Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid Quotes

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, just a real quick injury update. Obviously, we’ve put Skyy (Moore) down (to IR). Skyy came in yesterday with a core muscle injury. We had him evaluated and he’s going to need that fixed. He will be put down there on IR. Then, as far as JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and Mike Danna go, both are making progress and so on and so forth there. Then, DeAndre Hopkins – (I will) take a few questions on that but we’re excited to have him here and join in with that receiving corp. Again, he’s been a proven player, and he’ll work in those spots that JuJu and Rashee (Rice) did.”

Q:&nbsp;Is there something specifically that DeAndre Hopkins does well that you feel like you guys have been lacking?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, I think – not necessarily lacking, but I think he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) a good – he’s a veteran player. You’ve seen just about everything over 12 years. He’s a good space player, so he’s very good at understanding how to work in space. At the same time, he’s a tough matchup because of his size, arm length – (he’s a) big body that knows how to kind of play that low post area.”

Q:&nbsp;What is the timetable for him playing?

REID:&nbsp;“Well, it could be this weekend. We’ll see how he (DeAndre Hopkins) picks up (laughter) – we have to get him on the practice field. I mean, why wait, right? If he can handle it without putting him in a bad position.”

Q:&nbsp;How much will DeAndre Hopkins’ football knowledge mean in this process?

REID:&nbsp;“He’s (DeAndre Hopkins) a smart guy. He understands football, likewise. Justin (Reid) knows him probably better than anybody just having been with him those years (in Houston), so that’s exciting. I mean, that’s a good thing. We’ve got a lot in right now and we’re just trying to get him acclimated with meetings here. We’ll see how things go at practice, but you can tell he’s a very focused guy and he’s intelligent.”

Q:&nbsp;How many additional hours would DeAndre Hopkins have to put in in order to play this week?

REID:&nbsp;“Well you start counting from the bottom of just the snap count part of it and work your way up through, but he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) seen enough. He’s been around it long enough to where it’s more (of) a dialect than a language that he has to learn.”

Q:&nbsp;Are you done making moves at wide receiver with the trade deadline approaching?

REID:&nbsp;“Only if you want to jump in and take a few reps (laughter).”

Q:&nbsp;Do you need to adjust the offense to fit DeAndre Hopkins’ skill set or will he need to adjust to what you guys are already doing?

REID:&nbsp;“Listen, we do this so often. We try to utilize their strengths and work them in to what we do without completely changing everything. I mean, we have a little of everything in the offense, but he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) similar in his awareness in space as JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and (what) Rashee (Rice) was developing into. That’s a good thing in this offense to be able to do.”

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUB

Q: On Trent McDuffie’s block on special teams during Mecole Hardman’s 55-yard punt return.

TOUB: “I had all those guys before so when they get out there on that play, they have a chance to make a play on special teams, he (Trent McDuffie) takes it really serious. You know, like just the other day he stuck his head in my office (and said), ‘Hey, did you see my knockdown?’ I said ‘Yeah, I saw your knockdown (laughter).’ It’s awesome, I mean all those guys, Turk (Tershawn Wharton) and everybody out there, (Nick) Bolton, every one of them is working real hard to get blocks and that’s why that play worked. You have defensive guys that are starting that are playing their butt off for you on special teams, so I mean that’s what we have going right now.”

Q: Do you trust Mecole Hardman as the punt returner?

TOUB: “The punt returner, I’ve said this a lot of times, the punt returner is – besides the quarterback – is probably the hardest thing to do in my opinion, on the football field. It’s hard. You have guys coming down on you, you have to make a lot of quick decisions, you have to catch the ball (laughter), it’s tough. I have a lot of trust in him (Mecole Hardman), he has the great experience and he’s gotten better and better. He’s really taking it serious this year. I mean, because it’s a big part of his role right now is being that guy.”

Q: What have you learned about Chris Roland-Wallace?

TOUB: “He’s (Chris Roland-Wallace) just a solid player that – a rookie that’s kind of (that) unsung hero kind of guy. He’s a lot like (Jaden) Hicks, I have a lot of trust in him. (He) does a lot of important things for us. Singled up gunners as a corner and singles up guys and runs with them. Great effort, you know he’s a smart, instinctive football player that’s really stepped up for us. Our young guys (are) doing a great job.”

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLO

OPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“I know you (the media) just got done with (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) and (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Coach (Dave) Toub. We had one day of practice yesterday for this team (and I’m) anxious to get another one in here, so with that I’ll just kind of open it up.”

Q:&nbsp;What’s was the difficulty like of playing against DeAndre Hopkins?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“(DeAndre Hopkins is a) big wide receiver that has a huge catch radius, right? (He) catches everything. (I have) a lot of respect for him (and) I’m glad he’s on our team now (laughs). That’s a good thing.”

Q:&nbsp;How has Chris Roland-Wallace developed and how is he fitting into what you’re doing with the defense?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Listen, C-Ro (Chris Roland-Wallace) is one of those guys that – he came here as a free agent. He earned everything he’s gotten right now. He made the team, made the roster, made the 53. He’s earned playing time. I don’t know if you know – (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave (Toub) and I talked every week about trying to get him in there in games. We got him in there last week. I think before Jaylen (Watson) got hurt, I can’t even remember, but we’ve been talking about it a lot. I guess what I’m trying to say is he’s kind of earned the right to get some playing time, so you’ll see him in and out of there and we’re going to have to use him as one guy goes down – other guys, our responsibilities go up so that’ll happen to Chris.”

Q:&nbsp; What do you remember most about that last game against the Raiders?

SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“The thing that I remember most is we were in there swinging away, right? It was a pretty tight game but where we kind of were disappointing as a group was when we had to stop them at the end, right? I think we had enough time outs, and we call it four-minute defense, right? We didn’t get that done. They ripped off a couple of long runs to kind of ice the game which is what you want your offense to do if you’re on their sideline, but we would’ve liked to have rose up somehow and got the ball back to Patrick (Mahomes) one more time. Am I right in saying it was a 20-14 final? Yeah, so if we could’ve got it back to Pat one more time – that’s what I remember. Now, I thought we played for the most part pretty good. I think we only gave up six points. Weren’t there were a couple of pick-sixes? Yeah, but when you finish like that, it’s just kind of a bad taste so we’re going to remember that and hopefully not let that happen.”

