BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — University officials across Kansas celebrated a third year of growing enrollments on Wednesday, even though&nbsp; the future will present more challenges.&nbsp;

“We’re obviously extremely pleased,” said Blake Benson, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents. “It’s a third consecutive year of growth, and we’re really glad to see that it’s spread out — the public universities, community colleges and technical colleges are all up, so very, very positive news.”

In general, Board of Regents public universities saw enrollment growth or stayed level. The only drop was at Fort Hays State University, which essentially stabilized with a decrease of 0.2%. Washburn University increased enrollment by 2.3%.&nbsp;

Twelve of 19 Kansas community colleges also posted enrollment growth, although Fort Scott Community College seeing a decreased enrollment of 17.2%,&nbsp;<a href="https://submission.kansasregents.gov/ibi_apps/portal/BIP_Public2/KHEStats" target="_blank">Kansas Board of Regent data showed</a>. All six technical colleges Increased or stayed stable in their enrollment.&nbsp;

Emporia State University saw the biggest enrollment jump this year of 5.8%, a strong recovery after posting losses since 2020. The school increased enrollment by 263 students, for a total of 4,820.

In a letter to students, ESU president Ken Hush attributed the growth to no tuition or fee increase for two years, increasing student scholarships awarded by 141%, investment in student activities and more funding from the ESU Foundation, among other factors.

The university&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/former-interim-emporia-state-president-condemns-mass-firing-of-tenured-faculty/">fired tenured faculty</a>&nbsp;as part of restructuring efforts.&nbsp;

“When we began our transformation, we predicted changes in our enrollment as we took on the challenges facing our university, with the prediction for fall 2025 holding stable after some initial decreases,” Hush wrote, adding he was pleased to instead post a 6% increase.

Kansas State and Wichita State increased enrollment at about the same rate, 4.6% and 4.3%, respectively.&nbsp; The University of Kansas posted a 1.2% increase, while the University of Kansas Medical Center enrollment increased 1.9%.

“We’ve been working diligently on a strategic enrollment plan, and we’re really seeing the fruits of the labor across campus and have had some of the largest enrollment gains that we’ve seen,” said Karen Goos, K-State’s vice provost for enrollment management.

Freshmen enrollment numbers were up 7.5% this year, she said. Growth is occurring with both new students and retention of current students, Goos added.&nbsp;

Scott Cason, Fort Hays State University spokesman, said the school’s on-campus enrollment increased by 2% this year and the number of new undergraduate students attending the school grew by 9%.&nbsp;

“Our residence halls are in full capacity right now,” he said. “We haven’t seen that in a long time. It shows you that the on-campus experience is still a draw, even in times where there have been increasing questions about the perception of the value of the college degree.”

The school did see a small decrease in international students and in general in online enrollment, Cason said. Once dominating among Kansas schools in online enrollment, FHSU has more competition in that arena and experienced a drop after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Other schools are reporting decreasing numbers of international students, but that data won’t be collected by the Board of Regents until later in the school year, Benson said.&nbsp;

Cason said Fort Hays State lost only three international students. He attributed that to their diversity of enrollment sources internationally.&nbsp;

“We’re actually up in our early college program that includes our international students. We have partner campuses,” he said, adding that although they have strong partnerships in China, they also draw from Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia and Senegal.

“We haven’t seen the disruption that other schools have seen that count more heavily on traditional international student models,” he said.

Challenges are expected for post-secondary institutions in coming years as the number of students graduating from Kansas high schools will begin decreasing next year. The change is often referred to as an enrollment cliff. In addition, schools are already experiencing decreases in graduating high school students who enroll in higher education, she said.

“What we’re seeing is the percent of students who are having any post-secondary credentials after high school has declined pretty significantly,” Goos said. “We actually have seen an increase of high school graduates. This will be the last year. After this, we will start to decline.”

Benson said the decrease in number of graduating high school students in 2026 is one of the primary challenges facing higher education.&nbsp;

“That’s probably not going to be just a two- or three-year challenge,” he said. “That’s going to be that way for the foreseeable future. That just means the pool of traditional college-age students will continue shrinking, even as the demand for college-educated workers keeps growing.”

That makes it imperative for Kansas to increase the number of students going to college to meet workforce needs, Benson said.&nbsp;

“I think we’ve also got to work to enroll adult learners, including those who may already have some college credit but no degree,” Benson said. “I don’t think that there’s going to be a silver bullet answer to it, but I’m really proud of the steps that the system in our institutions have taken to get ready for those challenges, and I think that we’ll be able to meet them.”

K-State is planning for all those challenges, Goos said.&nbsp;

