TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The operator of the Keystone pipeline system has finished cleaning up a massive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spills-business-texas-canada-kansas-34d8391337583fc242407141d24d66c2">December 2022 oil spill,</a>&nbsp;and the creek affected by it is flowing naturally again, the company and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency say.

Pipeline operator TC Energy promised to continue monitoring the site along Mill Creek in Washington County, about 150 miles (241 kilometers) northwest of Kansas City. The Canada-based company and the EPA's regional office announced Tuesday that berms that had diverted the creek around the spill site had been removed.

The EPA said Kansas' environmental agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also will continue to inspect the area for the next five years or “until it is determined that monitoring is no longer needed.”

The spill dumped nearly 13,000 barrels of crude oil — each one enough to fill a standard household bathtub — into the creek as it ran through a rural pasture. The oil was recovered by mid-May, the company has said.

The company said that it has started “demobilization” at the site and, “expect to complete these activities by year end.” The pipeline carries oil from Canada to the Texas Gulf Coast.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/keystone-pipeline-oil-spill-kansas-a4169205b37e6774e5f5206a95b730db">The company reported in February</a>&nbsp;that a faulty weld in a a pipe bend caused a crack that grew over time under stress. An engineering consultant firm's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spill-kansas-keystone-pipeline-system-1efb067cca1f3a78e262ccd000d494d8">report for U.S. pipeline regulators</a>&nbsp;that became public in May cited pipeline design issues, lapses by its operators and problems caused during pipeline construction as factors in the spill.

The consultants' report said the bend had been “overstressed” since its installation in December 2010, likely because construction activity itself altered the land around the pipe. It was the largest onshore spill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spills-business-texas-kansas-us-environmental-protection-agency-eda391fc0924b34a08ff840615a7bc58">in nearly nine years</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673362197220.png" alt="File photo of the cleanup effort -photo TC Energy" />
 <figcaption>File photo of the cleanup effort -photo TC Energy</figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The operator of the Keystone pipeline system has finished cleaning up a massive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spills-business-texas-canada-kansas-34d8391337583fc242407141d24d66c2">December 2022 oil spill,</a>&nbsp;and the creek affected by it is flowing naturally again, the company and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency say.Pipeline operator TC Energy promised to continue monitoring the site along Mill Creek in Washington County, about 150 miles (241 kilometers) northwest of Kansas City. The Canada-based company and the EPA's regional office announced Tuesday that berms that had diverted the creek around the spill site had been removed.The EPA said Kansas' environmental agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also will continue to inspect the area for the next five years or “until it is determined that monitoring is no longer needed.”The spill dumped nearly 13,000 barrels of crude oil — each one enough to fill a standard household bathtub — into the creek as it ran through a rural pasture. The oil was recovered by mid-May, the company has said.The company said that it has started “demobilization” at the site and, “expect to complete these activities by year end.” The pipeline carries oil from Canada to the Texas Gulf Coast.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/keystone-pipeline-oil-spill-kansas-a4169205b37e6774e5f5206a95b730db">The company reported in February</a>&nbsp;that a faulty weld in a a pipe bend caused a crack that grew over time under stress. An engineering consultant firm's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spill-kansas-keystone-pipeline-system-1efb067cca1f3a78e262ccd000d494d8">report for U.S. pipeline regulators</a>&nbsp;that became public in May cited pipeline design issues, lapses by its operators and problems caused during pipeline construction as factors in the spill.The consultants' report said the bend had been “overstressed” since its installation in December 2010, likely because construction activity itself altered the land around the pipe. It was the largest onshore spill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oil-spills-business-texas-kansas-us-environmental-protection-agency-eda391fc0924b34a08ff840615a7bc58">in nearly nine years</a>.

EPA: Cleanup is done on a big Kansas oil spill on the Keystone system

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve kept its key short-term interest rate unchanged Wednesday for a second straight time but left the door open to further rate hikes if inflation pressures should accelerate in the months ahead.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?531424-1/federal-reserve-chair-holds-news-conference-economy&amp;live">Click here to watch </a>Powell's statement

The Fed said in a statement after its latest meeting that it would keep its benchmark rate at about 5.4%, its highest level in 22 years. Since launching the most aggressive series of rate hikes in four decades in March 2022 to fight inflation, the Fed has pulled back and has now raised rates only once since May.

The central bank's latest statement noted that recent tumult in the financial markets has sent longer-term interest rates to near 16-year highs and contributed to higher borrowing rates across the economy.

“Tighter financial and credit conditions for households and businesses," it said, “are likely to weigh on economic activity.”

That reference echoed recent comments by Fed officials that higher yields — or interest rates — on the 10-year Treasury note could impose a dampening impact on the economy, cool inflation and substitute for an additional rate hike by the Fed.

Speaking at a news conference, Chair Jerome Powell suggested that the surge in longer-term interest rates will slow the economy if those higher rates stay high for a prolonged period. But he cautioned that the Fed isn’t yet confident that its own benchmark rate is high enough to reduce growth over time.

Still, the Fed chair said the central bank's policymakers recognize that the effects of their rate hikes have yet to be fully felt in the economy and that they want to take time to assess the impact.

“Slowing down" the rate hikes, Powell said, "is giving us a better sense of how much more we need to do, if we need to do more.”

The Fed chair expressed confidence that inflation, despite some signs of persistence in the most recent monthly data, is still heading lower even as the economy has kept growing.

“The good news," Powell said, "is we’re making progress. The progress is going to come in lumps and be bumpy, but we are making progress.”

Stock prices rose and bond yields fell as the Fed chair spoke to reporters, a sign that investors may be growing more confident that the Fed could be done raising interest rates.

Long-term Treasury yields&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rates-inflation-prices-economy-yields-federal-reserve-911e5289f4830c11877410d46d62fc3e">have soared since July</a>, the last time the Fed raised rates, swelling the costs of auto loans, credit card borrowing and many forms of business loans. Nationally, the average long-term fixed mortgage rate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mortgages-home-ownership-af18a7ab71cdb7feafa822317b21df6a">is nearing 8%</a>, its highest level in 23 years.

Economists at Wall Street banks have estimated that recent losses in the stock market and higher bond yields could have a depressive effect on the economy equal to the impact of three or four quarter-point rate hikes by the Fed.

Those tighter credit conditions, though, have yet to cool the economy or slow hiring as much as the Fed had expected. Growth soared&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-growth-inflation-gdp-consumers-spending-38dfeeee5f65b138ff98f6885d432865">at a 4.9% annual pace</a>&nbsp;in the July-September quarter, powered by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/spending-consumers-inflation-economy-growth-federal-reserve-b1d34bc43a0da960a152911b7c230881">robust consumer spending</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-inflation-rates-economy-federal-reserve-unemployment-8950494bcfcc717f7e6c18bc19ecaf6e">hiring in September was strong</a>. On Wednesday, the government said employers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/job-openings-unemployment-economy-inflation-6da418b2cb68a6771a6f8f33767217d5">posted a sizable 9.6 million job openings</a>&nbsp;last month, well below the peak of early last year but still sharply above pre-pandemic levels.

Consumer inflation has dropped from a year-over-year peak of 9.1% in June 2022 to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-unemployment-federal-reserve-d4db7a2177f785c4ff1587cc6ef22b43">3.7% last month</a>. But recent data suggests that inflation remains persistently above the Fed’s 2% target.

Powell and other Fed officials have responded to the surprising evidence of economic strength by saying the Fed will monitor incoming data for any hints that inflation will either further subside or remain chronically above its target level. In the meantime, most Fed watchers expect the central bank to keep rates unchanged in December as well.

