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>

TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids says she’s embarking on a four-city sweep — all locations outside her congressional district — to learn more about Kansans’ priorities for the federal government.

In an interview, the Kansas Democrat said she planned to be in the Statehouse on Thursday with Gov. Laura Kelly and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Kevin Willmott. She has scheduled a Friday tour of aerospace research facilities at Wichita State University before visiting small businesses Saturday in Dodge City and a dairy Sunday in Colby.

“I’m just looking forward to showing up, meeting people and making sure that folks’ voices continue to shape the work we’re doing,” Davids said. “I’m looking at this tour as really a chance to go a bit deeper on certain topics, connect with more communities and really listen to folks.”

In addition to opportunities for lowering consumer costs, Davids said she expected to discuss ideas for protecting jobs, strengthening health care and keeping families safe because “strong communities make a strong Kansas.”

“Groceries, health care, gas — I mean everything is so expensive right now,” she said. “There’s too many policies coming out of D.C. that are causing more chaos. It’s not that they’re not making life easier, they’re actually making life harder for some people.”

Davids represents the state’s 3rd Congressional District, which is centered on Johnson County. It also covers Anderson, Franklin and Miami counties and half of Wyandotte County.

So far, Kansas Republicans have failed to gather sufficient support in the Legislature for redrawing boundaries of the four U.S. House districts in a bid to make it difficult for Davids to win reelection in November. Redistricting has been part of a White House strategy to gerrymander Democrats out of Congress. If the tactic worked as President Donald Trump sought, it could result in the GOP retaining control of the U.S. House through the remainder of Trump’s term.

Davids opposed plans by the Legislature to change Kansas’ congressional districts ahead of 2026 elections. She has considered running for reelection to the U.S. House or campaigning for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Roger Marshall.

“I can say this tour isn’t about some kind of announcement for something different,” she said. “With the conversations around the extreme mid-decade redistricting, I’ve said this before, that no options are off the table. Right now, my focus really is on doing the best job I can by showing up, listening and delivering real results.”

It has been unclear whether the Legislature would redraw maps this session, but several GOP candidates for Kansas governor have endorsed pursuit of a new map.

“I’m going to continue to watch closely,” Davids said. “I didn’t get here by taking anything for granted.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769713482593.png" alt="U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, plans to visit with voters outside her 3rd congressional district anchored by Johnson County to talk about their priorities for addressing affordability issues, including health care and jobs, (Kansas Reflector screen capture from U.S. House YouTube channel)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, plans to visit with voters outside her 3rd congressional district anchored by Johnson County to talk about their priorities for addressing affordability issues, including health care and jobs, (Kansas Reflector screen capture from U.S. House YouTube channel)</figcaption>
 </figure>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>TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids says she’s embarking on a four-city sweep — all locations outside her congressional district — to learn more about Kansans’ priorities for the federal government.In an interview, the Kansas Democrat said she planned to be in the Statehouse on Thursday with Gov. Laura Kelly and Academy Award-winning filmmaker Kevin Willmott. She has scheduled a Friday tour of aerospace research facilities at Wichita State University before visiting small businesses Saturday in Dodge City and a dairy Sunday in Colby.“I’m just looking forward to showing up, meeting people and making sure that folks’ voices continue to shape the work we’re doing,” Davids said. “I’m looking at this tour as really a chance to go a bit deeper on certain topics, connect with more communities and really listen to folks.”In addition to opportunities for lowering consumer costs, Davids said she expected to discuss ideas for protecting jobs, strengthening health care and keeping families safe because “strong communities make a strong Kansas.”“Groceries, health care, gas — I mean everything is so expensive right now,” she said. “There’s too many policies coming out of D.C. that are causing more chaos. It’s not that they’re not making life easier, they’re actually making life harder for some people.”Davids represents the state’s 3rd Congressional District, which is centered on Johnson County. It also covers Anderson, Franklin and Miami counties and half of Wyandotte County.So far, Kansas Republicans have failed to gather sufficient support in the Legislature for redrawing boundaries of the four U.S. House districts in a bid to make it difficult for Davids to win reelection in November. Redistricting has been part of a White House strategy to gerrymander Democrats out of Congress. If the tactic worked as President Donald Trump sought, it could result in the GOP retaining control of the U.S. House through the remainder of Trump’s term.Davids opposed plans by the Legislature to change Kansas’ congressional districts ahead of 2026 elections. She has considered running for reelection to the U.S. House or campaigning for the U.S. Senate seat held by Republican Roger Marshall.“I can say this tour isn’t about some kind of announcement for something different,” she said. “With the conversations around the extreme mid-decade redistricting, I’ve said this before, that no options are off the table. Right now, my focus really is on doing the best job I can by showing up, listening and delivering real results.”It has been unclear whether the Legislature would redraw maps this session, but several GOP candidates for Kansas governor have endorsed pursuit of a new map.“I’m going to continue to watch closely,” Davids said. “I didn’t get here by taking anything for granted.”

U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids prepares to tour areas of Kansas far beyond her House district

Critics say the foundation’s mission is vague, leaving questions about how taxpayer dollars will be used

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/squinn/">Steph Quinn</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A $250,000 earmark in Missouri’s budget for a nonprofit founded by former Gov. Mike Parson — including money drawn from a federal program designed to help low-income families — raised red flags for Democratic lawmakers Wednesday, who questioned how and why the money was requested by the executive branch.

The nonprofit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iiitbiiutm.org/" target="_blank">The 57 Foundation</a>, takes its name from Parson’s tenure as Missouri’s 57th governor. In&nbsp;<a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/331372792/202501829349300410/full" target="_blank">federal tax filings</a>, the organization says its mission is to “provide a facility to educate the public on the history of Gov. Parson’s life and administration.”

The filings also describe plans for “straightforward charitable giving” aimed at helping “only those who are inadequately able to help themselves.”

Gov. Mike Kehoe’s proposed budget directs $125,000 in general revenue and another $125,000 from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, or TANF, to the foundation. Beyond a brief description that the group provides “essential resources and support” to Missourians in need,&nbsp;<a href="https://budplan.oa.mo.gov/media/pdf/fy27-dss-appropriation-book-governors-recommendations" target="_blank">the budget</a>&nbsp;offers no details on how the money would be used.

“I find it really hard to believe that the nonprofit that is best situated to serve the constituents of Missouri just happens to be the former governor,” said state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

State lawmakers repeatedly asked staff from the Missouri Department of Social Services about criteria used to identify organizations to receive funding or cuts. Staff said that for The 57 Foundation, they only have the description included in Kehoe’s proposed budget.&nbsp;

Gabby Picard, a spokesperson for the Governor’s Office, quoted that description in an email to The Independent and said the budget recommendation is not intended to fund a gubernatorial library.

Some lawmakers queried other funding recommendations affecting organizations located in their districts and expressed displeasure when department staff were unable to provide explanations of spending recommendations.

Much of their scrutiny concerned Missouri’s proposed use of&nbsp;<a href="https://acf.gov/ofa/programs/temporary-assistance-needy-families-tanf" target="_blank">TANF funds</a>. Federal law requires states to use the federal funds to help low-income families meet basic needs — namely, through a&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/temporary-assistance/apply" target="_blank">cash assistance</a>&nbsp;program and employment and training services mandated for recipients. States can decide how to use the rest of the funding, though programs they fund must further TANF goals.

Democratic State Rep. Raychel Proudie of Ferguson told The Independent that the earmark for The 57 Foundation is an example of a lack of oversight of how taxpayer dollars are spent.

“It doesn’t appear that our departments are doing due diligence when they are appropriating these funds,” Proudie said. “They’re getting the money out the door, but not in a way that meets the needs of the community.”

Proudie said it is ultimately lawmakers’ responsibility to prevent fraud and wasteful spending.

“It’s on us, first and foremost, and secondarily, it’s on these state departments,” Proudie said.

The 57 Foundation was created in the waning months of Parson’s final term as governor in 2024. Its president is Tom Burcham, a former Republican state lawmaker from Farmington who also serves as treasurer for the political action committee created to boost Parson’s 2020 gubernatorial campaign, Uniting Missouri.&nbsp;

After Parson won a full term in 2020, the PAC&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/pro-parson-pac-has-spent-110k-on-private-plane-expenses-so-far-in-2023/">shifted</a>&nbsp;from supporting his political career to largely paying for his travel — including spending around $120,000 for Parson’s trips to watch the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowls.

Uniting Missouri also donated $100,000 to support Kehoe’s run for governor in 2024. Parson appointed Kehoe lieutenant governor in 2018.

An email to The 57 Foundation seeking comment was not returned on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Social Services Director Jess Bax said her agency will provide lawmakers with additional information and that the department supports Kehoe’s recommendations.

“The governor had to make really tough decisions in a budget year where we don’t have enough funding,” Bax said. “So we do support his recommendations.”

Democratic State Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins of St. Louis pressed department staff about their stance on blanket support for Kehoe’s recommendations, asking why The 57 Foundation is worthy of state funding.