“We’re just launching a new strategic enrollment plan with the idea of thinking about, how do we move forward with the enrollment cliff?” she said. “How do we position ourselves?”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759428178918.png" alt=" Blake Benson, left, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, was pleased to see increased enrollment in Kansas post-secondary schools. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Blake Benson, left, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents, was pleased to see increased enrollment in Kansas post-secondary schools. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — University officials across Kansas celebrated a third year of growing enrollments on Wednesday, even though&nbsp; the future will present more challenges.&nbsp;“We’re obviously extremely pleased,” said Blake Benson, chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents. “It’s a third consecutive year of growth, and we’re really glad to see that it’s spread out — the public universities, community colleges and technical colleges are all up, so very, very positive news.”In general, Board of Regents public universities saw enrollment growth or stayed level. The only drop was at Fort Hays State University, which essentially stabilized with a decrease of 0.2%. Washburn University increased enrollment by 2.3%.&nbsp;Twelve of 19 Kansas community colleges also posted enrollment growth, although Fort Scott Community College seeing a decreased enrollment of 17.2%,&nbsp;<a href="https://submission.kansasregents.gov/ibi_apps/portal/BIP_Public2/KHEStats" target="_blank">Kansas Board of Regent data showed</a>. All six technical colleges Increased or stayed stable in their enrollment.&nbsp;Emporia State University saw the biggest enrollment jump this year of 5.8%, a strong recovery after posting losses since 2020. The school increased enrollment by 263 students, for a total of 4,820.In a letter to students, ESU president Ken Hush attributed the growth to no tuition or fee increase for two years, increasing student scholarships awarded by 141%, investment in student activities and more funding from the ESU Foundation, among other factors.The university&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/former-interim-emporia-state-president-condemns-mass-firing-of-tenured-faculty/">fired tenured faculty</a>&nbsp;as part of restructuring efforts.&nbsp;“When we began our transformation, we predicted changes in our enrollment as we took on the challenges facing our university, with the prediction for fall 2025 holding stable after some initial decreases,” Hush wrote, adding he was pleased to instead post a 6% increase.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759428093235.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas State and Wichita State increased enrollment at about the same rate, 4.6% and 4.3%, respectively.&nbsp; The University of Kansas posted a 1.2% increase, while the University of Kansas Medical Center enrollment increased 1.9%.“We’ve been working diligently on a strategic enrollment plan, and we’re really seeing the fruits of the labor across campus and have had some of the largest enrollment gains that we’ve seen,” said Karen Goos, K-State’s vice provost for enrollment management.Freshmen enrollment numbers were up 7.5% this year, she said. Growth is occurring with both new students and retention of current students, Goos added.&nbsp;Scott Cason, Fort Hays State University spokesman, said the school’s on-campus enrollment increased by 2% this year and the number of new undergraduate students attending the school grew by 9%.&nbsp;“Our residence halls are in full capacity right now,” he said. “We haven’t seen that in a long time. It shows you that the on-campus experience is still a draw, even in times where there have been increasing questions about the perception of the value of the college degree.”The school did see a small decrease in international students and in general in online enrollment, Cason said. Once dominating among Kansas schools in online enrollment, FHSU has more competition in that arena and experienced a drop after the COVID-19 pandemic.Other schools are reporting decreasing numbers of international students, but that data won’t be collected by the Board of Regents until later in the school year, Benson said.&nbsp;Cason said Fort Hays State lost only three international students. He attributed that to their diversity of enrollment sources internationally.&nbsp;“We’re actually up in our early college program that includes our international students. We have partner campuses,” he said, adding that although they have strong partnerships in China, they also draw from Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia and Senegal.“We haven’t seen the disruption that other schools have seen that count more heavily on traditional international student models,” he said.Challenges are expected for post-secondary institutions in coming years as the number of students graduating from Kansas high schools will begin decreasing next year. The change is often referred to as an enrollment cliff. In addition, schools are already experiencing decreases in graduating high school students who enroll in higher education, she said.“What we’re seeing is the percent of students who are having any post-secondary credentials after high school has declined pretty significantly,” Goos said. “We actually have seen an increase of high school graduates. This will be the last year. After this, we will start to decline.”Benson said the decrease in number of graduating high school students in 2026 is one of the primary challenges facing higher education.&nbsp;“That’s probably not going to be just a two- or three-year challenge,” he said. “That’s going to be that way for the foreseeable future. That just means the pool of traditional college-age students will continue shrinking, even as the demand for college-educated workers keeps growing.”That makes it imperative for Kansas to increase the number of students going to college to meet workforce needs, Benson said.&nbsp;“I think we’ve also got to work to enroll adult learners, including those who may already have some college credit but no degree,” Benson said. “I don’t think that there’s going to be a silver bullet answer to it, but I’m really proud of the steps that the system in our institutions have taken to get ready for those challenges, and I think that we’ll be able to meet them.”K-State is planning for all those challenges, Goos said.&nbsp;“We’re just launching a new strategic enrollment plan with the idea of thinking about, how do we move forward with the enrollment cliff?” she said. “How do we position ourselves?”

Kansas post-secondary schools see increased enrollment, plan for challenges ahead

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of sex crimes was due back in court Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

A hearing for 31-year-old Savana King in Judge William Wooley's courtroom was delayed,&nbsp; according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; There were set to determine if there was enough evidence to send the case to trial. A new date for the hearing has not been scheduled.

On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.

<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739222315038.png" alt="King photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>King photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of sex crimes was due back in court Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;A hearing for 31-year-old Savana King in Judge William Wooley's courtroom was delayed,&nbsp; according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; There were set to determine if there was enough evidence to send the case to trial. A new date for the hearing has not been scheduled.On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.

Hearing delayed: Former coach in Kan. accused of sex assault of player

ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV has intervened for the first time in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-catholic-durbin-chicago-archdiocese-immigration-af966da9a8483f116d65f494799eba5f">abortion dispute</a>&nbsp;roiling the U.S. Catholic Church by raising the seeming contradiction over what it really means to be “pro-life.”

Leo, a Chicago native, was asked late Tuesday about plans by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich to give a lifetime achievement award to Illinois Senator Dick Durbin for his work helping immigrants. The plans drew objection from some conservative U.S. bishops given the powerful Democratic senator’s support for abortion rights.

Leo called first of all for respect for both sides, but he also pointed out the seeming contradiction in such debates.

“Someone who says ‘I’m against abortion but says I am in favor of the death penalty’ is not really pro-life,” Leo said. “Someone who says that ‘I’m against abortion, but I’m in agreement with the inhuman treatment of immigrants in the United States,’ I don’t know if that’s pro-life.”

Leo, whose words echoed a common Catholic argument often made in discussions about abortion, spoke hours before Cupich announced that Durbin had declined the award.

Church teaching forbids abortion but it also opposes capital punishment as “inadmissible” under all circumstances. U.S. bishops and the Vatican have strongly called for humane treatment of migrants, citing the Biblical command to “welcome the stranger.”

In his comments about the Illinois dispute, Leo made no mention of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration has carried out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-deportation-ice-chicago-arrests-a09921fedd10489f08a4073abe31345e">a surge of immigration enforcement in the Chicago area</a>.

Still, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt weighed in and disputed concerns raised by Pope Leo about the treatment of immigrants, saying that she “would reject there is inhumane treatment of illegal immigrants in the United States under this administration.”

The administration, Leavitt said, “is trying to enforce our nation’s laws in the most humane way possible.”

Leo said he wasn’t familiar with the details of the dispute over the Durbin award, but said it was nevertheless important to look at the senator’s overall record and noted Durbin’s four-decade tenure. Responding to a question in English from the U.S. Catholic broadcaster EWTN News, he said there were many ethical issues that constitute the teaching of the Catholic Church.

“I don’t know if anyone has all the truth on them but I would ask first and foremost that there be greater respect for one another and that we search together both as human beings, in that case as American citizens or citizens of the state of Illinois, as well as Catholics to say we need to you know really look closely at all of these ethical issues and to find the way forward in this church. Church teaching on each one of those issues is very clear,” he said.