Market analysts say an array of factors have combined to force up long-term Treasury yields and couple with the Fed’s short-term rate hikes to make borrowing costlier for consumers and businesses. For one thing, the government is expected to sell potentially trillions of dollars more in bonds in the coming years to finance huge budget deficits even as the Fed is shrinking its holdings of bonds. As a result, higher Treasury rates may be needed to attract more buyers.

And with the future path of rates murkier than usual, investors are demanding higher yields in return for the greater risk of holding longer-term bonds.

What’s important for the Fed is that the yield on the 10-year Treasury has continued to zoom higher even without rate hikes by the central bank. That suggests that Treasury yields may stay high even if the Fed keeps its own benchmark rate on hold, helping keep a lid on economic growth and inflation.

Other major central banks have also been dialing back their rates hikes with their inflation measures having appeared to improve. The European Central Bank kept its benchmark rate unchanged last week, and last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eurozone-inflation-growth-ecb-european-central-bank-28248816a5eccba2f7c293b2a4afffaa">inflation in the 20 countries that use the euro</a>&nbsp;fell to 2.9%, its lowest level in more than two years.

The Bank of England also kept its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-of-england-interest-rates-inflation-beff310d8a419273deecd9e57f2c19d5">key rate unchanged</a>&nbsp;in September. The Bank of Japan, meanwhile, is inching toward higher borrowing costs,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-economy-central-bank-interest-yield-357a9dee804d5929169c69b4eb4f0cd4">as it loosens control</a>&nbsp;on longer-term rates.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698868261583.png" alt="“Slowing down" the rate hikes, Powell said, "is giving us a better sense of how much more we need to do, if we need to do more.” -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>“Slowing down" the rate hikes, Powell said, "is giving us a better sense of how much more we need to do, if we need to do more.” -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve kept its key short-term interest rate unchanged Wednesday for a second straight time but left the door open to further rate hikes if inflation pressures should accelerate in the months ahead.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?531424-1/federal-reserve-chair-holds-news-conference-economy&amp;live">Click here to watch </a>Powell's statementThe Fed said in a statement after its latest meeting that it would keep its benchmark rate at about 5.4%, its highest level in 22 years. Since launching the most aggressive series of rate hikes in four decades in March 2022 to fight inflation, the Fed has pulled back and has now raised rates only once since May.The central bank's latest statement noted that recent tumult in the financial markets has sent longer-term interest rates to near 16-year highs and contributed to higher borrowing rates across the economy.“Tighter financial and credit conditions for households and businesses," it said, “are likely to weigh on economic activity.”That reference echoed recent comments by Fed officials that higher yields — or interest rates — on the 10-year Treasury note could impose a dampening impact on the economy, cool inflation and substitute for an additional rate hike by the Fed.Speaking at a news conference, Chair Jerome Powell suggested that the surge in longer-term interest rates will slow the economy if those higher rates stay high for a prolonged period. But he cautioned that the Fed isn’t yet confident that its own benchmark rate is high enough to reduce growth over time.Still, the Fed chair said the central bank's policymakers recognize that the effects of their rate hikes have yet to be fully felt in the economy and that they want to take time to assess the impact.“Slowing down" the rate hikes, Powell said, "is giving us a better sense of how much more we need to do, if we need to do more.”The Fed chair expressed confidence that inflation, despite some signs of persistence in the most recent monthly data, is still heading lower even as the economy has kept growing.“The good news," Powell said, "is we’re making progress. The progress is going to come in lumps and be bumpy, but we are making progress.”Stock prices rose and bond yields fell as the Fed chair spoke to reporters, a sign that investors may be growing more confident that the Fed could be done raising interest rates.Long-term Treasury yields&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rates-inflation-prices-economy-yields-federal-reserve-911e5289f4830c11877410d46d62fc3e">have soared since July</a>, the last time the Fed raised rates, swelling the costs of auto loans, credit card borrowing and many forms of business loans. Nationally, the average long-term fixed mortgage rate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mortgages-home-ownership-af18a7ab71cdb7feafa822317b21df6a">is nearing 8%</a>, its highest level in 23 years.Economists at Wall Street banks have estimated that recent losses in the stock market and higher bond yields could have a depressive effect on the economy equal to the impact of three or four quarter-point rate hikes by the Fed.Those tighter credit conditions, though, have yet to cool the economy or slow hiring as much as the Fed had expected. Growth soared&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/economy-growth-inflation-gdp-consumers-spending-38dfeeee5f65b138ff98f6885d432865">at a 4.9% annual pace</a>&nbsp;in the July-September quarter, powered by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/spending-consumers-inflation-economy-growth-federal-reserve-b1d34bc43a0da960a152911b7c230881">robust consumer spending</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-inflation-rates-economy-federal-reserve-unemployment-8950494bcfcc717f7e6c18bc19ecaf6e">hiring in September was strong</a>. On Wednesday, the government said employers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/job-openings-unemployment-economy-inflation-6da418b2cb68a6771a6f8f33767217d5">posted a sizable 9.6 million job openings</a>&nbsp;last month, well below the peak of early last year but still sharply above pre-pandemic levels.Consumer inflation has dropped from a year-over-year peak of 9.1% in June 2022 to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-unemployment-federal-reserve-d4db7a2177f785c4ff1587cc6ef22b43">3.7% last month</a>. But recent data suggests that inflation remains persistently above the Fed’s 2% target.Powell and other Fed officials have responded to the surprising evidence of economic strength by saying the Fed will monitor incoming data for any hints that inflation will either further subside or remain chronically above its target level. In the meantime, most Fed watchers expect the central bank to keep rates unchanged in December as well.Market analysts say an array of factors have combined to force up long-term Treasury yields and couple with the Fed’s short-term rate hikes to make borrowing costlier for consumers and businesses. For one thing, the government is expected to sell potentially trillions of dollars more in bonds in the coming years to finance huge budget deficits even as the Fed is shrinking its holdings of bonds. As a result, higher Treasury rates may be needed to attract more buyers.And with the future path of rates murkier than usual, investors are demanding higher yields in return for the greater risk of holding longer-term bonds.What’s important for the Fed is that the yield on the 10-year Treasury has continued to zoom higher even without rate hikes by the central bank. That suggests that Treasury yields may stay high even if the Fed keeps its own benchmark rate on hold, helping keep a lid on economic growth and inflation.Other major central banks have also been dialing back their rates hikes with their inflation measures having appeared to improve. The European Central Bank kept its benchmark rate unchanged last week, and last month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eurozone-inflation-growth-ecb-european-central-bank-28248816a5eccba2f7c293b2a4afffaa">inflation in the 20 countries that use the euro</a>&nbsp;fell to 2.9%, its lowest level in more than two years.The Bank of England also kept its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-of-england-interest-rates-inflation-beff310d8a419273deecd9e57f2c19d5">key rate unchanged</a>&nbsp;in September. The Bank of Japan, meanwhile, is inching toward higher borrowing costs,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/japan-economy-central-bank-interest-yield-357a9dee804d5929169c69b4eb4f0cd4">as it loosens control</a>&nbsp;on longer-term rates.

🎥Good news for borrowers: Interest rates remain unchanged

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has confirmed Jacob Lew as ambassador to Israel, filling the key diplomatic post as the country is fighting a war with Hamas.

Lew, a treasury secretary under President Barack Obama, was confirmed 53-43. Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against Lew's confirmation.

He has promised to stand side by side with Israel's leaders as they respond to the militant group’s surprise attack on Oct. 7, telling senators in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-senate-lew-confirmation-ambassador-2c672dfc9a3b05c4d2d20ec894caa876">confirmation hearing</a>&nbsp;in mid-October that “at this moment, there is no greater mission than to be asked to strengthen the ties between the United States and the state of Israel.”