“What is it about this particular item that you support, to support the health and well-being of children and families?” Collins asked.

The department’s chief financial officer, Patrick Luebbering, said his team worked with the Office of Administration to identify areas to reduce funding. He added that when little information is available about an organization, the department relies on the governor’s judgment.

“The governor is our boss, and we trust him,” Luebbering said. “Items like these, even though we don’t have all the information, we assume that what he’s doing is right.”

Republican State Rep. Darin Chappell of Rogersville, chair of the House appropriations subcommittee covering social services, said “the fiscal accountability that we’re asking of the departments is fair and right.” And he encouraged lawmakers to come to him with feedback about Kehoe’s budget recommendations and to make the case for organizations they see as deserving state appropriations.

“It warms the cockles of my heart to hear the bipartisan support for the very principles of budgeting that I’ve been screaming about for three years,” Chappell said.

State lawmakers insisted on asking their questions about funding recommendations in the public hearing even if department staff didn’t have the answers on hand.

Fogle said she has been “frustrated” in her six years on the committee about the difficulty of getting answers from departments about budget recommendations.

“I do expect,” Fogle said, “if the department is going to support the governor’s recommendations, that they can answer baseline questions about the things that they’re requesting funds for.”&nbsp;

Collins said to Bax that she doesn’t think some of the organizations that would receive funding in the proposed budget are helping Missourians in need.

“I am in all of these meetings, and some of these organizations we’ve never even heard of,” Collins said. “We’ve never seen them lift up [anyone]…. And so I just find it jaw-dropping that you all are stating that we support the governor’s recommendations, but you don’t know what some of these organizations do. That’s heartbreaking.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769702066821.png" alt="State lawmakers requested details about an earmark in Missouri's budget for a nonprofit established by former Gov. Mike Parson, pictured here leaving Gov. Mike Kehoe's inauguration in January 2025 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>State lawmakers requested details about an earmark in Missouri's budget for a nonprofit established by former Gov. Mike Parson, pictured here leaving Gov. Mike Kehoe's inauguration in January 2025 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Critics say the foundation’s mission is vague, leaving questions about how taxpayer dollars will be used</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/squinn/">Steph Quinn</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A $250,000 earmark in Missouri’s budget for a nonprofit founded by former Gov. Mike Parson — including money drawn from a federal program designed to help low-income families — raised red flags for Democratic lawmakers Wednesday, who questioned how and why the money was requested by the executive branch.The nonprofit,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.iiitbiiutm.org/" target="_blank">The 57 Foundation</a>, takes its name from Parson’s tenure as Missouri’s 57th governor. In&nbsp;<a href="https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/331372792/202501829349300410/full" target="_blank">federal tax filings</a>, the organization says its mission is to “provide a facility to educate the public on the history of Gov. Parson’s life and administration.”The filings also describe plans for “straightforward charitable giving” aimed at helping “only those who are inadequately able to help themselves.”Gov. Mike Kehoe’s proposed budget directs $125,000 in general revenue and another $125,000 from the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, or TANF, to the foundation. Beyond a brief description that the group provides “essential resources and support” to Missourians in need,&nbsp;<a href="https://budplan.oa.mo.gov/media/pdf/fy27-dss-appropriation-book-governors-recommendations" target="_blank">the budget</a>&nbsp;offers no details on how the money would be used.“I find it really hard to believe that the nonprofit that is best situated to serve the constituents of Missouri just happens to be the former governor,” said state Rep. Betsy Fogle of Springfield, ranking Democrat on the House Budget Committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;State lawmakers repeatedly asked staff from the Missouri Department of Social Services about criteria used to identify organizations to receive funding or cuts. Staff said that for The 57 Foundation, they only have the description included in Kehoe’s proposed budget.&nbsp;Gabby Picard, a spokesperson for the Governor’s Office, quoted that description in an email to The Independent and said the budget recommendation is not intended to fund a gubernatorial library.Some lawmakers queried other funding recommendations affecting organizations located in their districts and expressed displeasure when department staff were unable to provide explanations of spending recommendations.Much of their scrutiny concerned Missouri’s proposed use of&nbsp;<a href="https://acf.gov/ofa/programs/temporary-assistance-needy-families-tanf" target="_blank">TANF funds</a>. Federal law requires states to use the federal funds to help low-income families meet basic needs — namely, through a&nbsp;<a href="https://mydss.mo.gov/temporary-assistance/apply" target="_blank">cash assistance</a>&nbsp;program and employment and training services mandated for recipients. States can decide how to use the rest of the funding, though programs they fund must further TANF goals.Democratic State Rep. Raychel Proudie of Ferguson told The Independent that the earmark for The 57 Foundation is an example of a lack of oversight of how taxpayer dollars are spent.“It doesn’t appear that our departments are doing due diligence when they are appropriating these funds,” Proudie said. “They’re getting the money out the door, but not in a way that meets the needs of the community.”Proudie said it is ultimately lawmakers’ responsibility to prevent fraud and wasteful spending.“It’s on us, first and foremost, and secondarily, it’s on these state departments,” Proudie said.The 57 Foundation was created in the waning months of Parson’s final term as governor in 2024. Its president is Tom Burcham, a former Republican state lawmaker from Farmington who also serves as treasurer for the political action committee created to boost Parson’s 2020 gubernatorial campaign, Uniting Missouri.&nbsp;After Parson won a full term in 2020, the PAC&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/pro-parson-pac-has-spent-110k-on-private-plane-expenses-so-far-in-2023/">shifted</a>&nbsp;from supporting his political career to largely paying for his travel — including spending around $120,000 for Parson’s trips to watch the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowls.Uniting Missouri also donated $100,000 to support Kehoe’s run for governor in 2024. Parson appointed Kehoe lieutenant governor in 2018.An email to The 57 Foundation seeking comment was not returned on Wednesday.&nbsp;Social Services Director Jess Bax said her agency will provide lawmakers with additional information and that the department supports Kehoe’s recommendations.“The governor had to make really tough decisions in a budget year where we don’t have enough funding,” Bax said. “So we do support his recommendations.”Democratic State Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins of St. Louis pressed department staff about their stance on blanket support for Kehoe’s recommendations, asking why The 57 Foundation is worthy of state funding.“What is it about this particular item that you support, to support the health and well-being of children and families?” Collins asked.The department’s chief financial officer, Patrick Luebbering, said his team worked with the Office of Administration to identify areas to reduce funding. He added that when little information is available about an organization, the department relies on the governor’s judgment.“The governor is our boss, and we trust him,” Luebbering said. “Items like these, even though we don’t have all the information, we assume that what he’s doing is right.”Republican State Rep. Darin Chappell of Rogersville, chair of the House appropriations subcommittee covering social services, said “the fiscal accountability that we’re asking of the departments is fair and right.” And he encouraged lawmakers to come to him with feedback about Kehoe’s budget recommendations and to make the case for organizations they see as deserving state appropriations.“It warms the cockles of my heart to hear the bipartisan support for the very principles of budgeting that I’ve been screaming about for three years,” Chappell said.State lawmakers insisted on asking their questions about funding recommendations in the public hearing even if department staff didn’t have the answers on hand.Fogle said she has been “frustrated” in her six years on the committee about the difficulty of getting answers from departments about budget recommendations.“I do expect,” Fogle said, “if the department is going to support the governor’s recommendations, that they can answer baseline questions about the things that they’re requesting funds for.”&nbsp;Collins said to Bax that she doesn’t think some of the organizations that would receive funding in the proposed budget are helping Missourians in need.“I am in all of these meetings, and some of these organizations we’ve never even heard of,” Collins said. “We’ve never seen them lift up [anyone]…. And so I just find it jaw-dropping that you all are stating that we support the governor’s recommendations, but you don’t know what some of these organizations do. That’s heartbreaking.”

Democrats question $250K budget earmark for former Missouri governor’s foundation

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨 BOOM! I love this sht! <a href="https://t.co/7WSEmPNosJ">pic.twitter.com/7WSEmPNosJ</a>&mdash; Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) <a href="https://twitter.com/GuntherEagleman/status/2016712467825537506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Democrat hero nurse Alex Pretti screaming, “Fucking assault me motherfucker, fucking trash,” before spitting on ice agents and kicking out their tail lights. This guy was not emotionally well, may well have been psychotic, and was begging to be attacked: <a href="https://t.co/FmIVAifOJh">pic.twitter.com/FmIVAifOJh</a>&mdash; Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClayTravis/status/2016715318240895086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 New videos show Alex Pretti scuffle with officers days before his death

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a child and have made two arrests.

Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police t responded to a medical call in the 500 block of SW Buchanan Street in Topeka, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Topeka Police Department officers located a 5-year-old girl who was transported by AMR to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She was pronounced deceased.