Q: What have your early conversations with DeAndre Hopkins been like and how is he meshing with the guys?

NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s exciting – I think for everybody. You get a guy (DeAndre Hopkins) that’s super experienced, he’s been in this league a long time (and) he’s had a lot of success. So, you look at both situations and I feel like it’s really a win-win type (of) deal, but he came in this morning and (he’s) ready to rock and roll. Everything is a first time now for him so he’s getting in here the first time trying to figure out where to sit in the meetings, first time to go in walk-throughs and figure out how we do walk-throughs. (His) first time to go out and figure out what practice tempo’s like, there’s a lot of firsts. Sometimes, it can get to thinking it’s just like plug-and-play (but) there’s a process to it, so we want to make sure we do that the right way and (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid’s been great with that.”

Q: Is there something that DeAndre Hopkins does specifically well that can help you guys offensively?

NAGY:&nbsp;“I’d say, Adam (Teicher), the biggest thing right now is the – his (DeAndre Hopkins) hands are phenomenal, he has really, really good hands. I think he’s got some of the least amount of drops in the history of the NFL. The experience that he has, which comes I think with that, is trust. So, he’s played in a lot of games, he understands and he’s seen a bunch of different defenses, that’s valuable. Whether it’s zone or man (coverage), he’s a very good route runner, he understands leverages. One of the things – just getting it kind of – you see it on tape, you see it in interviews but then when he’s here, up close and live and in person, you see the confidence and the swagger that he has. I think that confidence can really penetrate, and you feel that with the other players – you’ve got to go out and do it. It’s just that we’re at the beginning stages but he’s does a lot of good things in zones, too.”

Q: What do you hope that the other receivers learn from DeAndre Hopkins?

Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid QuotesOctober 24, 2024HEAD COACH ANDY REIDOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“Alright, just a real quick injury update. Obviously, we’ve put Skyy (Moore) down (to IR). Skyy came in yesterday with a core muscle injury. We had him evaluated and he’s going to need that fixed. He will be put down there on IR. Then, as far as JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and Mike Danna go, both are making progress and so on and so forth there. Then, DeAndre Hopkins – (I will) take a few questions on that but we’re excited to have him here and join in with that receiving corp. Again, he’s been a proven player, and he’ll work in those spots that JuJu and Rashee (Rice) did.”Q:&nbsp;Is there something specifically that DeAndre Hopkins does well that you feel like you guys have been lacking?REID:&nbsp;“Well, I think – not necessarily lacking, but I think he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) a good – he’s a veteran player. You’ve seen just about everything over 12 years. He’s a good space player, so he’s very good at understanding how to work in space. At the same time, he’s a tough matchup because of his size, arm length – (he’s a) big body that knows how to kind of play that low post area.”Q:&nbsp;What is the timetable for him playing?REID:&nbsp;“Well, it could be this weekend. We’ll see how he (DeAndre Hopkins) picks up (laughter) – we have to get him on the practice field. I mean, why wait, right? If he can handle it without putting him in a bad position.”Q:&nbsp;How much will DeAndre Hopkins’ football knowledge mean in this process?REID:&nbsp;“He’s (DeAndre Hopkins) a smart guy. He understands football, likewise. Justin (Reid) knows him probably better than anybody just having been with him those years (in Houston), so that’s exciting. I mean, that’s a good thing. We’ve got a lot in right now and we’re just trying to get him acclimated with meetings here. We’ll see how things go at practice, but you can tell he’s a very focused guy and he’s intelligent.”Q:&nbsp;How many additional hours would DeAndre Hopkins have to put in in order to play this week?REID:&nbsp;“Well you start counting from the bottom of just the snap count part of it and work your way up through, but he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) seen enough. He’s been around it long enough to where it’s more (of) a dialect than a language that he has to learn.”Q:&nbsp;Are you done making moves at wide receiver with the trade deadline approaching?REID:&nbsp;“Only if you want to jump in and take a few reps (laughter).”Q:&nbsp;Do you need to adjust the offense to fit DeAndre Hopkins’ skill set or will he need to adjust to what you guys are already doing?REID:&nbsp;“Listen, we do this so often. We try to utilize their strengths and work them in to what we do without completely changing everything. I mean, we have a little of everything in the offense, but he’s (DeAndre Hopkins) similar in his awareness in space as JuJu (Smith-Schuster) and (what) Rashee (Rice) was developing into. That’s a good thing in this offense to be able to do.”Chiefs Coordinator QuotesOctober 24, 2024ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/SPECIAL TEAMS COORDINATOR DAVE TOUBQ: On Trent McDuffie’s block on special teams during Mecole Hardman’s 55-yard punt return.TOUB: “I had all those guys before so when they get out there on that play, they have a chance to make a play on special teams, he (Trent McDuffie) takes it really serious. You know, like just the other day he stuck his head in my office (and said), ‘Hey, did you see my knockdown?’ I said ‘Yeah, I saw your knockdown (laughter).’ It’s awesome, I mean all those guys, Turk (Tershawn Wharton) and everybody out there, (Nick) Bolton, every one of them is working real hard to get blocks and that’s why that play worked. You have defensive guys that are starting that are playing their butt off for you on special teams, so I mean that’s what we have going right now.”Q: Do you trust Mecole Hardman as the punt returner?TOUB: “The punt returner, I’ve said this a lot of times, the punt returner is – besides the quarterback – is probably the hardest thing to do in my opinion, on the football field. It’s hard. You have guys coming down on you, you have to make a lot of quick decisions, you have to catch the ball (laughter), it’s tough. I have a lot of trust in him (Mecole Hardman), he has the great experience and he’s gotten better and better. He’s really taking it serious this year. I mean, because it’s a big part of his role right now is being that guy.”Q: What have you learned about Chris Roland-Wallace?TOUB: “He’s (Chris Roland-Wallace) just a solid player that – a rookie that’s kind of (that) unsung hero kind of guy. He’s a lot like (Jaden) Hicks, I have a lot of trust in him. (He) does a lot of important things for us. Singled up gunners as a corner and singles up guys and runs with them. Great effort, you know he’s a smart, instinctive football player that’s really stepped up for us. Our young guys (are) doing a great job.”DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR STEVE SPAGNUOLOOPENING STATEMENT:&nbsp;“I know you (the media) just got done with (Head) Coach (Andy Reid) and (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Coach (Dave) Toub. We had one day of practice yesterday for this team (and I’m) anxious to get another one in here, so with that I’ll just kind of open it up.”Q:&nbsp;What’s was the difficulty like of playing against DeAndre Hopkins?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“(DeAndre Hopkins is a) big wide receiver that has a huge catch radius, right? (He) catches everything. (I have) a lot of respect for him (and) I’m glad he’s on our team now (laughs). That’s a good thing.”Q:&nbsp;How has Chris Roland-Wallace developed and how is he fitting into what you’re doing with the defense?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“Listen, C-Ro (Chris Roland-Wallace) is one of those guys that – he came here as a free agent. He earned everything he’s gotten right now. He made the team, made the roster, made the 53. He’s earned playing time. I don’t know if you know – (Assistant Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator) Dave (Toub) and I talked every week about trying to get him in there in games. We got him in there last week. I think before Jaylen (Watson) got hurt, I can’t even remember, but we’ve been talking about it a lot. I guess what I’m trying to say is he’s kind of earned the right to get some playing time, so you’ll see him in and out of there and we’re going to have to use him as one guy goes down – other guys, our responsibilities go up so that’ll happen to Chris.”Q:&nbsp; What do you remember most about that last game against the Raiders?SPAGNUOLO:&nbsp;“The thing that I remember most is we were in there swinging away, right? It was a pretty tight game but where we kind of were disappointing as a group was when we had to stop them at the end, right? I think we had enough time outs, and we call it four-minute defense, right? We didn’t get that done. They ripped off a couple of long runs to kind of ice the game which is what you want your offense to do if you’re on their sideline, but we would’ve liked to have rose up somehow and got the ball back to Patrick (Mahomes) one more time. Am I right in saying it was a 20-14 final? Yeah, so if we could’ve got it back to Pat one more time – that’s what I remember. Now, I thought we played for the most part pretty good. I think we only gave up six points. Weren’t there were a couple of pick-sixes? Yeah, but when you finish like that, it’s just kind of a bad taste so we’re going to remember that and hopefully not let that happen.”OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR MATT NAGYQ: What have your early conversations with DeAndre Hopkins been like and how is he meshing with the guys?NAGY:&nbsp;“It’s exciting – I think for everybody. You get a guy (DeAndre Hopkins) that’s super experienced, he’s been in this league a long time (and) he’s had a lot of success. So, you look at both situations and I feel like it’s really a win-win type (of) deal, but he came in this morning and (he’s) ready to rock and roll. Everything is a first time now for him so he’s getting in here the first time trying to figure out where to sit in the meetings, first time to go in walk-throughs and figure out how we do walk-throughs. (His) first time to go out and figure out what practice tempo’s like, there’s a lot of firsts. Sometimes, it can get to thinking it’s just like plug-and-play (but) there’s a process to it, so we want to make sure we do that the right way and (Head) Coach (Andy) Reid’s been great with that.”Q: Is there something that DeAndre Hopkins does specifically well that can help you guys offensively?NAGY:&nbsp;“I’d say, Adam (Teicher), the biggest thing right now is the – his (DeAndre Hopkins) hands are phenomenal, he has really, really good hands. I think he’s got some of the least amount of drops in the history of the NFL. The experience that he has, which comes I think with that, is trust. So, he’s played in a lot of games, he understands and he’s seen a bunch of different defenses, that’s valuable. Whether it’s zone or man (coverage), he’s a very good route runner, he understands leverages. One of the things – just getting it kind of – you see it on tape, you see it in interviews but then when he’s here, up close and live and in person, you see the confidence and the swagger that he has. I think that confidence can really penetrate, and you feel that with the other players – you’ve got to go out and do it. It’s just that we’re at the beginning stages but he’s does a lot of good things in zones, too.”Q: What do you hope that the other receivers learn from DeAndre Hopkins?

Chiefs Quotes: 10-24-24

Click the link above to view the entire 2024 Salina League of Women Voters Candidate Forum.&nbsp;

By NATE KING Salina Post

With Election Day fast approaching, the <a href="https://www.lwvsalina.org/">Salina League of Women Voters</a>&nbsp; held a candidate forum on Sunday, just one day before hundreds of voters went to the ballot box on the first day of early voting.&nbsp;

Local and state candidates addressed critical issues, including abortion, Medicaid expansion, county facility needs, homelessness, school safety, marijuana legalization, and more. 

The forum, held at the Stiefel Theatre Watson Room on Oct. 20 at 1:30 p.m., began with each candidate delivering one-minute opening remarks. Questions were then alternated among the candidates, starting with those from a media panel, followed by questions from the audience.

Candidates were allowed one minute responses.&nbsp;

READ MORE: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3e18ce05-a2c7-4175-91a2-fb92623a7075">Candidate responses to LWV questionnaire&nbsp;</a>

Candidates present at the League of Women Voters forum included:

Candidates for the Kansas House&nbsp;— 69th District Incumbent, Rep. Clarke Sanders, Republican; Lori Blake, Democrat

Candidate for Kansas Senate&nbsp;— 24th John Baker, Democrat&nbsp;

Candidates for Saline County Commission District Two Open Seat&nbsp;— Annie Grevas, Republican Primary Winner; Kathleen Malone Crouch, Write-In Candidate, Republican

JR Claeys, incumbent for the 24th Senate District, did not attend.

The Salina Post newsroom called Senator Claeys for comment on his vision and policy positions but has not received a response.

Abortion was the first topic asked about during the conversation between candidates and voters. Sanders, a firm supporter of pro-life initiatives, spoke about his legislative efforts following the failure of the 2022 Value Them Both constitutional amendment.