President Joe Biden nominated Lew, who goes by Jack, last month to fill the post left vacant when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-israel-middle-east-iran-nuclear-government-and-politics-bea234854f750f7a20d41c32cca62acd">Tom Nides</a>&nbsp;left as ambassador in July. Democrats say Lew’s wealth of government experience — he also was chief of staff to Obama and White House budget director under Obama and President Bill Clinton — makes him the right person to fill the post at a a critical moment in the two countries’ relationship.

U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said after Lew's confirmation that the administration is eager for him “to get on the ground and start leading our efforts to support Israel and their fight against Hamas, but also to help us integrate and continue to lead the effort to get humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.”

Republicans criticized Lew for his role in the Obama White House when it negotiated the Iran nuclear agreement in 2015, among other foreign policy moves. The deal with Iran — the chief sponsor of Hamas — was later scuttled by former President Donald Trump.

“This is the wrong person at the wrong time in the wrong place,” said Idaho Sen. Jim Risch, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, just before the vote. “The last thing we need is somebody who is very contrary to our view about how Iran should be handled.”

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin, D-Md., said that Lew has won praise from Israeli leaders and has the gravitas to “stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel” as the United States partners with the country.

“There’s to me no question about his qualifications, no question about his presence being welcomed by our Israeli friends, no question about his knowledge and commitment to these issues,” Cardin said. “We could not have a more qualified individual to represent America as our ambassador to Israel.”

At the hearing, Lew defended his work in the Obama White House and called Iran an “evil, malign government.”

“I want to be clear — Iran is a threat to regional stability and to Israel’s existence,” Lew said.

He also expressed sympathy for the civilians on both sides who have been injured or killed in the fighting. It must end, Lew said, “but it has to end with Israel’s security being guaranteed.”

Lew, who is Jewish, said at the hearing that he cannot remember a time in his life “when Israel’s struggle for security was not at the forefront of my mind.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698839698947.png" alt="Jacob Lew, a treasury secretary under President Barack Obama, was confirmed 53-43. -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Lew, a treasury secretary under President Barack Obama, was confirmed 53-43. -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has confirmed Jacob Lew as ambassador to Israel, filling the key diplomatic post as the country is fighting a war with Hamas.Lew, a treasury secretary under President Barack Obama, was confirmed 53-43. Kansas Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall voted against Lew's confirmation.He has promised to stand side by side with Israel's leaders as they respond to the militant group’s surprise attack on Oct. 7, telling senators in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-senate-lew-confirmation-ambassador-2c672dfc9a3b05c4d2d20ec894caa876">confirmation hearing</a>&nbsp;in mid-October that “at this moment, there is no greater mission than to be asked to strengthen the ties between the United States and the state of Israel.”President Joe Biden nominated Lew, who goes by Jack, last month to fill the post left vacant when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-israel-middle-east-iran-nuclear-government-and-politics-bea234854f750f7a20d41c32cca62acd">Tom Nides</a>&nbsp;left as ambassador in July. Democrats say Lew’s wealth of government experience — he also was chief of staff to Obama and White House budget director under Obama and President Bill Clinton — makes him the right person to fill the post at a a critical moment in the two countries’ relationship.U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said after Lew's confirmation that the administration is eager for him “to get on the ground and start leading our efforts to support Israel and their fight against Hamas, but also to help us integrate and continue to lead the effort to get humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.”Republicans criticized Lew for his role in the Obama White House when it negotiated the Iran nuclear agreement in 2015, among other foreign policy moves. The deal with Iran — the chief sponsor of Hamas — was later scuttled by former President Donald Trump.“This is the wrong person at the wrong time in the wrong place,” said Idaho Sen. Jim Risch, the top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, just before the vote. “The last thing we need is somebody who is very contrary to our view about how Iran should be handled.”Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin, D-Md., said that Lew has won praise from Israeli leaders and has the gravitas to “stand shoulder to shoulder with Israel” as the United States partners with the country.“There’s to me no question about his qualifications, no question about his presence being welcomed by our Israeli friends, no question about his knowledge and commitment to these issues,” Cardin said. “We could not have a more qualified individual to represent America as our ambassador to Israel.”At the hearing, Lew defended his work in the Obama White House and called Iran an “evil, malign government.”“I want to be clear — Iran is a threat to regional stability and to Israel’s existence,” Lew said.He also expressed sympathy for the civilians on both sides who have been injured or killed in the fighting. It must end, Lew said, “but it has to end with Israel’s security being guaranteed.”Lew, who is Jewish, said at the hearing that he cannot remember a time in his life “when Israel’s struggle for security was not at the forefront of my mind.”

Moran, Marshall voted no but Senate confirms new ambassador to Israel

HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.

According to the Sheriff's Office, a Ford pickup driven by 26-year-old Cody Curt of McPherson was southbound in the 4300 Block of South Burmac Road near Burrton.

The pickup left the road, struck several culverts and rolled.&nbsp;Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures but he was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Curl was the only occupant of the vehicle. The accident remains under investigatio

HARVEY COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just before 5p.m. Tuesday in Harvey County.According to the Sheriff's Office, a Ford pickup driven by 26-year-old Cody Curt of McPherson was southbound in the 4300 Block of South Burmac Road near Burrton.The pickup left the road, struck several culverts and rolled.&nbsp;Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures but he was later pronounced dead at the scene.Curl was the only occupant of the vehicle. The accident remains under investigatio

26-year-old Kansas man dies in pickup rollover crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; an alleged package theft from the&nbsp; porch of a home in the city of Maize.

Just after 2 p.m. Tuesday, the alleged Porch Pirate stole the package from a residence in the Watercress neighborhood, according to a media release from police.

The suspect is described as a white male driving a gold Ford Fusion.  If you are a victim of a similar offense involving the same vehicle/suspect or have information as to the identity of the suspect(s) involved in this crime, please contact Maize PD Detective Jeff Piper at 316-425-3356.

Police also reminded that "this type of theft will likely increase with the holiday season upon us.  The safest way to ensure receipt of packages is to have them delivered to your workplace or to a secure location such as a UPS or FedEx store.  Otherwise, please ensure you or someone is home or available to collect your packages as soon as they are delivered to your doorstep."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698857057811.png" alt="Photo Maize Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Maize Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; an alleged package theft from the&nbsp; porch of a home in the city of Maize.Just after 2 p.m. Tuesday, the alleged Porch Pirate stole the package from a residence in the Watercress neighborhood, according to a media release from police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698857086949.png" alt="Photo Maize Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Maize Police</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect is described as a white male driving a gold Ford Fusion. If you are a victim of a similar offense involving the same vehicle/suspect or have information as to the identity of the suspect(s) involved in this crime, please contact Maize PD Detective Jeff Piper at 316-425-3356.Police also reminded that "this type of theft will likely increase with the holiday season upon us. The safest way to ensure receipt of packages is to have them delivered to your workplace or to a secure location such as a UPS or FedEx store. Otherwise, please ensure you or someone is home or available to collect your packages as soon as they are delivered to your doorstep."

Police ask for help to ID Kansas porch pirate

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

GARDEN CITY — The front doors of Garden City Regional Airport’s new terminal howl in high winds, providing a spooky soundtrack during blustery autumn days.

The airport’s director, Rachelle Powell, said that’s one of a few kinks workers will smooth out as airport employees prepare for holiday travel season at the recently constructed terminal building. Kansas Reflector received a tour of the new terminal earlier in October.

The original airport terminal was built in 1959 to serve passengers in southwest Kansas, as well as southeast Colorado and the Oklahoma-Texas panhandles. It was demolished in September. The next phase included building a new terminal featuring an in-house restaurant facility, updated check-in counter, revamped departure gate and restyled waiting lounges.