As a result of the investigation, 24-year-old Lia Corbin and 25-year-old Kyle Valle, both of Topeka, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of First Degree Murder, Aggravated endangering of a child and Abuse of a child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769652518585.png" alt="Valle photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Valle photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a child and have made two arrests.Just before 6:30p.m. Tuesday, police t responded to a medical call in the 500 block of SW Buchanan Street in Topeka, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769652056338.png" alt="Corbin photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Corbin photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Upon arrival, Topeka Police Department officers located a 5-year-old girl who was transported by AMR to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. She was pronounced deceased.As a result of the investigation, 24-year-old Lia Corbin and 25-year-old Kyle Valle, both of Topeka, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of First Degree Murder, Aggravated endangering of a child and Abuse of a child.

Kansas couple accused in abuse death of 5-year-old

DOUGLAS COUNTY — A group of four suspected scammers tried to make&nbsp; Walmart stores in Lawrence their next target, but the responding police officer called in the Kansas Highway Patrol to catch up with them and put an end to their travel plans, according to Lawrence Police.

A Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, at the request of a Lawrence police, pulled the group over on Interstate 70 just west of Bonner Springs about 10:30 Tuesday night.&nbsp;

 Lawrence Officers then traveled to the scene and found suspected stolen merchandise, more than $6,000 in cash, numerous potentially fraudulent receipts, and evidence that the spree spread through the Kansas City metro area.

It began when officers were dispatched to Walmart on 33rd&nbsp;and Iowa in Lawrence about 9:30pm.&nbsp; The store’s alert asset manager told the officer he knew something was suspicious and had knowledge of similar scams.&nbsp;

We will detail the suspected deception here hoping it arms retailers with information to combat the elaborate scam.

Here’s how it works:&nbsp;The purchaser uses a fake card with specific instructions on the back.&nbsp; One of the cards in this case read, “ATTENTION: If cardholder exceeds daily limit for future transactions cashier must follow 2 step verification: SCAN ALL items, Input EXACT AMOUNT + ENTER to complete transaction.”&nbsp; It is our understanding that the purchaser then only partially slides the card into the payment device and when the cashier presses cash, the drawer opens and a receipt is printed.&nbsp; The cashier then believes the transaction is successful.&nbsp;Several variations of the scam likely exist -- all intended to intimidate and fool cashiers.

During Tuesday night’s interaction, four men approached a variety of cashiers with separate purchases and with returns including receipts. Some purchases were completed and some were not.&nbsp; As cashiers became suspicious, they contacted the asset manager. The manager got a description of the vehicle the men left in and called dispatch.

In total, the group left with about $4,400 worth of cash and merchandise.

The responding officer immediately alerted his fellow Lawrence officers and the Highway Patrol to be on the lookout for the vehicle. Officers ultimately learned that the men were in a car they rented in Michigan. They also recovered receipts worth thousands of dollars from various stores around Kansas City and another Lawarence Walmart.&nbsp; LKPD is in contact with the corresponding police departments and the investigation continues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769633124275.jpeg" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY — A group of four suspected scammers tried to make&nbsp; Walmart stores in Lawrence their next target, but the responding police officer called in the Kansas Highway Patrol to catch up with them and put an end to their travel plans, according to Lawrence Police.A Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, at the request of a Lawrence police, pulled the group over on Interstate 70 just west of Bonner Springs about 10:30 Tuesday night.&nbsp; Lawrence Officers then traveled to the scene and found suspected stolen merchandise, more than $6,000 in cash, numerous potentially fraudulent receipts, and evidence that the spree spread through the Kansas City metro area.It began when officers were dispatched to Walmart on 33rd&nbsp;and Iowa in Lawrence about 9:30pm.&nbsp; The store’s alert asset manager told the officer he knew something was suspicious and had knowledge of similar scams.&nbsp;We will detail the suspected deception here hoping it arms retailers with information to combat the elaborate scam.Here’s how it works:&nbsp;The purchaser uses a fake card with specific instructions on the back.&nbsp; One of the cards in this case read, “ATTENTION: If cardholder exceeds daily limit for future transactions cashier must follow 2 step verification: SCAN ALL items, Input EXACT AMOUNT + ENTER to complete transaction.”&nbsp; It is our understanding that the purchaser then only partially slides the card into the payment device and when the cashier presses cash, the drawer opens and a receipt is printed.&nbsp; The cashier then believes the transaction is successful.&nbsp;Several variations of the scam likely exist -- all intended to intimidate and fool cashiers.During Tuesday night’s interaction, four men approached a variety of cashiers with separate purchases and with returns including receipts. Some purchases were completed and some were not.&nbsp; As cashiers became suspicious, they contacted the asset manager. The manager got a description of the vehicle the men left in and called dispatch.In total, the group left with about $4,400 worth of cash and merchandise.The responding officer immediately alerted his fellow Lawrence officers and the Highway Patrol to be on the lookout for the vehicle. Officers ultimately learned that the men were in a car they rented in Michigan. They also recovered receipts worth thousands of dollars from various stores around Kansas City and another Lawarence Walmart.&nbsp; LKPD is in contact with the corresponding police departments and the investigation continues.

Police detail elaborate scam uncovered at Kansas retailer

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate floor to honor the victims of the January 29th, 2025, tragedy that occurred nearly a year ago when Flight 5342, originating from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport (DCA), resulting in the loss of 67 lives.

“A year later, the memory of this tragedy, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.”“I can’t imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“This week, their loss must feel especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash. Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and cherish their memories.”

Sen. Moran’s full remarks as prepared:

“Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor the 67 lives we lost nearly one year ago on January 29th, 2025.“On that night, Flight 5342 took off from Wichita, Kansas and flew toward our nation’s capital with 64 on board.“In Washington, D.C., a Black Hawk helicopter with three Army soldiers would soon be in the air as well.“Flight 5342 was just minutes away from a safe landing at Reagan National Airport, when the plane and Army helicopter collided over the Potomac River.

“Shortly after 9:00 pm, I received a call with the news that a flight from Kansas was involved in an accident in our nation’s capital. As I made my way to Reagan National Airport that night, the banks of the Potomac River were illuminated with lights from emergency responders who were searching the icy water of a crash site.

“At the airport, I was joined by local leaders and newly sworn in Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. Our conversation that night was one of many that would span the course of the following year trying to understand how an accident like this could occur and how to prevent it from happening again.

“At the airport we learned the tragic news that there were no survivors. Of those who perished, seven were Kansans:“Kiah Duggins – a civil rights attorney and Wichita native – was set to begin teaching at Howard University School of Law.“Lindsey Fields – a professor at Butler Community College and the president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers – was traveling to our nation’s capital to advocate for the issues that mattered to her.“Bob and Lori Schrock – farmers from Kiowa, Kansas – were on their way to visit their daughter at college in Pennsylvania.

“Grace Maxwell – an engineering student from Wichita – was returning to college after attending her grandfather’s funeral in Kansas.

“Dustin Miller, an IT professional who grew up in El Dorado and was a lifelong Chiefs fan, told his mom he was going to try to make it back in time to watch his team play in the Super Bowl.“P.J. Diaz, of Wichita, was described by his loved ones as a world traveler who had been to 49 states. He especially loved cruises and had an extra-long cruise planned for later in the year.

“Sadly, 28 members of the U.S. Figure Skating community also lost their lives – young athletes traveling back from a National Development Camp in Wichita with their coaches and family members.“Maxim Naumov, a 24-year-old U.S. figure skater, lost both his parents, in the accident.

“In the wake of this tragedy, Maxim used his love of skating to overcome immense loss and now heads to the 2026 Olympic games, just weeks away, to achieve the lifelong dream he had shared with his parents. We all will be cheering him on.

“A year later, the memory of this night, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news. The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.

“As we mourn the victims, we also remember the heroism, solidarity and love displayed that night. Hundreds of first responders worked tirelessly through the night and into the coming days. Strangers offered comfort, and people checked on their neighbors.

“Since January 29th, the families of the victims have tried to find meaning and purpose after the death of their loved ones and worked to eliminate the likelihood of an accident like this ever happening again.

“One family in particular, Tim and Sheri Lilley, lost their son, Sam, a co-pilot for Flight 5342. Following the tragic accident, the Lilley family have used their voice to become advocates for safer skies in honor of their son, Sam.

“I’m grateful for the advocacy of the families of the victims over the last year as they worked to advocate for changes at FAA and congressional legislation like the ROTOR Act.

“Thanks to their support, the Senate advanced this critical legislation last year. This was an important step, but our progress has been stalled in the House. The National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing just yesterday further confirmed that this legislation could have made a difference on January 29th.

“We cannot afford to waste any more time. I urgently insist the House of Representative quickly pass this legislation or amend it and pass it so we can find consensus.

“I want to commend the NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and her team on their thorough investigation into the crash. Their report will guide Congress in the coming weeks in our efforts to ensure the safety of our skies.

“In addition to passing and implementing ROTOR Act, Congress must hold a hearing after the NTSB releases its final written report to review the findings and recommendations of the NTSB, determine what, if any, congressional action is necessary to implement these recommendations and make certain the FAA and Army are making the recommended changes, provide funding for further modernization of our aviation system, advance new technology at the FAA and train and support air traffic controllers.

“We cannot miss the moment to act and ensure lasting change.