Cupich was a close adviser to Pope Francis, who strongly upheld church teaching opposing abortion but also criticized the politicizing of the abortion debate by U.S. bishops. Some bishops had called for denying Communion to Catholic politicians who supported abortion rights, including former President Joe Biden.

Biden met on several occasions with Francis and told reporters in 2021 that Francis had told him to continue receiving Communion. During a visit to Rome that year he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-g-20-summit-europe-rome-b88497127cc09a79d018cd262b1c41a1">received the sacrament</a>&nbsp;during Mass at a church in Francis’ diocese.

Durbin was barred from receiving Communion in his home diocese of Springfield in 2004. Springfield Bishop Thomas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2001350b11b6466282caf73b671fd861">Paprocki has continued the prohibition</a>&nbsp;and was one of the U.S. bishops who strongly objected to Cupich's decision to honor the senator. Cupich claims Durbin as a member of the Chicago Archdiocese, where Durbin also has a home.

In his statement announcing that Durbin would decline the award, Cupich lamented that the polarization in the U.S. has created a situation where U.S. Catholics “find themselves politically homeless” since neither the Republican nor the Democratic party fully encapsulates the breadth of Catholic teaching.

He defended honoring Durbin for his pro-immigration stance, and said the planned Nov. 3 award ceremony could have been an occasion to engage him and other political leaders with the hope of pressing the church’s view on other issues, including abortion.

“It could be an invitation to Catholics who tirelessly promote the dignity of the unborn, the elderly, and the sick to extend the circle of protection to immigrants facing in this present moment an existential threat to their lives and the lives of their families,” Cupich wrote.

Paprocki, for his part, thanked Durbin for declining the award. “I ask that all Catholics continue to pray for our church, our country, and for the human dignity of all people to be respected in all stages of life including the unborn and immigrants,” Paprocki said in a Facebook post.

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/ap-twir">collaboration</a>&nbsp;with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747390720796.png" alt="FIle photo Pope Leo XIV courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>FIle photo Pope Leo XIV courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>ROME (AP) — Pope Leo XIV has intervened for the first time in an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-catholic-durbin-chicago-archdiocese-immigration-af966da9a8483f116d65f494799eba5f">abortion dispute</a>&nbsp;roiling the U.S. Catholic Church by raising the seeming contradiction over what it really means to be “pro-life.”Leo, a Chicago native, was asked late Tuesday about plans by Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich to give a lifetime achievement award to Illinois Senator Dick Durbin for his work helping immigrants. The plans drew objection from some conservative U.S. bishops given the powerful Democratic senator’s support for abortion rights.Leo called first of all for respect for both sides, but he also pointed out the seeming contradiction in such debates.“Someone who says ‘I’m against abortion but says I am in favor of the death penalty’ is not really pro-life,” Leo said. “Someone who says that ‘I’m against abortion, but I’m in agreement with the inhuman treatment of immigrants in the United States,’ I don’t know if that’s pro-life.”<h2>The White House weighs in</h2>Leo, whose words echoed a common Catholic argument often made in discussions about abortion, spoke hours before Cupich announced that Durbin had declined the award.Church teaching forbids abortion but it also opposes capital punishment as “inadmissible” under all circumstances. U.S. bishops and the Vatican have strongly called for humane treatment of migrants, citing the Biblical command to “welcome the stranger.”In his comments about the Illinois dispute, Leo made no mention of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose administration has carried out&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-deportation-ice-chicago-arrests-a09921fedd10489f08a4073abe31345e">a surge of immigration enforcement in the Chicago area</a>.Still, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt weighed in and disputed concerns raised by Pope Leo about the treatment of immigrants, saying that she “would reject there is inhumane treatment of illegal immigrants in the United States under this administration.”The administration, Leavitt said, “is trying to enforce our nation’s laws in the most humane way possible.”<h2>Pope Leo says mutual respect is needed</h2>Leo said he wasn’t familiar with the details of the dispute over the Durbin award, but said it was nevertheless important to look at the senator’s overall record and noted Durbin’s four-decade tenure. Responding to a question in English from the U.S. Catholic broadcaster EWTN News, he said there were many ethical issues that constitute the teaching of the Catholic Church.“I don’t know if anyone has all the truth on them but I would ask first and foremost that there be greater respect for one another and that we search together both as human beings, in that case as American citizens or citizens of the state of Illinois, as well as Catholics to say we need to you know really look closely at all of these ethical issues and to find the way forward in this church. Church teaching on each one of those issues is very clear,” he said.Cupich was a close adviser to Pope Francis, who strongly upheld church teaching opposing abortion but also criticized the politicizing of the abortion debate by U.S. bishops. Some bishops had called for denying Communion to Catholic politicians who supported abortion rights, including former President Joe Biden.Biden met on several occasions with Francis and told reporters in 2021 that Francis had told him to continue receiving Communion. During a visit to Rome that year he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-joe-biden-g-20-summit-europe-rome-b88497127cc09a79d018cd262b1c41a1">received the sacrament</a>&nbsp;during Mass at a church in Francis’ diocese.Durbin was barred from receiving Communion in his home diocese of Springfield in 2004. Springfield Bishop Thomas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2001350b11b6466282caf73b671fd861">Paprocki has continued the prohibition</a>&nbsp;and was one of the U.S. bishops who strongly objected to Cupich's decision to honor the senator. Cupich claims Durbin as a member of the Chicago Archdiocese, where Durbin also has a home.<h2>Senator Durbin declines his award</h2>In his statement announcing that Durbin would decline the award, Cupich lamented that the polarization in the U.S. has created a situation where U.S. Catholics “find themselves politically homeless” since neither the Republican nor the Democratic party fully encapsulates the breadth of Catholic teaching.He defended honoring Durbin for his pro-immigration stance, and said the planned Nov. 3 award ceremony could have been an occasion to engage him and other political leaders with the hope of pressing the church’s view on other issues, including abortion.“It could be an invitation to Catholics who tirelessly promote the dignity of the unborn, the elderly, and the sick to extend the circle of protection to immigrants facing in this present moment an existential threat to their lives and the lives of their families,” Cupich wrote.Paprocki, for his part, thanked Durbin for declining the award. “I ask that all Catholics continue to pray for our church, our country, and for the human dignity of all people to be respected in all stages of life including the unborn and immigrants,” Paprocki said in a Facebook post.___Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/ap-twir">collaboration</a>&nbsp;with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.