Passengers can fly from Garden City to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, via American Airlines flights serviced twice daily on a 65-seat jet. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.aa.com/">www.aa.com</a>. Additionally, the airport receives a Boeing 737 from Harrah’s Casinos that charters flights to Laughlin, Nev., for people to gamble.

“The reaction from the community following the opening of Phase 1 has been very positive,” Garden City city manager Matt Allen said. “This is a very large, high-profile project for our city.”

The $31 million project was funded partly through a sales tax measure passed by Garden City voters in November 2021. Allen said voters approved a .15% sales tax bump for 15 years to help pay off about $9 million worth of construction. Additionally, city officials received roughly $22 million in federal funds, both from the Federal Aviation Administration and the CARES Act. Kansas City-based architecture firm HNTB and Crossland Construction of Garden City were chosen to design and build the project.

Powell said a total commercial ridership of about 59,000 people last year, both departing and arriving, warranted a new terminal.

“All the research we did, … FAA forecast data models and everything, supported the new airport,” Powell said.

City officials also realized demand had outgrown the 1959 terminal. City commissioners placed a high priority on upgrading facilities “to be more reflective of the service the airport provides to western Kansas and the five-state region,” Allen said.

Powell said about 28,000 people are forecast to fly out of GCK Regional by the end of the year. Airport ridership has grown from 18,375 departing passengers in 2018 to 29,186 in 2022.

Phase 2 of construction is underway and includes a second departure gate, full restrooms for arrivals, a service animal relief area, a luggage carousel and rental car booths. The arrival and departure lounges were expanded to accommodate larger groups.

“One unique thing about western Kansas airports is you don’t just fly out by yourself,” Powell said. “Your mom and dad and sister and aunt all send you away, so we wanted to accommodate that space for some of our people sending their loved ones off or coming to greet them.”

Powell is still waiting for a full body imaging scanner provided by the Transportation Safety Administration to complete the check-in area. She anticipates the second phase of work to be completed by mid-2024. That schedule gives city officials time to review proposals for leasing restaurant space inside the terminal. The former airport building housed Napoli’s Italian Restaurant for more than a decade before the restaurant’s owners moved to a location in Garden City last year.

On March 23, 2022, Napoli’s owners posted to Facebook: “Come and enjoy peaceful dining at the airport you only have 3 more weeks out here to enjoy this atmosphere because we will be closing down on April 16.”

The restaurant space was first to be demolished. Napoli’s is now located at 2204 East Kansas Ave. #5 in Garden City.

Proposals for the new airport restaurant must include a menu, hours of operation, plus rent and catering information. Applications can be filed at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.garden-city.org/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/2337/410">City of Garden City website</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698853363942.png" alt="Garden City Regional Airport maintenance worker Jacob Ochampaugh sweeps the floors of the new departure gate. The airport terminal was revamped this year, as airport officials expect increased ridership. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Garden City Regional Airport maintenance worker Jacob Ochampaugh sweeps the floors of the new departure gate. The airport terminal was revamped this year, as airport officials expect increased ridership. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/21/kansas-board-of-regents-sculpts-plan-for-boosting-state-aid-to-public-higher-education/?emci=78717300-c858-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;emdi=fc107f78-2659-ee11-9937-00224832eb73&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — The front doors of Garden City Regional Airport’s new terminal howl in high winds, providing a spooky soundtrack during blustery autumn days.The airport’s director, Rachelle Powell, said that’s one of a few kinks workers will smooth out as airport employees prepare for holiday travel season at the recently constructed terminal building. Kansas Reflector received a tour of the new terminal earlier in October.The original airport terminal was built in 1959 to serve passengers in southwest Kansas, as well as southeast Colorado and the Oklahoma-Texas panhandles. It was demolished in September. The next phase included building a new terminal featuring an in-house restaurant facility, updated check-in counter, revamped departure gate and restyled waiting lounges.Passengers can fly from Garden City to Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, via American Airlines flights serviced twice daily on a 65-seat jet. Reservations can be made online at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.aa.com/">www.aa.com</a>. Additionally, the airport receives a Boeing 737 from Harrah’s Casinos that charters flights to Laughlin, Nev., for people to gamble.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1698853403837.png" alt="The new facade of the Garden City Regional Airport was unveiled in early October. Voters in Garden City approved a 0.15% sales tax boost to pay for $9 million of the $31 million project. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>The new facade of the Garden City Regional Airport was unveiled in early October. Voters in Garden City approved a 0.15% sales tax boost to pay for $9 million of the $31 million project. (AJ Dome/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>“The reaction from the community following the opening of Phase 1 has been very positive,” Garden City city manager Matt Allen said. “This is a very large, high-profile project for our city.”The $31 million project was funded partly through a sales tax measure passed by Garden City voters in November 2021. Allen said voters approved a .15% sales tax bump for 15 years to help pay off about $9 million worth of construction. Additionally, city officials received roughly $22 million in federal funds, both from the Federal Aviation Administration and the CARES Act. Kansas City-based architecture firm HNTB and Crossland Construction of Garden City were chosen to design and build the project.Powell said a total commercial ridership of about 59,000 people last year, both departing and arriving, warranted a new terminal.“All the research we did, … FAA forecast data models and everything, supported the new airport,” Powell said.City officials also realized demand had outgrown the 1959 terminal. City commissioners placed a high priority on upgrading facilities “to be more reflective of the service the airport provides to western Kansas and the five-state region,” Allen said.Powell said about 28,000 people are forecast to fly out of GCK Regional by the end of the year. Airport ridership has grown from 18,375 departing passengers in 2018 to 29,186 in 2022.Phase 2 of construction is underway and includes a second departure gate, full restrooms for arrivals, a service animal relief area, a luggage carousel and rental car booths. The arrival and departure lounges were expanded to accommodate larger groups.“One unique thing about western Kansas airports is you don’t just fly out by yourself,” Powell said. “Your mom and dad and sister and aunt all send you away, so we wanted to accommodate that space for some of our people sending their loved ones off or coming to greet them.”Powell is still waiting for a full body imaging scanner provided by the Transportation Safety Administration to complete the check-in area. She anticipates the second phase of work to be completed by mid-2024. That schedule gives city officials time to review proposals for leasing restaurant space inside the terminal. The former airport building housed Napoli’s Italian Restaurant for more than a decade before the restaurant’s owners moved to a location in Garden City last year.On March 23, 2022, Napoli’s owners posted to Facebook: “Come and enjoy peaceful dining at the airport you only have 3 more weeks out here to enjoy this atmosphere because we will be closing down on April 16.”The restaurant space was first to be demolished. Napoli’s is now located at 2204 East Kansas Ave. #5 in Garden City.Proposals for the new airport restaurant must include a menu, hours of operation, plus rent and catering information. Applications can be filed at the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.garden-city.org/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/2337/410">City of Garden City website</a>.

New Garden City Regional Airport terminal opens ahead of holiday travel season

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal 2-vehicle crash just after noon Monday in Shawnee County have made an arrest.