"From my perspective, unfortunately, Value Them Both failed," Sanders said. "So we now have to find ways to do what we can in the pro-life movement. One of the things I did in 2023 was offer the Infant Born Alive Protection Act. We also, this past session, passed help for pregnancy service centers, which provide services for moms and dads, both before and after the baby is born."

Sanders also advocated for legislation that would give men more say in abortion decisions. 

"We need to get some legislation that gives some power to men because as it stands right now, they have no say in the abortion issue," Sanders noted. "Even if they're a husband, they can't. They have no say, and she didn't create the baby on her own."

In contrast, Blake, a pro-choice candidate, argued against government interference in personal medical decisions.

"I believe that our voters have spoken on this issue," Blake said. "I am personally opposed to the government being in my medical room making personal decisions about my body. I trust women to include the fathers of their children in those decisions, and that's a decision that those people should be making with their medical providers."

Medicaid expansion also divided the candidates. Baker strongly supported expanding Medicaid in Kansas, citing both economic and moral reasons.

"I fully support the expansion of Medicaid in the state of Kansas," Baker stated. "We send out, I think it's over $6 billion at this point to other states who have expanded their programs. Expanding Medicaid could also serve as a lifeline to our rural communities, which are honestly dying, and it's scary."

Baker also emphasized the importance of improving access to healthcare.

"People need health care services. Somebody shouldn't have to drive multiple hours to receive the care that they need," Baker said.&nbsp;

Sanders, however, voiced his opposition to Medicaid expansion, citing concerns about its impact on current beneficiaries and state finances.

"I'm opposed to the expansion of Medicaid," Sanders said. "What it would do is add 140,000 to 150,000 able-bodied, 19 to 60-year-olds to the Medicaid rolls. There are already people that are back in line, and that would just push them further back. We don't know what it would cost."

Blake countered by discussing the importance of expanding Medicaid for children and low-income families.

"Since January, there have been 57,000 children removed from our Medicaid rolls because of the COVID eligibility," Blake said. "Those 57,000 children would be captured in this Medicaid expansion, along with another 150,000. A family of four to qualify currently is $11,856. These are impoverished people."

County facility needs and unused buildings

The discussion then turned to the needs of Saline County and the City of Salina, particularly in addressing facility issues such as the health department and abandoned buildings.

Grevas, who worked for the county for 35 years, emphasized the need to repurpose existing buildings, specifically the health department and the old jail.

"This is one of my top priorities, abandoned buildings, repurposing existing buildings," Grevas said. "The health department needs a new space. It's got a leaky roof, and it's been that way for a long time. People want the jail to be repurposed, but it is going to take several million dollars to do that."

Malone Crouch agreed but raised concerns about the condition of some buildings.

"I agree there are buildings that we should be using," Crouch said. "However, having worked in the basement of that building that the old jail is in, I know that when it rained, the basement flooded, and that's not how we need to spend our time."

On the issue of growing unhoused populations in Kansas, Baker stressed the importance of addressing the housing crisis and the need for mental health services.

"Housing is extremely expensive right now. I'm a professional. My wife is a professional, and we're not in a position to buy a home right now because the prices are outrageous," Baker said. "I think we need much greater access to mental health resources in our communities. A lot of people who are homeless struggle with addiction and substance abuse."

Sanders agreed that homelessness is a complex issue but focused on addiction as a key factor.

"Homelessness is a really big and tough issue," Sanders said. "If there were simple solutions, people would have come up with them by now. One thing we should pass is legislation that says one unit of government can't ship their homelessness to another county."

Blake took a more collaborative approach, highlighting Saline County's ability to use public and private resources effectively.

"I think Salina and Saline County are a beacon of hope for our state in how we work together," Blake said. "We should look at putting together a pool of grants that could be competitive, as we did with COVID dollars."

The candidates also discussed the legalization of marijuana, with differing opinions on how the state should proceed. Sanders expressed his support for medical marijuana but remained opposed to recreational use.

"I'm opposed to legalizing or decriminalizing recreational use of marijuana," Sanders said. "But as far as medical goes, I think there's ample evidence that it could do a lot of good. It needs to be dispensed through pharmacies, not dispensaries."

Blake expressed openness to exploring the issue further, particularly after hearing from voters.

"There is definitely an appetite in our community for the dialogue," Blake said. "We need to consider the implications, whether that's medical or recreational, and look at how we can help families recover from addiction."

Baker voiced full support for the legalization of both medical and recreational cannabis.

"I fully support the legalization of both recreational and medical cannabis," Baker said. "Seventy percent of Kansans in a recent poll said they support medical cannabis, and over 60% support recreational. Legalizing it could help fund our schools and address issues in criminal justice."

Finally, the candidates discussed how to ensure school safety amid growing concerns over gun violence.

Grevas emphasized the importance of being proactive and supporting local schools through grants.

"I think we can assist in providing them access to grant dollars," Grevas said. "We need to be active and listen to the school board and not put a shield over us, saying, 'Well, we're only county commission.'"

Malone Crouch disagreed, arguing that the county plays a larger role in school safety than Grevas suggested.

"Emergency management, which is unique to the county, is under the direction of the county commissioners," Crouch said. "They work with police and fire departments to provide training for active shooters and other emergencies."

Sanders called for the state to fund school resource officers in every high school and junior high.

"I would be in favor of earmarking dollars at the state level for school resource officers," Sanders said. "A school resource officer can't necessarily stop a school shooting, but they can certainly mitigate it if something tragic happens."

Baker made the case for a broader focus on mental health support in schools.

"I think mental health and children's ability to access services are critical," Baker said. "Rather than focusing solely on police officers in schools, we need a bigger conversation about supporting teachers and families."

Following the media's questions, members of the public lined up behind a microphone to pose questions to the candidates.&nbsp;

David Norlin, resident of Salina, asked the county commission candidates where they would stand if they had to choose between maintaining a lean budget or prioritizing women's health care, especially reproductive health and choice. 

"I support women health issues, and I am pro choice, and so I want those availabilities in Salina and Saline County," Grevas said. 

