Federal, state funding uncertainty looms; anti-tenure bill to resurface in Topeka

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

&nbsp;University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod explores KU’s achievements in student recruiting, faculty research and endowment fundraising on Oct. 17, 2025, in a campus speech. Girod, chancellor since 2017, pointed to a series of threats confronting U.S. higher education. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)

LAWRENCE — University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod says dismantling of federal funding of university research, lukewarm state budgets, a precipitous drop in college-age students, rise of artificial intelligence and inflationary pressure on operating costs threaten the future of higher education.

These headwinds exist amid dwindling enthusiasm, regardless of political affiliation, in the public’s view of the value of investment in a college degree, the chancellor said. Positive sentiment among Americans for higher education has eroded from 70% to 40% in less than a decade, he said.

“The question of, is the investment worth it, is really the question that’s being asked a lot of our society,” Girod said. “It’s creating a time of fairly significant uncertainty across the country right now.”

Girod said computing power of artificial intelligence would transform KU and other higher education institutions. AI must be viewed as a “disruptor,” he said, but also an opportunity to evolve.

“It’s going to completely change how we educate. It’s going to completely change how we conduct research. It certainly is going to completely change how we conduct our business of higher education,” he said.

Girod shared the report Thursday during his annual “State of the University Address,” which featured a broad analysis of U.S. higher education as well as distinct challenges facing KU and a summary of the university’s enrollment, research and fundraising trends.

Girod said KU this fall achieved record student enrollment for the second consecutive year. The current freshman class at KU is the third largest in university history, he said. At the same time, the chancellor said, KU improved student retention and its graduation rate. The decline in 18-year-olds in the United States will make continuation of that track record increasingly difficult, he said.

“We have the most Kansas kids we’ve ever had. We have the most out-of-state kids we’ve ever had. That’s a great place to be at this moment in time,” he said.

The chancellor said KU documented nine consecutive years of growth in research funding as the total climbed from $337 million in 2017 to $611 million in 2024. The pipeline of research grants in the current year has “slowed down profoundly” as the administration of President Donald Trump rolled back federal research and development funding available to colleges and universities.

He said progress has been made with the “One KU” project to realign and unify administrative leadership of KU campuses in Lawrence, Wichita and Kansas City, Kansas. The idea is to create efficiencies by moving away from a decentralized campus-based administrative structure, he said.

“The goal of that is obviously to help us streamline and be far more strategic, but also far more nimble in leveraging our assets across all our campuses,” Girod said.

Girod told about 200 people during the speech that KU endowment’s fundraising campaign eclipsed the $2 billion mark with two years remaining in a 10-year quest to secure commitments of $2.5 billion. He said half the contributions were destined for KU’s Lawrence campus, 30% would be dedicated to KUMC and 20% was earmarked for athletics.

“I’m happy to stand up here and say the state of our university is actually quite strong,” Girod said. “Probably the strongest it’s ever been. I also know I say that in a moment when we probably have the highest degree of uncertainty that we’ve had … in the history of the university.”

Girod said the 2025 Kansas Legislature adopted a flat budget in terms of base support for KU, which could be viewed as a step backward due to inflation. He said a 30% surge in operating costs in the past five years and combined challenges with state and federal funding prompted decisions to cut spending by $32 million on the Lawrence campus and to reduce spending by $39 million on the KU Medical Center campus in Kansas City, Kansas.

“I’ll tell you on the Lawrence campus about half of that cut will go to market pay for faculty and staff, but that really just gets us started on that journey,” Girod said.

David Smith, a professor of sociology, was among faculty and staff in the audience holding small signs during the chancellor’s speech that said “Contract now! Stop the delay” or “Fair contract now!” KU faculty and academic staff in April 2024 approved formation of a union by capturing 86% of the vote among nearly 1,000 participants in the election. The bargaining unit, United Academics of KU, represents employees with educational or research roles on campus.

“We have been in contract negotiations for well over a year now,” Smith said. “It’s been something like 450 days since those contract negotiations began.”

Smith said union negotiators were working to improve compensation, especially for adjunct faculty or people on short-term contracts. He said negotiations included an effort to enshrine in the first contract guarantees the administration formally shared governance with faculty and staff. For example, he said, faculty and staff should have had a role alongside KU administrators in deciding whether to discontinue 42 academic programs in 2022.

Girod said the 2026 session of the Legislature would be important to KU, and early indications were that it would be another tight budget year for higher education. He anticipated legislators would renew a push to redefine university tenure so it no longer could be recognized as an “entitlement, right or property interest.” The 2025 version of that legislation was blocked by opponents, including Girod, from emerging from a House committee.

“We’ve already been told its coming back again. We know that’s something we’re going to have to pay attention to because it’s so critical to what we do and who we are as an institution,” the chancellor said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760983392597.png" alt=" University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod explores KU’s achievements in student recruiting, faculty research and endowment fundraising on Oct. 17, 2025, in a campus speech. Girod, chancellor since 2017, pointed to a series of threats confronting U.S. higher education. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod explores KU’s achievements in student recruiting, faculty research and endowment fundraising on Oct. 17, 2025, in a campus speech. Girod, chancellor since 2017, pointed to a series of threats confronting U.S. higher education. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Federal, state funding uncertainty looms; anti-tenure bill to resurface in Topeka</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>&nbsp;University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod explores KU’s achievements in student recruiting, faculty research and endowment fundraising on Oct. 17, 2025, in a campus speech. Girod, chancellor since 2017, pointed to a series of threats confronting U.S. higher education. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)LAWRENCE — University of Kansas chancellor Doug Girod says dismantling of federal funding of university research, lukewarm state budgets, a precipitous drop in college-age students, rise of artificial intelligence and inflationary pressure on operating costs threaten the future of higher education.These headwinds exist amid dwindling enthusiasm, regardless of political affiliation, in the public’s view of the value of investment in a college degree, the chancellor said. Positive sentiment among Americans for higher education has eroded from 70% to 40% in less than a decade, he said.“The question of, is the investment worth it, is really the question that’s being asked a lot of our society,” Girod said. “It’s creating a time of fairly significant uncertainty across the country right now.”Girod said computing power of artificial intelligence would transform KU and other higher education institutions. AI must be viewed as a “disruptor,” he said, but also an opportunity to evolve.“It’s going to completely change how we educate. It’s going to completely change how we conduct research. It certainly is going to completely change how we conduct our business of higher education,” he said.Girod shared the report Thursday during his annual “State of the University Address,” which featured a broad analysis of U.S. higher education as well as distinct challenges facing KU and a summary of the university’s enrollment, research and fundraising trends.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760983337463.png" alt="University of Kansas faculty and staff hoist small signs during KU chancellor Doug Girod’s annual speech Oct. 16, 2025, to register disappointment that more progress isn’t being made in negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement with unionized campus employees. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>University of Kansas faculty and staff hoist small signs during KU chancellor Doug Girod’s annual speech Oct. 16, 2025, to register disappointment that more progress isn’t being made in negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement with unionized campus employees. (Photo by Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Positive trends</h2>Girod said KU this fall achieved record student enrollment for the second consecutive year. The current freshman class at KU is the third largest in university history, he said. At the same time, the chancellor said, KU improved student retention and its graduation rate. The decline in 18-year-olds in the United States will make continuation of that track record increasingly difficult, he said.“We have the most Kansas kids we’ve ever had. We have the most out-of-state kids we’ve ever had. That’s a great place to be at this moment in time,” he said.The chancellor said KU documented nine consecutive years of growth in research funding as the total climbed from $337 million in 2017 to $611 million in 2024. The pipeline of research grants in the current year has “slowed down profoundly” as the administration of President Donald Trump rolled back federal research and development funding available to colleges and universities.He said progress has been made with the “One KU” project to realign and unify administrative leadership of KU campuses in Lawrence, Wichita and Kansas City, Kansas. The idea is to create efficiencies by moving away from a decentralized campus-based administrative structure, he said.“The goal of that is obviously to help us streamline and be far more strategic, but also far more nimble in leveraging our assets across all our campuses,” Girod said.Girod told about 200 people during the speech that KU endowment’s fundraising campaign eclipsed the $2 billion mark with two years remaining in a 10-year quest to secure commitments of $2.5 billion. He said half the contributions were destined for KU’s Lawrence campus, 30% would be dedicated to KUMC and 20% was earmarked for athletics.“I’m happy to stand up here and say the state of our university is actually quite strong,” Girod said. “Probably the strongest it’s ever been. I also know I say that in a moment when we probably have the highest degree of uncertainty that we’ve had … in the history of the university.”<h2>Kansas headwinds</h2>Girod said the 2025 Kansas Legislature adopted a flat budget in terms of base support for KU, which could be viewed as a step backward due to inflation. He said a 30% surge in operating costs in the past five years and combined challenges with state and federal funding prompted decisions to cut spending by $32 million on the Lawrence campus and to reduce spending by $39 million on the KU Medical Center campus in Kansas City, Kansas.“I’ll tell you on the Lawrence campus about half of that cut will go to market pay for faculty and staff, but that really just gets us started on that journey,” Girod said.David Smith, a professor of sociology, was among faculty and staff in the audience holding small signs during the chancellor’s speech that said “Contract now! Stop the delay” or “Fair contract now!” KU faculty and academic staff in April 2024 approved formation of a union by capturing 86% of the vote among nearly 1,000 participants in the election. The bargaining unit, United Academics of KU, represents employees with educational or research roles on campus.“We have been in contract negotiations for well over a year now,” Smith said. “It’s been something like 450 days since those contract negotiations began.”Smith said union negotiators were working to improve compensation, especially for adjunct faculty or people on short-term contracts. He said negotiations included an effort to enshrine in the first contract guarantees the administration formally shared governance with faculty and staff. For example, he said, faculty and staff should have had a role alongside KU administrators in deciding whether to discontinue 42 academic programs in 2022.Girod said the 2026 session of the Legislature would be important to KU, and early indications were that it would be another tight budget year for higher education. He anticipated legislators would renew a push to redefine university tenure so it no longer could be recognized as an “entitlement, right or property interest.” The 2025 version of that legislation was blocked by opponents, including Girod, from emerging from a House committee.“We’ve already been told its coming back again. We know that’s something we’re going to have to pay attention to because it’s so critical to what we do and who we are as an institution,” the chancellor said.