The&nbsp; crash occurred&nbsp;&nbsp;near NW St. John Street&nbsp; and NW Tyler Street in Topeka, according to Topeka police department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Emergency crews transported 33-year-old&nbsp;Alycia A. Noriega of Topeka to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died late Monday afternoon, according to police.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested 38-year-old Michael S. Lester, 38, of Topeka on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving,&nbsp; Speeding;maximum Limits, Reckless Driving; Unknown Conviction, Driving On Left Side of Roadway, Driving On Left In No-Passing Zone, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Driving While License Suspended; Misd and Fail To Stop At Accident;known To Result In Death

Police are investigating this incident as a homicide. This is the 33rd homicide in Topeka in 2023, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698794900027.png" alt="Lester-photo Shawnee County." />
 <figcaption>Lester-photo Shawnee County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal 2-vehicle crash just after noon Monday in Shawnee County have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698703321792.png" alt="Police near the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police near the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp; crash occurred&nbsp;&nbsp;near NW St. John Street&nbsp; and NW Tyler Street in Topeka, according to Topeka police department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Emergency crews transported 33-year-old&nbsp;Alycia A. Noriega of Topeka to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She died late Monday afternoon, according to police.As a result of the investigation, police arrested 38-year-old Michael S. Lester, 38, of Topeka on requested charges of&nbsp;Murder in the 1st degree; In the commission of a felony, Flee or attempt to elude LEO by engaging in reckless driving,&nbsp; Speeding;maximum Limits, Reckless Driving; Unknown Conviction, Driving On Left Side of Roadway, Driving On Left In No-Passing Zone, Fail To Stop At Stop Sign, Driving While License Suspended; Misd and Fail To Stop At Accident;known To Result In DeathPolice are investigating this incident as a homicide. This is the 33rd homicide in Topeka in 2023, according to police.

Homicide: Man accused in 2-car crash that killed Kan. woman

WASHINGTON (AP)— FBI Director Christopher Wray said Tuesday that multiple foreign extremist groups have called for attacks against Americans and the West in the past few weeks and suggested Hamas’ attack on Israel could inspire threats like those motivated by the Islamic State group years ago.

“We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate years ago,” Wray testified before a U.S. Senate committee.

Wray said the FBI isn’t currently tracking an “organized threat” in the U.S., but law enforcement is concerned about the war unfolding in the Middle East inspiring individual people or small groups to attack Americans in their daily lives.

The FBI expects cyber targeting of American interests and infrastructure, as well as the threat of other attacks, to get worse as the conflict expands, he said.

“It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period,” Wray said. “We shouldn’t stop going out but should be vigilant.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698801431220.png" alt="FBI Director Christopher Wray during Tuesday's hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>FBI Director Christopher Wray during Tuesday's hearing -photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— FBI Director Christopher Wray said Tuesday that multiple foreign extremist groups have called for attacks against Americans and the West in the past few weeks and suggested Hamas’ attack on Israel could inspire threats like those motivated by the Islamic State group years ago.“We assess that the actions of Hamas and its allies will serve as an inspiration the likes of which we haven’t seen since ISIS launched its so-called caliphate years ago,” Wray testified before a U.S. Senate committee.Wray said the FBI isn’t currently tracking an “organized threat” in the U.S., but law enforcement is concerned about the war unfolding in the Middle East inspiring individual people or small groups to attack Americans in their daily lives.The FBI expects cyber targeting of American interests and infrastructure, as well as the threat of other attacks, to get worse as the conflict expands, he said.“It is a time to be concerned. We are in a dangerous period,” Wray said. “We shouldn’t stop going out but should be vigilant.”

 FBI warns: Terror threat in U.S. at whole other level

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 501 officials are investigating an alleged school threat against a Kansas high school.

Just after 11p.m. Monday, the&nbsp;USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Police Department notified investigators from the Topeka Police Department&nbsp; of a threat made about a school shooting at Topeka West High School. 

Investigators were quick to identify and locate a 15-year-old who made the threat. Police arrested the girl&nbsp;and booked her into the Juvenile Detention Center on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Threat. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573757762937.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities and USD 501 officials are investigating an alleged school threat against a Kansas high school.Just after 11p.m. Monday, the&nbsp;USD 501 Topeka Public Schools Police Department notified investigators from the Topeka Police Department&nbsp; of a threat made about a school shooting at Topeka West High School. Investigators were quick to identify and locate a 15-year-old who made the threat. Police arrested the girl&nbsp;and booked her into the Juvenile Detention Center on requested charges of Aggravated Criminal Threat.

Police: 15-year-old girl threatened shooting at Kansas high school

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating how a grenade was placed in a donation box at a Goodwill store in Wichita.

Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched on a report of a suspicions device found at the Goodwill on S. Rock Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders learned a grenade had been found inside the donation bin. Officers implemented safety measures and the immediate area was evacuated.

The Wichita&nbsp; Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit was called to the scene. They located the grenade and deemed it safe and took the grenade to be further examined. 

The business was reopened shortly after the grenade was removed. There were no injuries reported.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698770700633.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating how a grenade was placed in a donation box at a Goodwill store in Wichita.Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched on a report of a suspicions device found at the Goodwill on S. Rock Road in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders learned a grenade had been found inside the donation bin. Officers implemented safety measures and the immediate area was evacuated.The Wichita&nbsp; Police Explosive Ordinance Disposal Unit was called to the scene. They located the grenade and deemed it safe and took the grenade to be further examined. The business was reopened shortly after the grenade was removed. There were no injuries reported.

How did a grenade get into a donation box at Kan. Goodwill store?

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall demanded answers from Department of Homeland Secretary (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas on the Biden administration’s failures to secure our nation’s borders ranging from the historic number of migrant crossings on the FBI Terrorist Watchlist, and the lack of urgency from this administration to get Congress answers to who and where these people are inside of our country. 

During&nbsp; the hearing Senator Marshall asked Mayorcas, “Approximately how many illegal aliens in this country who are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Islamic Jihad, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?” The Secretary dodged the question

The Secretary did confirm over 600,000 known 'gotaways' entered our country in 2023 alone.

Highlights from Senator Marshall’s questioning includes:

On Illegal Aliens with ties to terrorist organization:&nbsp;

Mr. Secretary, approximately how many illegal aliens in this country are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas to Hezbollah, to the Islamic Jihad or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator Marshall, let me assure you that the individuals that pose a risk to our national security are our highest enforcement priority, the safety and security of the American public

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you have any idea how many numbers, what those numbers are? Is that tens? Is it hundreds? Is it thousands?&nbsp;

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;An individual who poses a risk to our national security is our highest enforcement priority..

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you don't know the answer to the question? Do you have an answer for my question?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe I have answered your question.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;No, sir. You didn't. I asked you how many have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, Islam jihad.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Will DHS and when will DHS disclose the countries of origin of people arrested by border patrol on the terrorist watch list?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;If you are referring, Senator, to the Terrorist Screening dataset, just to be precise, I would be pleased to speak with you in the appropriate context. This would not be it.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;How many ‘gotaways’ did CBP record in fiscal year 2023?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe, Senator, that number is over 600,000. And as I'm sure you are well aware, the phenomenon of ‘gotaways’ is something that has been a challenge for the Department of Homeland Security for decades…

On Chinese National’s crossings:&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Would you agree with me that over 18,000 Chinese nationals, many are military-aged young men, have illegally crossed the southern border in fiscal year 2023?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, I don't have the precise number…

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you know where the Chinese nationals are settling? Where are they working? Why they are here? How do you follow them?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, if an individual has fled China, and seeks asylum and qualifies for asylum, for example, if they fear persecution, an understanding of their membership in a particular social group…

Senator Marshall: I'm sure you'll agree with me that under Mr. Biden, that at least 1.7 million ‘gotaways’ have evaded apprehension at our border. How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have convictions in their entire country for rape or murder? How many of these known ‘gotaways’ had been prosecuted and deported?

How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have committed crimes in the United States since you were sworn in?

