for his overt patriotism on post 9/11 songs like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” and boisterous barroom tunes like “I Love This Bar” and “Red Solo Cup.” He had a powerful booming voice, a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor and range that carried love songs as well as drinking songs.Among his 20 No. 1 Billboard hits were “How Do You Like Me Now?!,” “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “As Good As I Once Was,” “My List” and “Beer for My Horses,” a duet with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/willie-nelson-book-songwriting-7e20e3adf314637c2f36dd5d88265392">Willie Nelson</a>.Keith worked as a roughneck in the oil fields of Oklahoma as a young man, then played semi-pro football before launching his career as a singer.“I write about life, and I sing about life, and I don’t overanalyze things,” Keith told The Associated Press in 2001, following the success of his song “I’m Just Talking About Tonight.”Keith learned good lessons in the booming oil fields, which toughened him up, but also showed him the value of money.“The money to be made was unbelievable,” Keith told the AP in 1996. “I came out of high school in 1980 and they gave me this job December of 1979, $50,000 a year. I was 18-years-old.”But the domestic oil field industry collapsed and Keith had not saved. “It about broke us,” he said. “So I just learned. I’ve taken care of my money this time.”He spent a couple seasons as a defensive end for the Oklahoma City Drillers, a farm team for the now-defunct United States Football League. But he found consistent money playing music with his band throughout the red dirt roadhouse circuit in Oklahoma and Texas.“All through this whole thing the only constant thing we had was music,” he said. “But it’s hard to sit back and say, ‘I’m going to go make my fortune singing music, or writing music. I had no contacts.”‘Eventually his path took him to Nashville, where he attracted the interest of Mercury Records head Harold Shedd, who was best known as a producer for the hit group Alabama. Shedd brought him to Mercury, where he released his platinum debut record “Toby Keith,” in 1993.“Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” his breakout hit, was played 3 million times on radio stations, making it the most played country song of the 1990s.But label’s focus on global star Shania Twain overshadowed the rest of the roster and Keith felt that the executives were trying to push him in a pop direction.“They were trying to get me to compromise, and I was living a miserable existence,” Keith told the AP. “Everybody was trying to mold me into something I was not.”After a series of albums that produced hits like “Who’s That Man,” and cover of Sting’s “I’m So Happy I Can’t Stop Crying,” Keith moved to DreamWorks Records in 1999.That’s when his multi-week “How Do You Like Me Now?!” took off and became his first song to crossover to Top 40 charts. In 2001, he won the male vocalist of the year and album of the year at the Academy of Country Music Awards, exclaiming from the stage: “I’ve waited a long time for this. Nine years!”Songs like “I Wanna Talk About Me,” a spoken-word song written by Bobby Braddock about a man frustrated by a talkative partner, got him attention for its similarity to the cadence of rap, which Keith dismissed. “They’re going to call it a rap song, (although) there ain’t nobody doing rap who would call it rap,” he told “Billboard” magazine in 2001.Keith often wore his politics on his sleeve, especially after the terrorist attacks on U.S. soil in 2001, and early on he said was a conservative Democrat, but later claimed he was an independent. He’s played at events for Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump, the latter giving him a National Medal of the Arts in 2021. His songs and his blunt opinions sometimes caused him controversy, which he seemed to court.His 2002 song, “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue (The Angry American)” included a threat— “We’ll put a boot in your ass — It’s the American way” — to anyone who dared to mess with America.That song got pulled from a patriotic ABC Fourth of July special after producers deemed it too angry for the show. Singer-songwriter Steve Earle called Keith’s song “pandering to people’s worst instincts at a time they are hurt and scared.”Then there was the feud between Keith and The Chicks (formerly called the Dixie Chicks), who became a target of Keith’s ire when singer Natalie Maines told a crowd that they were ashamed of then President George W. Bush. Maines had also previously called Keith’s song “ignorant.”Keith, who had previously claimed that he supported any artist’s freedom to voice their opinion about politics, used a doctored photo of Maines with an image of Saddam Hussein at his concerts, further ramping up angry fans.Maines responded by wearing a shirt with the letters “FUTK” onstage at the 2003 ACM Awards, which many people believed was a vulgar message to Keith.He also publicly called out actor Ethan Hawke, who had written a story in “Rolling Stone” that described an argument between Kris Kristofferson and an unnamed country star that sounded a lot like Keith. During a backstage press conference during an awards show, Keith was furious at Hawke (and reporters for repeating the story) for what he called a “fictitious (expletive) lie.”Keith, who has acknowledged that he holds onto grudges, walked out of the ACM Awards in 2003 early because he had gotten snubbed in earlier categories, causing him to miss out when he was announced as entertainer of the year. Vince Gill accepted on his behalf. He came back the next year and won the top prize for a second year in a row, along with top male vocalist and album of the year for “Shock ’n Y’all.”His pro-military stance wasn’t just fodder for songs, however. He went on 11 USO tours to visit and play for troops serving overseas. He also helped to raised millions for charity over his career, including building a home in Oklahoma City for kids and their families who are battling cancer.After Universal Music Group acquired DreamWorks, Keith started anew again, starting his own record label, Show Dog, in 2005 with record executive Scott Borchetta, who launched his own label Big Machine at the same time.“Probably 75% of the people in this town think I’ll fail, and the other 25% hope I fail,” he said that year.Later the label became Show Dog-Universal Music and had Keith, Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, Josh Thompson, Clay Walker and Phil Vassar on its roster.His later hits included “Love Me If You Can,” “She Never Cried In Front of Me,” and “Red Solo Cup.” He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015.He was honored by the performance rights organization BMI in November 2022 with the BMI Icon award, a few months after announcing his stomach cancer diagnosis.“I always felt like that the songwriting was the most important part of this whole industry,” Keith told the crowd of fellow singers and writers.

Country music superstar Toby Keith has died at 62

DETROIT (AP) — Honda is recalling more than three quarters of a million vehicles in the U.S. because a faulty sensor may cause the front passenger air bags to inflate when they're not supposed to.

The recall covers certain Honda Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V and Odyssey models from the 2020 through 2022 model years, as well as the 2020 Fit and Civic Coupe. Also included are the 2021 and 2022 Civic hatchback, the 2021 Civic Type R and Insight, and the 2020 and 2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline and Accord Hybrid.

Affected models from the Acura luxury brand include the 2020 and 2022 MDX, the 2020 through 2022 RDX and the 2020 and 2021 TLX.