Chancellor profiles hurdles for higher education, outlines KU achievements

CARROLL —Law enforcement are investigating a hit-and-run that occurred just before 2a.m. Sunday in Carroll County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle struck a 19-year-old Norborne man on South Walnut Street at E 1st Street. The vehicle than fled the scene.

Lifeflight transported the man to Truman Medical Center. The MSHP released no additional details including the name of the victim.

CARROLL —Law enforcement are investigating a hit-and-run that occurred just before 2a.m. Sunday in Carroll County.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported an unknown vehicle struck a 19-year-old Norborne man on South Walnut Street at E 1st Street. The vehicle than fled the scene.Lifeflight transported the man to Truman Medical Center. The MSHP released no additional details including the name of the victim.

Hit-and-Run: Mo. teen airlifted to hospital after struck by vehicle

RILEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of fire at a home in Manhattan.

On Sunday, crews&nbsp;responded to 326 Vattier Street in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.

Crews found fire showing from the front of the home.  The building was quickly searched and the fire was extinguished.  No injuries were reported.  The occupants of the home were displaced.&nbsp; The fire department released no additional details early Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760970839575.png" alt="Photos Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Authorities are investigating the cause of fire at a home in Manhattan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760970734045.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Sunday, crews&nbsp;responded to 326 Vattier Street in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.Crews found fire showing from the front of the home. The building was quickly searched and the fire was extinguished. No injuries were reported. The occupants of the home were displaced.&nbsp; The fire department released no additional details early Monday.

Family displaced after Kansas house fire 

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On October 17th, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War conducted a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel affiliated with Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), a Designated Terrorist Organization, that was operating in the USSOUTHCOM area of responsibility. The… <a href="https://t.co/1v7oR879LC">pic.twitter.com/1v7oR879LC</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1979930208472912048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/RkULBLNrzI">pic.twitter.com/RkULBLNrzI</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979892335690629356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump responds after Colombian leader accuses US of murder in strike on drug boat

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City, Missouri

Just before 3a.m. Sunday police&nbsp;in the area of Westport and Mill Street in Kansas City, Missoui when they heard the sound of gunfire to the north of that intersection, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Officers immediately responded to the area to investigate and located a man unresponsive, to the north and west of Westport and Mill in the restaurant parking lot.

Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS transported the victim to the hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.

Preliminary indication is the victim was at the location in the business parking lot when he had an interaction with one or more suspect(s) that led to gunfire and the victim was struck.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City, MissouriJust before 3a.m. Sunday police&nbsp;in the area of Westport and Mill Street in Kansas City, Missoui when they heard the sound of gunfire to the north of that intersection, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.Officers immediately responded to the area to investigate and located a man unresponsive, to the north and west of Westport and Mill in the restaurant parking lot.Officers rendered aid and called for EMS. EMS transported the victim to the hospital where he was later pronounced deceased.Preliminary indication is the victim was at the location in the business parking lot when he had an interaction with one or more suspect(s) that led to gunfire and the victim was struck.

KCPD: Man shot, killed in restaurant parking lot

OSAGE COUNTY –Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas couple on multiple drug allegations.

Just after 8:30a.m. October 16, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office Investigators and Special Response Team (SRT) executed a narcotic search warrant in the 200 block of Elm Street in Overbrook, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.&nbsp; The investigating led to two arrests

Crystal S. Worley, 47, and Dallas M. Worley, 41, both of Overbrook, are being held in the Osage County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine, Distribution of opiates, Distribution of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and for No drug tax stamp

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760921098464.png" alt="Worley -photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Worley -photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY –Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas couple on multiple drug allegations.Just after 8:30a.m. October 16, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office Investigators and Special Response Team (SRT) executed a narcotic search warrant in the 200 block of Elm Street in Overbrook, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.&nbsp; The investigating led to two arrests<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760921066598.png" alt="Worley photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Worley photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Crystal S. Worley, 47, and Dallas M. Worley, 41, both of Overbrook, are being held in the Osage County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine, Distribution of opiates, Distribution of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and for No drug tax stamp

Sheriff: Kan. couple accused of selling meth from their. home

KANSAS CiTY —The Clay County, Missouri Sheriff's office shared a video of a crash involving a patrol vehicle.

The Sheriff's office wrote, "that feeling when the suspect you were trying to catch takes off on foot, leaving his hoopty truck to catch fire and explode, which knocks it out of gear and sends it rolling into the unoccupied patrol car. 

Fortunately, no one was in the vehicles (they were off running in a field) so no one got hurt. Deputies took the suspect into custody. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansascityfire?__cft__[0]=AZVTJ3kaC6R-Ht8AdwGZbo3v2evotJJHhTdmsnjepnkQGUNVPQZvnXVHAK5qtYdmxwdvQTIZ-sgwOF6IAohzepRKd03BR_V5idvBym6A25ZbE6770dpPa_38lO8lACi3btkCo-cp2Bg7AKFKD2pp9nL0qS4Np7jKEypfM9HKyOfPSVXONMj6dNSjNWHnvqd6ywtUs9xS3kW0yjKsCHcF2R2o&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Fire Department</a>&nbsp;extinguished out the fire. The Sheriff's office did not release details on what prompted the chase, name of the suspect or possible charges.

KANSAS CiTY —The Clay County, Missouri Sheriff's office shared a video of a crash involving a patrol vehicle.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=315&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1135726205358807%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The Sheriff's office wrote, "that feeling when the suspect you were trying to catch takes off on foot, leaving his hoopty truck to catch fire and explode, which knocks it out of gear and sends it rolling into the unoccupied patrol car. Fortunately, no one was in the vehicles (they were off running in a field) so no one got hurt. Deputies took the suspect into custody. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansascityfire?__cft__[0]=AZVTJ3kaC6R-Ht8AdwGZbo3v2evotJJHhTdmsnjepnkQGUNVPQZvnXVHAK5qtYdmxwdvQTIZ-sgwOF6IAohzepRKd03BR_V5idvBym6A25ZbE6770dpPa_38lO8lACi3btkCo-cp2Bg7AKFKD2pp9nL0qS4Np7jKEypfM9HKyOfPSVXONMj6dNSjNWHnvqd6ywtUs9xS3kW0yjKsCHcF2R2o&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Kansas City Fire Department</a>&nbsp;extinguished out the fire. The Sheriff's office did not release details on what prompted the chase, name of the suspect or possible charges.

