Numerous topics were addressed during the Geary USD 475 Board of Education meeting this week.

--Potential enrollment fees were a topic of discussion. No action was taken but they could supplement District finances. One suggestion called for a cap on fees for families. There was also some opposition because USD 475 is a low income public school system.

--During budget discussion by Board members there was one idea to have students help clean rooms. That didn't fly.

--There was discussion about possibly moving maintenance operations for the District back in house but no action occurred.

--A memorandum of understanding was approved between the City of Milford and USD 475. That City will assist with some expenses to help the District keep Milford Elementary School open.

--A Lincoln Elementary School playground equipment upgrade was approved.&nbsp;

--The BOE approved a $38,000 expenditure for TriCaster replacement&nbsp; to be used at JCHS for student broadcasts.

--There was discussion about eliminating the aTa Bus contract but the idea was postponed. That has been a $70,000 contract. One suggestion was for&nbsp; the District to provide $15,000. Some students use the service. There will be a discussion with aTa Bus.

USD 475 BOE news notes

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a alleged scam in Manhattan.

Just after 7p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report of fraud in the 400 block of E. Poyntz Avenue, according to the Riley County Police Deparatment activity report.

 Goodwill reported an unknown suspect scammed an employee into using store funds to pay for a fraudulent business debt. 

The total estimated loss associated with this case is $1,191.80.

RCPD investigating alleged fraud at business in Manhattan

For the eighth consecutive year, USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards has named Abilene a finalist for Best Historic Small Town, placing this Kansas community among the top historic destinations in the nation once again.

As the country prepares to celebrate America 250 in 2026, Abilene continues to stand out as a place where the American story is not just remembered, it is experienced.

“Being named a finalist year after year reflects the pride and partnership of our entire community,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Director of the Abilene Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau. “As we celebrate 250 years of our nation’s story, Abilene offers an authentic place to experience the leadership, frontier spirit, and community values that define America.”

From the end of the Chisholm Trail to the hometown of a President who proudly claimed Abilene as his own, this community offers visitors a hands-on journey through America’s story.

Finalists are selected by a panel of travel experts, and the winner is determined by public vote. Voting began Monday, March 2 at 11:00 a.m. CST and ends Monday, March 30 at 11:59 a.m. CDT. Supporters may vote once per day during the contest period. The Top 10 winners, as ranked by USA TODAY 10Best readers, will be announced Wednesday, April 8 at 11:00 a.m. CDT. Vote daily at AbileneKansas.org/votenow or&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://10best.usatoday.com/qr/57585/">10Best.com</a>.

America likes Abilene

Geary County Rural firefighters have reponded to 18 fires so far this year compared to 10 one year ago. That included the Stone Ridge house fire and an apartment building fire at the Bluffs Apartment complex.

A bid for air packs was approved at a cost of $697,586.29. They will serve firefighters for Geary County Rural Fire, Milford and Grandview Plaza.

March 16 is the date for the annual Storm Spotter Severe Weather Training meeting at the 4-H / Senior Center.

Geary County news notes

Budget discussion drew a great deal of attention at this week's Board of Education meeting in Junction City. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Reginald Eggleston said that they are looking at their overall expenses. "We're looking at the funding sources and any reductions that may be upon us and just covering all of our expenses. That would include facilities, staff and programs."

Eggleston noted that they want to ensure that they have everything they need in place for the 2026-2027 and even the 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 school years.&nbsp;

The Board heard that 2&nbsp; to 3 million&nbsp; dollars in cuts might be necessary next year. Eggleston added that they're, "seeing where we can make cuts so that ultimately we're not impacting what's most important, that's supporting our students."&nbsp;

JC Post asked if a reduction in force is necessary? Eggleston is not certain yet. "We'll see what happens with attrition, and that's through retirements and resignations. That could very easily take care of everything for us." That will be done in the spring.

At this point no final decisions have been made.

Some of the information presented to the BOE:

--Impact aid received last&nbsp; year totaled $16 million and $23 million in 2024.