<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V064-1235.pdf">Documents posted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say that the front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, and fail to turn off the air bag as intended. The sensors are required to disable the air bags if children or small adults are in the seats. If that doesn't happen, it increases the risk of injury.

Dealers will replace the seat sensors at no cost to owners. Owners will be notified starting March 18.

DETROIT (AP) — Honda is recalling more than three quarters of a million vehicles in the U.S. because a faulty sensor may cause the front passenger air bags to inflate when they're not supposed to.The recall covers certain Honda Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V and Odyssey models from the 2020 through 2022 model years, as well as the 2020 Fit and Civic Coupe. Also included are the 2021 and 2022 Civic hatchback, the 2021 Civic Type R and Insight, and the 2020 and 2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline and Accord Hybrid.Affected models from the Acura luxury brand include the 2020 and 2022 MDX, the 2020 through 2022 RDX and the 2020 and 2021 TLX.<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V064-1235.pdf">Documents posted Tuesday</a>&nbsp;by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say that the front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, and fail to turn off the air bag as intended. The sensors are required to disable the air bags if children or small adults are in the seats. If that doesn't happen, it increases the risk of injury.Dealers will replace the seat sensors at no cost to owners. Owners will be notified starting March 18.

Honda recalling vehicles to fix faulty passenger seat air bag sensor

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two sheriff’s deputies are out of the hospital and recovering after a suspected fentanyl exposure during a custodial arrest made Monday morning, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County sheriff's office.&nbsp;

The sheriff's office reported, "we use all precautions roadside. It's almost impossible to defend against a bag of&nbsp;unknown substance intentionally thrown into the wind in vicinity of emergency service personnel."

"Fentanyl and opioids are indiscriminate killers. This is the reality of modern law enforcement."&nbsp; The sheriff's office also sent a big thank you to the "wonderful ER Staff at Wamego Hospital."&nbsp;

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two sheriff’s deputies are out of the hospital and recovering after a suspected fentanyl exposure during a custodial arrest made Monday morning, according to a social media report from the Wabaunsee County sheriff's office.&nbsp;The sheriff's office reported, "we use all precautions roadside. It's almost impossible to defend against a bag of&nbsp;unknown substance intentionally thrown into the wind in vicinity of emergency service personnel.""Fentanyl and opioids are indiscriminate killers. This is the reality of modern law enforcement."&nbsp; The sheriff's office also sent a big thank you to the "wonderful ER Staff at Wamego Hospital."&nbsp;

2 Kan. deputies recovering after suspected fentanyl exposure

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — A ship traveling through the southern Red Sea was attacked by a suspected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-houthis-red-sea-jake-sullivan-yemen-ff507d06a7a44d6f3644f128e7766b3d">Yemen Houthi rebel</a>&nbsp;drone early on Tuesday, authorities said, the latest assault in their campaign targeting vessels over Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The attack happened west of the Yemeni port of Hodeida, and the projectile caused “slight damage” to the vessel's windows on the bridge, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said. A small vessel had been nearby the ship before the attack, it added.

The private security firm Ambrey identified the vessel as a Barbados-flagged, United Kingdom-owned cargo ship. No one was hurt onboard the vessel, which suffered “minor damage,” the firm said.

Later, a military spokesman of the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, claimed in a statement that the rebel forces attacked two separate vessels, one American and one British, in the Red Sea. He provided no evidence to support the claim.

One of the ships the Houthis claimed attacking, the Morning Tide, matched details provided by Ambrey. Tracking data showed it to be in the Red Sea near the reported attack.

The Morning Tide’s owner, British firm Furadino Shipping, told The Associated Press no one was hurt in the attack and the ship was continuing onward to Singapore.

Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for trade among Asia, the Mideast and Europe.

In recent weeks, the United States and the United Kingdom, backed by other allies, have launched airstrikes targeting Houthi missile arsenals and launch sites for its attacks.

The U.S. and Britain struck 36 Houthi targets in Yemen on Saturday. An air assault Friday in Iraq and Syria targeted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">other Iranian-backed militias</a>&nbsp;and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">drone strike that killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;in Jordan.

The U.S. military's Central Command separately acknowledged an attack Monday on the Houthis, in which they attacked what they described as two Houthi drone boats loaded with explosives.

American forces “determined they presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region,” the military said. “These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707179984034.png" alt="Image from video of launches from US. Warships supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets over the weekend-U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Image from video of launches from US. Warships supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets over the weekend-U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — A ship traveling through the southern Red Sea was attacked by a suspected&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-houthis-red-sea-jake-sullivan-yemen-ff507d06a7a44d6f3644f128e7766b3d">Yemen Houthi rebel</a>&nbsp;drone early on Tuesday, authorities said, the latest assault in their campaign targeting vessels over Israel's war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip.The attack happened west of the Yemeni port of Hodeida, and the projectile caused “slight damage” to the vessel's windows on the bridge, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said. A small vessel had been nearby the ship before the attack, it added.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PentagonPresSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PentagonPresSec</a> confirms there have been drone attacks since the U.S. began airstrikes against Iran-backed groups in the region for the deaths of three U.S. service members killed in another attack at a U.S. base in Jordan. <a href="https://t.co/AeIWxmKI7Q">pic.twitter.com/AeIWxmKI7Q</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1754599370610139192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The private security firm Ambrey identified the vessel as a Barbados-flagged, United Kingdom-owned cargo ship. No one was hurt onboard the vessel, which suffered “minor damage,” the firm said.Later, a military spokesman of the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, claimed in a statement that the rebel forces attacked two separate vessels, one American and one British, in the Red Sea. He provided no evidence to support the claim.One of the ships the Houthis claimed attacking, the Morning Tide, matched details provided by Ambrey. Tracking data showed it to be in the Red Sea near the reported attack.The Morning Tide’s owner, British firm Furadino Shipping, told The Associated Press no one was hurt in the attack and the ship was continuing onward to Singapore.Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for trade among Asia, the Mideast and Europe.In recent weeks, the United States and the United Kingdom, backed by other allies, have launched airstrikes targeting Houthi missile arsenals and launch sites for its attacks.The U.S. and Britain struck 36 Houthi targets in Yemen on Saturday. An air assault Friday in Iraq and Syria targeted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">other Iranian-backed militias</a>&nbsp;and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">drone strike that killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;in Jordan.The U.S. military's Central Command separately acknowledged an attack Monday on the Houthis, in which they attacked what they described as two Houthi drone boats loaded with explosives.American forces “determined they presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region,” the military said. “These actions will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels.”------------

🎥Tensions high: Rebels target more ships in the Red Sea 

MANHATTAN — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly will visit Kansas State University to be the featured speaker for the<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/landon/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Landon Lecture Series</a>, according to a media release from the university.