Grevas also praised Saline County Health Department Director Jason Tiller for applying for grants.&nbsp;

"The director, is very proactive and writes multiple grants and has ever since I've known them and known them for 20 some years," Grevas said. "I would continue to support those grants. I would continue to look for those dollars in whatever ability there is. Our health department needs to serve those that need to be served, and we need to have a environment that is healthy, safe and proactive."

Malone Crouch recalled working for the health department in 2014 when a Saline County Commissioner gained national attention for rejecting a grant for IUDs, mistakenly calling them "IEDs."

"I am pro-choice. I am pro-women's health. And again, the county commissioners approve or disapprove what the health department or any other department brings to them, they set the policy by doing that," Malone Crouch said.

Sanders, a supporter of the pro-life movement, said he favors Home Rule. Established in 1961, Home Rule allows cities and municipalities to govern local matters like taxes and zoning without state approval, empowering communities to solve their own problems and maintain their identity.

"I think that needs to be handled by the local county commissioners and the administrator," Sanders said. "I wouldn't be in favor of any funding that could go to the county that would facilitate abortions."

Blake echoed Sanders' remarks, highlighting her support of the Home Rule policy, but&nbsp;said she found&nbsp; Sanders' support of passed legislation that allocates $ 2 million of state funds to the Pregnancy Compassion Awareness Program "interesting."&nbsp;

"I find it interesting that Clarke says he doesn't think the government should be doing anything with abortion, yet they took our tax dollars for these unsupervised pregnancy service centers and those are being held accountable to by our state treasurer," Blake said. "I am pro-choice, I am pro-woman, I am pro-family, and I believe we need to take care of people, but we need the appropriate people making those decisions."

Forum attendee and Salina resident,&nbsp;Haley Helzer, shared her experience as a single mother, working multiple part-time jobs while struggling to qualify for healthcare.&nbsp;

"I worked multiple part-time jobs. I didn't qualify for Medicaid, but my child did, but because I also worked part-time jobs, I didn't have that there," Helzer said. "When I did have a full-time job when the child care was there, I was excluded, because it was a small business. I still made too less for the marketplace and so in that situation, how do you guys plan to help someone like me?"

Sanders acknowledged the complexity of addressing constituent problems within a short time and suggested that the government's role in solving personal issues is limited.

"The fact of the matter is this is very difficult to discuss this with having 45 seconds of your history, but all God's children got problems," Sanders said. "I don't know how much the government can and should help you solve your problems."

"I know that's not particularly popular, but I mean, do you get no WIC? Do you get no help whatsoever from the government for anything? I mean, I find that hard to believe a person in your situation doesn't," Sanders said.&nbsp;

Baker suggested that Helzer's issue could have been addressed through Medicaid expansion, noting that many people face similar challenges.

"It was a number of years ago when my mother was working a job where she fell into that donut hole. She didn't make enough money to provide for everything that we needed, and so we accessed state funds," Baker said. "Some people aren't able to do that, like we had, we had KanCare growing up and it was a lifeline for us. We need to do whatever we can do to support our families in that way, so that mothers and fathers and everybody in the household, including children, has access to the health care."

Blake said unfortunately Helzer's struggles are a common occurence Blake has seen many times during her professional career.&nbsp;

"We've got to be real about what our human needs are in this place, and we've got to pair it with private investment, with local, county, state, federal resources. An example of what can happen when we're open to that idea is a program called Family First that was at CAPS," Blake said. "It's a federal, state partnership that takes dollars, and these families that are at risk of having their children removed from their home,when they get the support they need, are able to stay together. In four years, they removed the out-of-home placement by 50% by targeting some of those dollars. That is an economic development tool to keep families together in our community."

The League of Women Voters candidate forum was initially scheduled as a co-sponsored event with the Salina Chamber of Commerce. However, a last-minute decision by the Chamber's Board of Directors and community partners, citing concerns over partisanship within the League, resulted in the forum's temporary cancellation.&nbsp;

Lori Trow, Salina League of Women Voters president,&nbsp;expressed frustration over the Chamber of Commerce's decision to cancel their more than a decade-long partnership.&nbsp;

"We had everything worked out, and then I got a text message or an email from Renee Duxler [Chamber CEO] saying that they ran into a hiccup," Trow said.

According to Trow, Duxler told her that one of the candidates suggested that the league was partisan and wasn't nonpartisan, like the organization proclaims.

"They thought, in order to keep their nonpartisan appearance, that it was best if they did not partner with us,"Trow said. "It really upset myself and our board, because we have partnered with the Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade doing candidate forums and there's never been a question that we were a partisan organization," Trow said. 

Trow expressed disappointment that the Chamber made the decision to end the partnership based on one candidate's claim.

"They talked to their board and community partners, and they made a decision based on what this candidate said," Trow said. "They didn't even give us the chance to talk about it. They just made the decision and then told us, we're not going to partner with you."

Trow said she and her board have yet to decide whether the Salina League of Women Voters will reach out to the Chamber of Commerce to co-host the next candidate forum. She said for local elections next year the league plans to host "Speed Dating with the Candidate" events.&nbsp;

The Salina Area Chamber of Commerce was not available for comment.

Verbatim candidate quotes on each issue discussed during the forum can be found below:

"From my perspective, unfortunately, Value Them Both failed. So we now have to find ways to do what we can in the pro-life movement. And one of the things that I did in 2023 was offer the Infant Born Alive Protection Act. We also, this past session, passed help for pregnancy service centers, which provide services for moms and dads, both before and after the baby is born. And we need to get some legislation that gives some power to men because as it stands right now, they have no say in the abortion issue. Even if they're a husband, they can't. They have no say, and she didn't create the baby on her own."

"I believe that our voters have spoken on this issue, and I am personally opposed to the government being in my medical room making personal decisions about my body. I believe that I trust women to include the fathers of their children in those decisions, and that's a decision that those people should be making with their medical providers. So in in the case of our current law, I see no need to change anything.

What have you learned on the campaign trail and what trait about yourself would serve you well as commissioner?