🎥Suspect vehicle caught fire, rolls into KC area deputy's vehicle

Stillwater, Oklahoma — Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured three people outside a dorm at Oklahoma State University.

According to a statement from OSU campus police, at approximately 3:40 a.m Sunday., the OSU Police Department responded to Carreker East residential hall after shooting victims arrived at off-campus locations and reported the incident.

According to OSU Chief of Police Michael Beckner, there were multiple victims, one of which is known to be an OSU student. All are being treated at hospitals in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.&nbsp;

There was no ongoing threat to campus. Initial reports indicate a large, private party occurred at an off-campus location. After the gathering disbanded, some attendees returned to Carreker East where the shooting occurred.

At 11a.m. police reminded the public that was an isolated incident and the campus is safe. The suspect is no longer on campus. As the event happened, all parties left campus. Officers were on scene quickly and secured the scene. Police are working diligently to bring this to a close with the assistance of Stillwater Police Department and OSBI.

Late Sunday afternoon, police asked that : Anyone with information is asked to contact the OSUPD at&nbsp;<a href="tel:4057446523">405-744-6523</a>&nbsp;or on&nbsp;<a href="https://okla.st/3KZiYqD">the Rave Guardian app.</a>&nbsp;If you have video or photos related to the incident, please&nbsp;<a href="https://okla.st/3KXYjn6">upload them here.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760903294397.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Stillwater, Oklahoma — Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured three people outside a dorm at Oklahoma State University.According to a statement from OSU campus police, at approximately 3:40 a.m Sunday., the OSU Police Department responded to Carreker East residential hall after shooting victims arrived at off-campus locations and reported the incident.According to OSU Chief of Police Michael Beckner, there were multiple victims, one of which is known to be an OSU student. All are being treated at hospitals in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.&nbsp;There was no ongoing threat to campus. Initial reports indicate a large, private party occurred at an off-campus location. After the gathering disbanded, some attendees returned to Carreker East where the shooting occurred.At 11a.m. police reminded the public that was an isolated incident and the campus is safe. The suspect is no longer on campus. As the event happened, all parties left campus. Officers were on scene quickly and secured the scene. Police are working diligently to bring this to a close with the assistance of Stillwater Police Department and OSBI.Late Sunday afternoon, police asked that : Anyone with information is asked to contact the OSUPD at&nbsp;<a href="tel:4057446523">405-744-6523</a>&nbsp;or on&nbsp;<a href="https://okla.st/3KZiYqD">the Rave Guardian app.</a>&nbsp;If you have video or photos related to the incident, please&nbsp;<a href="https://okla.st/3KXYjn6">upload them here.</a>

3 wounded in shooting outside a dorm at Oklahoma State 

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Kansas City.

A gray Chevrolet Malibu was southbound on Paseo at a very high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. At 16th and Paseo, the car went into a broad slide, continued over the curb through the grass and struck a large tree.

EMS transported the unrestrained driver to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and was subsequently pronounced deceased by hospital staff. 

The front seat passenger and left rear seat passenger were both transported to local hospitals with critical injuries. The right rear seat passenger was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The front seat passenger was reported in critical condition. The left rear seat passenger was reported in serious condition and the right rear seat passenger was in stable condition.&nbsp; Police did not release names of those involved.

This is fatality #54 compared to #75 at this time last year, according to Becchina.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 1:30a.m. Sunday in Kansas City.A gray Chevrolet Malibu was southbound on Paseo at a very high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. At 16th and Paseo, the car went into a broad slide, continued over the curb through the grass and struck a large tree.EMS transported the unrestrained driver to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and was subsequently pronounced deceased by hospital staff. The front seat passenger and left rear seat passenger were both transported to local hospitals with critical injuries. The right rear seat passenger was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The front seat passenger was reported in critical condition. The left rear seat passenger was reported in serious condition and the right rear seat passenger was in stable condition.&nbsp; Police did not release names of those involved.This is fatality #54 compared to #75 at this time last year, according to Becchina.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KCPD: One dead, 6 injured after violent crash into a tree

NOAA’s National Weather Service released their Winter Outlook.

This outlook shows the likely temperature and precipitation the U.S. could experience during meteorological winter (December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026) and drought conditions through January 31, 2026.

La Niña conditions are expected to develop later this fall and will be a factor in the winter outlook.

A milder-than-average winter is favored across the southern tier of the country and along the Eastern Seaboard.

Drought conditions are expected to persist and worsen from southern Texas to California.

NOAA’s seasonal outlooks provide the likelihood that average temperature and total precipitation for the three-month period will be above-, near- or below-average and how drought conditions are anticipated to change in the months ahead.

Keep In Mind: The outlook does not project seasonal snowfall accumulations as snow forecasts are generally not predictable more than a week in advance, and cold weather can still be experienced in areas that are warmer-than-normal over the course of the season.

NOAA’s National Weather Service released their Winter Outlook.This outlook shows the likely temperature and precipitation the U.S. could experience during meteorological winter (December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026) and drought conditions through January 31, 2026.Here are the highlights:<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NOAA’s National Weather Service Winter Outlook has been released. This outlook shows the likely temperature and precipitation the U.S. could experience during meteorological winter (December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026) and drought conditions through January 31, 2026.… <a href="https://t.co/wM6eQBDDoq">pic.twitter.com/wM6eQBDDoq</a>&mdash; National Weather Service (@NWS) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWS/status/1978839667907744157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>La Niña conditions are expected to develop later this fall and will be a factor in the winter outlook.A milder-than-average winter is favored across the southern tier of the country and along the Eastern Seaboard.Drought conditions are expected to persist and worsen from southern Texas to California.NOAA’s seasonal outlooks provide the likelihood that average temperature and total precipitation for the three-month period will be above-, near- or below-average and how drought conditions are anticipated to change in the months ahead.Keep In Mind: The outlook does not project seasonal snowfall accumulations as snow forecasts are generally not predictable more than a week in advance, and cold weather can still be experienced in areas that are warmer-than-normal over the course of the season.

Highlights of the National Weather Service winter outlook 

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting and have two suspects in custody.

Just after 5:00 p.m. Saturday, police responded to a report of an armed disturbance in the 6500 block of Ballentine Street in the city of Shawnee, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that shots had been fired.

Two individuals were transported to local hospitals in stable condition. One man was shot, and a second man sustained injuries from a reported battery.

Both individuals are currently in police custody. Police released no additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting and have two suspects in custody.Just after 5:00 p.m. Saturday, police responded to a report of an armed disturbance in the 6500 block of Ballentine Street in the city of Shawnee, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that shots had been fired.Two individuals were transported to local hospitals in stable condition. One man was shot, and a second man sustained injuries from a reported battery.Both individuals are currently in police custody. Police released no additional details.

Police: 2 hospitalized and arrested after shooting at Kan. home

The U.S. Embassy in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/trinidad-and-tobago">Trinidad and Tobago</a>&nbsp;issued a State of Emergency in Effect for Trinidad and Tobago as tensions grow between the United States and Venezuela over&nbsp;deadly U.S. strikes targeting suspected drug traffickers.

On July 18th, 2025, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE).&nbsp;On July 28th, Parliament extended the SOE for three months.&nbsp;The SOE is based on the emergence of a highly threatening criminal network that is operational both within and outside of Trinidad and Tobago’s correctional facilities.&nbsp;This network is believed to be targeting senior government officials and national institutions. &nbsp;U.S. citizens in Trinidad and Tobago should expect an increased police and military presence.

During the SOE, the GOTT will impose the following measures:

The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will monitor the SOE daily, and restrictions may change.

As a reminder, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Laventille (including Picadilly Street and Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street), Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah and must avoid the following places after dark:

Please see the State Department’s complete country information page&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Ftravel.state.gov%252Fcontent%252Ftravel%252Fen%252Finternational-travel%252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%252FTrinidadandTobago.html%2F1%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2Fnv7zN4-9QIviVX7MD4InzQh-4BtAJhm-o4YhFdxvaz8%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638808459%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=4MyZn8g%2FaDkHTjMoCb9pgJWXrfaVZu%2Bgqk8jyU4PUIo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a>.

Please tell your U.S. citizen friends and family to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fgbc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com%252Fwe%252Fstep.state.gov%2F1%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2Fnsz8sJ094PoodchhZkVJn_E3OwA6eZdIUlkU1IgUfcc%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638833333%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=PlmItsBotCXacCiKHbKu09Rgs1xLR5pht8qsDVEuKLc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">step.state.gov&nbsp;</a>) so that they may receive these alerts and updates too.