The lecture will take place at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 16, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union to help celebrate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/about/history-traditions/" target="_blank">161st anniversary</a>&nbsp;of the founding of the first land-grant university in the nation.

Kelly’s lecture will center around the health of the state of Kansas, its residents and its politics. This lecture is free and open to students, faculty, staff and the public. Doors will open at 11 a.m.

"As the first university in Kansas to embrace the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2023-11/K-State-adopts-Okanagan-Charter112923.html" target="_blank">health promoting university charter</a>, K-State is deeply committed to the health and well-being of not just its students, faculty and staff but all communities across the state," said Marshall Stewart, chair of the Landon Lecture Series, university senior vice president and chief of staff. "Having Gov. Kelly deliver this lecture will provide us with insights into ways we can create a culture that contributes to bettering our people, our places and our planet."

With a four-term tenure as a state senator and currently serving as the 48th governor of Kansas, Kelly has dedicated her career to advocating for children and families. As governor, she has collaborated with both political parties to achieve a balanced state budget, secure funding for schools, address the state’s infrastructure needs, reform the child welfare system and achieve record-breaking business investment and job creation. Kelly concluded her first term with the largest budget surplus in state history while reducing taxes for working families.

In her second term as governor, Kelly continues her efforts to make Kansas the premier place in the country to raise a family. Her focus includes expanding accessible healthcare, supporting early childhood development and ensuring prosperity reaches every corner of the state.

MANHATTAN — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly will visit Kansas State University to be the featured speaker for the<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/landon/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Landon Lecture Series</a>, according to a media release from the university.The lecture will take place at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 16, in Forum Hall at the K-State Student Union to help celebrate the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/about/history-traditions/" target="_blank">161st anniversary</a>&nbsp;of the founding of the first land-grant university in the nation.Kelly’s lecture will center around the health of the state of Kansas, its residents and its politics. This lecture is free and open to students, faculty, staff and the public. Doors will open at 11 a.m."As the first university in Kansas to embrace the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/media/newsreleases/2023-11/K-State-adopts-Okanagan-Charter112923.html" target="_blank">health promoting university charter</a>, K-State is deeply committed to the health and well-being of not just its students, faculty and staff but all communities across the state," said Marshall Stewart, chair of the Landon Lecture Series, university senior vice president and chief of staff. "Having Gov. Kelly deliver this lecture will provide us with insights into ways we can create a culture that contributes to bettering our people, our places and our planet."With a four-term tenure as a state senator and currently serving as the 48th governor of Kansas, Kelly has dedicated her career to advocating for children and families. As governor, she has collaborated with both political parties to achieve a balanced state budget, secure funding for schools, address the state’s infrastructure needs, reform the child welfare system and achieve record-breaking business investment and job creation. Kelly concluded her first term with the largest budget surplus in state history while reducing taxes for working families.In her second term as governor, Kelly continues her efforts to make Kansas the premier place in the country to raise a family. Her focus includes expanding accessible healthcare, supporting early childhood development and ensuring prosperity reaches every corner of the state.

Gov. Laura Kelly to deliver Landon Lecture on Feb. 16

KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp;Kansas City woman was charged in connection with the Jan. 3, 2024, fatal attack involving a sharp-edged weapon inside the vehicle of the victim, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Janee Davis, 34, faces Voluntary Manslaughter and Armed Criminal Action charges

According to court records,&nbsp; On Jan. 3, Kansas City police officers were dispatched&nbsp; to a residence on Agnes and found the victim in the front yard. 

He had sustained an sharp weapon injury to his chest. He was &nbsp;pronounced deceased. Investigators determined that the victim was likely attacked while sitting inside his vehicle parked on the street. A blood trail from his body in the yard led to his vehicle. Police were alerted to a statement from a witness identifying the defendant as the victim's killer. The defendant was questioned by police and she told them the victim flagged her down at 35th and Prospect on Jan. 3, 2024. At the crime scene on Agnes, the defendant told police she stabbed the victim after he hit her with his open hand.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706838751662.png" alt="Davis-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A&nbsp;Kansas City woman was charged in connection with the Jan. 3, 2024, fatal attack involving a sharp-edged weapon inside the vehicle of the victim, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Janee Davis, 34, faces Voluntary Manslaughter and Armed Criminal Action chargesAccording to court records,&nbsp; On Jan. 3, Kansas City police officers were dispatched&nbsp; to a residence on Agnes and found the victim in the front yard. He had sustained an sharp weapon injury to his chest. He was &nbsp;pronounced deceased. Investigators determined that the victim was likely attacked while sitting inside his vehicle parked on the street. A blood trail from his body in the yard led to his vehicle. Police were alerted to a statement from a witness identifying the defendant as the victim's killer. The defendant was questioned by police and she told them the victim flagged her down at 35th and Prospect on Jan. 3, 2024. At the crime scene on Agnes, the defendant told police she stabbed the victim after he hit her with his open hand.

Stabbing: Woman charged in KC's first homicide of 2024

LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after an investigation.

In January, police began investigating multiple cases&nbsp;involving narcotics, firearms, forgery, shoplifting, theft and identity theft, according to Police Captain Lisa Hayes.

On February 2,&nbsp; police took 27-yearold Deshawn Hammond and 33-year old Kayla Stokes both of Wichita, into custody. They are being held in the Lyon County Detention Center on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft and Criminal Possession of a Firearm. Stokes was booked on an additional requested charge of Forgery according to Hayes.

The investigation continued into Feb. 3, and led to the execution of a search warrant at 724 Wilson Street in Emporia.. The Emporia Police Department utilized their Special Response Team to execute the warrant.

The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Hwy Patrol also assisted. One person in the residence surrendered and cooperated. A second person in the residence, Alexander Rose, 34 of Wichita, barricaded himself and surrendered an hour later when a police K9 was to be deployed. Rose was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant through the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706972151296.png" alt="Hammond-photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Hammond-photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after an investigation.In January, police began investigating multiple cases&nbsp;involving narcotics, firearms, forgery, shoplifting, theft and identity theft, according to Police Captain Lisa Hayes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706972090504.png" alt="Stokes-photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Stokes-photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On February 2,&nbsp; police took 27-yearold Deshawn Hammond and 33-year old Kayla Stokes both of Wichita, into custody. They are being held in the Lyon County Detention Center on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft and Criminal Possession of a Firearm. Stokes was booked on an additional requested charge of Forgery according to Hayes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706972260185.png" alt="Rose-photo Lyon Co." />
 <figcaption>Rose-photo Lyon Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The investigation continued into Feb. 3, and led to the execution of a search warrant at 724 Wilson Street in Emporia.. The Emporia Police Department utilized their Special Response Team to execute the warrant.The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Hwy Patrol also assisted. One person in the residence surrendered and cooperated. A second person in the residence, Alexander Rose, 34 of Wichita, barricaded himself and surrendered an hour later when a police K9 was to be deployed. Rose was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant through the Kansas Department of Corrections.