 🎥 2024 Election: Candidates discuss key issues at Salina LWV forum, Chamber withdraws partnership

Delmer Henry Thibault, former resident of Hutchinson, Kansas passed away on October 19, 2024 at Locust Grove Village in Lacrosse, KS at the age of 89. He was born July 15, 1935, in Graham County Kansas to Leo and Lola (Benoit) Thibault, the oldest of twelve siblings. Delmer began his life in Bogue and Damar, KS until the dust bowl, the drought and hopes of a better job moved his family to California in August of 1943 in the midst of WWII. The Thibaults spent the next few years in California until they moved back to Osborne, Kansas to farm in 1946.

Delmer graduated from Osborne High School on May 21st, 1953. He and his cousin Jed Simoneau decided that the military was the best pursuit. Delmer enlisted in the Army on July 28th, 1955, and was a mechanic in the Army’s 2nd Howitzer Battalion in the 6th Artillery Regiment and received numerous decorations for his service. He was honorably discharged on June 30th, 1963.

Returning from the Army, Delmer and friends Marvin Reynolds and Don Forgue worked for contractors to build the Wilson Lake dam and other dams in Kansas. After doing this for a couple years, they decided to enroll at Fort Hays State University where Delmer pursued a degree in psychology with help from the GI Bill and by working as an orderly and operating room technician at Hadley Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.

In 1965 Delmer met Patricia Schuckman at Fort Hays State University then marrying on September 10th, 1966, at St Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas. They lived in Wooster Place, then Agnew Hall and McMindes Hall as resident managers. After Delmer completed his undergraduate degree in psychology, then his master’s degree in counseling August 1968, he started working at High Plains Mental Health in Hays, KS. They moved to Ellis, Kansas in 1973 where they welcomed their only child Paul in 1976 and later separated.

Delmer spent many of his years in Hutchinson, Kansas where he set roots and worked as a psychologist at Horizons Mental Health Center. He was very dedicated to his profession and enjoyed helping his clients. He looked forward to summer vacations with his son Paul biking, hiking and exploring in Missouri and Arkansas. They played tennis on most summer nights, and had countless weekend trips to Cheney Lake near Wichita, KS to go sailboating.&nbsp;

Delmer met Marilyn Marie Clarke Sherman in May of 2010 at the Elmdale Senior Center in Hutchinson, KS where they danced and visited with friends. Delmer and Marilyn were engaged on September 29th, 2010. They enjoyed vacationing during their time together and attending an annual trip to Branson to meet his Army Battalion friends. They both retired from their careers together in 2011 and have been together ever since.&nbsp;

Delmer was a devoted father. He was kindhearted, well read, very hard-working and industrious. He had a great sense of humor and an ornery streak that got him into trouble a time or two. He loved spending his free time sailing, biking, tinkering, working on old tractors, going to threshing festivals, listening to French Cajun and classical music, and playing cards. Going to auctions was his favorite past time. Delmer will be greatly missed by all that knew him.

Delmer is survived by son Paul Thibault (Jennifer), grandchildren Miles and Martin Thibault, significant other Marilyn Sherman and siblings Leola Crittendon, Albuquerque, NM, Sister Carmella Thibault, Concordia, KS, Gerry Peterson, Salina, KS, Joyce (Dan) Rice, Hays, KS, Marion (Paul) Steichen, Salina, KS Gary (Gayle) Thibault, Omaha, NE, Alvin (Danette) Thibault, Omaha, NE, Lonnie (Lea) Thibault, Osborne, KS, Lester Thibault, Osborne, KS, and Bob Thibault, Topeka, KS. He was preceded in death by his sister Darlene Curry of Plainville, KS.

Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 12:00 Noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 215 West 13th Street Hays, Kansas 67601, inurnment, inclusive of Military Honors, will follow the services in the parish cemetery. Memorial visitation will be on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a parish vigil service at 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and from 11:00 AM until service time on Saturday at the Church.

Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Delmer's tribute page at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729692768740.jpeg" alt="Delmer Henry Thibault" />
 <figcaption>Delmer Henry Thibault</figcaption>
 </figure>Delmer Henry Thibault, former resident of Hutchinson, Kansas passed away on October 19, 2024 at Locust Grove Village in Lacrosse, KS at the age of 89. He was born July 15, 1935, in Graham County Kansas to Leo and Lola (Benoit) Thibault, the oldest of twelve siblings. Delmer began his life in Bogue and Damar, KS until the dust bowl, the drought and hopes of a better job moved his family to California in August of 1943 in the midst of WWII. The Thibaults spent the next few years in California until they moved back to Osborne, Kansas to farm in 1946.Delmer graduated from Osborne High School on May 21st, 1953. He and his cousin Jed Simoneau decided that the military was the best pursuit. Delmer enlisted in the Army on July 28th, 1955, and was a mechanic in the Army’s 2nd Howitzer Battalion in the 6th Artillery Regiment and received numerous decorations for his service. He was honorably discharged on June 30th, 1963.Returning from the Army, Delmer and friends Marvin Reynolds and Don Forgue worked for contractors to build the Wilson Lake dam and other dams in Kansas. After doing this for a couple years, they decided to enroll at Fort Hays State University where Delmer pursued a degree in psychology with help from the GI Bill and by working as an orderly and operating room technician at Hadley Medical Center in Hays, Kansas.In 1965 Delmer met Patricia Schuckman at Fort Hays State University then marrying on September 10th, 1966, at St Joseph Catholic Church in Hays, Kansas. They lived in Wooster Place, then Agnew Hall and McMindes Hall as resident managers. After Delmer completed his undergraduate degree in psychology, then his master’s degree in counseling August 1968, he started working at High Plains Mental Health in Hays, KS. They moved to Ellis, Kansas in 1973 where they welcomed their only child Paul in 1976 and later separated.Delmer spent many of his years in Hutchinson, Kansas where he set roots and worked as a psychologist at Horizons Mental Health Center. He was very dedicated to his profession and enjoyed helping his clients. He looked forward to summer vacations with his son Paul biking, hiking and exploring in Missouri and Arkansas. They played tennis on most summer nights, and had countless weekend trips to Cheney Lake near Wichita, KS to go sailboating.&nbsp;Delmer met Marilyn Marie Clarke Sherman in May of 2010 at the Elmdale Senior Center in Hutchinson, KS where they danced and visited with friends. Delmer and Marilyn were engaged on September 29th, 2010. They enjoyed vacationing during their time together and attending an annual trip to Branson to meet his Army Battalion friends. They both retired from their careers together in 2011 and have been together ever since.&nbsp;Delmer was a devoted father. He was kindhearted, well read, very hard-working and industrious. He had a great sense of humor and an ornery streak that got him into trouble a time or two. He loved spending his free time sailing, biking, tinkering, working on old tractors, going to threshing festivals, listening to French Cajun and classical music, and playing cards. Going to auctions was his favorite past time. Delmer will be greatly missed by all that knew him.Delmer is survived by son Paul Thibault (Jennifer), grandchildren Miles and Martin Thibault, significant other Marilyn Sherman and siblings Leola Crittendon, Albuquerque, NM, Sister Carmella Thibault, Concordia, KS, Gerry Peterson, Salina, KS, Joyce (Dan) Rice, Hays, KS, Marion (Paul) Steichen, Salina, KS Gary (Gayle) Thibault, Omaha, NE, Alvin (Danette) Thibault, Omaha, NE, Lonnie (Lea) Thibault, Osborne, KS, Lester Thibault, Osborne, KS, and Bob Thibault, Topeka, KS. He was preceded in death by his sister Darlene Curry of Plainville, KS.Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 12:00 Noon at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 215 West 13th Street Hays, Kansas 67601, inurnment, inclusive of Military Honors, will follow the services in the parish cemetery. Memorial visitation will be on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a parish vigil service at 7:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601, and from 11:00 AM until service time on Saturday at the Church.Services in care of: Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory - Brock's Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Delmer's tribute page at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com/">www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com</a>