How many of these known ‘gotaways’ are trafficking fentanyl?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We well know that the trafficking of fentanyl is not specific to a nationality - tragically, we have individuals from various countries of origin. We have American citizens trafficking in fentanyl. Fentanyl is a scourge that we must all work together to overcome.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Let's talk about the 169 individuals encountered on the terrorist watchlist between the ports of entry in fiscal year 2023. How many were deported? How many are jailed? How many are still in the country?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator, with respect to the individuals on the Terrorist Screening dataset, I would be pleased to provide you with the numbers in the appropriate context.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The over 75,000 Special Interest aliens who crossed our border illegally this fiscal year. What are their whereabouts? How are you tracking these people?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We have a number of ways of tracking them, Senator if in fact, they present a national security or public safety threat, we very well may detain them. If we do not believe that detention is appropriate. We have alternatives to detention.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The folks back home when they look at the evidence, they see that the DEA seized over 380 million doses of fentanyl in 2022. 73,000 Americans died from fentanyl poisoning in 2022. Mostly young adults, school aged children. And that 90% of the fentanyl&nbsp; comes from our southern border. You know considering that just last month, our border patrol had almost 270,000 encounters including 75,000 special interest aliens. Do Americans feel they're more safe today or less safe today under the policies of this administration?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, we are taking it to the cartels, to the traffickers of fentanyl, in an unprecedented way with more resources and more efficient and productive operations than ever before.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;But you would agree with me that Americans feel less safe today than they did before the start of this administration. And your testimony has solidified the view that American people they don't have confidence in the job that you're doing. This is why I believe the defining issue in this next election is going to be exactly this. Are our families safer today than they were three years ago?&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In April, in sworn testimony before this committee, you insisted and I'll quote you, “If somebody errantly sends me an email on my personal email that should have been sent to my work email, I forwarded to my work email…” Despite that, a FOIA lawsuit by Americans for Prosperity has uncovered hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal use of personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business since you assumed the office of Secretary. We sent you a letter on July 13, asking for additional questions on your in your suborders adherence to this DHS policy on the use of non DHS emails, but thus far, you failed to respond to me. Will you commit to getting the answers to our letter?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I'll be happy to look at your inquiry and respond accordingly. What you just articulated is perfect evidence of the fact that I have followed the rules.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;And that explains why there's hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, you mistake the facts.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In May, the Biden Administration said when Title 42 ended that migrants would face tougher consequences. And I quote, “that there are tougher consequences if they were caught crossing the border illegally.” But just in the last border crossing numbers from this past week, the Biden Administration's actions showed that border patrol released. with no consequences, 156,000 migrants into the U.S. in September alone. Mr. Secretary, what are the consequences your administration threatens?&nbsp;

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Removal and return of individuals under Title Eight of the United States Code is one example of a consequence that we deliver. In fact, in fiscal year 2023, we removed or returned more than 620,000 individuals. Just recently, we announced that we negotiated an agreement with Venezuela for the first time.

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you sent back 10 maybe 200 people, but there's tens of thousands of them still here. How do you explain the 156,000 migrants in September alone that were released without any consequences?

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:: That is incorrect.&nbsp;

Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you didn't release 156,000 migrants into the United States?

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Roger Marshall demanded answers from Department of Homeland Secretary (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas on the Biden administration’s failures to secure our nation’s borders ranging from the historic number of migrant crossings on the FBI Terrorist Watchlist, and the lack of urgency from this administration to get Congress answers to who and where these people are inside of our country. During&nbsp; the hearing Senator Marshall asked Mayorcas, “Approximately how many illegal aliens in this country who are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Islamic Jihad, or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?” The Secretary dodged the question<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🚨Secretary Mayorkas confirmed OVER 600,000 known gotaways entered our country in 2023 alone. <a href="https://t.co/6eAPerWasN">pic.twitter.com/6eAPerWasN</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1719399077970841728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Secretary did confirm over 600,000 known 'gotaways' entered our country in 2023 alone.Highlights from Senator Marshall’s questioning includes:On Illegal Aliens with ties to terrorist organization:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Mr. Secretary, approximately how many illegal aliens in this country are here on asylum have direct ties to Hamas to Hezbollah, to the Islamic Jihad or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator Marshall, let me assure you that the individuals that pose a risk to our national security are our highest enforcement priority, the safety and security of the American publicSenator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you have any idea how many numbers, what those numbers are? Is that tens? Is it hundreds? Is it thousands?&nbsp;Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;An individual who poses a risk to our national security is our highest enforcement priority..Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you don't know the answer to the question? Do you have an answer for my question?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe I have answered your question.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;No, sir. You didn't. I asked you how many have direct ties to Hamas, Hezbollah, Islam jihad.On the Terror Watch List:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Will DHS and when will DHS disclose the countries of origin of people arrested by border patrol on the terrorist watch list?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;If you are referring, Senator, to the Terrorist Screening dataset, just to be precise, I would be pleased to speak with you in the appropriate context. This would not be it.On Known Gotaways:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;How many ‘gotaways’ did CBP record in fiscal year 2023?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I believe, Senator, that number is over 600,000. And as I'm sure you are well aware, the phenomenon of ‘gotaways’ is something that has been a challenge for the Department of Homeland Security for decades…On Chinese National’s crossings:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Would you agree with me that over 18,000 Chinese nationals, many are military-aged young men, have illegally crossed the southern border in fiscal year 2023?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, I don't have the precise number…Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Do you know where the Chinese nationals are settling? Where are they working? Why they are here? How do you follow them?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, if an individual has fled China, and seeks asylum and qualifies for asylum, for example, if they fear persecution, an understanding of their membership in a particular social group…On Known ‘Gotaways’:&nbsp;Senator Marshall: I'm sure you'll agree with me that under Mr. Biden, that at least 1.7 million ‘gotaways’ have evaded apprehension at our border. How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have convictions in their entire country for rape or murder? How many of these known ‘gotaways’ had been prosecuted and deported?How many of these known ‘gotaways’ have committed crimes in the United States since you were sworn in?How many of these known ‘gotaways’ are trafficking fentanyl?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We well know that the trafficking of fentanyl is not specific to a nationality - tragically, we have individuals from various countries of origin. We have American citizens trafficking in fentanyl. Fentanyl is a scourge that we must all work together to overcome.On Terror Watchlist:&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;Let's talk about the 169 individuals encountered on the terrorist watchlist between the ports of entry in fiscal year 2023. How many were deported? How many are jailed? How many are still in the country?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;&nbsp;Senator, with respect to the individuals on the Terrorist Screening dataset, I would be pleased to provide you with the numbers in the appropriate context.On Safety of America:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The over 75,000 Special Interest aliens who crossed our border illegally this fiscal year. What are their whereabouts? How are you tracking these people?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;We have a number of ways of tracking them, Senator if in fact, they present a national security or public safety threat, we very well may detain them. If we do not believe that detention is appropriate. We have alternatives to detention.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;The folks back home when they look at the evidence, they see that the DEA seized over 380 million doses of fentanyl in 2022. 73,000 Americans died from fentanyl poisoning in 2022. Mostly young adults, school aged children. And that 90% of the fentanyl&nbsp; comes from our southern border. You know considering that just last month, our border patrol had almost 270,000 encounters including 75,000 special interest aliens. Do Americans feel they're more safe today or less safe today under the policies of this administration?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, we are taking it to the cartels, to the traffickers of fentanyl, in an unprecedented way with more resources and more efficient and productive operations than ever before.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;But you would agree with me that Americans feel less safe today than they did before the start of this administration. And your testimony has solidified the view that American people they don't have confidence in the job that you're doing. This is why I believe the defining issue in this next election is going to be exactly this. Are our families safer today than they were three years ago?&nbsp;On DHS Emails:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In April, in sworn testimony before this committee, you insisted and I'll quote you, “If somebody errantly sends me an email on my personal email that should have been sent to my work email, I forwarded to my work email…” Despite that, a FOIA lawsuit by Americans for Prosperity has uncovered hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal use of personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business since you assumed the office of Secretary. We sent you a letter on July 13, asking for additional questions on your in your suborders adherence to this DHS policy on the use of non DHS emails, but thus far, you failed to respond to me. Will you commit to getting the answers to our letter?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;I'll be happy to look at your inquiry and respond accordingly. What you just articulated is perfect evidence of the fact that I have followed the rules.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;And that explains why there's hundreds of pages of records reflecting your personal email account and cell phone for official DHS business?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Senator, you mistake the facts.On Securing the Border:Senator Marshall:&nbsp;In May, the Biden Administration said when Title 42 ended that migrants would face tougher consequences. And I quote, “that there are tougher consequences if they were caught crossing the border illegally.” But just in the last border crossing numbers from this past week, the Biden Administration's actions showed that border patrol released. with no consequences, 156,000 migrants into the U.S. in September alone. Mr. Secretary, what are the consequences your administration threatens?&nbsp;Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:&nbsp;Removal and return of individuals under Title Eight of the United States Code is one example of a consequence that we deliver. In fact, in fiscal year 2023, we removed or returned more than 620,000 individuals. Just recently, we announced that we negotiated an agreement with Venezuela for the first time.Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you sent back 10 maybe 200 people, but there's tens of thousands of them still here. How do you explain the 156,000 migrants in September alone that were released without any consequences?Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas:: That is incorrect.&nbsp;Senator Marshall:&nbsp;So you didn't release 156,000 migrants into the United States?