3 Kan. suspects accused after theft, forgery and drug investigation

JACKSON COUNTY—Two people including a firefighter were hospitalized after a house fire early Monday in Jackson County.

Just after 6:30a.m. Monday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a house fire at 104 Highland Avenue in the City of Hoyt, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Fire crews from Hoyt, Mayetta, Prairie Band Pottawatomie Nation and Soldier Township arrived on scene and battled the blaze.

EMS transported the only occupant of the residence to a local hospital and they were later transported to the University of Kansas Medical Center Burn Unit.

A Hoyt firefighter was transported by Jackson County EMS to a Topeka hospital due to a medical condition.&nbsp; 

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating the cause.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707149410428.png" alt="photos Sheriff Tim Morse" />
 <figcaption>photos Sheriff Tim Morse</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Two people including a firefighter were hospitalized after a house fire early Monday in Jackson County.Just after 6:30a.m. Monday, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a house fire at 104 Highland Avenue in the City of Hoyt, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Fire crews from Hoyt, Mayetta, Prairie Band Pottawatomie Nation and Soldier Township arrived on scene and battled the blaze.EMS transported the only occupant of the residence to a local hospital and they were later transported to the University of Kansas Medical Center Burn Unit.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707149860658.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>A Hoyt firefighter was transported by Jackson County EMS to a Topeka hospital due to a medical condition.&nbsp; The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office are investigating the cause.

Two hospitalized after rural Kansas house fire

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of shootings in Wichita that have left four teens dead in separate incidents.

The latest teen homicide occurred Friday. Just before 9 p.m., police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead a short time after arriving at the hospital. On Saturday, police reported they arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder for the death of Ruiz.

Just after 11:45p.m. January 26, the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims. Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Police have arrested 18-year-old Hayden Rydell Williams, a 14-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy all from Wichita and a 15-year-old boy from Garden City in connection with the double homicide, according to&nbsp; Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

On January 28, police arrived at an apartment at 8405 W. Central in Wichita, to check on 14-year-old Claude Hodges after his father called concerned for his welfare.

After a lengthy standoff involving the boy's mother identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Kylee R. Hodges,  SWAT Team officers fired shots wounding her. When officers reentered the apartment, they discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom deceased from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; His mother is suspected in her son's death. She continues to recover from her injuries and is not in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706389022620.png" alt="Police on the scene of the January 26 homicide investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the January 26 homicide investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of shootings in Wichita that have left four teens dead in separate incidents.The latest teen homicide occurred Friday. Just before 9 p.m., police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead a short time after arriving at the hospital. On Saturday, police reported they arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder for the death of Ruiz.Just after 11:45p.m. January 26, the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims. Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.Police have arrested 18-year-old Hayden Rydell Williams, a 14-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy all from Wichita and a 15-year-old boy from Garden City in connection with the double homicide, according to&nbsp; Police Lt. Aaron Moses.On January 28, police arrived at an apartment at 8405 W. Central in Wichita, to check on 14-year-old Claude Hodges after his father called concerned for his welfare.After a lengthy standoff involving the boy's mother identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Kylee R. Hodges, SWAT Team officers fired shots wounding her. When officers reentered the apartment, they discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom deceased from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; His mother is suspected in her son's death. She continues to recover from her injuries and is not in custody, according to online jail records.

4 teen homicide victims in Wichita in first weeks of 2024

CHICAGO—The Quaker Oats Company&nbsp; announced an&nbsp;expansion of the December 15, 2023,&nbsp;recall to include an additional granola bar to the list of recalled items due to possible salmonella contamination, according to the FDA.

<a href="https://www.quakerrecallusa.com/_files/ugd/b51df1_66f22cbdfc5140b0a3287b82a2bf30c7.pdf">Click here to see the full list</a> of 100 recalled items

Quaker Chewy Dipps Llama Rama bars were added to the recalled product list in the United States, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-quaker-issues-revised-recall-notice-additional-product-due-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">the FDA.</a>&nbsp;This granola bar product was discontinued in September 2023 with the “Best Before” dates listed as Feb. 10 or 11, 2024.

The United States Food and Drug Administration and the Quaker Oats Company earlier this week announced that this granola bar was added to the list of recalled items due to possible salmonella contamination.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received at least 24 reports of adverse events related to the products initially recalled, but no illnesses have been confirmed to be linked to the foods, an agency spokesperson said. Adverse events can include medical problems, but also complaints about off taste or color of a product, defective packaging or other non-medical issues, the official said. FDA will continue to investigate the reports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707136988885.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO—The Quaker Oats Company&nbsp; announced an&nbsp;expansion of the December 15, 2023,&nbsp;recall to include an additional granola bar to the list of recalled items due to possible salmonella contamination, according to the FDA.<a href="https://www.quakerrecallusa.com/_files/ugd/b51df1_66f22cbdfc5140b0a3287b82a2bf30c7.pdf">Click here to see the full list</a> of 100 recalled itemsQuaker Chewy Dipps Llama Rama bars were added to the recalled product list in the United States, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/update-quaker-issues-revised-recall-notice-additional-product-due-possible-health-risk" target="_blank">the FDA.</a>&nbsp;This granola bar product was discontinued in September 2023 with the “Best Before” dates listed as Feb. 10 or 11, 2024.The United States Food and Drug Administration and the Quaker Oats Company earlier this week announced that this granola bar was added to the list of recalled items due to possible salmonella contamination.Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has received at least 24 reports of adverse events related to the products initially recalled, but no illnesses have been confirmed to be linked to the foods, an agency spokesperson said. Adverse events can include medical problems, but also complaints about off taste or color of a product, defective packaging or other non-medical issues, the official said. FDA will continue to investigate the reports.

Quaker Oats salmonella: 3rd recall in two months 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly hit-and-run have identified the victim as 31-year-old&nbsp; 31-year-old Pedro Bautista, of Wichita.&nbsp;

Just after 10:30 p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of 13th and Mosely in Wichita for a report of an assault call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. 