“I cannot imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th. This week, their loss must be felt especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash.&nbsp;

“Tonight, I want to remember those who perished. Sixty-seven lives that ended too soon.

“Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and remember those we loved who lost their lives.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738545032561.png" alt="During the recovery effort one year ago =Photo U.S. Coast Guard" />
 <figcaption>During the recovery effort one year ago =Photo U.S. Coast Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate floor to honor the victims of the January 29th, 2025, tragedy that occurred nearly a year ago when Flight 5342, originating from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport (DCA), resulting in the loss of 67 lives.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e5g29-fqpdQ?si=6pwij8HgHOyJGFN-&amp;start=1" 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>“A year later, the memory of this tragedy, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.”“I can’t imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“This week, their loss must feel especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash. Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and cherish their memories.”Sen. Moran’s full remarks as prepared:“Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor the 67 lives we lost nearly one year ago on January 29th, 2025.“On that night, Flight 5342 took off from Wichita, Kansas and flew toward our nation’s capital with 64 on board.“In Washington, D.C., a Black Hawk helicopter with three Army soldiers would soon be in the air as well.“Flight 5342 was just minutes away from a safe landing at Reagan National Airport, when the plane and Army helicopter collided over the Potomac River.“Shortly after 9:00 pm, I received a call with the news that a flight from Kansas was involved in an accident in our nation’s capital. As I made my way to Reagan National Airport that night, the banks of the Potomac River were illuminated with lights from emergency responders who were searching the icy water of a crash site.“At the airport, I was joined by local leaders and newly sworn in Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. Our conversation that night was one of many that would span the course of the following year trying to understand how an accident like this could occur and how to prevent it from happening again.“At the airport we learned the tragic news that there were no survivors. Of those who perished, seven were Kansans:“Kiah Duggins – a civil rights attorney and Wichita native – was set to begin teaching at Howard University School of Law.“Lindsey Fields – a professor at Butler Community College and the president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers – was traveling to our nation’s capital to advocate for the issues that mattered to her.“Bob and Lori Schrock – farmers from Kiowa, Kansas – were on their way to visit their daughter at college in Pennsylvania.“Grace Maxwell – an engineering student from Wichita – was returning to college after attending her grandfather’s funeral in Kansas.“Dustin Miller, an IT professional who grew up in El Dorado and was a lifelong Chiefs fan, told his mom he was going to try to make it back in time to watch his team play in the Super Bowl.“P.J. Diaz, of Wichita, was described by his loved ones as a world traveler who had been to 49 states. He especially loved cruises and had an extra-long cruise planned for later in the year.“Sadly, 28 members of the U.S. Figure Skating community also lost their lives – young athletes traveling back from a National Development Camp in Wichita with their coaches and family members.“Maxim Naumov, a 24-year-old U.S. figure skater, lost both his parents, in the accident.“In the wake of this tragedy, Maxim used his love of skating to overcome immense loss and now heads to the 2026 Olympic games, just weeks away, to achieve the lifelong dream he had shared with his parents. We all will be cheering him on.“A year later, the memory of this night, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news. The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.“As we mourn the victims, we also remember the heroism, solidarity and love displayed that night. Hundreds of first responders worked tirelessly through the night and into the coming days. Strangers offered comfort, and people checked on their neighbors.“Since January 29th, the families of the victims have tried to find meaning and purpose after the death of their loved ones and worked to eliminate the likelihood of an accident like this ever happening again.“One family in particular, Tim and Sheri Lilley, lost their son, Sam, a co-pilot for Flight 5342. Following the tragic accident, the Lilley family have used their voice to become advocates for safer skies in honor of their son, Sam.“I’m grateful for the advocacy of the families of the victims over the last year as they worked to advocate for changes at FAA and congressional legislation like the ROTOR Act.“Thanks to their support, the Senate advanced this critical legislation last year. This was an important step, but our progress has been stalled in the House. The National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing just yesterday further confirmed that this legislation could have made a difference on January 29th.“We cannot afford to waste any more time. I urgently insist the House of Representative quickly pass this legislation or amend it and pass it so we can find consensus.“I want to commend the NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and her team on their thorough investigation into the crash. Their report will guide Congress in the coming weeks in our efforts to ensure the safety of our skies.“In addition to passing and implementing ROTOR Act, Congress must hold a hearing after the NTSB releases its final written report to review the findings and recommendations of the NTSB, determine what, if any, congressional action is necessary to implement these recommendations and make certain the FAA and Army are making the recommended changes, provide funding for further modernization of our aviation system, advance new technology at the FAA and train and support air traffic controllers.“We cannot miss the moment to act and ensure lasting change.“I cannot imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th. This week, their loss must be felt especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash.&nbsp;“Tonight, I want to remember those who perished. Sixty-seven lives that ended too soon.“Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and remember those we loved who lost their lives.”

🎥 Senator Moran honors victims of Flight 5342 one year after DCA tragedy

The Missouri House held the first hearing on a proposed constitutional amendment to expand the state sales tax. The breadth of that expansion, House Speaker Jon Patterson said, will be decided by future lawmakers

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

During Wednesday’s hearing on Gov. Mike Kehoe’s plan to replace Missouri’s individual income tax with an expanded sales tax, the key word was trust.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR174&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;giving the legislature three years to overhaul state tax policies is open-ended —- it allows lawmakers to impose sales tax on any financial transaction exchanging goods or services.

In his&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/gov-mike-kehoe-wants-voters-to-decide-whether-missouri-should-eliminate-its-income-tax/">State of the State address</a>, the only parts of the economy Kehoe put off-limits was agriculture, health care and real estate. And as he presented the proposal to the House Commerce Committee, House Speaker Jon Patterson said everything else was up to lawmakers.

The state’s revenue needs will be protected by revenue triggers — at levels unstated in the proposed amendment — as the individual income tax is reduced and finally eliminated, Patterson said.

“It will be up to you to decide what trigger do we want, and make sure that it’s done in a responsible way, so that we don’t have things that have happened in other states,” Patterson said.

“So we’re asking the people to trust the legislature to raise their sales tax, to raise any other taxes that they see fit and to trust politicians to make those responsible decisions,” said state Rep. Nick Kimble, a Kansas City Democrat.&nbsp;

“Well, not any more than they trust you now,” Patterson said, triggering a round of laughter in the packed committee room.

The proposal, as written, puts nothing off limits. It includes a three-year exemption to the Missouri Constitution’s requirements that tax increases&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++18(e)&amp;bid=32055&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">win voter approval</a>&nbsp;and that any tax “upon or measured by fuel used for propelling highway motor vehicles” be&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++30(a)&amp;bid=31846&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">earmarked for road needs</a>.

Patterson’s proposal seeks to end the personal income tax as early as Jan. 1, 2031. Income taxes on businesses and trusts would continue.

The committee did not vote on Wednesday. The next regularly scheduled meeting is next Wednesday and a vote could be held at that time.

If the measure is approved in both the House and Senate, it could be on a ballot as early as August.

The push to replace Missouri’s individual income tax is an effort to modernize the state’s tax structure, Patterson said. The individual income tax was first enacted in 1917 and a sales tax began in 1937.

The income tax is a drag on the state’s economy compared to states that have no personal income tax, he said. And the sales tax, which mainly applies to physical goods, is outdated because services, such as online streaming services, are exempt, he added.

“This is the first step in a long, methodical process that will take place if the citizens so choose to modernize our tax system and give people fairness in the tax system that we have,” Patterson said.

To bolster his arguments, proponents brought Aaron Hedlund, chief economist at White House Council of Economic Advisers, and Grover Norquist, founder of Americans for Tax Reform.

Hedlund is a former University of Missouri professor who now teaches at Purdue University.&nbsp;

About 25 years ago, Hedlund said, Missouri generated about 2% of the U.S. economy, while the share now is 1.5%.

“I’m sick of Missouri losing,” he said. “For 25 years, we’ve oftentimes been in the bottom 10 of economic growth. Prior to the income tax reductions that started about a decade ago, we were oftentimes in the bottom five at economic growth. People are voting with their feet, and they’re not choosing Missouri.”

Democratic members of the committee were skeptical of whether the tax proposal was the way to solve that problem. House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, noted that Republicans have dominated Missouri politics for the past 25 years.

The GOP has controlled the state Senate since 2001, the Missouri House since 2003 and held the governor’s office for 14 of the past 26 years.

“I want to make the point that what we have been doing is not working,” Aune said. “I would posit that this is not the solution.”

Missouri’s personal income tax is almost flat, with a top rate of 4.7% on taxable incomes&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/forms/Withholding%20Formula_2026.pdf" target="_blank">greater than $9,436</a>. There are significant exemptions from the tax, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/07/missouri-will-exempt-social-security-public-pension-payments-from-state-income-taxes/">all Social Security payments</a>, a share of retirement income and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">capital gains</a>, which is profits from the sale of property or other assets.

The income tax generates about 65% of the state’s annual general revenue receipts, which were $13.4 billion in the year that ended June 30.