🎥 Senator Marshall: DHS Sec. says 600K known 'gotaways' at the border

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating separate deaths of two woman in the Kansas City metro over the weekend have identified one of those who died.

Just before 9a.m. Sunday, detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department responded to report of a death in the 700 block of Minnesota Avenue. First responders discovered 73-year-old Doanna Stith a resident of Odessa, Missouri outside who was pronounced deceased at the scene.

After further investigation and an autopsy, detectives have determined that there was no foul play involved in this case but rather a medical condition that resulted in her death.

On Saturday, police responded to a medical call, suspicious death in the&nbsp;4000 block of  E. 56th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found a woman&nbsp;deceased inside an apartment. Detectives believe the death is likely not from natural causes. Police have released no additional deaths on this investigation.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities investigating separate deaths of two woman in the Kansas City metro over the weekend have identified one of those who died.Just before 9a.m. Sunday, detectives with the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department responded to report of a death in the 700 block of Minnesota Avenue. First responders discovered 73-year-old Doanna Stith a resident of Odessa, Missouri outside who was pronounced deceased at the scene.After further investigation and an autopsy, detectives have determined that there was no foul play involved in this case but rather a medical condition that resulted in her death.On Saturday, police responded to a medical call, suspicious death in the&nbsp;4000 block of E. 56th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found a woman&nbsp;deceased inside an apartment. Detectives believe the death is likely not from natural causes. Police have released no additional deaths on this investigation.

Police ID woman found dead outside Kansas home

WASHINGTON (AP)— Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the total number of rocket and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria has risen to 27, including 6 small scale attacks that have taken place since U.S. warplanes struck weapons storage areas for Iranian-backed militias in Syria last week.

In total there have been 16 attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and 11 in Syria.

In addition, Ryder said the Pentagon is sending an additional 300 troops to the Middle East who specialize in explosive ordinance disposal and communications. Those forces will be there to bolster U.S. troops already in the region, Ryder said.

Meanwhile, dozens of people entered the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt on Wednesday. It appeared to be the first time foreign passport holders have been allowed to leave the besieged territory since the start of the Israel-Hamas war more than three weeks ago.

Early Wednesday, providers Paltel and Jawwal reported a “complete disruption” of communications and internet services in Gaza, the second major cut in five days. Humanitarian aid agencies have warned that such blackouts severely disrupt their work in an already dire situation in Gaza.

The Palestinian death toll in the Israel-Hamas war has reached 8,525, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>. In the occupied West Bank, more than 122 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, most of them civilians slain in the initial Oct. 7 Hamas rampage that started the fighting. In addition, around 240 hostages were taken from Israel into Gaza by the militant group. One of the captives, a female Israeli soldier,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-news-10-30-2023-131e9537aaad8e74586cc114d2668e5a">was rescued</a>&nbsp;in a special forces operation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698795699009.png" alt="-A sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU 6), maintains security on the flight deck of the USS Normandy during training in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 30, 2023.&nbsp;Photo By:Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Malachi Lakey" />
 <figcaption>-A sailor assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU 6), maintains security on the flight deck of the USS Normandy during training in the Adriatic Sea, Oct. 30, 2023.&nbsp;Photo By:Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Malachi Lakey</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)— Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder said the total number of rocket and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria has risen to 27, including 6 small scale attacks that have taken place since U.S. warplanes struck weapons storage areas for Iranian-backed militias in Syria last week.In total there have been 16 attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and 11 in Syria.In addition, Ryder said the Pentagon is sending an additional 300 troops to the Middle East who specialize in explosive ordinance disposal and communications. Those forces will be there to bolster U.S. troops already in the region, Ryder said.Meanwhile, dozens of people entered the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt on Wednesday. It appeared to be the first time foreign passport holders have been allowed to leave the besieged territory since the start of the Israel-Hamas war more than three weeks ago.Early Wednesday, providers Paltel and Jawwal reported a “complete disruption” of communications and internet services in Gaza, the second major cut in five days. Humanitarian aid agencies have warned that such blackouts severely disrupt their work in an already dire situation in Gaza.The Palestinian death toll in the Israel-Hamas war has reached 8,525, according to the Hamas-run&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Gaza</a>. In the occupied West Bank, more than 122 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids.More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, most of them civilians slain in the initial Oct. 7 Hamas rampage that started the fighting. In addition, around 240 hostages were taken from Israel into Gaza by the militant group. One of the captives, a female Israeli soldier,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-gaza-war-news-10-30-2023-131e9537aaad8e74586cc114d2668e5a">was rescued</a>&nbsp;in a special forces operation.

More U.S. troops to Middle East after more attacks on U.S. bases 

ALLEN COUNTY —A week after assaulting a police officer, a woman being held in a Kansas jail is accused of attempting to kill another person

According to the Allen County Sheriff, deputies arrested 26-year-old Raven Gomez and her boyfriend 45-year-old Brandon David at a rural residence south of Moran, Kansas following the violent assault of a police officer in Jasper, Missouri.

Held in the Allen County, Kansas jail since her arrest, Gomez allegedly assault another woman in custody with a meal tray during lunch. The attack caused the inmate to fall on the floor and her glasses were broken when Gomez possibly stepped on them. Holding onto the woman's hair, Gomez used a piece of the broken glass as a weapon and struck the inmate in her face, neck, head and other parts of the body.

Gomez later told investigators she planned the attack and intended to kill the other inmate, according to the Allen County Sheriff. Gomez remains jailed on a $100,000 bond.

ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an altercation with police.

Just before 9p.m. Oct. 16, a Jasper, Missouri&nbsp; police officer responded to a disturbance in progress at Pete’s Convenience Store in Jasper. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with 26-year-old Raven Gomez and 45-year-old Brandon David both of Columbia.

During a pat search for weapons on Gomez, she punched the officer in the face, knocked the female officer to the ground causing her to hit her head on the pavement.

The hit to the pavement caused the officer to become disoriented

Brandon David got out of the passenger seat of the suspect vehicle, and punched the female officer several times in the face and then ran around to the driver’s seat of the patrol vehicle and it appears he was attempting to steal it.

Police believe he wasn’t smart enough to figure out how to put the vehicle in drive due to the different gear shift newer vehicles have.

Gomez who was the driver of the suspect vehicle got into her vehicle and while backing up, the vehicle’s tire ran over the officer’s foot, and again ran over the officer’s foot when moving forward.

David ended up getting out of the patrol vehicle and back into the suspect vehicle. The two were able to get away, last seen northbound on Interstate 49 in a dark blue Chevy Cruze with a Missouri license of BG1B5C.