First responders located Bautista who was unconscious, had&nbsp; injuries and was lying on the sidewalk.&nbsp; Fire and EMS administered life-saving measures, but he was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the scene. Preliminary investigation revealed a motor vehicle struck Bautista. Police reported on Monday afternoon they had located the vehicle, according to Gupilan.

The circumstances leading up to the collision are still under investigation.&nbsp; Police released no additional details and have not reported the type of vehicle involved or an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696884966886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly hit-and-run have identified the victim as 31-year-old&nbsp; 31-year-old Pedro Bautista, of Wichita.&nbsp;Just after 10:30 p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of 13th and Mosely in Wichita for a report of an assault call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. First responders located Bautista who was unconscious, had&nbsp; injuries and was lying on the sidewalk.&nbsp; Fire and EMS administered life-saving measures, but he was pronounced deceased on the scene.Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the scene. Preliminary investigation revealed a motor vehicle struck Bautista. Police reported on Monday afternoon they had located the vehicle, according to Gupilan.The circumstances leading up to the collision are still under investigation.&nbsp; Police released no additional details and have not reported the type of vehicle involved or an arrest.

Police locate vehicle, ID victim in fatal Kan. hit-and-run

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, but it quickly ran into a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">wall of opposition from top House Republicans</a>, including Speaker Mike Johnson

<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read&nbsp;</a>the full text of the bill

On Monday morning, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall expressed his opinion on the long-awaited legislation, "President Biden already has the tools needed to shut the border down. I don’t see anything in this bill that compels the Biden Administration to change course and address the worst border crisis in history which remains our greatest most immediate threat to our national security."

"Throughout this process, I said I was listening and hoping for a solution, but to my disappointment, this bill misses the mark."

"It will not secure the border. It does not go far enough on asylum, and perhaps makes Biden’s parole abuse even worse, by supercharging NGOs with BILLIONS of taxpayer dollars to fly illegal migrants to an airport near you. As the lead Democrat negotiator bragged last night: This bill doesn’t close the border.”

The proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but within hours of the text being released Johnson said on social media that it would be “dead on arrival” if it reaches the House.

With Congress stalled on approving $60 billion in Ukraine aid, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-money-congress-weapons-dd5076b30bf8fab5c914a1222186e7f0">U.S. has halted shipments</a>&nbsp;of ammunition and missiles to Kyiv, leaving Ukrainian soldiers outgunned as they try to beat back Russia’s invasion.

Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support a package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world.

They will also be weighing whether to continue pressing on one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.

Biden said in a statement that the Senate proposal “allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.”

And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” the Democratic president said.

The proposal would overhaul the asylum system with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

In a call with reporters after releasing the legislation, Schumer said he has never worked so closely with McConnell. He called the bill a “monumental step” toward strengthening national security at home and abroad.

Without the Ukraine aid, Schumer said, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin “could be rolling over Ukraine and even into Eastern Europe.”

McConnell said in a statement that the Senate must be “prepared to act.”

“America’s sovereignty is being tested here at home, and our credibility is being tested by emboldened adversaries around the world,” McConnell said. “The challenges we face will not resolve themselves, nor will our adversaries wait for America to muster the resolve to meet them.”

In a bid to overcome opposition from House Republicans,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-border-security-congress-0c35bad8790ccbbeed1bc14057457648">McConnell had insisted last year</a>&nbsp;that border policy changes be included in the national security funding package. However, in an election-year shift on immigration, Biden and many Democrats have embraced the idea of strict border enforcement, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-trump-biden-2d2f804057a77bfaa41e64ab601f9b0e">Donald Trump and his allies</a>&nbsp;have criticized the proposed measures as insufficient.

Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, said on social media, “I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created.”

Republicans have been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities and argue that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. Yet at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.

That bill, which passed the House last year without a single Democratic vote, currently has no chance of gaining the Democratic support it would need in the Senate. GOP senators also attempted to add it on to other legislation last year, but that effort only gained 46 votes.

Johnson indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.

It is also unclear if the bill will pass in the Senate. Senate Republicans have been divided on the bill, with several in McConnell’s ranks arguing that it isn’t strong enough. Some quickly said they would vote against it.

“The ‘border deal’ is an easy NO. It reads like a parody of an actual border security bill,” Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, posted on social media.

The bipartisan proposal is aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-biden-cf4aa608de350a480fabd8e6a3e062ff">gaining control of an asylum system</a>&nbsp;that has been overwhelmed by historic numbers of migrants coming to the border.

Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, who negotiated the bill for Republicans, told reporters that GOP critics were missing parts of the bill that would give Republicans wins on issues they have talked about for years.

He said it provides border-wall money, expands deportation flights, increases the number of border officers and creates a faster process for deportation. Republican critics, he said, should look at “how it clears up a lot of the long-term issues and loopholes that have existed in the asylum law and it gives us an emergency authority that stops the chaos right now on the border.”

Migrants who seek asylum, which provides protection for people facing persecution in their home countries, would face a tougher and faster process to having their claim evaluated. The standard in initial interviews would be raised, and many would receive those interviews within days of arriving at the border.

Final decisions on their asylum claims would happen within months, rather than the often years-long wait that happens now. They would also be given work permits if they pass the initial screenings.

“America is and continues to be a bastion of hope for true asylum seekers,” Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent who negotiated the border proposal, told reporters on a phone call. “But it is not an open door for economic migrants. It has been, as we know, exploited dramatically by cartels in the last four to five years.”

If the number of illegal border crossings reaches above 5,000 daily for a five-day average,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-immigration-election-2182fec11fa008ec96c4202e5656d19e">an expulsion authority</a>&nbsp;would automatically kick in so that migrants who cross illegally are expelled without an opportunity to make an asylum claim. If the number reaches 4,000, presidential administrations would have the option of using the new authority. Under the proposal, migrants could still apply at ports of entry.

Biden, referencing the authority, has said he would use it to “shut down the border” as soon as the bill is signed into law.

The bill would allot $20 billion to immigration enforcement, including the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims and hundreds of Border Patrol agents, as well as funding local governments that have seen influxes of migrants.

Among Democrats, the tougher asylum standards have raised concern, especially from progressive and Hispanic lawmakers. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat of California, said in a statement that the proposal would cause “more chaos at the border, not less.”

Immigration advocates were highly critical of new limits on asylum, with some urging that the bill be rejected in its current form.

The $14 billion in the package intended for military support for Israel could also splinter Democratic votes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent of Vermont, is pushing to strip $10 billion for offensive weaponry for Israel from the package while maintaining money for defensive systems.