Sales tax is more complicated because local governments have a variety of levies they can put on the ballot. The basic state rate is 4.225%, with 3% dedicated to general revenue and the rest earmarked for public schools, conservation, state parks and soil conservation.

There are&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/pdf/rates/2026/jan2026.pdf" target="_blank">more than 50 locations</a>&nbsp;in the state where the total sales tax is 11% or higher after adding local option taxes.

Matching the current revenue from the individual income tax without expanding the transactions that are taxed would require raising the sales tax to nearly 13%. .

One of the main focuses of testimony during Wednesday’s hearing was who would bear the greatest burden under an expanded sales tax. Opponents of the measure said wealthier Missourians would see their taxes decrease substantially while people of limited means will pay more in taxes.

After deductions, a married couple with a total income of about $36,000 pays no state income tax. The sales tax, however, would hit every purchase they make, opponents said.

Figures from the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy show that people in the lowest 20% of income pay about one-third more of their income in sales and other taxes in Tennessee, Texas and Florida than the same group in Missouri, said Jeremy LaFaver, a lobbyist for the Missouri Budget Project.

The top 1% of income earners in Missouri pay 5.7%, he said, while the same group in Florida pays 2.7%.

“They rely largely on consumer based taxes that impact low income, fixed income people,” LaFaver said.&nbsp;

For one lawmaker, reducing the burden on high-income earners is a benefit of the plan.

Wealthy individuals run the businesses that employ Missourians, said state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson.

“The wealthy pay way more in taxes,” he said. “The percentage may look smaller, but they actually paid quite a bit more, and they are the foundation of our state’s tax base.”

Dennis Ganahl, founder of Mo Tax Relief Now, said the transactions that would be taxed are those used by wealthier people.

“The people with the lower incomes are just buying goods,” Granahl said. “They aren’t buying CPAs or masseuses or dog walkers or hair stylists or pedicurists or manicurists. All those are services that are used by wealthier people.”

Lower income Missourians use services that would be taxed, Aune responded.

“That is one of the wildest things I’ve heard in this building, if I’m being honest,” she said. “And I’ve heard some crazy stuff.”

The Missouri Constitution currently bans sales taxes on&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++25&amp;bid=32062&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">real estate transactions</a>&nbsp;and any&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++26&amp;bid=36205&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">transactions not currently taxed</a>. Both were added to the constitution after initiative petition campaigns organized by the Missouri Association of Realtors.

The campaigns cost $4.3 million to protect real estate sales from taxation in 2010 and $5.6 million to add protections against sales taxes on services.

Jason Zamkus, a lobbyist for the realtors, reminded the committee in his testimony that voters approved both measures by wide margins. Kehoe’s statements that he wants to exempt real estate are not included in the proposal, he noted.

“While we appreciate the governor’s statement in the State of the State that it’s his intent not to impact the real estate industry, unfortunately, the proposals that are pending before you currently are silent on that issue,” Zamkus said.&nbsp;

The Realtors could be one of the most important opposition groups if the measure doesn’t include the protections for real estate sales.&nbsp;

“If we were willing to spend that much a decade ago,” he said after testifying, “we are certainly going to fight to protect it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769685752350.png" alt=" Missouri House Speaker Jon Patterson, R-Lee’s Summit, presents his proposal for a statewide vote on eliminating the income tax Wednesday to the House Commerce Committee (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Missouri House Speaker Jon Patterson, R-Lee’s Summit, presents his proposal for a statewide vote on eliminating the income tax Wednesday to the House Commerce Committee (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The Missouri House held the first hearing on a proposed constitutional amendment to expand the state sales tax. The breadth of that expansion, House Speaker Jon Patterson said, will be decided by future lawmakers</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>During Wednesday’s hearing on Gov. Mike Kehoe’s plan to replace Missouri’s individual income tax with an expanded sales tax, the key word was trust.The&nbsp;<a href="https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HJR174&amp;year=2026&amp;code=R" target="_blank">proposed constitutional amendment</a>&nbsp;giving the legislature three years to overhaul state tax policies is open-ended —- it allows lawmakers to impose sales tax on any financial transaction exchanging goods or services.In his&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/13/gov-mike-kehoe-wants-voters-to-decide-whether-missouri-should-eliminate-its-income-tax/">State of the State address</a>, the only parts of the economy Kehoe put off-limits was agriculture, health care and real estate. And as he presented the proposal to the House Commerce Committee, House Speaker Jon Patterson said everything else was up to lawmakers.The state’s revenue needs will be protected by revenue triggers — at levels unstated in the proposed amendment — as the individual income tax is reduced and finally eliminated, Patterson said.“It will be up to you to decide what trigger do we want, and make sure that it’s done in a responsible way, so that we don’t have things that have happened in other states,” Patterson said.“So we’re asking the people to trust the legislature to raise their sales tax, to raise any other taxes that they see fit and to trust politicians to make those responsible decisions,” said state Rep. Nick Kimble, a Kansas City Democrat.&nbsp;“Well, not any more than they trust you now,” Patterson said, triggering a round of laughter in the packed committee room.The proposal, as written, puts nothing off limits. It includes a three-year exemption to the Missouri Constitution’s requirements that tax increases&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++18(e)&amp;bid=32055&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">win voter approval</a>&nbsp;and that any tax “upon or measured by fuel used for propelling highway motor vehicles” be&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=IV++++30(a)&amp;bid=31846&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">earmarked for road needs</a>.Patterson’s proposal seeks to end the personal income tax as early as Jan. 1, 2031. Income taxes on businesses and trusts would continue.The committee did not vote on Wednesday. The next regularly scheduled meeting is next Wednesday and a vote could be held at that time.If the measure is approved in both the House and Senate, it could be on a ballot as early as August.The push to replace Missouri’s individual income tax is an effort to modernize the state’s tax structure, Patterson said. The individual income tax was first enacted in 1917 and a sales tax began in 1937.The income tax is a drag on the state’s economy compared to states that have no personal income tax, he said. And the sales tax, which mainly applies to physical goods, is outdated because services, such as online streaming services, are exempt, he added.“This is the first step in a long, methodical process that will take place if the citizens so choose to modernize our tax system and give people fairness in the tax system that we have,” Patterson said.To bolster his arguments, proponents brought Aaron Hedlund, chief economist at White House Council of Economic Advisers, and Grover Norquist, founder of Americans for Tax Reform.Hedlund is a former University of Missouri professor who now teaches at Purdue University.&nbsp;About 25 years ago, Hedlund said, Missouri generated about 2% of the U.S. economy, while the share now is 1.5%.“I’m sick of Missouri losing,” he said. “For 25 years, we’ve oftentimes been in the bottom 10 of economic growth. Prior to the income tax reductions that started about a decade ago, we were oftentimes in the bottom five at economic growth. People are voting with their feet, and they’re not choosing Missouri.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769685701768.png" alt="House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, D-Kansas City, asks questions about a proposal for a statewide vote to eliminate the Missouri income tax on Wednesday during a hearing of the House Commerce Committee (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, D-Kansas City, asks questions about a proposal for a statewide vote to eliminate the Missouri income tax on Wednesday during a hearing of the House Commerce Committee (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>Democratic members of the committee were skeptical of whether the tax proposal was the way to solve that problem. House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, noted that Republicans have dominated Missouri politics for the past 25 years.The GOP has controlled the state Senate since 2001, the Missouri House since 2003 and held the governor’s office for 14 of the past 26 years.“I want to make the point that what we have been doing is not working,” Aune said. “I would posit that this is not the solution.”Missouri’s personal income tax is almost flat, with a top rate of 4.7% on taxable incomes&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/forms/Withholding%20Formula_2026.pdf" target="_blank">greater than $9,436</a>. There are significant exemptions from the tax, including&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/07/07/missouri-will-exempt-social-security-public-pension-payments-from-state-income-taxes/">all Social Security payments</a>, a share of retirement income and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/07/missouri-lawmakers-set-to-pass-capital-gains-tax-cut-with-questions-about-its-total-cost/">capital gains</a>, which is profits from the sale of property or other assets.The income tax generates about 65% of the state’s annual general revenue receipts, which were $13.4 billion in the year that ended June 30.Sales tax is more complicated because local governments have a variety of levies they can put on the ballot. The basic state rate is 4.225%, with 3% dedicated to general revenue and the rest earmarked for public schools, conservation, state parks and soil conservation.There are&nbsp;<a href="https://dor.mo.gov/pdf/rates/2026/jan2026.pdf" target="_blank">more than 50 locations</a>&nbsp;in the state where the total sales tax is 11% or higher after adding local option taxes.Matching the current revenue from the individual income tax without expanding the transactions that are taxed would require raising the sales tax to nearly 13%. .One of the main focuses of testimony during Wednesday’s hearing was who would bear the greatest burden under an expanded sales tax. Opponents of the measure said wealthier Missourians would see their taxes decrease substantially while people of limited means will pay more in taxes.After deductions, a married couple with a total income of about $36,000 pays no state income tax. The sales tax, however, would hit every purchase they make, opponents said.Figures from the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy show that people in the lowest 20% of income pay about one-third more of their income in sales and other taxes in Tennessee, Texas and Florida than the same group in Missouri, said Jeremy LaFaver, a lobbyist for the Missouri Budget Project.The top 1% of income earners in Missouri pay 5.7%, he said, while the same group in Florida pays 2.7%.“They rely largely on consumer based taxes that impact low income, fixed income people,” LaFaver said.&nbsp;For one lawmaker, reducing the burden on high-income earners is a benefit of the plan.Wealthy individuals run the businesses that employ Missourians, said state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Republican from Branson.“The wealthy pay way more in taxes,” he said. “The percentage may look smaller, but they actually paid quite a bit more, and they are the foundation of our state’s tax base.”Dennis Ganahl, founder of Mo Tax Relief Now, said the transactions that would be taxed are those used by wealthier people.“The people with the lower incomes are just buying goods,” Granahl said. “They aren’t buying CPAs or masseuses or dog walkers or hair stylists or pedicurists or manicurists. All those are services that are used by wealthier people.”Lower income Missourians use services that would be taxed, Aune responded.“That is one of the wildest things I’ve heard in this building, if I’m being honest,” she said. “And I’ve heard some crazy stuff.”The Missouri Constitution currently bans sales taxes on&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++25&amp;bid=32062&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">real estate transactions</a>&nbsp;and any&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++26&amp;bid=36205&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">transactions not currently taxed</a>. Both were added to the constitution after initiative petition campaigns organized by the Missouri Association of Realtors.The campaigns cost $4.3 million to protect real estate sales from taxation in 2010 and $5.6 million to add protections against sales taxes on services.Jason Zamkus, a lobbyist for the realtors, reminded the committee in his testimony that voters approved both measures by wide margins. Kehoe’s statements that he wants to exempt real estate are not included in the proposal, he noted.“While we appreciate the governor’s statement in the State of the State that it’s his intent not to impact the real estate industry, unfortunately, the proposals that are pending before you currently are silent on that issue,” Zamkus said.&nbsp;The Realtors could be one of the most important opposition groups if the measure doesn’t include the protections for real estate sales.&nbsp;“If we were willing to spend that much a decade ago,” he said after testifying, “we are certainly going to fight to protect it.”