Pope intervenes in US abortion debate roiling the Catholic Church

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City have identified the victims as 25-year-old Lashon L. Campbell, according to Police Sgt. Phil DiMartino.

Just after 11:15p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 5200 block of Winner Road in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

While canvassing the area, officers located security personnel who advised a shooting had occurred and directed officers to a crime scene. While officers were on scene, dispatch advised a private vehicle had transported an adult male shooting victim, later identified as Campbell, to an area hospital. He was later pronounced&nbsp;deceased. 

An additional adult male shooting victim arrived at a separate hospital in stable condition. 

Preliminary investigations indicates an interaction between a group of individuals took place and escalated to gunfire.&nbsp; Police have not released suspect information or reported an arrest.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Kansas City have identified the victims as 25-year-old Lashon L. Campbell, according to Police Sgt. Phil DiMartino.Just after 11:15p.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 5200 block of Winner Road in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported sound of shots, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.While canvassing the area, officers located security personnel who advised a shooting had occurred and directed officers to a crime scene. While officers were on scene, dispatch advised a private vehicle had transported an adult male shooting victim, later identified as Campbell, to an area hospital. He was later pronounced&nbsp;deceased. An additional adult male shooting victim arrived at a separate hospital in stable condition. Preliminary investigations indicates an interaction between a group of individuals took place and escalated to gunfire.&nbsp; Police have not released suspect information or reported an arrest.

KCPD: Group fight led to shooting death of 25-year-old

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends September 2025 with total tax collections at $1.00 billion. That is $3.4 million, or 0.3%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 1.9% from September 2024, according to a media release from the governor's office.

“I have been consistent in expressing concern that the reckless budgets passed by the state legislature risk veering us off the course of fiscal responsibility,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“While one month of revenues missing the estimate is not cause for panic, it is a reminder that fiscal restraint is sound policy.”

Even though individual income tax collections were above estimates, they are offset by a significant 15% loss in corporate income. Individual income tax collections were $481.4 million. That is $26.4 million, or 5.8% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 2.8% from September 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $199.6 million. That is $35.4 million, or 15.0% below the estimate, and down 12.5% from September 2024.&nbsp;

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $293.3 million, which is $5.3 million, or 1.8% above the estimate, and down 1.1% from September 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2025%2F10%2F01%2Ffile_attachments%2F3407069%2F03_September_Revenue_FY2026_10-01-2025_Final.pdf/1/01010199a0a598f3-551d951b-91b8-438e-9730-78c1256c0a75-000000/Hwk_G_BZJAkkSSbB5GSY5A9_8Y58XE4io3ni7gcM95A=425">here</a>&nbsp;to view the September 2025 revenue numbers.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends September 2025 with total tax collections at $1.00 billion. That is $3.4 million, or 0.3%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 1.9% from September 2024, according to a media release from the governor's office.“I have been consistent in expressing concern that the reckless budgets passed by the state legislature risk veering us off the course of fiscal responsibility,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“While one month of revenues missing the estimate is not cause for panic, it is a reminder that fiscal restraint is sound policy.”Even though individual income tax collections were above estimates, they are offset by a significant 15% loss in corporate income. Individual income tax collections were $481.4 million. That is $26.4 million, or 5.8% above the estimate. Individual income tax collections were up 2.8% from September 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $199.6 million. That is $35.4 million, or 15.0% below the estimate, and down 12.5% from September 2024.&nbsp;Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $293.3 million, which is $5.3 million, or 1.8% above the estimate, and down 1.1% from September 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2025%2F10%2F01%2Ffile_attachments%2F3407069%2F03_September_Revenue_FY2026_10-01-2025_Final.pdf/1/01010199a0a598f3-551d951b-91b8-438e-9730-78c1256c0a75-000000/Hwk_G_BZJAkkSSbB5GSY5A9_8Y58XE4io3ni7gcM95A=425">here</a>&nbsp;to view the September 2025 revenue numbers.

Gov. critical of Kan. legislature after Sept. tax collections below estimate

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler at a Wednesday night vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann said that his deep faith had been shaken in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/259a0a4e-7e84-4de0-abd6-7a961ab84091">Sunday killing in the line of duty of one of his officers</a>.

He added he continued to find comfort in the word of God.

Heimann served on the Hays Police Department since 2016, all of those years under the direction of Scheibler. He was serving as a patrol sergeant when he was killed, having recently been promoted.

Mourners gathered Wednesday night at the Thomas More Prep-Marian grotto for a candlelight vigil for Heimann. Many of them were his peers dressed in uniform. The Kansas Highway Patrol offered a special escort for the family.

"Scott was an amazing and talented man," Scheibler said. "He was kind and compassionate and caring in all that he did. Scott was so smart, so strong. He had an amazing sense of humor.&nbsp;

"If Scott were here, he would tell you he was handsome too," Scheibler said, which brought giggles from the crowd.

He said Heimann could have done anything in the world and been successful. He wanted to be a Hays Police officer.

"He wanted to stand on the wall and protect this community," Scheibler said. "I think it's important that you know that he wanted to protect you."

He said this made him successful throughout his career. Scheibler said he was a strong leader and a mentor for the Hays Police Department.

Scheibler said Heimann joked with him that he was keeping the seat warm for him, as Scott hoped to one day be the chief of the Hays Police Department.

"Scott impacted our community in so many ways," he said, "By reading books to children in the library, giving knuckle bumps as kids walked to school, wrestling drunks in the bar, to responding to the most dangerous threats in our community."

Scheibler's voice began to waver, "During the last few days, as my thoughts dwell on Scott, I'm reminded of the Bible verse Isiah 6:8.

"And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom should I send? Who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here I am.'"

"When evil came to our community that night, like so many other times for the members of the Special Situation Response Team, he left his family, he left the comfort and safety of his home and raised his hand and said, 'Here I am.'"

He called Heimann his friend, his brother in blue and his hero.

"... not because of how he fell, but how he lived to serve," Scheibler said. "I find assurance in Matthew 5:9. 'Blessed are the peacemakers because they will be called the children of God.'"