Schumer said he would schedule a key test vote on the legislation Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695343466970.png" alt="Migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border-photo U.S. Senator Roger Marshall" />
 <figcaption>Migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border-photo U.S. Senator Roger Marshall</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, but it quickly ran into a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">wall of opposition from top House Republicans</a>, including Speaker Mike Johnson<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read&nbsp;</a>the full text of the bill<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am a NO on the Senate Border Deal. Authorizing 1.8 million illegal immigrants to enter our country every single year (5K per day, 150K per month) will only further incentivize mass migration and exacerbate this worsening crisis. Our communities are getting crushed by Joe… <a href="https://t.co/1Vg3huGH16">pic.twitter.com/1Vg3huGH16</a>&mdash; Rep. Jake LaTurner (@RepLaTurner) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepLaTurner/status/1754543472156016876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On Monday morning, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall expressed his opinion on the long-awaited legislation, "President Biden already has the tools needed to shut the border down. I don’t see anything in this bill that compels the Biden Administration to change course and address the worst border crisis in history which remains our greatest most immediate threat to our national security.""Throughout this process, I said I was listening and hoping for a solution, but to my disappointment, this bill misses the mark.""It will not secure the border. It does not go far enough on asylum, and perhaps makes Biden’s parole abuse even worse, by supercharging NGOs with BILLIONS of taxpayer dollars to fly illegal migrants to an airport near you. As the lead Democrat negotiator bragged last night: This bill doesn’t close the border.”The proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but within hours of the text being released Johnson said on social media that it would be “dead on arrival” if it reaches the House.With Congress stalled on approving $60 billion in Ukraine aid, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-money-congress-weapons-dd5076b30bf8fab5c914a1222186e7f0">U.S. has halted shipments</a>&nbsp;of ammunition and missiles to Kyiv, leaving Ukrainian soldiers outgunned as they try to beat back Russia’s invasion.Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support a package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world.They will also be weighing whether to continue pressing on one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.Biden said in a statement that the Senate proposal “allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.”And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” the Democratic president said.The proposal would overhaul the asylum system with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.In a call with reporters after releasing the legislation, Schumer said he has never worked so closely with McConnell. He called the bill a “monumental step” toward strengthening national security at home and abroad.Without the Ukraine aid, Schumer said, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin “could be rolling over Ukraine and even into Eastern Europe.”McConnell said in a statement that the Senate must be “prepared to act.”“America’s sovereignty is being tested here at home, and our credibility is being tested by emboldened adversaries around the world,” McConnell said. “The challenges we face will not resolve themselves, nor will our adversaries wait for America to muster the resolve to meet them.”In a bid to overcome opposition from House Republicans,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-border-security-congress-0c35bad8790ccbbeed1bc14057457648">McConnell had insisted last year</a>&nbsp;that border policy changes be included in the national security funding package. However, in an election-year shift on immigration, Biden and many Democrats have embraced the idea of strict border enforcement, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-trump-biden-2d2f804057a77bfaa41e64ab601f9b0e">Donald Trump and his allies</a>&nbsp;have criticized the proposed measures as insufficient.Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, said on social media, “I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created.”Republicans have been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities and argue that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. Yet at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.That bill, which passed the House last year without a single Democratic vote, currently has no chance of gaining the Democratic support it would need in the Senate. GOP senators also attempted to add it on to other legislation last year, but that effort only gained 46 votes.Johnson indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.It is also unclear if the bill will pass in the Senate. Senate Republicans have been divided on the bill, with several in McConnell’s ranks arguing that it isn’t strong enough. Some quickly said they would vote against it.“The ‘border deal’ is an easy NO. It reads like a parody of an actual border security bill,” Sen. Marco Rubio, a Florida Republican, posted on social media.The bipartisan proposal is aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-biden-cf4aa608de350a480fabd8e6a3e062ff">gaining control of an asylum system</a>&nbsp;that has been overwhelmed by historic numbers of migrants coming to the border.Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, who negotiated the bill for Republicans, told reporters that GOP critics were missing parts of the bill that would give Republicans wins on issues they have talked about for years.He said it provides border-wall money, expands deportation flights, increases the number of border officers and creates a faster process for deportation. Republican critics, he said, should look at “how it clears up a lot of the long-term issues and loopholes that have existed in the asylum law and it gives us an emergency authority that stops the chaos right now on the border.”Migrants who seek asylum, which provides protection for people facing persecution in their home countries, would face a tougher and faster process to having their claim evaluated. The standard in initial interviews would be raised, and many would receive those interviews within days of arriving at the border.Final decisions on their asylum claims would happen within months, rather than the often years-long wait that happens now. They would also be given work permits if they pass the initial screenings.“America is and continues to be a bastion of hope for true asylum seekers,” Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent who negotiated the border proposal, told reporters on a phone call. “But it is not an open door for economic migrants. It has been, as we know, exploited dramatically by cartels in the last four to five years.”If the number of illegal border crossings reaches above 5,000 daily for a five-day average,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-immigration-election-2182fec11fa008ec96c4202e5656d19e">an expulsion authority</a>&nbsp;would automatically kick in so that migrants who cross illegally are expelled without an opportunity to make an asylum claim. If the number reaches 4,000, presidential administrations would have the option of using the new authority. Under the proposal, migrants could still apply at ports of entry.Biden, referencing the authority, has said he would use it to “shut down the border” as soon as the bill is signed into law.The bill would allot $20 billion to immigration enforcement, including the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims and hundreds of Border Patrol agents, as well as funding local governments that have seen influxes of migrants.Among Democrats, the tougher asylum standards have raised concern, especially from progressive and Hispanic lawmakers. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat of California, said in a statement that the proposal would cause “more chaos at the border, not less.”Immigration advocates were highly critical of new limits on asylum, with some urging that the bill be rejected in its current form.The $14 billion in the package intended for military support for Israel could also splinter Democratic votes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent of Vermont, is pushing to strip $10 billion for offensive weaponry for Israel from the package while maintaining money for defensive systems.Schumer said he would schedule a key test vote on the legislation Wednesday.

2 Kan. lawmakers share opinions on new $118 billion border bill

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign, the 75-year-old monarch will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.

The palace didn't say what form of cancer the king has, but said it's not related to the king’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-princess-kate-abdominal-surgery-5fc9e0e3b59954a2cceb6b1a7edf31a7">recent treatment</a>&nbsp;for a benign prostate condition.