Delmer Henry Thibault

South High School (SHS) students recently learned more about writing, directly from a highly-esteemed author. The school proudly hosted a visit by Meg Medina, the 8th&nbsp;National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. She met with all SHS students during two meetings, thanks to a proposal and arrangements made by Elizabeth Burke, SHS library media specialist.

“Students heard about the significance of community dialogue and connection through storytelling,” said Burke. “One student, a school newspaper editor, interviewed Ms. Medina’s editor about her career, while another student was inspired to join our book club and possibly start a podcast.”

Medina shared the story of how her first book came about and emphasized how that was just the start. “You have to keep working on it,” said Medina. “The first thing you do isn’t usually the best thing you can do.” She reminded students that even when you find success you will experience a lot of detours. She stressed the importance of perseverance.

“Students saw themselves in her journey as a person and writer, highlighting the importance of perseverance and overcoming self-doubt,”Burke said. “Her authenticity resonated with them, showing that their voices and stories matter and that success is often accompanied by challenges.”

Several South High students presented in the SHS auditorium with Medina. These student cuentistas (storytellers) spoke on stage about book talks they had prepared. They asked Medina about being an author, lessons learned and storytelling. Kingston Montgomery, Grade 11; Jocelyn Hamilton, Grade 12; Analeigh Draper, Grade 11 and Fernanda Orr, Grade 9 were the cuentistas.

Danielle Ogden, senior, was inspired by her talk. “I liked her book a lot,” said Ogden. “I think it really spoke to how high schoolers are.”

 While listening to Medina, Ogden experienced a shift in how she feels about literature. 

“I find it more inspiring now. She talked about how her process works and how she became an author," she said.

“It made me realize that writing doesn’t have to always be hard, you can write from personal experience," said Salina South junior Aidan Coon.

“I feel more motivated in writing my own stories,” said Analeigh Draper. “I gained some new ideas of how to deal with writer’s block and stories that I am no longer working on.”&nbsp;

“…there is so much more to explore in the book world," said Kingston Montgomery/ Being on stage and talking with Medina, whom he considers an amazing author, was his favorite part of being a cuentista em dash — and, he got her autograph!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729700415208.jpeg" alt="Elizabeth Burke, Jocelyn Hamilton, Grade 12; Kingston Montgomery, Grade 11; Meg Medina. USD 305 photo" />
 <figcaption>Elizabeth Burke, Jocelyn Hamilton, Grade 12; Kingston Montgomery, Grade 11; Meg Medina. USD 305 photo</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedSouth High School (SHS) students recently learned more about writing, directly from a highly-esteemed author. The school proudly hosted a visit by Meg Medina, the 8th&nbsp;National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. She met with all SHS students during two meetings, thanks to a proposal and arrangements made by Elizabeth Burke, SHS library media specialist.“Students heard about the significance of community dialogue and connection through storytelling,” said Burke. “One student, a school newspaper editor, interviewed Ms. Medina’s editor about her career, while another student was inspired to join our book club and possibly start a podcast.”Medina shared the story of how her first book came about and emphasized how that was just the start. “You have to keep working on it,” said Medina. “The first thing you do isn’t usually the best thing you can do.” She reminded students that even when you find success you will experience a lot of detours. She stressed the importance of perseverance.“Students saw themselves in her journey as a person and writer, highlighting the importance of perseverance and overcoming self-doubt,”Burke said. “Her authenticity resonated with them, showing that their voices and stories matter and that success is often accompanied by challenges.”Several South High students presented in the SHS auditorium with Medina. These student cuentistas (storytellers) spoke on stage about book talks they had prepared. They asked Medina about being an author, lessons learned and storytelling. Kingston Montgomery, Grade 11; Jocelyn Hamilton, Grade 12; Analeigh Draper, Grade 11 and Fernanda Orr, Grade 9 were the cuentistas.Danielle Ogden, senior, was inspired by her talk. “I liked her book a lot,” said Ogden. “I think it really spoke to how high schoolers are.” While listening to Medina, Ogden experienced a shift in how she feels about literature. “I find it more inspiring now. She talked about how her process works and how she became an author," she said.“It made me realize that writing doesn’t have to always be hard, you can write from personal experience," said Salina South junior Aidan Coon.“I feel more motivated in writing my own stories,” said Analeigh Draper. “I gained some new ideas of how to deal with writer’s block and stories that I am no longer working on.”&nbsp;“…there is so much more to explore in the book world," said Kingston Montgomery/ Being on stage and talking with Medina, whom he considers an amazing author, was his favorite part of being a cuentista em dash — and, he got her autograph!