He called Heimann the ultimate peacemaker.

"God bless Scott, and may the example of his life bring peace to us all," Scheibler said.

Heimann, 32, was a 2012 graduate of TMP, the Catholic middle and high school in Hays. He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays and was noted by many as a devout Catholic.

Fr. Fred Gatsche spoke to the mourners, "This evening we are going to acknowledge the hurt, the sense of loss, the grief, the anger, the frustration with the whole situation. As we go through the vigil tomorrow and the funeral, we will interject more hope and consolation."

Gatsche read Psalm 22, which was the Psalm that Jesus cited when he was on the cross.

The Psalm begins, "My God! My God! Why have you abandoned me? Why so far from my call for help, my cries of anguish?"

As the Psalm continues, it says, "but you, oh Lord, do not stay far off. My strength comes quickly to help me, deliver my soul from the sword."

He concluded by quoting St. Theresa of Avila, "Let nothing upset you. Let nothing startle you. All things pass. God does not change. Patience wins all that it seeks. Whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone is enough."

Mayor Sandy Jacobs called Heimann a brave soul who made the ultimate sacrifice.&nbsp;

"On behalf of the city, my fellow commissioners and city staff, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends and colleagues of the fallen officer, Sgt. Scott Heimann. His service and sacrifice serving our community will never be forgotten," she said.

"We stand united with our police department and the entire community as we navigate this really difficult time," she said.&nbsp;

She asked the community to keep all those affected in their thoughts and prayers.

"Scott Heimann was more than just a uniform. He was a protector, a neighbor, a friend, a husband and a father. He was someone who stood tall every day, not knowing what the shift might bring, but always showing up with courage and commitment."

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/259a0a4e-7e84-4de0-abd6-7a961ab84091">Heimann is survived by his wife,&nbsp;Beth, and a young son and daughter.</a>&nbsp;His parents and mother-in-law and father-in-law are also Hays residents.

Jacobs continued, "Tonight we hold these candles, not only to mourn and honor, to shine light in the darkness of loss and to say to family and the department and each other, 'You are not alone.'"

"To Scott's family, your pain is unimaginable, and no words can make it easier, but please know, Scott did not serve in vain.&nbsp;

"This city is safer, stronger and better because of his sacrifice. We are forever in his debt," she said.

"To all that are gathered here," Jacobs said, "May this night remind us of the power of unity, the strength of community and the enduring light of service and love."

The vigil was concluded with a song sung by TMP students, followed by a prayer led by Fr. Gatsche.

A visitation for Heimann will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Hays Post will offer a live stream of the funeral in cooperation with Tiger Media Network through YouTube.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759373790773.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler exits the vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann followed by members of the family. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler exits the vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann followed by members of the family. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostHays Police Chief Don Scheibler at a Wednesday night vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann said that his deep faith had been shaken in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/259a0a4e-7e84-4de0-abd6-7a961ab84091">Sunday killing in the line of duty of one of his officers</a>.He added he continued to find comfort in the word of God.Heimann served on the Hays Police Department since 2016, all of those years under the direction of Scheibler. He was serving as a patrol sergeant when he was killed, having recently been promoted.Mourners gathered Wednesday night at the Thomas More Prep-Marian grotto for a candlelight vigil for Heimann. Many of them were his peers dressed in uniform. The Kansas Highway Patrol offered a special escort for the family.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759373963756.jpeg" alt="Members of law enforcement are given hugs after the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimanm, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Members of law enforcement are given hugs after the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimanm, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759375077046.jpeg" alt="Officers console each other at a vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Officers console each other at a vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>"Scott was an amazing and talented man," Scheibler said. "He was kind and compassionate and caring in all that he did. Scott was so smart, so strong. He had an amazing sense of humor.&nbsp;"If Scott were here, he would tell you he was handsome too," Scheibler said, which brought giggles from the crowd.He said Heimann could have done anything in the world and been successful. He wanted to be a Hays Police officer."He wanted to stand on the wall and protect this community," Scheibler said. "I think it's important that you know that he wanted to protect you."He said this made him successful throughout his career. Scheibler said he was a strong leader and a mentor for the Hays Police Department.Scheibler said Heimann joked with him that he was keeping the seat warm for him, as Scott hoped to one day be the chief of the Hays Police Department."Scott impacted our community in so many ways," he said, "By reading books to children in the library, giving knuckle bumps as kids walked to school, wrestling drunks in the bar, to responding to the most dangerous threats in our community."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759374210478.jpeg" alt="Law enforcement officers leaving the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement officers leaving the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Scheibler's voice began to waver, "During the last few days, as my thoughts dwell on Scott, I'm reminded of the Bible verse Isiah 6:8."And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom should I send? Who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here I am.'""When evil came to our community that night, like so many other times for the members of the Special Situation Response Team, he left his family, he left the comfort and safety of his home and raised his hand and said, 'Here I am.'"He called Heimann his friend, his brother in blue and his hero."... not because of how he fell, but how he lived to serve," Scheibler said. "I find assurance in Matthew 5:9. 'Blessed are the peacemakers because they will be called the children of God.'"He called Heimann the ultimate peacemaker."God bless Scott, and may the example of his life bring peace to us all," Scheibler said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759374433450.jpeg" alt="Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler receives a hug after the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler receives a hug after the vigil for Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759374749420.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Heimann, 32, was a 2012 graduate of TMP, the Catholic middle and high school in Hays. He was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays and was noted by many as a devout Catholic.Fr. Fred Gatsche spoke to the mourners, "This evening we are going to acknowledge the hurt, the sense of loss, the grief, the anger, the frustration with the whole situation. As we go through the vigil tomorrow and the funeral, we will interject more hope and consolation."Gatsche read Psalm 22, which was the Psalm that Jesus cited when he was on the cross.The Psalm begins, "My God! My God! Why have you abandoned me? Why so far from my call for help, my cries of anguish?"As the Psalm continues, it says, "but you, oh Lord, do not stay far off. My strength comes quickly to help me, deliver my soul from the sword."He concluded by quoting St. Theresa of Avila, "Let nothing upset you. Let nothing startle you. All things pass. God does not change. Patience wins all that it seeks. Whoever has God lacks nothing. God alone is enough."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759375201715.jpeg" alt="Kansas Highway Patrol officers stand at attention at the vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Highway Patrol officers stand at attention at the vigil for Hays Police Sgt. Scott Heimann, who was killed in the line of duty on Sunday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759375360653.jpeg" alt="Mayor Sandy Jacobs extends condolences to Sgt. Scott Heimann's family and friends at a vigil for the fallen officer on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Mayor Sandy Jacobs extends condolences to Sgt. Scott Heimann's family and friends at a vigil for the fallen officer on Wednesday. Photo by Cristina Janney/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>Mayor Sandy Jacobs called Heimann a brave soul who made the ultimate sacrifice.&nbsp;"On behalf of the city, my fellow commissioners and city staff, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends and colleagues of the fallen officer, Sgt. Scott Heimann. His service and sacrifice serving our community will never be forgotten," she said."We stand united with our police department and the entire community as we navigate this really difficult time," she said.&nbsp;She asked the community to keep all those affected in their thoughts and prayers."Scott Heimann was more than just a uniform. He was a protector, a neighbor, a friend, a husband and a father. He was someone who stood tall every day, not knowing what the shift might bring, but always showing up with courage and commitment."<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/259a0a4e-7e84-4de0-abd6-7a961ab84091">Heimann is survived by his wife,&nbsp;Beth, and a young son and daughter.</a>&nbsp;His parents and mother-in-law and father-in-law are also Hays residents.Jacobs continued, "Tonight we hold these candles, not only to mourn and honor, to shine light in the darkness of loss and to say to family and the department and each other, 'You are not alone.'""To Scott's family, your pain is unimaginable, and no words can make it easier, but please know, Scott did not serve in vain.&nbsp;"This city is safer, stronger and better because of his sacrifice. We are forever in his debt," she said."To all that are gathered here," Jacobs said, "May this night remind us of the power of unity, the strength of community and the enduring light of service and love."The vigil was concluded with a song sung by TMP students, followed by a prayer led by Fr. Gatsche.A visitation for Heimann will be from 4 to 8 p.m. today at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at Gross Memorial Coliseum.Hays Post will offer a live stream of the funeral in cooperation with Tiger Media Network through YouTube.