--It cost $2.7 million to give raises last year including health insurance for everyone.

--The high school bonds can be paid off in full in 2031.

--Ideas from the Board included having administrators look at the building level for possible cuts.

School district faces future budget challenges

1510 E Iron Ave, Salina – Great location with convenient access and visibility. Office space available for immediate lease. Ideal for professional services, medical, or administrative use. Close to Indian Rock Park and USD 305 offices.

For Information Contact: Jeff Maes or Mike Wilson at (785) 493-8500, <a href="mailto:jeffm@comprorealty.com">jeffm@comprorealty.com</a>&nbsp;or <a href="mailto:mwilson@comprorealty.com">mwilson@comprorealty.com</a>

USD 475 may move out of the H.D. Karns Building

Geary USD 475 Board of Education members have voted to allow livestreaming of their meetings. They also can recorded for later viewing.

There had been some consideration that they could be viewed live but not recorded. Board member Kristy Haden noted that all Class 5A and 6A Districts are recording their meetings and the State Department of Education is also doing it.

Board member Dr. Anwar Khour noted that the whole point is for people to watch.

Livestreaming approved for BOE meetings

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - Geary County Schools USD 475&nbsp; had a district record 3,020 students from throughout the district earn the Thrive Award for their work during the first semester of the 2025-26 school year.“I am incredibly proud of all our students who were able to receive this honor for their hard work in the classroom this fall. It is truly a testament to how hard our teachers and staff have been working this school year,” said Dr. Reginald Eggleston, USD 475 Superintendent of Schools.

Overall, USD 475 had 2,051 students receive the Thrive Award at its elementary schools, while 969 students were honored at the secondary level.To receive this honor, students, who were recognized at their respective schools with a special certificate throughout the last couple of months, had to meet requirements in attendance and discipline referrals. Grades will be factored into the award following the second semester of this school year

The district also had 139 fourth and fifth grade students inducted into its National Elementary Honor Society chapter this school year.&nbsp;In all, USD 475 has a total of 298 new NHS students throughout the district, including 159 new members in its secondary buildings. By adding the elementary chapter in 2024-25, the district now has a National Honor Society at elementary, middle and high school

Finally, it was recently announced by the Kansas State Department of Education that Junction City High School has a 91.7 percent graduation rate, which is higher than the state average of 90.5 percent.

USD 475 Excelling in the Classroom

The Annual Statewide Tornado Drill will be Wednesday, at 10am.

Geary County Emergency Mnagement announced that storm sirens in Junction City, Grandview Plaza, Milford City, and Milford Township will be sounded as part of the Statewide Drill. &nbsp;

Statewide Tornado Drill

TOPEKA—Cindy MacDonald said she hoped to finish her final year as court clerk for Dickinson County District Court without fanfare.

“I just wanted to retire quietly after 24 years,” she said.

But Chief Judge Benjamin Sexton, 8th Judicial District, wanted MacDonald to experience a rare honor before she retired. He nominated her to be honorary bailiff for the Kansas Supreme Court special session in Abilene on March 10.

As bailiff, MacDonald will call the audience to order at 6:30 p.m. as the Supreme Court enters for its special session.

“Cindy is so deserving of this honor,” Sexton said. “She is a tremendous leader whose work ethic is an example for our trial court clerks.”

MacDonald said legal careers run in her family. Her father was one of the first court administrators in Kansas, and her mother was an administrative secretary for judges in Salina.

“I started working part-time at a law firm while I was in high school,” she said. “Both of my sisters also worked for firms, and at one time all three of us were at the same one, but I was the only one who stayed in the field.”

MacDonald began as a legal secretary and later became a certified legal assistant working at various law firms. After 18 years, she was ready for a new challenge.

“When I saw the district court clerk position, I knew it was the right opportunity for me,” she said.

She said it appealed to her because it would allow her to learn more about legal processes beyond the specialized areas of practice in the law firms where she had worked.