The palace said “a separate issue of concern was noted” during Charles' treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, when he spent three nights in a London hospital.

“Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” it said in a statement.

“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the palace said. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."

The king is being treated as an outpatient, the palace said.

It said Charles “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”

The palace added that the king "has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”

Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died at the age of 96.

News of the king's diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.

Kate is still taking a break from royal duties as she recovers. Her husband, Prince William, who is heir to the throne, also took time off to help look after the couple's three children, but is due to preside over an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday.

The king personally called both the Prince of Wales and his second son, Prince Harry, — as well as his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward — to share news of his health.

Harry, who quit royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, has spoken to his father about the diagnosis and “will be traveling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days,” said the office of Harry and his wife, Meghan.

U.K. political leaders sent messages of support. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: “Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.”

U.S. President Joe Biden, traveling in Las Vegas on Monday, said he had just learned about Charles’s diagnosis and said he hopes to speak with him, “God willing.”

“I’m concerned about him,” Biden told reporters.

Charles departed from royal tradition with his openness about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kate-hospitalized-prince-william-royal-health-wales-b2ea543cfaf7a52b71ac3fbdf4a19cfa">his prostate condition.</a>&nbsp;For centuries Britain's royal family remained tight-lipped about health matters.

When U.K. monarchs had real power, news of illness was withheld for fear it might weaken their authority. The habit of secrecy lingered after royals became constitutional figureheads.

The British public wasn’t told that Charles’ grandfather, King George VI, had lung cancer before his death in February 1952 at the age of 56.

Pat Price, founder of the Catch Up With Cancer campaign, said millions shared the “collective concern” for the king's health.

“The King’s openness about his battle with cancer is a powerful reminder that one in two of us may face cancer at some point in our lives," Price said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683335060930.png" alt="File photo King Charles III&nbsp; photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo King Charles III&nbsp; photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign, the 75-year-old monarch will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A statement from Buckingham Palace: <a href="https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6">https://t.co/zmYuaWBKw6</a> 📷 Samir Hussein <a href="https://t.co/xypBLHHQJb">pic.twitter.com/xypBLHHQJb</a>&mdash; The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) <a href="https://twitter.com/RoyalFamily/status/1754565735655887066?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The palace didn't say what form of cancer the king has, but said it's not related to the king’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-princess-kate-abdominal-surgery-5fc9e0e3b59954a2cceb6b1a7edf31a7">recent treatment</a>&nbsp;for a benign prostate condition.The palace said “a separate issue of concern was noted” during Charles' treatment for an enlarged prostate last month, when he spent three nights in a London hospital.“Diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” it said in a statement.“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the palace said. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual."The king is being treated as an outpatient, the palace said.It said Charles “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.”The palace added that the king "has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”Charles became king in September 2022 when his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died at the age of 96.News of the king's diagnosis comes as his daughter-in-law Kate, Princess of Wales, recovers from abdominal surgery that saw her hospitalized for about two weeks.Kate is still taking a break from royal duties as she recovers. Her husband, Prince William, who is heir to the throne, also took time off to help look after the couple's three children, but is due to preside over an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace on Thursday.The king personally called both the Prince of Wales and his second son, Prince Harry, — as well as his siblings Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward — to share news of his health.Harry, who quit royal duties in 2020 and moved to California, has spoken to his father about the diagnosis and “will be traveling to UK to see His Majesty in the coming days,” said the office of Harry and his wife, Meghan.U.K. political leaders sent messages of support. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak tweeted: “Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. I have no doubt he’ll be back to full strength in no time and I know the whole country will be wishing him well.”U.S. President Joe Biden, traveling in Las Vegas on Monday, said he had just learned about Charles’s diagnosis and said he hopes to speak with him, “God willing.”“I’m concerned about him,” Biden told reporters.Charles departed from royal tradition with his openness about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kate-hospitalized-prince-william-royal-health-wales-b2ea543cfaf7a52b71ac3fbdf4a19cfa">his prostate condition.</a>&nbsp;For centuries Britain's royal family remained tight-lipped about health matters.When U.K. monarchs had real power, news of illness was withheld for fear it might weaken their authority. The habit of secrecy lingered after royals became constitutional figureheads.The British public wasn’t told that Charles’ grandfather, King George VI, had lung cancer before his death in February 1952 at the age of 56.Pat Price, founder of the Catch Up With Cancer campaign, said millions shared the “collective concern” for the king's health.“The King’s openness about his battle with cancer is a powerful reminder that one in two of us may face cancer at some point in our lives," Price said.___

Palace: King Charles III diagnosed with cancer 

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.

The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.

Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707150550505.jpeg" alt="Photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

Cocaine, meth discovered during Kansas traffic stop

JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;

Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.

In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;

Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699106600413.png" alt="Elliott-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Elliott-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

Man sentenced for 3 Kan. home-invasion burglary, sex assaults

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, setting off a long-shot effort to push the bill through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">heavy skepticism from Republicans</a>, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.

<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read </a>the full text of the bill

The proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but it faces a wall of opposition from conservatives.

Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support the package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world. They will also be balancing one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.

And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” Biden said.

The proposal would overhaul the asylum system at the border with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, the third-ranked House Republican and a close ally of Trump, quickly decried the bill as “an absolute non-starter” that would incentivize illegal immigration.

Republicans have also been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities. They have argued that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. But at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.

Johnson, a Republican of Louisiana, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning that he was unaware of the bill’s details, but thought the solution to border problems should be a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-immigration-bill-255921c69678468580d0d106282623f0">House proposal of hardline immigration measures</a>.

“What we’re saying is you have to stem the flow,” Johnson said. He also made it clear that he — not Trump — would decide whether to bring the bill to the floor if it passes the Senate.