Vigil: Community shaken by officer's death, but blessed by 'ultimate peacemaker'

MONTGMERY COUNTY— A driver injured in a crash during a police chase in Montgomery County is now facing a possible murder charge.

Three people were injured in the accident that occurred just after 4p.m. on September 26 and one later died.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Jeep driven by Tenisha D.&nbsp;Mayberry, 38, Blue Springs, Mo., was northbound on Patterson Boulevard fleeing law enforcement. The driver failed to yield at a stop light at 8th Street in Coffeyville and struck the passenger side of eastbound Chevy Tahoe driven by Maia E, O'Connell, 17, Coffeyville.

After impact the Jeep traveled off the road and overturned. The Tahoe left the road and rolled onto its roof.

EMS transported Mayberry, a passenger in the Jeep Cortez J. Wasson, Jr. 19,&nbsp; Blue Springs, Missouri and O'Connell to Coffeyville Regional Hospital. EMS transported a passenger in the Tahoe Serafina L&nbsp; O'Connell, 15, Coffeyville, to&nbsp;St Francis Hospital in Tulsa where she later died. Wasson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mayberry is being held on requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement, felony fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death, Possession of marijuana, according to online jail records.

Wasson is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;felony interference with law enforcement, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death and possession of marijuana.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759094141027.png" alt="Wasson photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Wasson photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGMERY COUNTY— A driver injured in a crash during a police chase in Montgomery County is now facing a possible murder charge.Three people were injured in the accident that occurred just after 4p.m. on September 26 and one later died.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Jeep driven by Tenisha D.&nbsp;Mayberry, 38, Blue Springs, Mo., was northbound on Patterson Boulevard fleeing law enforcement. The driver failed to yield at a stop light at 8th Street in Coffeyville and struck the passenger side of eastbound Chevy Tahoe driven by Maia E, O'Connell, 17, Coffeyville.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759094019310.png" alt="Mayberry photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Mayberry photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>After impact the Jeep traveled off the road and overturned. The Tahoe left the road and rolled onto its roof.EMS transported Mayberry, a passenger in the Jeep Cortez J. Wasson, Jr. 19,&nbsp; Blue Springs, Missouri and O'Connell to Coffeyville Regional Hospital. EMS transported a passenger in the Tahoe Serafina L&nbsp; O'Connell, 15, Coffeyville, to&nbsp;St Francis Hospital in Tulsa where she later died. Wasson was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mayberry is being held on requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement, felony fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death, Possession of marijuana, according to online jail records.Wasson is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;felony interference with law enforcement, Aggravated battery; Reckless deadly weapon cause great body harm/disfig/death and possession of marijuana.

Driver faces additional charge after teen dies from injuries in chase, crash

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 57-year-old Cleveland Wright, according to KCPD Sgt. Phil DiMartino.

Just before 8:30p.m. Sept. 24, police were dispatched to the intersection of Gardiner and N. Chouteau Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported shooting, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

When officers arrived to the scene, they located a vehicle that had been stopped near the intersection with an unresponsive driver inside. Upon further evaluation, officers determined the individual, later identified as Wright, was suffering from apparent, gunshot trauma, and immediately began rendering medical aid until EMS personnel responded.

Wright&nbsp; was transported to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries where he was subsequently pronounced deceased.

Preliminary investigation indicates Wright was inside of the vehicle when he was struck by gunfire. It is undetermined at this time if the suspect was an individual inside of another vehicle, or traveling on foot. 

Police do not currently have a person of interest identified and there is not anyone in police custody.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 57-year-old Cleveland Wright, according to KCPD Sgt. Phil DiMartino.Just before 8:30p.m. Sept. 24, police were dispatched to the intersection of Gardiner and N. Chouteau Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri on a reported shooting, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.When officers arrived to the scene, they located a vehicle that had been stopped near the intersection with an unresponsive driver inside. Upon further evaluation, officers determined the individual, later identified as Wright, was suffering from apparent, gunshot trauma, and immediately began rendering medical aid until EMS personnel responded.Wright&nbsp; was transported to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries where he was subsequently pronounced deceased.Preliminary investigation indicates Wright was inside of the vehicle when he was struck by gunfire. It is undetermined at this time if the suspect was an individual inside of another vehicle, or traveling on foot. Police do not currently have a person of interest identified and there is not anyone in police custody.