“In district court, we handle all case types, so clerks have to know how to process every one of them and also be flexible about change,” she said. “Whether it’s updates to state statutes, changes to court rules, or new processes, being a clerk means you’re always learning something new every day.”

Having worked at both law firms and in the courts, MacDonald said she prefers her current role in the courthouse.

“I love the administrative side of the courts,” she said. “I get to work with the judges, train new trial court clerks, and connect the public with court resources.”

MacDonald said she also enjoys the planning and organizing that go into keeping the court running smoothly, skills she used during the Dickinson County Courthouse renovation in 2021.

The Supreme Court visit to Abilene is part of its outreach to familiarize Kansans with the court, its work, and the overall role of the Kansas judiciary.

The court will be in session from 6:30 p.m. to about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, in the&nbsp;Library Building Indoor Courtyard at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum, 200 SE 4th Street, Abilene.

After the special session ends, justices will greet the public in an informal reception.

Details about the special session, including the case that will be heard, an explanation of oral argument, and tips for attending in person are at&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://go.kansascourts.gov/l/324QLG27zYNmrWCecS1zZJFfF4iYRRqzn7AzcYKJMmcoXHZs_Zo1ZQSgGXGG8CH5ZyvCL3gA0MjDqWD_u_FCUkPDIkClk0RWlnATLL-UqRZ_EruvyhfV9f9aGJ1DN61h">kscourts.gov/travel-docket</a>

District court clerk to serve as honorary bailiff for Supreme Court visit to Abilene

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. stock market rebounded after oil prices stopped spiking and reports gave encouraging updates on the economy. The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.8% Wednesday and erased much of its loss since the war with Iran began. 

The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 1.3%. The strength followed a scary start to the day, when South Korea’s Kospi stock index plunged 12.1% for its worst loss in history. Uncertainty about the war has sent prices in financial markets careening this week, with most taking their cues from what the price of oil is doing. Oil prices moderated through the day.

US stocks rebound as oil prices stop spiking

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Four of the six U.S. soldiers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-us-03-03-2026-8755877b603e46ed3df8107689c1ee23">killed in the Iran war</a>&nbsp;were identified Tuesday by the Pentagon as members of the Army Reserve from different states who worked in logistics and kept troops supplied with food and equipment.

They died Sunday when a drone hit a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, just a day after the U.S. and Israel launched its military campaign against Iran. Iran&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">responded by launching missiles</a>&nbsp;and drones against Israel and several Gulf Arab states that host U.S. armed forces.

Those killed were Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, lowa, who was posthumously promoted from specialist. No other names were released.

“These men and women all bravely volunteered to defend our country, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said.

All were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, which provides food, fuel, water and ammunition, transport equipment and supplies.

“Sadly, there will likely be more, before it ends. That’s the way it is,” President Donald Trump said of deaths.

Amor was just a few days away from returning home to her husband and two children when she was killed.

“You don’t go to Kuwait thinking something’s going to happen, and for her to be one of the first – it hurts,” Joey Amor, her husband, said Tuesday.

Amor was an avid gardener who enjoyed making salsa from the peppers and tomatoes in her garden with her son, a senior in high school. She also enjoyed rollerblading and bicycling with her fourth-grade daughter.

“If you needed anything she would just take care of it for you," Joey Amor said. "She’s helped a lot of people through a lot of dark times, and brought a lot of light to this world.”

Coady's LinkedIn page said he was a student at Drake University and an information technology specialist with the Army Reserve.

He said he had learned how to "interact with countless different kinds of people from all different backgrounds” through his service.

Coady became an Eagle Scout in 2020, according to a Facebook post from his West Des Moines troop. An Iowa organization that helps homeless children said he made 12 Adirondack chairs for the group.

Nebraska U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts said he and his wife are mourning Tietjens’ death and praying for his family.

“May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made by Noah Tietjens and the Tietjens family,” Ricketts said.

Tietjens was married with a son, according to a Facebook page. A photo online shows the couple with their son wearing a martial arts uniform.