Missouri GOP backs income tax repeal as critics warn sales taxes hit poor hardest

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court for robbing a local bank with the use of a firearm.

Richie E. Manley, 50, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough, to one count of aiding and abetting bank robbery, along with one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to the United State's Attorney.

On Oct. 3, 2024, at approximately 10:43 a.m., Richie E. Manley&nbsp;entered a bank in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; While speaking to a bank teller, Manley&nbsp;pulled out a handgun, later determined to be a Smith and Wesson, Model SD, .40 caliber pistol, and told the tellers “give me your money.” While pointing the pistol at the tellers, Manley told the tellers to give him the “hundreds.” The tellers provided the money from the bank drawers and Manley&nbsp;took the money and fled the bank. The bank reported an estimated loss of $2,155 from the robbery. The bank was federally insured by the FDIC.

Under federal statutes, Manley is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to life in federal prison without parole. The minimum and maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court for robbing a local bank with the use of a firearm.Richie E. Manley, 50, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough, to one count of aiding and abetting bank robbery, along with one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to the United State's Attorney.On Oct. 3, 2024, at approximately 10:43 a.m., Richie E. Manley&nbsp;entered a bank in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; While speaking to a bank teller, Manley&nbsp;pulled out a handgun, later determined to be a Smith and Wesson, Model SD, .40 caliber pistol, and told the tellers “give me your money.” While pointing the pistol at the tellers, Manley told the tellers to give him the “hundreds.” The tellers provided the money from the bank drawers and Manley&nbsp;took the money and fled the bank. The bank reported an estimated loss of $2,155 from the robbery. The bank was federally insured by the FDIC.Under federal statutes, Manley is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to life in federal prison without parole. The minimum and maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Armed suspect told KC bank teller to give me the “hundreds”

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase in central Kansas.

&nbsp;On Tuesday evening, police were dispatched to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a stolen vehicle, according to Salina Police&nbsp;Police Lt. Andrew Zeigler.

&nbsp;A silver&nbsp;2018 Ford Edge (valued at $20,000)&nbsp;was missing from the hospital's parking garage.&nbsp;A debit card and checkbook had also been left in the vehicle.&nbsp; It was determined the cards had been used at a couple of convenience stores in Salina.

Officers investigated the store and collected surveillance footage, as they spotted the vehicle in the&nbsp;1000 block of Park Street in Salina. When law enforcement arrived to the location, the vehicle fled and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle traveled through several yards in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Park Street and ended in an alleyway nearby. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Brent Corwin of Salina, then fled on foot and officers followed. A K9 was released and apprehended Corwin in the backyard of a residence on West Ash Street. Police booked Corwin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Theft, Obstruction and more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769612115567.jpeg" alt="Corwin photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Corwin photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase in central Kansas.&nbsp;On Tuesday evening, police were dispatched to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a stolen vehicle, according to Salina Police&nbsp;Police Lt. Andrew Zeigler.&nbsp;A silver&nbsp;2018 Ford Edge (valued at $20,000)&nbsp;was missing from the hospital's parking garage.&nbsp;A debit card and checkbook had also been left in the vehicle.&nbsp; It was determined the cards had been used at a couple of convenience stores in Salina.Officers investigated the store and collected surveillance footage, as they spotted the vehicle in the&nbsp;1000 block of Park Street in Salina. When law enforcement arrived to the location, the vehicle fled and a pursuit ensued.The vehicle traveled through several yards in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Park Street and ended in an alleyway nearby. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Brent Corwin of Salina, then fled on foot and officers followed. A K9 was released and apprehended Corwin in the backyard of a residence on West Ash Street. Police booked Corwin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Theft, Obstruction and more.

K9 tracks down suspect who took car from Kan. hospital parking garage

OSAGE COUNTY—On Wednesday, all three Osage County deputies who were injured in the line of duty on November 15th have returned to full duty.

"Over the past several months, the Osage County community has prayed, checked in, sent cards, brought food, and shown more support than we could ever put into words. Those prayers, that encouragement, and that kindness mattered more than you know—not just to the deputies, but to their families and to this entire Sheriff’s Office."

"These three deputies showed incredible strength, resilience, and determination through their recovery. Watching them fight to heal and return to the work they love has been nothing short of inspiring."

"We are blessed to have them back where they belong—serving the citizens of Osage County."

"Thank you to everyone who stood with us during this time. Your support helped us through, and today we are sharing some very good news with you."

"Osage County is lucky to have deputies like these."

On Saturday morning Nov. 15, the Osage County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at 11222 S. Topeka Ave. in Osage County after a female resident called 911, according to a media release from the KBI.

Law enforcement encountered a male suspect, identified as Stephen M. McMillan, 22, outside the residence. During the encounter, gunfire was exchanged. Three deputies and two KHP troopers fired during the incident. In the shooting, three deputies, one trooper, the suspect and a male resident were struck. The male resident was identified as the suspect's 77-year-old grandfather.

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded, cleared the residence, and rendered aid to the injured. All law enforcement officers were transported to Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center. The trooper was later transferred to KU Medical Center. The suspect's grandfather, 77, was also injured and taken to the hospital. McMillan was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769634014389.png" alt="Pictured from left: Sheriff Wells, Undersheriff Brenner, Deputy Moran, K9 Deputy Cason, Corporal Hartpence, Sergeant Knapp, and Lt. Nech" />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left: Sheriff Wells, Undersheriff Brenner, Deputy Moran, K9 Deputy Cason, Corporal Hartpence, Sergeant Knapp, and Lt. Nech</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—On Wednesday, all three Osage County deputies who were injured in the line of duty on November 15th have returned to full duty."Over the past several months, the Osage County community has prayed, checked in, sent cards, brought food, and shown more support than we could ever put into words. Those prayers, that encouragement, and that kindness mattered more than you know—not just to the deputies, but to their families and to this entire Sheriff’s Office."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763429453752.png" alt="Deputy Christian Moran, Corporal Clayton Hartpence, and K9 Deputy James Cason-Photos courtesy Osage County Sheriff's office" />
 <figcaption>Deputy Christian Moran, Corporal Clayton Hartpence, and K9 Deputy James Cason-Photos courtesy Osage County Sheriff's office</figcaption>
 </figure>"These three deputies showed incredible strength, resilience, and determination through their recovery. Watching them fight to heal and return to the work they love has been nothing short of inspiring.""We are blessed to have them back where they belong—serving the citizens of Osage County.""Thank you to everyone who stood with us during this time. Your support helped us through, and today we are sharing some very good news with you.""Osage County is lucky to have deputies like these."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763259271274.png" alt="Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene -Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the scene -Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday morning Nov. 15, the Osage County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at 11222 S. Topeka Ave. in Osage County after a female resident called 911, according to a media release from the KBI.Law enforcement encountered a male suspect, identified as Stephen M. McMillan, 22, outside the residence. During the encounter, gunfire was exchanged. Three deputies and two KHP troopers fired during the incident. In the shooting, three deputies, one trooper, the suspect and a male resident were struck. The male resident was identified as the suspect's 77-year-old grandfather.Multiple law enforcement agencies responded, cleared the residence, and rendered aid to the injured. All law enforcement officers were transported to Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center. The trooper was later transferred to KU Medical Center. The suspect's grandfather, 77, was also injured and taken to the hospital. McMillan was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Kan. deputies injured during domestic incident are back at work

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/mollygibbs/">Molly Gibbs</a>

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley on Tuesday called the shooting of an ICU nurse in Minneapolis “very troubling” and added that he welcomes investigations and hearings on the actions of Department of Homeland Security agents in the incident.