Author Meg Medina inspires Salina South High students with storytelling

With less than two weeks before the 2024 presidential election,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;are hitting the campaign trail in strategic battleground states.

Obama says America doesn't need ‘older, loonier’ version of Trump in office

Obama took the stage in Detroit alongside rapper Eminem, joking that he doesn’t often get nervous but that he “noticed my palms are sweaty,” in a reference to Eminem’s song “Lose Yourself.”

Obama focused the opening of his remarks on Donald Trump, saying that the country doesn’t need to see an “older, loonier,” version of Trump “with no guardrails.”

Trump concludes North Carolina rally with familiar refrains

Trump has concluded a dark political rally in Greensboro where he bemoaned the state of North Carolina’s economy, warned about the prospects of war if his opponent is elected and hurled personal insults at Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump wrapped up the packed event by asserting that world events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine or the Hamas raid of Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, would never have happened if he were in office.

“All these things never would have never happened,” Trump claimed.

“I will end the war in Ukraine very quickly, I will stop the chaos in the Middle East and I will prevent World War III from happening. We’re so close,” Trump said.

Tulsi Gabbard says she's now a Republican

Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard says she is officially joining the Republican Party.

Gabbard ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020, but broke from the party and has endorsed Trump.

She says during an appearance at his rally in North Carolina that Trump is “our best and only hope in this election.”

Former Trump chief of staff John Kelly says the former president fits the ‘general definition of fascist'

Former Trump chief of staff John Kelly says the former president — his former boss — “certainly falls into the general definition of fascist, for sure.” Speaking to the New York Times, Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, told the paper that Trump “certainly prefers the dictator approach to government.”

They marked the former top aides’ most extended public comments about the former Republican president and the party’s 2024 nominee for the White House. Kelly declined to endorse any candidate for the White House, but told the paper, “it’s a very dangerous thing to have the wrong person elected to high office.”

Trump is lashing out at former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney, who has been campaigning with Kamala Harris in a bid to appeal to Republican voters who are uneasy about Trump.

Trump says of Cheney that “her father brought years of war and death to the Middle East.” He was referring to former Vice President Dick Cheney, who served under President George W. Bush.

He asserted that Harris would do poorly in Michigan for aligning with Cheney.

“Why would a Muslim or why would an Arab want to vote for someone that has Liz Cheney as her hero,” Trump said.

Trump has a long history of Islamophobic rhetoric, including, at one point, calling for a ban on Muslims entering the country during his 2016 campaign.

Eniminem joins Harris rally in native Michigan

Eminem welcomes former President Barack Obama to the stage in Detroit as the Detroit rapper’s “Lose Yourself” plays.

Trump campaign focuses on immigration and border security in campaign's final stretch

Trump in a campaign rally is focusing heavily on border security and claiming that illegal immigrants are taking jobs from African Americans and Hispanic Americans.

Economic data shows Black and Hispanic unemployment at the lower end of recent decades. In September, the unemployment rate stood at 5.7% for Blacks and 5.1% for Hispanics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The unemployment rates for both populations have plummeted since the pandemic.

Just before the pandemic, the unemployment rate for African Americans was 5.6% in December 2019 and 4.2% for Hispanics that same month.

Trump says campaign may do more big city rallies before Election Day

Trump says that Madison Square Garden isn’t the only big city mega rally he’s hoping to hold as he closes out his third campaign for the White House.

He says his staff are looking at booking big arenas in Atlanta as well as Philadelphia, after his event in liberal Manhattan this coming Sunday.

Trump is also waxing nostalgic that his campaigning days are coming to a close.

“It’s sad because we’re sort of wrapping it up,” he says. “We’re wrapping up something that has been incredible.”

He adds: “It’s been great to be with you and now we want to close it out with a beautiful bang.”

Trump has said that, regardless of what happens, he does not plan to run again - though he has been known to change his mind.

Trump campaign sizes on Biden's ‘lock him up' remark

Trump’s campaign is seizing on President Joe Biden saying “lock him up” in reference to Trump during an appearance in New Hampshire.

“Joe Biden just admitted the truth: he and Kamala’s plan all along has been to politically persecute their opponent President Trump because they can’t beat him fair and square,” said Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, calling on Harris to “condemn Joe Biden’s disgraceful remark.”

Biden, during his appearance, had been casting Trump as a threat to Democracy when he made the remark.

“Politically lock him up,” Biden continued. “Lock him out, that’s what we have to do.”

Trump has routinely blamed Biden for the indictments against him, though there is no evidence the president had anything to do with them.

Trump says North Carolina will be ‘wasteland’ under Harris but data says otherwise

Trump is portraying the nation’s economy as in shambles during a campaign stop in Greensboro, N.C. He claims that “with four more years of Kamala Harris, North Carolina will be an economic wasteland.”

But that’s in contrast to a CNBC study earlier this year that named North Carolina as the second best state to do business, and it’s been in the top three of CNBC’s survey for five years in a row.

The state’s Department of Commerce says that since 2017, North Carolina has announced more than 115,300 jobs and promised capital investments of $53.45 billion. Major projects have been announced by companies including Apple, Toyota and Wolfspeed.

Trump urges rallygoers to vote and — again — floats election conspiracies

Trump is kicking off his rally in Greensboro, North Carolina, by asking his audience if they’re better off now than they were four years ago. And he’s going after Harris, calling her the country’s worst-ever vice president and “a radical left lunatic.”

He’s calling the country “a failing nation” and saying this election “is a choice between whether we will have four more years of incompetent failure and disaster, or whether we’ll begin the four greatest years in the history of our country.”

“We’re going to take care of you. We’re going to work together”

Trump is urging those who were displaced by Hurricane Helene to visit his campaign’s website to see how they can vote.

Trump’s team and Republicans have backed a series of modifications to make it easier for those in the state to vote, despite having railed against changes so that people could more safely vote during the pandemic.