C/O Consular Section- American Citizens Services

Emergencies: +1 (868) 622-6371, then press 1

Non-Emergency inquiries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com">TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com</a>

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Contact the State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs:

1-888-407-4747 toll-free from the United States and Canada

Enroll in&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fstep.state.gov%252F%2F1%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2FzfqoIiEW4kp6ekhZLRwjJMtC0tdyogo_ze06qYXWAHk%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638898422%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=L6R28ew%2FOYoASI%2F15Ydo%2Biq%2FULE0dTe7MyJEaJ0Pzrg%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP&nbsp;</a>) to receive security updates

<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Ftravel.state.gov%252Fcontent%252Ftravel%252Fen%252Finternational-travel%252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%252FTrinidadandTobago.html%2F2%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2FJB4faL3Mxsbz6kmdAf-k5ah5l5bA1yU83KmJbqIDxqE%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638913499%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=CWtzUB8%2BPB4XrB4JgsPu2fRdGuQ3SGOv79lqs%2BL%2BzDo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Trinidad and Tobago Country Information&nbsp;</a>

The U.S. Embassy in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/trinidad-and-tobago">Trinidad and Tobago</a>&nbsp;issued a State of Emergency in Effect for Trinidad and Tobago as tensions grow between the United States and Venezuela over&nbsp;deadly U.S. strikes targeting suspected drug traffickers.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to a heightened state of alert, please avoid and refrain from visiting all U.S. Government facilities in Trinidad and Tobago through the holiday weekend. Actions to take: Avoid all U.S. government facilities in Trinidad and Tobago. Be aware of your surroundings. Monitor… <a href="https://t.co/9iCqOkF1vy">pic.twitter.com/9iCqOkF1vy</a>&mdash; U.S. Embassy Port of Spain (@USinTT) <a href="https://twitter.com/USinTT/status/1979552663395045747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>On July 18th, 2025, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE).&nbsp;On July 28th, Parliament extended the SOE for three months.&nbsp;The SOE is based on the emergence of a highly threatening criminal network that is operational both within and outside of Trinidad and Tobago’s correctional facilities.&nbsp;This network is believed to be targeting senior government officials and national institutions. &nbsp;U.S. citizens in Trinidad and Tobago should expect an increased police and military presence.During the SOE, the GOTT will impose the following measures:<ul>
 <li>The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) will have the authority to:Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities;Search and enter public and private premises as necessary;</li><li>Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activities;</li><li>Search and enter public and private premises as necessary;</li><li>Bail provisions are suspended for those suspected of committing a crime;</li><li>Members of the Defense Force will operate under similar regulations to the TTPS;</li><li>At this time, no curfew or restrictions on public assemblies are in effect.</li>
 </ul>The Government of Trinidad and Tobago will monitor the SOE daily, and restrictions may change.As a reminder, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Laventille (including Picadilly Street and Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street), Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah and must avoid the following places after dark:<ul>
 <li>Beaches</li><li>Downtown Port of Spain</li><li>Fort George</li><li>Queen’s Park Savannah</li>
 </ul>Please see the State Department’s complete country information page&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Ftravel.state.gov%252Fcontent%252Ftravel%252Fen%252Finternational-travel%252FInternational-Travel-Country-Information-Pages%252FTrinidadandTobago.html%2F1%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2Fnv7zN4-9QIviVX7MD4InzQh-4BtAJhm-o4YhFdxvaz8%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638808459%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=4MyZn8g%2FaDkHTjMoCb9pgJWXrfaVZu%2Bgqk8jyU4PUIo%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">here&nbsp;</a>.Actions to take:<ul>
 <li>Carry your ID at all times.</li><li>Cooperate with local authorities during their SOE-mandated activities.</li><li>Monitor reputable news outlets and official Trinidad and Tobago government updates.</li><li>U.S. Citizens seeking travel to the United States must have a valid U.S. passport.</li><li>Report any suspicious activity to local authorities.</li>
 </ul>Please tell your U.S. citizen friends and family to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Flinks-2.govdelivery.com%2FCL0%2Fhttps%3A%252F%252Fgbc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com%252Fwe%252Fstep.state.gov%2F1%2F0101019861dee222-80357d63-8a1e-4c25-bf1f-d8656b3336bc-000000%2Fnsz8sJ094PoodchhZkVJn_E3OwA6eZdIUlkU1IgUfcc%3D416&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cacspos%40state.gov%7C4ca03cc8ba0649b83fbc08ddd0650d35%7C66cf50745afe48d1a691a12b2121f44b%7C0%7C0%7C638895854638833333%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=PlmItsBotCXacCiKHbKu09Rgs1xLR5pht8qsDVEuKLc%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">step.state.gov&nbsp;</a>) so that they may receive these alerts and updates too.Assistance:U.S. Embassy Port of SpainC/O Consular Section- American Citizens Services2 Marli Street, Newtown 190203Trinidad and TobagoRoutine inquiries: +1 (868) 235-4500Emergencies: +1 (868) 622-6371, then press 1Non-Emergency inquiries:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com">TrinidadandTobago.ACS@gdit-gss.com</a>Website:&nbsp;<a 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US Embassy issues warning to Americans in Trinidad and Tobago

JOHNSON COUNTY, Mo. —One person died in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Johnson County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by a 41-year-old Lee's Summit man was westbound on W Pine Street east of Water Street.&nbsp; The pickup traveled off the road and struck a ditch.&nbsp; 

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

JOHNSON COUNTY, Mo. —One person died in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Johnson County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by a 41-year-old Lee's Summit man was westbound on W Pine Street east of Water Street.&nbsp; The pickup traveled off the road and struck a ditch.&nbsp; The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man dies after pickup crash

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Threats to democracy at both the national and state levels fueled Missourians to rally at more than 30 locations across the state Saturday as part of No Kings demonstrations

Thousands gathered in cities and towns all over Missouri Saturday at No Kings demonstrations to speak up against the many ways they believe the current administration —&nbsp;both at the federal and state level — is a threat to democracy.

And scattered among the crowds were volunteers with clipboards, collecting signatures for initiative petition campaigns hoping to make the 2026 ballot.&nbsp;

“We are just out here trying to make sure that the people hold the power and not politicians,” said Drew Amidei, a staff organizer for Missouri Jobs with Justice Voter Action, at the Jefferson City rally.&nbsp;

This was the second nationwide No Kings mass gathering, with the first organized in June to coincide with a military parade in Washington, D.C., that commemorated the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.

Since then, Missourians have found more reasons to organize at the state level, said Sue Rodgers, spokesperson for We Stand United Missouri. The organization led the Jefferson City rally at the State Capitol, where hundreds of protesters turned out despite a rainy afternoon.

Rogers pointed to last month’s move by Missouri lawmakers to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/09/missouri-house-passes-gerrymandered-congressional-map-limits-on-initiative-petitions/">push forward a gerrymandered congressional map</a>&nbsp;requested by Trump and a ballot measure to make it harder for citizens to amend the state’s constitution.

“There’s more specific issues at this point,” Rodgers told The Independent. “We see more evidence of the authoritarian power grabs and executive overreach.”

Even a thunderstorm in St. Louis wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of protesters.&nbsp;

“I know it’s raining. I know it’s a little cool,” former Democratic U.S. Rep. Cori Bush told a crowd of more than a thousand people gathered in downtown St. Louis amid the thunderstorm. “But you all, this is nothing in comparison to the reign that we’ll have to live through if we don’t resist the Donald Trump administration.”

Rodgers pointed to organizations with tents surrounding the Missouri State Capitol lawn with volunteers collecting signatures for three petition campaigns.

“We definitely have more of a focus this time on the initiative petitions and redistricting,” she said.

A petition seeking a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/22/missouri-voters-likely-to-deliver-final-verdict-on-congressional-map-initiative-changes/">statewide vote on the gerrymandered Missouri redistricting plan</a>&nbsp;circulated during the demonstration, with groups like Missouri Jobs with Justice Voter Action and Respect Missouri Voters collecting signatures.

To them, the citizen-led petitions embody the spirit of No Kings — with voters asserting power and calling out leadership they believe is acting autocratic.

“No Kings is a good time to get this message out because both this referendum and this rally are really about empowering the people of Missouri,” Amidei said. “It’s really about asserting our democratic values.”