Video of the incident shows DHS agents pinning 37-year-old Alex Pretti to the ground and shooting him multiple times after disarming him. There is no video evidence that Pretti ever brandished his weapon, which he was licensed to carry.

In the uproar immediately following the incident, Missouri’s other senator, Eric Schmitt, defended DHS, accusing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of engaging in a “war on law enforcement.” Schmitt’s comments came before President Donald Trump’s Monday call with Walz, and his announcement that “we’re going to de-escalate a little bit.”

Schmitt was traveling back to Washington Tuesday and was unavailable for comment.

Hawley said he agreed with Trump that it is time to “turn the temperature down” in Minnesota.

When asked about the legality of the shooting, Hawley drew on his experience as Missouri’s attorney general, saying that he oversaw many police raids and that they are always dangerous.

“I am a firm believer in qualified immunity for law enforcement,” Hawley said. “But qualified immunity isn’t total immunity. The test there is: what would a reasonable person have done in those circumstances.”

Hawley said he wouldn’t recommend people carry firearms into an area where law enforcement is known to be conducting an operation, but added that Pretti’s decision to do so did not violate any law. In Missouri, the senator noted, a person would not even need a concealed carry permit, which Pretti had.

Pretti’s death, the second of two fatal shootings by DHS personnel during the agency’s surge in Minnesota, is creating the potential for a government shutdown at the end of the week.

The Senate faces a Friday deadline to approve a package of six funding bills for federal agencies, but Democrats, and some Republicans, say they want to reconsider the DHS funding package in light of what they consider the agency’s overreach in Minnesota.

Hawley said he wants to fund the Department of Homeland Security and keep the government open. Still, he said he will defer to Majority Leader U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., when it comes to delaying or amending funding for DHS.

Fletcher Mantooth contributed to this reporting.

This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/nation_world/hawley-says-investigation-of-troubling-dhs-shooting-is-necessary/article_617ad2bd-85bb-44ea-b794-981792f93af2.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769276764745.png" alt="Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/mollygibbs/">Molly Gibbs</a>WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley on Tuesday called the shooting of an ICU nurse in Minneapolis “very troubling” and added that he welcomes investigations and hearings on the actions of Department of Homeland Security agents in the incident.Video of the incident shows DHS agents pinning 37-year-old Alex Pretti to the ground and shooting him multiple times after disarming him. There is no video evidence that Pretti ever brandished his weapon, which he was licensed to carry.In the uproar immediately following the incident, Missouri’s other senator, Eric Schmitt, defended DHS, accusing Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz of engaging in a “war on law enforcement.” Schmitt’s comments came before President Donald Trump’s Monday call with Walz, and his announcement that “we’re going to de-escalate a little bit.”Schmitt was traveling back to Washington Tuesday and was unavailable for comment.Hawley said he agreed with Trump that it is time to “turn the temperature down” in Minnesota.When asked about the legality of the shooting, Hawley drew on his experience as Missouri’s attorney general, saying that he oversaw many police raids and that they are always dangerous.“I am a firm believer in qualified immunity for law enforcement,” Hawley said. “But qualified immunity isn’t total immunity. The test there is: what would a reasonable person have done in those circumstances.”Hawley said he wouldn’t recommend people carry firearms into an area where law enforcement is known to be conducting an operation, but added that Pretti’s decision to do so did not violate any law. In Missouri, the senator noted, a person would not even need a concealed carry permit, which Pretti had.Pretti’s death, the second of two fatal shootings by DHS personnel during the agency’s surge in Minnesota, is creating the potential for a government shutdown at the end of the week.The Senate faces a Friday deadline to approve a package of six funding bills for federal agencies, but Democrats, and some Republicans, say they want to reconsider the DHS funding package in light of what they consider the agency’s overreach in Minnesota.Hawley said he wants to fund the Department of Homeland Security and keep the government open. Still, he said he will defer to Majority Leader U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., when it comes to delaying or amending funding for DHS.Fletcher Mantooth contributed to this reporting.This story originally appeared in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/nation_world/hawley-says-investigation-of-troubling-dhs-shooting-is-necessary/article_617ad2bd-85bb-44ea-b794-981792f93af2.html#tncms-source=topstory" target="_blank">Columbia Missourian</a>. It can be republished in print or online.&nbsp;

Senator Hawley calls for investigation of ‘troubling’ Minneapolis shooting

Abortion is Murder seeks total ban; Satanic Grotto argues 1st Amendment claim

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</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;

TOPEKA — Preacher Nicholas Heald lifted a well-worn Bible and his booming voice Tuesday in the Capitol rotunda to declare abortion the equivalent of murder and to amplify a denunciation of the Kansas Legislature for refusing to pass a bill outlawing abortion services statewide.

Heald was surrounded on the third floor by like-minded activists — several wielding large posters with graphic images of a deceased fetus — who made certain House and Senate members, Republicans and Democrats alike, could witness their impatience with politicians reluctant to take a big leap toward ending abortion in Kansas.

He dismissed skeptics who argued such a bill wouldn’t pass the GOP-controlled Legislature or would be vetoed by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly or had no chance of surviving constitutional challenges before the Kansas Supreme Court.

“The legislators, our representatives, for far too long … have failed in your duty to establish equal justice protection for born and pre-born people,” Heald said. “We have come to you year after year after year … to protect every one of your pre-born neighbors, with no exceptions. And, you have failed. You have refused to do so for political reasons.”

“How much more blood will be on your hands as you sign more so-called pro-life bills that regulate murder?” he added.

His message was aimed, in part, at participants in the Kansas version of March for Life, who plan a rally noon Wednesday on south steps of the Capitol to press for new legal obstacles to reproductive rights. Those rights have been declared fundamental by the Kansas Supreme Court in decisions shielding the right of women to end a pregnancy.

On the first floor of the Capitol and on the south steps of the building, supporters of an organization known as Satanic Grotto took part in a much smaller but equally robust protest in support of reproductive choice.

More significantly, however, Satanic Grotto president Michael Stewart said the group was there to continue building the foundation of a potential First Amendment lawsuit challenging the state’s action to allow Abortion is Murder supporters to bring into the Statehouse posters with ghastly and bloody images but to forbid Satanic Grotto from doing likewise.

“We’re here to say that in Kansas there are horrific people who hang gory signs and harass women and are part of a movement that has a history of incredible violence here in Kansas,” said Stewart, who was taken into police custody in March 2025 at the Capitol while trying to tear a Bible in half and stomp on communion wafers. “We are game to play by the rules as long as everybody’s paying by the rules.”

Stewart referenced the 2009 murder of Wichita physician George Tiller, who at that time was among few U.S. doctors performing late-term abortions. He was shot to death in church by anti-abortion activist Scott Roeder, who confessed to the murder and defended the violence because “pre-born children’s lives were in imminent danger.”

Stewart said Satanic Grotto was a group of “independent satanists” who came together for a sense of community. In the process, they’ve taken on “kind of a sacred duty” to take part in the public debate about political speech at the Capitol. He said group members wanted the state government to know that “we’re serious about what we’re doing, that we’re documenting it and we’re giving them a chance to respond and fix these issues before it can upgrade to litigation.”

One result of Satanic Grotto’s activism would be to demonstrate that state officials at the Capitol engaged in selective enforcement of rules related to protest signs. Information being gathered, he said, would&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/20/kansas-satanic-grotto-files-complaint-about-abortion-rally-permit-approval-plans-counterprotest/">support a complaint filed with the Kansas Department of Administration</a>&nbsp;alleging the Christian anti-abortion group received preferential treatment and expression by people taking part in counterprotests against Abortion is Murder were treated unfairly.

Before the political clash of ideas Tuesday, Stewart said his colleagues had intended to haul a 9-foot-tall sculpture named “Zombie Jesus” onto the Statehouse grounds and into the Capitol. Due to bitter weather conditions, he said, they sidelined the massive piece of art.

In the Capitol, signs displayed by Abortion is Murder adherents included “If abortion is murder, the victim is the baby,” “Taking a pill to terminate a baby is murder with malice aforethought,” “What has 50+ years of incrementalism accomplished?” “Abortion is murder — It must and shall be abolished” and “Abolish Abortion: Thou shalt not murder.”