But in a further sign that Johnson is resistant to the Senate package, he indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707094900842.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senators on Sunday released a highly anticipated $118 billion package that pairs border enforcement policy with wartime aid for Ukraine, Israel and other U.S. allies, setting off a long-shot effort to push the bill through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-trump-a8601ec6629ddc5b769028ca99ad9879">heavy skepticism from Republicans</a>, including House Speaker Mike Johnson.<a href="https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/emergency_national_security_supplemental_bill_text.pdf">Click here to read </a>the full text of the billThe proposal could be the best chance for President Joe Biden to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">resupply Ukraine with wartime aid</a>&nbsp;— a major foreign policy goal that is shared with both the Senate’s top Democrat, Sen. Chuck Schumer, and top Republican, Sen. Mitch McConnell. The Senate was expected this week to hold a key test vote on the legislation, but it faces a wall of opposition from conservatives.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Agree. Having sufficient time to thoroughly review any legislation, much less text on a bill that&#39;s supposed to address our number one most immediate national security threat, should not be controversial. <a href="https://t.co/KOQWfY1U1Q">https://t.co/KOQWfY1U1Q</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1753509169112514776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>With Congress stalled on approving $60 billion in Ukraine aid, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-money-congress-weapons-dd5076b30bf8fab5c914a1222186e7f0">U.S. has halted shipments</a>&nbsp;of ammunition and missiles to Kyiv, leaving Ukrainian soldiers outgunned as they try to beat back Russia’s invasion.Senators have been working for months on the carefully negotiated compromise intended to overcome opposition from conservatives who have tired of funding Ukraine’s fight. But the coming days will be a crucial test of whether congressional leaders can once again muscle their members to support the package designed to assert American strength — and commitment — around the world. They will also be balancing one of the most fraught issues in American politics — border and immigration legislation.Biden said in a statement that the Senate proposal “allows the United States to continue our vital work, together with partners all around the world, to stand up for Ukraine’s freedom and support its ability to defend itself against Russia’s aggression.”And on the border, Biden said that the immigration system has been broken for too long, and it’s time to fix it. “It will make our country safer, make our border more secure, treat people fairly and humanely while preserving legal immigration, consistent with our values as a nation,” Biden said.The proposal would overhaul the asylum system at the border with faster and tougher enforcement, as well as give presidents new powers to immediately expel migrants if authorities become overwhelmed with the number of people applying for asylum. The new bill would also invest in U.S. defense manufacturing, send $14 billion in military aid to Israel, steer nearly $5 billion to allies in the Asia-Pacific, and provide humanitarian assistance to civilians caught in conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.In a call with reporters after releasing the legislation, Schumer said he has never worked so closely with McConnell. He called the bill a “monumental step” toward strengthening national security at home and abroad.Without the Ukraine aid, Schumer said, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin “could be rolling over Ukraine and even into Eastern Europe.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707094498764.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>McConnell said in a statement that the Senate must be “prepared to act.”“America’s sovereignty is being tested here at home, and our credibility is being tested by emboldened adversaries around the world,” McConnell said. “The challenges we face will not resolve themselves, nor will our adversaries wait for America to muster the resolve to meet them.”In a bid to overcome opposition from House Republicans,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-border-security-congress-0c35bad8790ccbbeed1bc14057457648">McConnell had insisted last year</a>&nbsp;that border policy changes be included in the national security funding package. However, in an election-year shift on immigration, Biden and many Democrats have embraced the idea of strict border enforcement, while&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-trump-biden-2d2f804057a77bfaa41e64ab601f9b0e">Donald Trump and his allies</a>&nbsp;have criticized the proposed measures as insufficient.Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, the third-ranked House Republican and a close ally of Trump, quickly decried the bill as “an absolute non-starter” that would incentivize illegal immigration.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I’ve seen enough. This bill is even worse than we expected, and won’t come close to ending the border catastrophe the President has created. As the lead Democrat negotiator proclaimed: Under this legislation, “the border never closes.” If this bill reaches the House, it will be…&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1754333708193091928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Republicans have also been reluctant to give Biden a political win on an issue they see as one of his biggest vulnerabilities. They have argued that presidents already have enough authority to curb illegal border crossings — a stance that would ensure immigration remains a major issue in the presidential election. But at the same time, House Republicans have also pushed for their own, stricter version of border security legislation.Johnson, a Republican of Louisiana, told NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday morning that he was unaware of the bill’s details, but thought the solution to border problems should be a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-immigration-bill-255921c69678468580d0d106282623f0">House proposal of hardline immigration measures</a>.That bill, which passed the House last year without a single Democratic vote, currently has no chance of gaining the Democratic support it would need in the Senate. GOP senators also attempted to add it on to other legislation last year, but that effort only gained 46 votes.“What we’re saying is you have to stem the flow,” Johnson said. He also made it clear that he — not Trump — would decide whether to bring the bill to the floor if it passes the Senate.But in a further sign that Johnson is resistant to the Senate package, he indicated Saturday that the House will vote on a separate package of $17.6 billion of military aid for Israel — a move that allows House Republicans to show support for Israel apart from the Senate deal.It is still unclear if the bill will pass in the Senate. Senate Republicans have been divided on the bill, with several in McConnell’s ranks arguing that it isn’t strong enough. Some quickly said they would vote against it.“I will not support this deal,” said Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn, after the legislation was released.The proposal is aimed at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-border-security-ukraine-biden-cf4aa608de350a480fabd8e6a3e062ff">gaining control of an asylum system</a>&nbsp;that has been overwhelmed by historic numbers of migrants coming to the border.Migrants who seek asylum, which provides protection for people facing persecution in their home countries, would face a tougher and faster process to having their claim evaluated. The standard in initial interviews would be raised, and many would receive those interviews within days of arriving at the border. Final decisions on their asylum claims would happen within months, rather than the often years-long wait that happens now. They would also be given work permits if they pass the initial screenings.Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, an Arizona independent who negotiated the border proposal, told reporters that the legislation would “immediately reassert control of our border, end catch and release policies and, strengthen our broken asylum system, and solve the border crisis.”“America is and continues to be a bastion of hope for true asylum seekers,” she said in a statement later. “But it is not an open door for economic migrants. It has been, as we know, exploited dramatically by cartels in the last four to five years.”If the number of illegal border crossings reaches above 5,000 daily for a five-day average,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/border-immigration-election-2182fec11fa008ec96c4202e5656d19e">an expulsion authority</a>&nbsp;would automatically kick in so that migrants who cross illegally are expelled without an opportunity to make an asylum claim. If the number reaches 4,000, presidential administrations would have the option of using the new authority. Under the proposal, migrants could still apply at ports of entry.Biden, referencing the authority, has said he would use it to “shut down the border” as soon as the bill is signed into law.The bill would allot $20 billion to immigration enforcement, including the hiring of thousands of new officers to evaluate asylum claims and hundreds of Border Patrol agents, as well as funding local governments that have seen influxes of migrants.Among Democrats, the tougher asylum standards have raised concern, especially from progressive and Hispanic lawmakers. Sen. Alex Padilla, a Democrat of California, said in a statement that the proposal would still cause “more chaos at the border, not less.”The $14 billion in the package intended for military support for Israel could also splinter Democratic votes. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent of Vermont, is pushing to strip $10 billion for offensive weaponry for Israel from the package while maintaining money for defensive systems.