&nbsp;The officer was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries and released.&nbsp;

Deputies tracked these two down to a property five miles southeast of Moran, Kansas Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Deputies and assisted by&nbsp;Bourbon County Kansas Sheriff's Office&nbsp;deputies, took the suspects into custody without incident.

Jasper County prosecutors have officially filed 1st degree assault charges on both Gomez and David with bond set at $50,000 cash only and other conditions. They face additional charges in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697765737908.png" alt="Gomez-photo Allen County" />
 <figcaption>Gomez-photo Allen County</figcaption>
 </figure>ALLEN COUNTY —A week after assaulting a police officer, a woman being held in a Kansas jail is accused of attempting to kill another personAccording to the Allen County Sheriff, deputies arrested 26-year-old Raven Gomez and her boyfriend 45-year-old Brandon David at a rural residence south of Moran, Kansas following the violent assault of a police officer in Jasper, Missouri.Held in the Allen County, Kansas jail since her arrest, Gomez allegedly assault another woman in custody with a meal tray during lunch. The attack caused the inmate to fall on the floor and her glasses were broken when Gomez possibly stepped on them. Holding onto the woman's hair, Gomez used a piece of the broken glass as a weapon and struck the inmate in her face, neck, head and other parts of the body.Gomez later told investigators she planned the attack and intended to kill the other inmate, according to the Allen County Sheriff. Gomez remains jailed on a $100,000 bond.--------------------ALLEN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after an altercation with police.Just before 9p.m. Oct. 16, a Jasper, Missouri&nbsp; police officer responded to a disturbance in progress at Pete’s Convenience Store in Jasper. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with 26-year-old Raven Gomez and 45-year-old Brandon David both of Columbia.During a pat search for weapons on Gomez, she punched the officer in the face, knocked the female officer to the ground causing her to hit her head on the pavement.The hit to the pavement caused the officer to become disorientedBrandon David got out of the passenger seat of the suspect vehicle, and punched the female officer several times in the face and then ran around to the driver’s seat of the patrol vehicle and it appears he was attempting to steal it.Police believe he wasn’t smart enough to figure out how to put the vehicle in drive due to the different gear shift newer vehicles have.Gomez who was the driver of the suspect vehicle got into her vehicle and while backing up, the vehicle’s tire ran over the officer’s foot, and again ran over the officer’s foot when moving forward.David ended up getting out of the patrol vehicle and back into the suspect vehicle. The two were able to get away, last seen northbound on Interstate 49 in a dark blue Chevy Cruze with a Missouri license of BG1B5C.&nbsp;The officer was transported to a local hospital where she was treated for her injuries and released.&nbsp;Deputies tracked these two down to a property five miles southeast of Moran, Kansas Wednesday evening.&nbsp; Deputies and assisted by&nbsp;Bourbon County Kansas Sheriff's Office&nbsp;deputies, took the suspects into custody without incident.Jasper County prosecutors have officially filed 1st degree assault charges on both Gomez and David with bond set at $50,000 cash only and other conditions. They face additional charges in Kansas.

Woman who punched officer wanted to kill Kan. jail inmate

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent attack on a woman in southwest Kansas.

Just after 8 p.m., October 27, police were dispatched to the 600 block of N. 10th Street for a reported stabbing, according to a media release.

First responders found an 80-year-old woman with wounds believed to have been caused by a machete. Through the investigation, police identified 32-year-old Zachary Porter as the suspect and took him into custody.

The victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment of injuries.

Porter is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698715603812.png" alt="Porter photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Porter photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent attack on a woman in southwest Kansas.Just after 8 p.m., October 27, police were dispatched to the 600 block of N. 10th Street for a reported stabbing, according to a media release.First responders found an 80-year-old woman with wounds believed to have been caused by a machete. Through the investigation, police identified 32-year-old Zachary Porter as the suspect and took him into custody.The victim was transported to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment of injuries.Porter is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder.&nbsp;

80-year-old SW Kan. woman injured in machete attack

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri appeals court ruled Tuesday against Republican-written summaries of abortion-rights ballot measures that described several proposed amendments as allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”

A three-judge panel of the Western District Court of Appeals found the summaries written by Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor in 2024, are politically partisan.

Ashcroft’s original description would ask voters whether they want to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth, without requiring a medical license or potentially being subject to medical malpractice.”

If supporters gather enough voter signatures, the abortion-rights constitutional amendments would go before Missouri voters in 2024.

The judges largely upheld summaries that were rewritten by a lower court judge to be more impartial.

Ballot summaries are used on Missouri ballots to help voters understand sometimes lengthy and complex constitutional amendments and policy changes.

The summaries approved by the appeals court would tell voters the amendments would “establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives” and “remove Missouri’s ban on abortion.”

Ashcroft said he plans to appeal the ruling.

“We stand by our language and believe it fairly and accurately reflects the scope and magnitude of each petition,” Ashcroft said in a statement.

Abortion-rights proponents lauded the Tuesday ruling.

“Today, the courts upheld Missourians’ constitutional right to direct democracy over the self-serving attacks of politicians desperately seeking to climb the political ladder," the ACLU of Missouri said in a statement. It called the decision "a complete rebuke of the combined efforts from the Attorney General and Secretary of State to interfere and deny Missourian’s their right to initiative process.”

Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey's office is defending Ashcroft's summary language in court.

Missouri is among several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2023-abortion-ohio-lawsuit-ballot-what-eee58d5aa172d783598f805ea5774fd5">including Ohio</a>, where abortion opponents are fighting efforts to ensure or restore access to the procedure following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">the fall of Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698783687898.png" alt="Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey speaks to reporters Monday outside the Western District Court of Appeals building in Kansas City while Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft waits for his turn the microphones. Bailey and Ashcroft had just attended arguments over the abortion initiative ballot titles rewritten by a Cole County judge (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey speaks to reporters Monday outside the Western District Court of Appeals building in Kansas City while Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft waits for his turn the microphones. Bailey and Ashcroft had just attended arguments over the abortion initiative ballot titles rewritten by a Cole County judge (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Missouri appeals court ruled Tuesday against Republican-written summaries of abortion-rights ballot measures that described several proposed amendments as allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”A three-judge panel of the Western District Court of Appeals found the summaries written by Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor in 2024, are politically partisan.Ashcroft’s original description would ask voters whether they want to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth, without requiring a medical license or potentially being subject to medical malpractice.”If supporters gather enough voter signatures, the abortion-rights constitutional amendments would go before Missouri voters in 2024.The judges largely upheld summaries that were rewritten by a lower court judge to be more impartial.Ballot summaries are used on Missouri ballots to help voters understand sometimes lengthy and complex constitutional amendments and policy changes.The summaries approved by the appeals court would tell voters the amendments would “establish a right to make decisions about reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives” and “remove Missouri’s ban on abortion.”Ashcroft said he plans to appeal the ruling.“We stand by our language and believe it fairly and accurately reflects the scope and magnitude of each petition,” Ashcroft said in a statement.Abortion-rights proponents lauded the Tuesday ruling.“Today, the courts upheld Missourians’ constitutional right to direct democracy over the self-serving attacks of politicians desperately seeking to climb the political ladder," the ACLU of Missouri said in a statement. It called the decision "a complete rebuke of the combined efforts from the Attorney General and Secretary of State to interfere and deny Missourian’s their right to initiative process.”Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey's office is defending Ashcroft's summary language in court.Missouri is among several states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2023-abortion-ohio-lawsuit-ballot-what-eee58d5aa172d783598f805ea5774fd5">including Ohio</a>, where abortion opponents are fighting efforts to ensure or restore access to the procedure following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">the fall of Roe v. Wade</a>&nbsp;last year.——-