There are several family photos on Facebook pages belonging to Amor and her husband, Joey Amor, including some images with a teen son.

Last November, Joey wrote a post expressing his love for Nicole.

“Even while you are on the other side of the world you found a way to make my birthday special,” he said. “I love you!”

Associated Press writer Rebecca Boone contributed from Boise, Idaho.

US soldiers who died in Iran war remembered as devoted parents and reservists

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan.—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 11:30p.m. Feb. 28, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 at 102nd Road on a Toyota Tacoma, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

A probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted. During the search of the vehicle, cocaine, marijuana and open alcohol containers were found.

Francisco Ventura-Cabrales, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, driving while suspended, and transporting an open container.

Hector David Cerillo-Ventura, 29, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for transporting an open container.

Sheriff: Kan. men were driving with cocaine, open containers

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/29/kansan-returns-to-the-catholic-church-as-the-states-first-woman-priest/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Supreme Court Justice Marla Luckert will retire later this month, an announcement from the court said.

Luckert&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/physicians-link-kansas-supreme-court-chief-justices-vehicle-accident-to-likely-stroke/">suffered a stroke</a>&nbsp;in October that led to a car accident. She relinquished public-facing duties before deciding in December to&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/12/19/kansas-supreme-court-chief-justice-to-retire-by-early-february/">step down from her position as chief justice</a>. She will abdicate her seat on the court on March 28.

“It has been my profound honor to serve the people of Kansas as a district court judge and Supreme Court justice the last 34 years,” Luckert said in a Tuesday press release. “Growing up in Goodland, I did not imagine I would one day serve on our state’s highest court, and I hope the blessings in my life inspire young women to reach for goals that may seem unattainable.”

Luckert spent 23 years on the Kansas Supreme Court. She previously was a Shawnee County district judge and the first woman in Kansas to be a chief district judge. Former Gov. Bill Graves appointed Luckert to the Supreme Court in 2003, and she became chief justice in 2019.

Under her guidance, the court prioritized collaboration among the three branches of government in addressing statewide issues such as&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/04/13/leaders-of-kansas-three-government-branches-coalesce-behind-quest-to-fix-mental-health-crisis/">mental health crises</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/22/kansas-supreme-court-plans-child-welfare-summit-to-forge-better-paths-forward/">child welfare</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/01/kansas-supreme-court-justice-tackles-states-severe-shortage-of-rural-attorneys/">rural attorney shortages</a>.

She saw the court through a pandemic,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/computer-network-woes-force-kansas-courts-to-rely-on-old-school-methods-of-operation/">technology</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/10/kansas-chief-justice-blames-russian-ransomware-hackers-for-disabling-courts-electronic-systems/">woes</a>&nbsp;and a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/11/21/kansas-court-officials-confirm-details-of-evil-criminal-international-cyberattack/">cyber attack</a>, and her court issued landmark decisions on&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/06/kansas-supreme-court-ends-five-year-hold-on-jurisdiction-of-public-school-funding-case/">education funding</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/02/20/kill-an-ant-with-an-atom-bomb-kansas-supreme-court-talks-election-case/">voting rights</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/07/05/kansas-supreme-court-strikes-down-state-law-banning-second-trimester-abortion-procedure/">abortion</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/19/kansas-supreme-court-affirms-death-penalty-conviction-in-quadruple-murder-case/">death penalty</a>.

Justice Eric Rosen&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/08/kansas-supreme-court-justice-eric-rosen-sworn-in-as-chief-of-states-highest-court/">took her place as chief</a>&nbsp;in January.

Luckert is the second justice in the past year to leave the bench, following&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-supreme-court-justice-to-step-down-citing-lou-gehrigs-disease/">Justice Evelyn Wilson’s retirement</a>&nbsp;in July because of a Lou Gehrig’s disease diagnosis. Justice Larkin Walsh took her place ahead in September and was&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/21/newest-addition-to-kansas-supreme-court-promises-to-be-the-justice-all-kansans-deserve/">formally sworn in</a>&nbsp;two months later.