Police ID shooting victim found in vehicle on KC street

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats kept their promise to reject any Republican spending bill that didn’t extend or restore health care benefits, choosing instead to force&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-chuck-schumer-20e54a0f5e4fee909d0f9ea2c07c15e1">a government shutdown</a>. Now they have to figure out how to get out of it.

Just hours after the shutdown began, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said that if the Republicans work with them, “the shutdown could go away very quickly.”

But that won’t be easy. Republican leaders — Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson and President Donald Trump — have said that they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-democrats-health-care-blame-ee852953197b7b59f3447aa3a2167ac0">won’t negotiate or be “held hostage</a>&nbsp;” by Democrats demanding concessions to reopen the government. The bill Democrats voted against was a simple extension of funding for 45 days, legislation they say should be noncontroversial.

While that uncompromising Republican position may not last long — there were some early, informal talks on the Senate floor Wednesday — reaching a deal would be difficult. It’s deeply uncertain, for now, if the two sides could find common ground on health care policy or sow enough trust for the Democrats to change their position.

At the same time, an extended shutdown could be increasingly painful for Democrats. The Trump administration has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-congress-government-shutdown-99d4cafe53209f6dc6ae5562c2ac79d2">threatened to lay off thousands of workers</a>&nbsp;and target Democratic-leaning states. On Wednesday, the White House announced it was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-new-york-rail-projects-money-withheld-ada494e08ae9ae5269c6ce554ecdbd43">putting a hold on subway and tunnel projects</a>&nbsp;in Schumer’s home state of New York.

“This Democrat shutdown is actually delaying progress on the issues that Democrats claim to be interested in,” Thune, who represents South Dakota, said on the Senate floor Wednesday.

Some wavering Democrats emerge in shutdown saga

Republicans were encouraged Tuesday evening when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-senate-schumer-thune-trump-health-care-b85fe6cdd5d8cdc3e3aa1f4ae889474f">three Democrats voted with them to keep the government open</a>&nbsp;— Democratic Sens. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine.

Republicans, who hold the majority, need eight Democrats to win the 60 votes needed for passage in the 53-47 Senate. Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul was the only Republican to vote with Democrats against the measure.

Thune is holding repeated votes on the measure, which failed 55-45 on Tuesday night and again Wednesday morning. He said he hopes that five Democrats will eventually feel the pressure and support the bill “when they realize that this is playing a losing hand.”

Republicans are eyeing several moderate Democrats who appeared to be wavering before casting “no” votes on Tuesday night, including Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Gary Peters of Michigan. Both voted to keep the government open in March,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-congress-chuck-schumer-government-funding-shutdown-43d1acea20c34ad28d848edc08ad6375">along with Schumer</a>, while many of their colleagues voted for a shutdown.

But Shaheen and Peters each voted no on Tuesday after extensive negotiations with colleagues in both parties on the floor. Shaheen said afterward that “I have been in intensive conversations with colleagues from both sides of the aisle on how to find a path forward and I’m eager to work with my Republican colleagues to find common ground.”

Democrats at a crossroad: To dig in or dig out?

As some Democrats are already looking for a way out, others say they need to dig in and fight.

“As Donald Trump’s lawlessness grows during this shutdown, our spines should stiffen, not bend,” Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut said in a social media post on Wednesday. “Let’s stand for something. The American people don’t want us to fund the destruction of their health care and the destruction of our democracy.”

The divisions in the caucus pose a dilemma for Schumer, who was blasted by base voters and activists in March when he voted with Republicans to keep the government open. Many Democrats in the House and Senate have suggested that shutting down the government is their only leverage to fight Trump and push back on his policies, including health care and spending cuts.

“Standing up to (Trump) on this is sending a message to him on those other issues as well,” said Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.

Democrats have demanded that Republicans immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">extend health care subsidies</a>&nbsp;for people who purchase coverage through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces. The expanded subsidies first put in place in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic are set to expire at the end of the year, raising premium costs for millions of people.

Many Republicans have said they are open to an extension, but they want to see changes. Other Republicans — especially in the House — see it as an unacceptable expansion of President Barack Obama’s signature health care law, which Republicans have tried to eliminate or cut back since it was enacted 15 years ago.

Johnson has not committed to talks on the issue and said, “There has to be reform.”

Obamacare “is a flawed system,” Johnson said on CNBC.

Thune has repeatedly said that Republicans are willing to negotiate on the issue once the government reopens.

Even so, some Republicans began informal talks with Democrats on the Senate floor Wednesday about potentially extending the expanded subsidies for a year and then eventually phasing them out. The idea floated by Republican Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota would likely be rejected by many Republicans, but Democrats said they were encouraged that the two sides were talking at all.

“At least we’re on the same page talking about the same problem,” Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., said after the floor huddle. “So I see that as progress, but it’s a long way from where we have to end up.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdowns-history-schumer-trump-f442ba1392fab3e7cab37756302e829c">Past shutdowns</a>&nbsp;show that it’s hard to win major concessions by closing the government.

In 2018, the government shut down for three days as Democrats, led by Schumer, insisted that any budget measure come with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-immigration-bills-north-america-532fcd6149a34d488723517156c34a55">protections for young immigrants</a>&nbsp;known as “Dreamers” under the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. They voted to reopen after then-Majority Leader Mitch McConnell promised only a vote on the issue.

Later that year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/30769167ab7a4ef9adf880d020b775dd">Trump forced a shutdown</a>&nbsp;over funding for his border wall and retreated after 35 days as intensifying delays at the nation’s airports and missed paydays for hundreds of thousands of federal workers.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and House Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-general-news-9f568e68401b4695ad8290e89169d9c2">triggered a shutdown in 2013</a>&nbsp;over Obama’s health care law. Bipartisan negotiations in the Senate finally ended the shutdown after 16 days, and Republicans did not win any major concessions on health care.