He told The Independent there was a “good amount of foot traffic” as he collected signatures for a petition seeking a statewide vote on the gerrymandered Missouri redistricting plan.

Organizers wanted voters’ rights to be emphasized while creating an uplifting environment.

“We encouraged them to come in costumes, have fun,” Rodgers said. “Everyone needs a little space to let off anxious energy and find out they are not alone.”

Rodgers was one of a handful of women dressed as suffragettes who spoke during the Jefferson City rally about women’s contributions to democracy.

Another speaker, assistant attorney general Greg Barnes, dressed as James Madison to warn demonstrators of threats to the U.S. Constitution. He spoke about Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/03/30/g-s1-57231/trump-third-term" target="_blank">mentions of a third term</a>.

But not every costume had an obvious nod to democracy. Others dressed as dinosaurs in inflatable costumes, and one organizer wore a Cheeto costume.

Respect Missouri Voters organizer Lindsay Browning, dressed in a cow onesie, told the crowd that the costumes are intentional.

“When we’re silly, we expose them as frauds,” she said. “Fascists can’t promote lies about dangerous, left-wing terrorists when we keep showing up unarmed wearing costumes.”

Unlike in June, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe did not declare a state of emergency ahead of Saturday’s rallies. At the time, Kehoe said his decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2025/eo25" target="_blank">activate the Missouri National Guard&nbsp;</a>was a “precautionary measure” in the case of “events that are occurring or could occur.”

“We respect, and will defend, the right to peacefully protest,”&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-activates-missouri-national-guard-precautionary-measure" target="_blank">Kehoe said in a statement&nbsp;</a>at the time, “but we will not tolerate violence or lawlessness in our state.”

Kehoe is currently being&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/02/missouri-governor-sued-for-activating-national-guard-ahead-of-no-kings-protests/">sued by&nbsp;Lucas Cierpiot,&nbsp;</a>a disability-rights activist from Blue Springs, and the son of a Republican state senator, over his decision to activate troops over the summer.

Local news outlets reported that the June protests remained uneventful between demonstrators and police.

The crowd at Keiner Plaza in downtown St. Louis brought with it ample American flags, ponchos and an occasional inflatable costume.&nbsp;

“Fight looks like marching in the streets. Fight looks like collecting signatures,” state Rep. Ray Reed, a Democrat from St. Louis, told the crowd. “ … Fight looks like putting your name on a ballot.”

Brice Bloom-Ellis, 69, of St. Louis, stood several yards away holding a sign demanding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. But ICE was front of mind.&nbsp;

“I’m totally opposed to masked federal police snatching people off the street,” said Bloom-Ellis, who works in child welfare. “It’s just unbelievable that that’s happening in this country.”&nbsp;

He was also appalled by Missouri’s new congressional map, which he called nothing but a “power grab.”&nbsp;

Bloom-Ellis was far from the only one upset that the governor took the president’s request to redraw the congressional map in favor of Republicans to heart.&nbsp;

Tullia Hamilton, 77, of St. Louis, said she’s never met Kehoe, but if she did, she knows what she would tell him:&nbsp;

“I don’t know you, but chances are you’re three times the man Donald Trump is,” said Hamilton, a retired history professor. “Why are you bowing to him? He’s a small person.”&nbsp;

Beside Hamilton stood by her good friend, Dr. Seth Eisen, 84, the director of Washington University’s Clinical Rheumatology Research Program, who brought a sign that read: “hands off science.”&nbsp;

“It’s really a throw-back for science and also for health care in St. Louis specifically, but in the state and in the nation as well,” said Hamilton, who in recent months has seen NIH funding decreased, studies halted, and colleagues leave academia for the pharmaceutical industry.&nbsp;

“What’s happening now is going to impact research for 10 years,” he said. “Even if it were to change today.”&nbsp;

Ryan Maliff, 35, of Webster Groves, who works in health care, is already seeing the impact on Missourians, including his patients who can no longer afford insulin.&nbsp;

“A lot of what’s been done to gut the protections for Medicare and Medicaid, it’s affecting my work, it’s affecting my patients,” he said.

As the group rounded out its march through downtown, which lasted nearly two hours, Ari Jones-Bradley, 49, said she’s spent the past several months feeling hopeless, alone and terrified for the world her four sons are growing up in.

“We’re headed into extremely dark times, and this is not the country my grandfather fought for,” Jones-Bradley said of her grandfather who served in World War II at the Battle of Iwo Jima.&nbsp;

But she said Saturday’s demonstration, which she called “electrifying,” shifted something in her.&nbsp;