Luckert’s replacement could be outgoing Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly’s final appointment to the court before Kelly leaves office in early 2027. The governor has appointed four others to the court during her two terms.

The replacement process likely will precede&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/08/07/rivals-launch-fight-over-kansas-constitutional-amendment-to-elect-supreme-court-justices/">an August ballot question</a>&nbsp;that will ask voters if they want to change the Kansas Supreme Court justice selection process from&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/03/18/plan-to-elect-kansas-supreme-court-justices-scrutinized-by-critics-including-courts-former-chief/">a merit-based application, nomination and appointment method</a>&nbsp;to a campaign-driven popular vote approach.

Former Kansas Supreme Court chief justice to retire March 28

The Kansas City, Missouri Health Department and The&nbsp;Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services reported Tuesday on&nbsp;a confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated adult, according to a statement from the department. There&nbsp;has&nbsp;not&nbsp;been a case of measles in&nbsp;a&nbsp;Kansas City&nbsp;resident&nbsp;since 2018.&nbsp;

“Measles&nbsp;remains&nbsp;one of the most contagious diseases, with the potential for serious complications. The good news is that MMR vaccination is an effective way to prevent measles.”&nbsp;said Dr. Marvia Jones, Director of the Kansas City Health Department.&nbsp;“We are working swiftly to&nbsp;identify&nbsp;the source of exposure and notify anyone who may have been exposed. We urge residents to review their vaccination status and consult their healthcare provider if they have symptoms such as fever,&nbsp;cough&nbsp;or rash.”&nbsp;

Keep in mind this measles vaccination guidance:&nbsp;

People who are at risk for measles infection are those who have not been vaccinated.&nbsp;

If you were born before 1957 or have been vaccinated with the MMR, you are unlikely to get measles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If you have not been vaccinated or are unsure,&nbsp;call&nbsp;your healthcare provider or the Kansas City Health Department at 816-513-6152.&nbsp;

Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days&nbsp;after contact with the virus.&nbsp;Common symptoms include:&nbsp;

Anyone with measles symptoms should call their healthcare provider before visiting to avoid spreading the virus.&nbsp;

Three to five days after symptoms begin, a rash typically appears. The rash typically appears as flat, red spots that initially break out on the face, near the hairline, and then spread downward to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We are urging people who are ill or exhibiting symptoms similar to measles to stay home unless they are seeking medical attention.&nbsp;Before visiting a healthcare provider, please call ahead and let the provider know of the measles exposure so that steps can be taken to protect other patients and staff, especially if you have a fever and rash.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents can receive Measles vaccinations at the Kansas City Health Department Immunization Clinic from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The measles vaccines are free for children under 18.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Community members unsure of their vaccination status or in need of vaccines are encouraged to contact their primary care provider or call the Health Department at 816-513-6008.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

For more information on measles, please visit:&nbsp;

Measles reported in Kansas City

By JON GAMBRELL, DAVID RISING and SAMY MAGDY&nbsp;

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The U.S. sank an Iranian warship in international waters, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Wednesday, as it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">intensified its bombardment</a>&nbsp;with Israel of Iran's security forces and other symbols of power. Tehran vowed to completely destroy the Middle East's military and economic infrastructure — signaling the war was nowhere near over and could expand further.

The tempo of the strikes on Iran was so intense that state television announced the mourning ceremony for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-supreme-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-dead-5b13b69b708c4ed38e8f95f5fb41a597">Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>, who was killed in the conflict, would be postponed. Millions attended the funeral of his predecessor Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989.

In addition to striking Tehran on the fifth day of the conflict, Israel hit the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, while Iran&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/iran-war-israel-trump-03-03-2026">fired on Bahrain, Kuwait and Israel</a>. As the conflict spiraled, Turkey said NATO defenses intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Iran before it entered Turkey’s airspace.

The war has killed more than 1,000 people in Iran and dozens in Lebanon, while disrupting the supply of the world’s oil and gas, snarling international shipping, and stranding hundreds of thousands of travelers in the Middle East.