Other materials distributed during the Abortion is Murder event said: “Abolish child sacrifice — ban in vitro fertilization” and “Public Service Announcement: Women are not sex objects. Babies are not body parts.” One folding piece of literature illustrated blood-covered hands with a photograph of the remains of a fetus aborted at 10 weeks. The image was surrounded by citations of Bible scripture from Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Isaiah and Psalm. A similarly graphic handout contained the same photo with the text: “You know this is murder. Stop suppressing the truth. Demand the total and immediate abolition of abortion.”

Josh Eaton, a pastor at Cross Point Baptist Church in Caney, said most anti-abortion laws included exceptions that enabled women who received an abortion not to be charged with a crime. He said abolitionists wanted all laws applicable to murder cases to apply to abortions, including punishing anyone who coerced or forced a woman to have an abortion.

“If a man sneaks a pill into his girlfriend’s drink to cause her to have an abortion, he can be charged with murder of the child,” Eaton said. “But, if she drinks the pill herself, then she can’t be charged with anything. It’s a double standard.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769607480512.jpeg" alt="Clifton Boje, center in vest and holding the “Jesus Christ” sign on his shoulders, leads a rally Jan. 27, 2026, in the Capitol rotunda with allies in the Abortion is Murder organization. AIM wants the Kansas Legislature to pass a bill declaring abortion the equivalent of murder statewide. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Clifton Boje, center in vest and holding the “Jesus Christ” sign on his shoulders, leads a rally Jan. 27, 2026, in the Capitol rotunda with allies in the Abortion is Murder organization. AIM wants the Kansas Legislature to pass a bill declaring abortion the equivalent of murder statewide. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Abortion is Murder seeks total ban; Satanic Grotto argues 1st Amendment claim</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">Tim Carpenter</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">Morgan Chilson</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;TOPEKA — Preacher Nicholas Heald lifted a well-worn Bible and his booming voice Tuesday in the Capitol rotunda to declare abortion the equivalent of murder and to amplify a denunciation of the Kansas Legislature for refusing to pass a bill outlawing abortion services statewide.Heald was surrounded on the third floor by like-minded activists — several wielding large posters with graphic images of a deceased fetus — who made certain House and Senate members, Republicans and Democrats alike, could witness their impatience with politicians reluctant to take a big leap toward ending abortion in Kansas.He dismissed skeptics who argued such a bill wouldn’t pass the GOP-controlled Legislature or would be vetoed by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly or had no chance of surviving constitutional challenges before the Kansas Supreme Court.“The legislators, our representatives, for far too long … have failed in your duty to establish equal justice protection for born and pre-born people,” Heald said. “We have come to you year after year after year … to protect every one of your pre-born neighbors, with no exceptions. And, you have failed. You have refused to do so for political reasons.”“How much more blood will be on your hands as you sign more so-called pro-life bills that regulate murder?” he added.His message was aimed, in part, at participants in the Kansas version of March for Life, who plan a rally noon Wednesday on south steps of the Capitol to press for new legal obstacles to reproductive rights. Those rights have been declared fundamental by the Kansas Supreme Court in decisions shielding the right of women to end a pregnancy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769607424345.png" alt="Michael Stewart, president of the Satanic Grotto, says a counterprotest Jan. 27, 2026, to a rally inside the Capitol by Abortion is Murder, which seeks a total ban on abortion in Kansas, highlights inconsistency in the state’s handling of access to the Capitol. Stewart says Satanic Grotto faces discrimination by officials imposing on his group greater restrictions on expression than those faced by the anti-abortion organization inside the Statehouse. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Michael Stewart, president of the Satanic Grotto, says a counterprotest Jan. 27, 2026, to a rally inside the Capitol by Abortion is Murder, which seeks a total ban on abortion in Kansas, highlights inconsistency in the state’s handling of access to the Capitol. Stewart says Satanic Grotto faces discrimination by officials imposing on his group greater restrictions on expression than those faced by the anti-abortion organization inside the Statehouse. (Photo by Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Satanic voices</h2>On the first floor of the Capitol and on the south steps of the building, supporters of an organization known as Satanic Grotto took part in a much smaller but equally robust protest in support of reproductive choice.More significantly, however, Satanic Grotto president Michael Stewart said the group was there to continue building the foundation of a potential First Amendment lawsuit challenging the state’s action to allow Abortion is Murder supporters to bring into the Statehouse posters with ghastly and bloody images but to forbid Satanic Grotto from doing likewise.“We’re here to say that in Kansas there are horrific people who hang gory signs and harass women and are part of a movement that has a history of incredible violence here in Kansas,” said Stewart, who was taken into police custody in March 2025 at the Capitol while trying to tear a Bible in half and stomp on communion wafers. “We are game to play by the rules as long as everybody’s paying by the rules.”Stewart referenced the 2009 murder of Wichita physician George Tiller, who at that time was among few U.S. doctors performing late-term abortions. He was shot to death in church by anti-abortion activist Scott Roeder, who confessed to the murder and defended the violence because “pre-born children’s lives were in imminent danger.”Stewart said Satanic Grotto was a group of “independent satanists” who came together for a sense of community. In the process, they’ve taken on “kind of a sacred duty” to take part in the public debate about political speech at the Capitol. He said group members wanted the state government to know that “we’re serious about what we’re doing, that we’re documenting it and we’re giving them a chance to respond and fix these issues before it can upgrade to litigation.”One result of Satanic Grotto’s activism would be to demonstrate that state officials at the Capitol engaged in selective enforcement of rules related to protest signs. Information being gathered, he said, would&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/20/kansas-satanic-grotto-files-complaint-about-abortion-rally-permit-approval-plans-counterprotest/">support a complaint filed with the Kansas Department of Administration</a>&nbsp;alleging the Christian anti-abortion group received preferential treatment and expression by people taking part in counterprotests against Abortion is Murder were treated unfairly.Before the political clash of ideas Tuesday, Stewart said his colleagues had intended to haul a 9-foot-tall sculpture named “Zombie Jesus” onto the Statehouse grounds and into the Capitol. Due to bitter weather conditions, he said, they sidelined the massive piece of art.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769607362230.png" alt="Clifton Boje appears at the Jan. 27, 2026 Abortion is Murder Rally at the Statehouse-photo by Sherman Smith, Kansas Reflector" />
 <figcaption>Clifton Boje appears at the Jan. 27, 2026 Abortion is Murder Rally at the Statehouse-photo by Sherman Smith, Kansas Reflector</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Abortion as murder</h2>In the Capitol, signs displayed by Abortion is Murder adherents included “If abortion is murder, the victim is the baby,” “Taking a pill to terminate a baby is murder with malice aforethought,” “What has 50+ years of incrementalism accomplished?” “Abortion is murder — It must and shall be abolished” and “Abolish Abortion: Thou shalt not murder.”Other materials distributed during the Abortion is Murder event said: “Abolish child sacrifice — ban in vitro fertilization” and “Public Service Announcement: Women are not sex objects. Babies are not body parts.” One folding piece of literature illustrated blood-covered hands with a photograph of the remains of a fetus aborted at 10 weeks. The image was surrounded by citations of Bible scripture from Ezekiel, Jeremiah, Isaiah and Psalm. A similarly graphic handout contained the same photo with the text: “You know this is murder. Stop suppressing the truth. Demand the total and immediate abolition of abortion.”Josh Eaton, a pastor at Cross Point Baptist Church in Caney, said most anti-abortion laws included exceptions that enabled women who received an abortion not to be charged with a crime. He said abolitionists wanted all laws applicable to murder cases to apply to abortions, including punishing anyone who coerced or forced a woman to have an abortion.“If a man sneaks a pill into his girlfriend’s drink to cause her to have an abortion, he can be charged with murder of the child,” Eaton said. “But, if she drinks the pill herself, then she can’t be charged with anything. It’s a double standard.”Curtis Knapp, pastor at New Hope Baptist Church in Seneca, spoke during the first of two sermons by Abortion is Murder supporters in the rotunda.“With respect to sin, you either make war with it or you make peace with it,” he said. “With respect to the murder of the unborn, we have chosen peace, peaceful coexistence. Consequently, our conscience has been ruined.”Knapp urged Republican legislators to quit rationalizing why abolishing abortion would be impractical or unwise. He said lawmakers claimed they couldn’t vote for an abolition bill because they might not get reelected and, if that occurred, the Republican Party could forfeit its supermajority in the House and Senate.“Keep in mind, Kansas is a state where Republicans have enjoyed a supermajority uninterrupted in the Senate since 1992 and the House since 2012,” Knapp said. “Registered Republicans outnumber registered Democrats in Kansas by almost 2-to-1. A question I have is: When will this supermajority ever benefit the unborn?”During Knapp’s sermon, he responded to a comment from the crowd regarding abortion rights. He assumed the comment was made by a Satanic Grotto supporter.“It is very clear, and our opponents are helping make that clear, Satan is for abortion. These are satanists, and they are very much for abortion,” Knapp said. “That is the contrast that you have here today. Abortion is Satan’s playground, and God hates it.”