“I’m mad,” Jones-Bradley said. “I’m fully energized again and I’m ready to fight.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760837174899.jpeg" alt=" Protestors wave signs as thunder begins to rumble near the end of the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Protestors wave signs as thunder begins to rumble near the end of the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ahanshaw/">Annelise Hanshaw</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Threats to democracy at both the national and state levels fueled Missourians to rally at more than 30 locations across the state Saturday as part of No Kings demonstrations</h2>Thousands gathered in cities and towns all over Missouri Saturday at No Kings demonstrations to speak up against the many ways they believe the current administration —&nbsp;both at the federal and state level — is a threat to democracy.And scattered among the crowds were volunteers with clipboards, collecting signatures for initiative petition campaigns hoping to make the 2026 ballot.&nbsp;“We are just out here trying to make sure that the people hold the power and not politicians,” said Drew Amidei, a staff organizer for Missouri Jobs with Justice Voter Action, at the Jefferson City rally.&nbsp;This was the second nationwide No Kings mass gathering, with the first organized in June to coincide with a military parade in Washington, D.C., that commemorated the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.Since then, Missourians have found more reasons to organize at the state level, said Sue Rodgers, spokesperson for We Stand United Missouri. The organization led the Jefferson City rally at the State Capitol, where hundreds of protesters turned out despite a rainy afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760837142430.png" alt="Sue Gibson, a volunteer with Respect Missouri Voters, collects signatures during the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday. Respect Missouri Voters is the intiative petition campaign for a constitutional amendment that would make it harder for the General Assembly to overturn citizen-led ballot measures (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>Sue Gibson, a volunteer with Respect Missouri Voters, collects signatures during the No Kings demonstration at the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City on Saturday. Respect Missouri Voters is the intiative petition campaign for a constitutional amendment that would make it harder for the General Assembly to overturn citizen-led ballot measures (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>Rogers pointed to last month’s move by Missouri lawmakers to&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/09/missouri-house-passes-gerrymandered-congressional-map-limits-on-initiative-petitions/">push forward a gerrymandered congressional map</a>&nbsp;requested by Trump and a ballot measure to make it harder for citizens to amend the state’s constitution.“There’s more specific issues at this point,” Rodgers told The Independent. “We see more evidence of the authoritarian power grabs and executive overreach.”Even a thunderstorm in St. Louis wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of protesters.&nbsp;“I know it’s raining. I know it’s a little cool,” former Democratic U.S. Rep. Cori Bush told a crowd of more than a thousand people gathered in downtown St. Louis amid the thunderstorm. “But you all, this is nothing in comparison to the reign that we’ll have to live through if we don’t resist the Donald Trump administration.”<h2>Jefferson City</h2>Rodgers pointed to organizations with tents surrounding the Missouri State Capitol lawn with volunteers collecting signatures for three petition campaigns.“We definitely have more of a focus this time on the initiative petitions and redistricting,” she said.A petition seeking a&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/22/missouri-voters-likely-to-deliver-final-verdict-on-congressional-map-initiative-changes/">statewide vote on the gerrymandered Missouri redistricting plan</a>&nbsp;circulated during the demonstration, with groups like Missouri Jobs with Justice Voter Action and Respect Missouri Voters collecting signatures.To them, the citizen-led petitions embody the spirit of No Kings — with voters asserting power and calling out leadership they believe is acting autocratic.“No Kings is a good time to get this message out because both this referendum and this rally are really about empowering the people of Missouri,” Amidei said. “It’s really about asserting our democratic values.”He told The Independent there was a “good amount of foot traffic” as he collected signatures for a petition seeking a statewide vote on the gerrymandered Missouri redistricting plan.Organizers wanted voters’ rights to be emphasized while creating an uplifting environment.“We encouraged them to come in costumes, have fun,” Rodgers said. “Everyone needs a little space to let off anxious energy and find out they are not alone.”Rodgers was one of a handful of women dressed as suffragettes who spoke during the Jefferson City rally about women’s contributions to democracy.Another speaker, assistant attorney general Greg Barnes, dressed as James Madison to warn demonstrators of threats to the U.S. Constitution. He spoke about Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/03/30/g-s1-57231/trump-third-term" target="_blank">mentions of a third term</a>.But not every costume had an obvious nod to democracy. Others dressed as dinosaurs in inflatable costumes, and one organizer wore a Cheeto costume.Respect Missouri Voters organizer Lindsay Browning, dressed in a cow onesie, told the crowd that the costumes are intentional.“When we’re silly, we expose them as frauds,” she said. “Fascists can’t promote lies about dangerous, left-wing terrorists when we keep showing up unarmed wearing costumes.”Unlike in June, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe did not declare a state of emergency ahead of Saturday’s rallies. At the time, Kehoe said his decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.mo.gov/library/reference/orders/2025/eo25" target="_blank">activate the Missouri National Guard&nbsp;</a>was a “precautionary measure” in the case of “events that are occurring or could occur.”“We respect, and will defend, the right to peacefully protest,”&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-activates-missouri-national-guard-precautionary-measure" target="_blank">Kehoe said in a statement&nbsp;</a>at the time, “but we will not tolerate violence or lawlessness in our state.”Kehoe is currently being&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/02/missouri-governor-sued-for-activating-national-guard-ahead-of-no-kings-protests/">sued by&nbsp;Lucas Cierpiot,&nbsp;</a>a disability-rights activist from Blue Springs, and the son of a Republican state senator, over his decision to activate troops over the summer.Local news outlets reported that the June protests remained uneventful between demonstrators and police.<h2>St. Louis&nbsp;</h2>The crowd at Keiner Plaza in downtown St. Louis brought with it ample American flags, ponchos and an occasional inflatable costume.&nbsp;“Fight looks like marching in the streets. Fight looks like collecting signatures,” state Rep. Ray Reed, a Democrat from St. Louis, told the crowd. “ … Fight looks like putting your name on a ballot.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760837064318.png" alt="More than a thousand people gather in a thunderstorm on Saturday as part of a No Kings protest in downtown St. Louis (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>More than a thousand people gather in a thunderstorm on Saturday as part of a No Kings protest in downtown St. Louis (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>Brice Bloom-Ellis, 69, of St. Louis, stood several yards away holding a sign demanding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files. But ICE was front of mind.&nbsp;“I’m totally opposed to masked federal police snatching people off the street,” said Bloom-Ellis, who works in child welfare. “It’s just unbelievable that that’s happening in this country.”&nbsp;He was also appalled by Missouri’s new congressional map, which he called nothing but a “power grab.”&nbsp;Bloom-Ellis was far from the only one upset that the governor took the president’s request to redraw the congressional map in favor of Republicans to heart.&nbsp;Tullia Hamilton, 77, of St. Louis, said she’s never met Kehoe, but if she did, she knows what she would tell him:&nbsp;“I don’t know you, but chances are you’re three times the man Donald Trump is,” said Hamilton, a retired history professor. “Why are you bowing to him? He’s a small person.”&nbsp;Beside Hamilton stood by her good friend, Dr. Seth Eisen, 84, the director of Washington University’s Clinical Rheumatology Research Program, who brought a sign that read: “hands off science.”&nbsp;“It’s really a throw-back for science and also for health care in St. Louis specifically, but in the state and in the nation as well,” said Hamilton, who in recent months has seen NIH funding decreased, studies halted, and colleagues leave academia for the pharmaceutical industry.&nbsp;“What’s happening now is going to impact research for 10 years,” he said. “Even if it were to change today.”&nbsp;Ryan Maliff, 35, of Webster Groves, who works in health care, is already seeing the impact on Missourians, including his patients who can no longer afford insulin.&nbsp;“A lot of what’s been done to gut the protections for Medicare and Medicaid, it’s affecting my work, it’s affecting my patients,” he said.As the group rounded out its march through downtown, which lasted nearly two hours, Ari Jones-Bradley, 49, said she’s spent the past several months feeling hopeless, alone and terrified for the world her four sons are growing up in.“We’re headed into extremely dark times, and this is not the country my grandfather fought for,” Jones-Bradley said of her grandfather who served in World War II at the Battle of Iwo Jima.&nbsp;But she said Saturday’s demonstration, which she called “electrifying,” shifted something in her.&nbsp;“I’m mad,” Jones-Bradley said. “I’m fully energized again and I’m ready to fight.”

No Kings rallies draw thousands across Missouri, bolster initiative petition campaigns

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —The victim in an aggravated battery that occurred on September 23rd has died from his injuries, and the suspect has been arrested and charged in his death, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas Police.

At approximately 10:30p.m. Sept. 23, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 2300 block of Ridge Avenue regarding a physical altercation between two ment. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered 78-year-old Leroy Alexander lying outside his residence, unconscious and with apparent head trauma. He was transported to an area hospital where he died from his injuries on September 30. 

Police arrested Perry Allen Tilghman, Jr., 31, Kansas City, Kansas,&nbsp; and he has been charged with second- degree murder in Alexander’s death. He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $150,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760658583335.png" alt="Tilghman photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Tilghman photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —The victim in an aggravated battery that occurred on September 23rd has died from his injuries, and the suspect has been arrested and charged in his death, according to a statement from Kansas City, Kansas Police.At approximately 10:30p.m. Sept. 23, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 2300 block of Ridge Avenue regarding a physical altercation between two ment. When officers arrived on scene, they discovered 78-year-old Leroy Alexander lying outside his residence, unconscious and with apparent head trauma. He was transported to an area hospital where he died from his injuries on September 30. Police arrested Perry Allen Tilghman, Jr., 31, Kansas City, Kansas,&nbsp; and he has been charged with second- degree murder in Alexander’s death. He is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Jail on a $150,000 bond.

Police: 74-year-old Kan. man died a week after violent altercation

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/3oRyqbFY0X">pic.twitter.com/3oRyqbFY0X</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1979621169629155743?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Trump releases video of US drone strike on ‘drug-carrying submarine’

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry&nbsp;Moran – a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense – spoke on the Senate floor this week to reaffirm the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine and maintained pressure on Moscow in order to end Russia’s unjust war. 

Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s remarks were delivered following President Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and ahead President Trump’s meeting Friday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Shortly before Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s remarks, the U.S. Senate voted on the FY2026 Appropriations bill to fund the U.S. military. Despite receiving bipartisan support in the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the bill did not receive the necessary votes to advance, failing 50-44.

“Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition,”&nbsp;said Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;“Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years.”“Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike,”&nbsp;continued Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;

“Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end.”

“To bring an end to this war, the United States and our allies must maintain pressure on Moscow, as was just seen we maintained pressure on Hamas. One recent and important development in this effort is the potential transfer of U.S. Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This weaponry will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory, deter further Russian aggression and help level the battlefield as negotiations hopefully move forward. By providing advanced, precision-strike systems, America demonstrates that our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty is backed not only by words, but by legitimate support that can alter the course of this war."

“Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world,”&nbsp;concluded Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;“It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.”

Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s full remarks as delivered:“As President Trump today spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and tomorrow, he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, I want to highlight how important it is, how critical it is, to securing a resolution to Russia’s unjust war in Ukraine.“I had intended to give remarks today on this topic, and I opened the Wall Street Journal this morning. And I was reading it, its top editorial on the editorial page deals with this topic, and I would recommend it to my colleagues. It expresses the views as I wish I could express them so clearly. I’m going to do so today right now.“Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition. Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years. While we recognize there are significant challenges that remain in the Middle East, this marks a critical step toward a just and lasting peace in the region.“This agreement would not have been possible without the strength of the United States military, our steadfast alliance with Israel and making it unequivocally clear to Hamas that the United States is willing and able to assist our ally in war. Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike.“Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end.“To bring an end to this war, the United States and our allies must maintain pressure on Moscow, as was just seen we maintained pressure on Hamas. One recent and important development in this effort is the potential transfer of U.S. Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This weaponry will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory, deter further Russian aggression and help level the battlefield as negotiations hopefully move forward. By providing advanced, precision-strike systems, America demonstrates that our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty is backed not only by words, but by legitimate support that can alter the course of this war.“I commend the administration for its efforts to facilitate this transfer and for leading discussions between Ukraine and Russia that hopefully will secure a durable and just peace.“The United States cannot act alone. Our NATO allies must also shoulder the burden. President Trump recently secured an agreement with our NATO allies to increase defense spending from two percent to five percent by 2035. This commitment is critical to maintaining the continued defense of Europe. Russia’s economy is already under strain, but their capacity to fund conflict will continue without enforcement of steady and severe global sanctions.“Before Congress, there’s legislation that has widespread support of more than 80 senators from both sides of the aisle. This legislation would deliver a severe blow to Russia’s economy and trade. By cutting off the resources that allow Putin to fund this war, we can hasten the path to success in finding peace.“Last week, we advanced the National Defense Authorization Act, but today, we failed to advance the appropriations bill to fund our military. We always should recognize that the world is watching. They’re watching us. Our adversaries pay attention, and our allies pay attention. We have to every day make clear the case that it is true: the United States is a stable and friendly supporter of our allies and a full-fledged adversary to those who wish to cause us harm.“Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world. It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760736061957.png" alt="President Trump welcomes President Zelensky to the White House on Friday- image from White House video" />
 <figcaption>President Trump welcomes President Zelensky to the White House on Friday- image from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry&nbsp;Moran – a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense – spoke on the Senate floor this week to reaffirm the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine and maintained pressure on Moscow in order to end Russia’s unjust war. <div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K_1lPe8PmC8?si=xkm9zORY3XzAYl95" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s remarks were delivered following President Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and ahead President Trump’s meeting Friday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.Shortly before Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s remarks, the U.S. Senate voted on the FY2026 Appropriations bill to fund the U.S. military. Despite receiving bipartisan support in the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the bill did not receive the necessary votes to advance, failing 50-44.“Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition,”&nbsp;said Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;“Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years.”“Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike,”&nbsp;continued Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;“Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end.”“To bring an end to this war, the United States and our allies must maintain pressure on Moscow, as was just seen we maintained pressure on Hamas. One recent and important development in this effort is the potential transfer of U.S. Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This weaponry will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory, deter further Russian aggression and help level the battlefield as negotiations hopefully move forward. By providing advanced, precision-strike systems, America demonstrates that our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty is backed not only by words, but by legitimate support that can alter the course of this war."“Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world,”&nbsp;concluded Sen.&nbsp;Moran.&nbsp;“It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.”-----------Sen.&nbsp;Moran’s full remarks as delivered:“As President Trump today spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and tomorrow, he will meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, I want to highlight how important it is, how critical it is, to securing a resolution to Russia’s unjust war in Ukraine.“I had intended to give remarks today on this topic, and I opened the Wall Street Journal this morning. And I was reading it, its top editorial on the editorial page deals with this topic, and I would recommend it to my colleagues. It expresses the views as I wish I could express them so clearly. I’m going to do so today right now.“Last week, we witnessed the long-awaited peace agreement between Israel and Hamas come to fruition. Thanks to the efforts of President Trump and his administration, a ceasefire is holding. Iran has been dealt a crippling blow that has weakened its hold on the region, and Hamas has released all living hostages who had been held captive for more than two years. While we recognize there are significant challenges that remain in the Middle East, this marks a critical step toward a just and lasting peace in the region.“This agreement would not have been possible without the strength of the United States military, our steadfast alliance with Israel and making it unequivocally clear to Hamas that the United States is willing and able to assist our ally in war. Through strength, the U.S. brokered a peace deal that serves the security of Israel and the humanitarian needs of Gazans alike.“Now, as the conflict in Ukraine has surpassed the three-year mark, Putin remains undeterred in his mission to carry out his unjust war on the Ukrainian people. Each day this war continues, lives are lost, and the safety, economic stability and global leadership of the United States are threatened. This war must end.“To bring an end to this war, the United States and our allies must maintain pressure on Moscow, as was just seen we maintained pressure on Hamas. One recent and important development in this effort is the potential transfer of U.S. Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This weaponry will strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend its territory, deter further Russian aggression and help level the battlefield as negotiations hopefully move forward. By providing advanced, precision-strike systems, America demonstrates that our commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty is backed not only by words, but by legitimate support that can alter the course of this war.“I commend the administration for its efforts to facilitate this transfer and for leading discussions between Ukraine and Russia that hopefully will secure a durable and just peace.“The United States cannot act alone. Our NATO allies must also shoulder the burden. President Trump recently secured an agreement with our NATO allies to increase defense spending from two percent to five percent by 2035. This commitment is critical to maintaining the continued defense of Europe. Russia’s economy is already under strain, but their capacity to fund conflict will continue without enforcement of steady and severe global sanctions.“Before Congress, there’s legislation that has widespread support of more than 80 senators from both sides of the aisle. This legislation would deliver a severe blow to Russia’s economy and trade. By cutting off the resources that allow Putin to fund this war, we can hasten the path to success in finding peace.“Last week, we advanced the National Defense Authorization Act, but today, we failed to advance the appropriations bill to fund our military. We always should recognize that the world is watching. They’re watching us. Our adversaries pay attention, and our allies pay attention. We have to every day make clear the case that it is true: the United States is a stable and friendly supporter of our allies and a full-fledged adversary to those who wish to cause us harm.“Our adversaries, Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, are always looking for an opportunity to disrupt our alliances, weaken our resolve and disturb the free world. It is imperative that the United States stands firm in its support for Ukraine and, in doing so, places significant pressure on Putin to show our adversaries that democracy will not go undefended.”

🎥Kan. U.S Senator: U.S. must send Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine.

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/katiemoore/">Katie Moore</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/">Missouri Independent</a>

Six of the last 10 people executed in Missouri left behind children, but there are few resources for those families to help them deal with the trauma of their loss

For Father’s Day, Summer Shockley drove 60 or so miles from her home in Rolla through central Missouri to see her dad at Potosi Correctional Center.&nbsp;

Lance Shockley, 48, was convicted by a jury for the 2005 murder of Missouri Highway Patrol Sgt. Carl Dewayne Graham Jr. A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2025/06/26/missouri-death-penalty-judges" target="_blank">judge sentenced him to death</a>&nbsp;in 2009.

That day in June, Summer and several other family members were invited inside the prison for a restoration visit, where families were given unusual access to the facility.&nbsp;

They ate lunch and played pickleball. Later, the family clasped hands and prayed in a circle.

“It was just a really, really neat day,” said Summer, 27.&nbsp;

Deep down, though, she felt uneasy the entire time. Less than 30 minutes into her drive home, her dad called. Officials had set his execution for Oct. 14.

The experiences of children with parents on death row are often forgotten when it comes to capital punishment. There are few services for them, as they are not generally seen as victims. No organization tracks information on this particular group. Of the past 10 people who have faced execution in Missouri, at least six had children.&nbsp;

Survivors who shared their stories described depression and grief they say could have been avoided, along with complicated feelings about the meaning of justice.

“When we talk about the collateral consequences of using the death penalty, they should be included in that count,” said Robin Maher, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center.&nbsp;

The impact Maher describes isn’t theoretical. Summer Shockley said she has lived it.

Summer said it was difficult as a child when kids heard about the killing and asked her about it. She credits her mom, who had split with Lance Shockley years before, for encouraging her and her younger sister to see him. They regularly went to Potosi.

“He just always told us how much he loved us and cared about us and how thankful he was that we could visit him and talk to him,” she said.&nbsp;

They bonded over their faith in God. Over the past seven years, that faith has grown even stronger as Shockley became a leader in a prison ministry program. His awakening has transformed both sides of her family, she said, allowing them to be brought to Jesus and overcome generational challenges like alcohol and divorce.&nbsp;

Now married and the head softball coach at Missouri University of Science and Technology, Summer has had time to think about the likely outcome of their relationship, especially as her father’s appeals waned.&nbsp;

Confronted with the actual date, Summer said she’d been “living in grief prior to something tragic happening.” She made space to sit and let her emotions out.&nbsp;

For months, she held onto hope that the execution would be called off. Her father maintained his innocence til the end, and even requested DNA testing on items found at the crime scene. Because this is the first execution under Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe, anti-death penalty advocates also hoped the governor’s Catholic faith would influence his clemency decision. On Monday, Kehoe’s office announced he would not grant clemency.

Summer and her sister attended the execution at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in Bonne Terre — where the state’s executions take place — despite their dad’s initial reluctance.

In the months after Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams Sr. was executed in 2024, the younger Williams said he sank into a deep depression.&nbsp;

The elder Williams was convicted in the 1998 murder of journalist Felicia Gayle in her University City home. He was sentenced to death in 2001.