Both sides are unrelenting in their attacks

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said a torpedo from a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship. He did not name the ship, but earlier an Iranian warship sank off the coast of Sri Lanka.

In a Pentagon briefing, Hegseth said that the Tuesday night strike on an Iranian warship was the first such attack on an enemy since World War II.

“An American submarine sunk an Iranian warship that thought it was safe in international waters,” Hegseth said. “Instead, it was sunk by a torpedo.”

Sri Lankan authorities said 32 people were rescued from the Iranian ship and that others died.

Israel said it hit buildings associated with Iran's Basij, the all-volunteer force of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard that conducted a bloody crackdown on protesters in January that killed thousands and saw tens of thousands detained in the country.

The Israeli military also said it hit buildings associated with Iran’s internal security command, which also has suppressed demonstrations in the past. It also pounded towns near Beirut.

Israel and the U.S. have said they want to see the Iranian public overthrow the country's theocracy, and strikes against counterprotest forces are likely part of that effort.

Iranian state television showed the ruins of buildings in the center of the capital of Tehran, with interviewees saying the attacks damaged their homes. Strikes have also been reported in the holy Shiite seminary city of Qom, targeting a building associated with a clerical panel set to pick Iran’s next supreme leader. Iranian media said it was empty at the time.

State TV has begun calling the conflict the “Ramadan war,” a reference to the holy Muslim fasting month currently taking place. But that term also suggested leaders are trying to prepare the public for a protracted conflict.

Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military commander in the Middle East, echoed that sentiment, saying: “We’ve just begun.”

Cooper said American forces have damaged Iran’s air defenses and taken out ballistic missiles, launchers and drones. Israeli military spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said that such damage has led to a decline in launches from Iran.

Still, explosions echoed in the skies over Jerusalem on Wednesday, and Israel’s military said Iran had launched missiles toward the country, while Hezbollah sent rockets.

Iran has also struck around the region, and air sirens sounded Wednesday morning across Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet.

At least 1,045 people have been killed in Iran, the country's Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs said Wednesday. Eleven people in Israel have been killed. More than 50 people have been killed in Lebanon, according to the Health Ministry.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-soldiers-who-died-iran-war-46f54df716fe1c5290363da0a15f99f3">Six U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;have been killed.

A resident of Tehran, who runs a clothing shop, said he didn’t know how to protect himself from the bombing.

“It’s very difficult to decide what to do. If I leave the city, how am I supposed to earn money and survive?” said the man, who spoke on condition of anonymity for the fear of reprisals.

Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard issued its most-intense threat yet.

“The continued mischief and deception by the United States in the region will come at the cost of the complete destruction of the region’s military and economic infrastructure,” it said in a statement issued via Iranian state television.

With Iranian attacks&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-war-supply-chain-disruption-8f262bb210710b7509221a3dccf787c9">disrupting tanker movement</a>&nbsp;through the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/strait-hormuz-iran-energy-war-5b60e82ef2fc68e2b43aa570a32404dd">Strait of Hormuz</a>, the narrow mouth of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/persian-gulf">Persian Gulf</a>&nbsp;through which about a fifth of the world’s oil is shipped, Brent crude prices hit $84 a barrel, up more than 15% since the start of the conflict and at its highest price since July 2024.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-iran-oil-trump-c9a42448cbc7afc35e959dd444614aa0">Global stock markets</a>&nbsp;have been hammered over worries that the spike in oil prices may grind down the world economy and sap corporate profits.

Iran’s clerics are choosing a new supreme leader

Iran’s leaders are scrambling to replace&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-supreme-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-dead-5b13b69b708c4ed38e8f95f5fb41a597">Khamenei</a>, who ruled the country for 37 years, and was killed on the first day of strikes.

It’s only the second time since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-revolution-anniversary-us-nuclear-talks-protests-4ffab53ef628073ca90b9c8707485577">the 1979 Islamic Revolution</a>&nbsp;that a new supreme leader is being chosen.