The younger Williams said he often replayed the moment his father’s arm fell onto the gurney inside the chamber at Eastern Reception. The man who had once been his guide — the voice that talked him through matters of the heart and brain — was gone.

The execution was complicated by uncertainty. Officials with the prosecutor’s office who sent Williams Sr. to death row later tried to stop the execution because of questions about his guilt and a lack of DNA on the murder weapon. The victim’s family opposed the death penalty. The state moved forward, anyway.&nbsp;

Williams Jr. said afterward, grief followed him everywhere. He often came across places in St. Louis that evoked memories of his dad, like the basketball courts at Walnut Park. He was negative and sometimes mean, he said. He didn’t seek professional help because of the cost, although he suspects he needed therapy even before the execution.&nbsp;

The After Violence Project, which addresses the impact of mass incarceration and the death penalty on families, trains therapists through its Access to Treatment Initiative. Susannah Sheffer, the initiative’s director, said family members often experience “disenfranchised grief,” a kind of mourning that isn’t recognized or publicly supported.

The Rev. Jeff Hood, a spiritual adviser for men on death row, said children who are left behind face complicated emotions. Many families experience a disconnect until an execution date is set, prompting a rush to form a relationship.

In May, Williams Jr. was at a park with his 4-year-old son and found himself out of breath lifting the child onto a slide. After that, he began working out again. He knew he had to “shift out of it” for his son.

On New Year’s Day 2022, Khorry Ramey learned she was pregnant. Her father, Kevin Johnson, also called, warning that his life could soon end. She said she didn’t know how to process it.

That August, her aunt called to tell her an execution date had been set for Nov. 29.

“It was a reality check for me,” Ramey said. “Honestly, it was like, ‘This stuff still happens?’”

Johnson was sentenced to death in 2007 for the 2005 killing of Kirkwood Police Sgt. William McEntee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760792824362.png" alt=" Summer Shockley with her father, Lance Shockley during a visit at Potosi Correctional Center, in 2024. Lance Shockley was sentenced to death for the 2005 murder of a Missouri highway patrolman (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption> Summer Shockley with her father, Lance Shockley during a visit at Potosi Correctional Center, in 2024. Lance Shockley was sentenced to death for the 2005 murder of a Missouri highway patrolman (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/katiemoore/">Katie Moore</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>Six of the last 10 people executed in Missouri left behind children, but there are few resources for those families to help them deal with the trauma of their loss</h2>For Father’s Day, Summer Shockley drove 60 or so miles from her home in Rolla through central Missouri to see her dad at Potosi Correctional Center.&nbsp;Lance Shockley, 48, was convicted by a jury for the 2005 murder of Missouri Highway Patrol Sgt. Carl Dewayne Graham Jr. A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2025/06/26/missouri-death-penalty-judges" target="_blank">judge sentenced him to death</a>&nbsp;in 2009.That day in June, Summer and several other family members were invited inside the prison for a restoration visit, where families were given unusual access to the facility.&nbsp;They ate lunch and played pickleball. Later, the family clasped hands and prayed in a circle.“It was just a really, really neat day,” said Summer, 27.&nbsp;Deep down, though, she felt uneasy the entire time. Less than 30 minutes into her drive home, her dad called. Officials had set his execution for Oct. 14.The experiences of children with parents on death row are often forgotten when it comes to capital punishment. There are few services for them, as they are not generally seen as victims. No organization tracks information on this particular group. Of the past 10 people who have faced execution in Missouri, at least six had children.&nbsp;Survivors who shared their stories described depression and grief they say could have been avoided, along with complicated feelings about the meaning of justice.“When we talk about the collateral consequences of using the death penalty, they should be included in that count,” said Robin Maher, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center.&nbsp;The impact Maher describes isn’t theoretical. Summer Shockley said she has lived it.Summer said it was difficult as a child when kids heard about the killing and asked her about it. She credits her mom, who had split with Lance Shockley years before, for encouraging her and her younger sister to see him. They regularly went to Potosi.“He just always told us how much he loved us and cared about us and how thankful he was that we could visit him and talk to him,” she said.&nbsp;They bonded over their faith in God. Over the past seven years, that faith has grown even stronger as Shockley became a leader in a prison ministry program. His awakening has transformed both sides of her family, she said, allowing them to be brought to Jesus and overcome generational challenges like alcohol and divorce.&nbsp;Now married and the head softball coach at Missouri University of Science and Technology, Summer has had time to think about the likely outcome of their relationship, especially as her father’s appeals waned.&nbsp;Confronted with the actual date, Summer said she’d been “living in grief prior to something tragic happening.” She made space to sit and let her emotions out.&nbsp;For months, she held onto hope that the execution would be called off. Her father maintained his innocence til the end, and even requested DNA testing on items found at the crime scene. Because this is the first execution under Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe, anti-death penalty advocates also hoped the governor’s Catholic faith would influence his clemency decision. On Monday, Kehoe’s office announced he would not grant clemency.Summer and her sister attended the execution at Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in Bonne Terre — where the state’s executions take place — despite their dad’s initial reluctance.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760792878593.png" alt="Marcellus Williams, photographed in prison (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption>Marcellus Williams, photographed in prison (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure>In the months after Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams Sr. was executed in 2024, the younger Williams said he sank into a deep depression.&nbsp;The elder Williams was convicted in the 1998 murder of journalist Felicia Gayle in her University City home. He was sentenced to death in 2001.The younger Williams said he often replayed the moment his father’s arm fell onto the gurney inside the chamber at Eastern Reception. The man who had once been his guide — the voice that talked him through matters of the heart and brain — was gone.The execution was complicated by uncertainty. Officials with the prosecutor’s office who sent Williams Sr. to death row later tried to stop the execution because of questions about his guilt and a lack of DNA on the murder weapon. The victim’s family opposed the death penalty. The state moved forward, anyway.&nbsp;Williams Jr. said afterward, grief followed him everywhere. He often came across places in St. Louis that evoked memories of his dad, like the basketball courts at Walnut Park. He was negative and sometimes mean, he said. He didn’t seek professional help because of the cost, although he suspects he needed therapy even before the execution.&nbsp;The After Violence Project, which addresses the impact of mass incarceration and the death penalty on families, trains therapists through its Access to Treatment Initiative. Susannah Sheffer, the initiative’s director, said family members often experience “disenfranchised grief,” a kind of mourning that isn’t recognized or publicly supported.The Rev. Jeff Hood, a spiritual adviser for men on death row, said children who are left behind face complicated emotions. Many families experience a disconnect until an execution date is set, prompting a rush to form a relationship.Then, the parent dies.In May, Williams Jr. was at a park with his 4-year-old son and found himself out of breath lifting the child onto a slide. After that, he began working out again. He knew he had to “shift out of it” for his son.On New Year’s Day 2022, Khorry Ramey learned she was pregnant. Her father, Kevin Johnson, also called, warning that his life could soon end. She said she didn’t know how to process it.That August, her aunt called to tell her an execution date had been set for Nov. 29.“It was a reality check for me,” Ramey said. “Honestly, it was like, ‘This stuff still happens?’”Johnson was sentenced to death in 2007 for the 2005 killing of Kirkwood Police Sgt. William McEntee.Ramey had already known loss from a young age. Her father was arrested when she was 2, and her mother was murdered when she was 4.She was only 19, but she wanted to attend the execution. State law required witnesses to be 21.“I was like, if he was in a hospital bed, I’d be there by his side,” she said. “So it’s no different for me. It’s moreso like comforting my dad [in] his time of [need].“And this is almost a closure for me as well.”Johnson got to see his grandson several times, and even got to hold him once. Ramey’s last visit was the day of his execution. She had never seen him cry before then.“He was just telling me how much he failed me as a father. The last memory I have of him is not what I want it to be.”She tried therapy, but it wasn’t for her. Few understand what she’s been through, she said.Although she learned at a young age what it was like to lose a parent, her dad’s death was harder. She grew up visiting him often, playing Connect 4 and Scrabble in the visitation room at Potosi. He got her report cards from school. They talked about everything.When she’s in a dark place, Ramey said she focuses on her son.&nbsp;She is also steadfast in her belief that the death penalty is not “the Christian way to go about things.” Since her father’s execution, she’s attended other execution watches.The latest one was on Tuesday, for Summer Shockley’s father.