Potential candidates range from hard-liners committed to confrontation with the West to reformists who seek diplomatic engagement.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-mojtaba-khamenei-supreme-leader-ee527a73689fb718be316cc2997694ea">Mojtaba Khamenei</a>, Khamenei’s son, has long been considered among them — despite the fact he’s has never been elected or appointed to a government position.

In a sign that Iran’s leadership will only seek to consolidate its power as it faces its biggest crisis in decades, the head of the judiciary warned Wednesday that “those who cooperate with the enemy in any way will be considered an enemy.”

Israel’s defense minister, meanwhile, threatened whoever Iran picks to be the country’s next supreme leader.

“Every leader appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world and the countries of the region, and to suppress the Iranian people — will be a target for elimination,” Israel Katz wrote on X.

It’s not clear how Washington will respond if a new leader in the mold of Khamenei is chosen. U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the “worst case would be do this, and then somebody takes over who’s as bad as the previous person.”

Rising reported from Bangkok, and Magdy from Cairo. Associated Press writer Elena Becatoros in Athens, Greece; Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel; Bassem Mroue in Beirut; Elaine Kurtenbach in Bangkok; Simina Mistreanu in Taipei, Taiwan, Bharatha Mallawarachi in Colombo, Sri Lanka and Giovanna Dell'Orto in Miami contributed to this report.

🎥 Details on US submarine torpedo attack on Iranian warship

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/election-primary-3-3-2026">midterms</a>&nbsp;are here. The 2026 campaign kicked off Tuesday with high-profile primary elections in Texas, where Republican Sen.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/john-cornyn">John Cornyn</a>&nbsp;is heading toward a runoff vote against state attorney general&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ken-paxton">Ken Paxton</a>. Democrats chose state Rep. James Talarico over U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett to be their candidate.

For all the focus on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-primary-senate-cornyn-paxton-hunt-crockett-talarico-121c1591bb8406d3edfdb63a2c0c3ab8">Texas</a>, elections in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-primary-senate-house-007a4f9cff708d441b79e20f089c6306">North Carolina</a>&nbsp;could have a bigger impact on which party ultimately wins the Senate majority in the fall.

In the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-senate-cornyn-talarico-paxton-crockett-iran-27689b2580fc24517ab12db8d7f110a5">first election</a>&nbsp;since President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;joined Israel in launching dramatic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/iran">attacks on Iran</a>, there were also contests in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arkansas-primary-huckabee-sanders-cotton-24c6f499359b9c3d19a15a118ac4ede5">Arkansas</a>.

Here are some takeaways from Tuesday night.

By rallying behind Talarico, the party sided with someone who pledged to change Washington while finding consensus.

The 36-year-old state representative’s win over Crockett cements his status as a rising star and will likely make him one of Democrats’ most prominent candidates this year. He campaigned with denunciations of “politics as a blood sport” and an insistence that people want “a return to more timeless values of sincerity and honesty and compassion and respect.”

That was in contrast to Crockett, who gained national fame with her fiery style and unabashed antagonism of Trump and other Republicans.

Indeed, the biggest differences between Talarico and Crockett largely hinged on style rather than policy.

Crockett argued that Democrats need to focus on energizing their base, betting that motivated voters in metropolises like Houston and Dallas could swamp Republicans. Talarico’s campaign, meanwhile, took a more expansive approach, often highlighting his faith in ways that could appeal beyond diehard Democrats.

That style is why many Republicans are worried about Talarico’s candidacy. Though a Democrat hasn’t won a statewide race in Texas since 1994, Talarico’s campaign could prove potent depending on who emerges from the Republican runoff.

The election isn’t over for Republicans in Texas

Cornyn and Paxton will keep fighting for the Republican nomination through a May 26 runoff.

For Cornyn, the results keep alive his hopes of remaining in the Senate. But it’s still a sign of vulnerability that he couldn’t win the race outright.

Although Cornyn has expressed occasional skepticism of Trump, he has been a reliable ally to the president. Paxton, however, claimed he was more aligned with Trump’s Make America Great Again movement, pulling away support that may have otherwise gone to Cornyn.

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-texas-cornyn-paxton-hunt-gop-primary-cd31dbec10c54ce230ae915e51cbccf0">didn’t endorse</a>&nbsp;either candidate during the primary, but the results may raise pressure on him to take a side. Republicans in Washington have expressed concern that Paxton, who has well-documented political baggage, may be a weaker candidate in the general election.

Regardless of what happens, expect more cash to be pumped into the race. Cornyn and well-funded allied groups spent at least $64 million in television advertising alone since July.

While the race goes on, one person will be missing:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-senate-hunt-paxton-cornyn-c89ebc6ca776bf5793b73913550d92c6">Wesley Hunt</a>. The congressman was a late entry into what had been a head-on contest between Cornyn and Paxton. His presence in the race further divided Republicans, making the runoff harder to avoid.

The first elections of the year weren’t entirely smooth sailing

In two major Texas counties — Dallas and Williamson — there was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/texas-midterms-voters-polls-democrats-republicans-5ffabf9d6b60d42d4fc84b9c06d93ae4">significant confusion</a>&nbsp;over where voters could cast their ballot. For years, they could vote anywhere in the county. But for this primary, the local Republican parties opted against countywide voting.

With state law mandating that both parties have to agree to use the countywide system, voters could only vote at their assigned precinct — forcing many to figure out where exactly that was.

Things quickly turned messy, with lawsuits, changes to voting hours and Democrats calling foul. Crockett called the rule change an “effort to suppress the vote.” Talarico’s campaign said it was “deeply concerned.”

Political parties run their own primaries in Texas, meaning a repeat of Tuesday’s confusion is unlikely to repeat in November.

But this isn’t happening in a vacuum. Texas is central to Trump’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/redistricting">redistricting</a>&nbsp;effort to protect Republicans’ narrow majority in the House.

The party has also&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-gop-save-act-midterm-election-voting-a9a4f256fef5b1c9899f74abc5fddafa">pushed legislation</a>&nbsp;that would impose strict new proof-of-citizenship requirements. The bill is a long shot in the Senate but serves as another reminder of Republican efforts to change election rules heading into November.

In addition, any raw feelings could complicate Democrats’ chances later this year. Crockett’s campaign has said she’ll sue over voting problems, and her accusations of voter suppression are important in a state where Black voters are central to any Democratic candidate’s success.

If Talarico has a shot, he will likely need Crockett’s help in encouraging her disappointed supporters to back him.

A critical Senate race takes shape in North Carolina

One of this year’s marquee Senate contests was practically a done deal heading into Tuesday.

Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/roy-cooper">Roy Cooper</a>&nbsp;will face Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-north-carolina-whatley-senate-cooper-cb3b4109f85bf2f23fee93f05f253d7b">Michael Whatley</a>&nbsp;in a race that’s critical to deciding control of the Senate in November.

Both parties have reason to feel confident about their chances in the general election.

For Democrats, Cooper is an ideal candidate in one of the most politically competitive states. A former two-term governor, he has proved that he can win statewide elections.

Republicans, meanwhile, are going into the campaign with a candidate who is backed by Trump, an endorsement that could help energize voters during an otherwise challenging year. And as the former chair of the Republican National Committee, Whatley is familiar with party resources and how they can be deployed during a tough campaign.

Still, each candidate must overcome notable challenges. While Democrats like Cooper have been successful in races for governor, they’ve struggled in Senate contests. Whatley will also need to make inroads with moderate or independent voters that may not view Trump’s endorsement as a reason to turn out in November. Trump is the reason this is an open Senate contest in the first place. His disagreements with the incumbent Republican,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/thom-tillis">Thom Tillis</a>, prompted the two-term senator to decide against reelection.

Get ready for what could be a messy race to November — one where spending could hit $1 billion.

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