“I don’t think shutdowns benefit anybody, least of all the American people,” Thune said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759369156073.png" alt="House Minority Leaker Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Schumer following their Oval Office meeting this week-image courtesy Jeffries' office" />
 <figcaption>House Minority Leaker Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Schumer following their Oval Office meeting this week-image courtesy Jeffries' office</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats kept their promise to reject any Republican spending bill that didn’t extend or restore health care benefits, choosing instead to force&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-chuck-schumer-20e54a0f5e4fee909d0f9ea2c07c15e1">a government shutdown</a>. Now they have to figure out how to get out of it.Just hours after the shutdown began, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said that if the Republicans work with them, “the shutdown could go away very quickly.”But that won’t be easy. Republican leaders — Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Speaker Mike Johnson and President Donald Trump — have said that they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdown-trump-democrats-health-care-blame-ee852953197b7b59f3447aa3a2167ac0">won’t negotiate or be “held hostage</a>&nbsp;” by Democrats demanding concessions to reopen the government. The bill Democrats voted against was a simple extension of funding for 45 days, legislation they say should be noncontroversial.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Even the Democrat-controlled CBO highlights the disastrous impacts of a government shutdown ➡️ costing Americans $400 MILLION A DAY. <a href="https://t.co/3lPyMNBCyY">pic.twitter.com/3lPyMNBCyY</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1973478659664314727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>While that uncompromising Republican position may not last long — there were some early, informal talks on the Senate floor Wednesday — reaching a deal would be difficult. It’s deeply uncertain, for now, if the two sides could find common ground on health care policy or sow enough trust for the Democrats to change their position.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨A statement from <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a> <a href="https://t.co/Wc91BposJE">pic.twitter.com/Wc91BposJE</a>&mdash; Department of State (@StateDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept/status/1973520967440969807?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At the same time, an extended shutdown could be increasingly painful for Democrats. The Trump administration has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-congress-government-shutdown-99d4cafe53209f6dc6ae5562c2ac79d2">threatened to lay off thousands of workers</a>&nbsp;and target Democratic-leaning states. On Wednesday, the White House announced it was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-new-york-rail-projects-money-withheld-ada494e08ae9ae5269c6ce554ecdbd43">putting a hold on subway and tunnel projects</a>&nbsp;in Schumer’s home state of New York.“This Democrat shutdown is actually delaying progress on the issues that Democrats claim to be interested in,” Thune, who represents South Dakota, said on the Senate floor Wednesday.<h2>Some wavering Democrats emerge in shutdown saga</h2>Republicans were encouraged Tuesday evening when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shutdown-senate-schumer-thune-trump-health-care-b85fe6cdd5d8cdc3e3aa1f4ae889474f">three Democrats voted with them to keep the government open</a>&nbsp;— Democratic Sens. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania and Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada and Independent Sen. Angus King of Maine.Republicans, who hold the majority, need eight Democrats to win the 60 votes needed for passage in the 53-47 Senate. Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul was the only Republican to vote with Democrats against the measure.Thune is holding repeated votes on the measure, which failed 55-45 on Tuesday night and again Wednesday morning. He said he hopes that five Democrats will eventually feel the pressure and support the bill “when they realize that this is playing a losing hand.”Republicans are eyeing several moderate Democrats who appeared to be wavering before casting “no” votes on Tuesday night, including Sens. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Gary Peters of Michigan. Both voted to keep the government open in March,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-congress-chuck-schumer-government-funding-shutdown-43d1acea20c34ad28d848edc08ad6375">along with Schumer</a>, while many of their colleagues voted for a shutdown.But Shaheen and Peters each voted no on Tuesday after extensive negotiations with colleagues in both parties on the floor. Shaheen said afterward that “I have been in intensive conversations with colleagues from both sides of the aisle on how to find a path forward and I’m eager to work with my Republican colleagues to find common ground.”<h2>Democrats at a crossroad: To dig in or dig out?</h2>As some Democrats are already looking for a way out, others say they need to dig in and fight.“As Donald Trump’s lawlessness grows during this shutdown, our spines should stiffen, not bend,” Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut said in a social media post on Wednesday. “Let’s stand for something. The American people don’t want us to fund the destruction of their health care and the destruction of our democracy.”The divisions in the caucus pose a dilemma for Schumer, who was blasted by base voters and activists in March when he voted with Republicans to keep the government open. Many Democrats in the House and Senate have suggested that shutting down the government is their only leverage to fight Trump and push back on his policies, including health care and spending cuts.“Standing up to (Trump) on this is sending a message to him on those other issues as well,” said Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.<h2>The politics of health care</h2>Democrats have demanded that Republicans immediately&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-care-subsidies-congress-shutdown-democrats-republicans-bb3464820a347fd2c0399e78e335881e">extend health care subsidies</a>&nbsp;for people who purchase coverage through the Affordable Care Act marketplaces. The expanded subsidies first put in place in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic are set to expire at the end of the year, raising premium costs for millions of people.Many Republicans have said they are open to an extension, but they want to see changes. Other Republicans — especially in the House — see it as an unacceptable expansion of President Barack Obama’s signature health care law, which Republicans have tried to eliminate or cut back since it was enacted 15 years ago.Johnson has not committed to talks on the issue and said, “There has to be reform.”Obamacare “is a flawed system,” Johnson said on CNBC.Thune has repeatedly said that Republicans are willing to negotiate on the issue once the government reopens.Even so, some Republicans began informal talks with Democrats on the Senate floor Wednesday about potentially extending the expanded subsidies for a year and then eventually phasing them out. The idea floated by Republican Sen. Mike Rounds of South Dakota would likely be rejected by many Republicans, but Democrats said they were encouraged that the two sides were talking at all.“At least we’re on the same page talking about the same problem,” Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., said after the floor huddle. “So I see that as progress, but it’s a long way from where we have to end up.”<h2>Lessons from the past</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/government-shutdowns-history-schumer-trump-f442ba1392fab3e7cab37756302e829c">Past shutdowns</a>&nbsp;show that it’s hard to win major concessions by closing the government.In 2018, the government shut down for three days as Democrats, led by Schumer, insisted that any budget measure come with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-donald-trump-immigration-bills-north-america-532fcd6149a34d488723517156c34a55">protections for young immigrants</a>&nbsp;known as “Dreamers” under the Obama-era Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. They voted to reopen after then-Majority Leader Mitch McConnell promised only a vote on the issue.Later that year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/30769167ab7a4ef9adf880d020b775dd">Trump forced a shutdown</a>&nbsp;over funding for his border wall and retreated after 35 days as intensifying delays at the nation’s airports and missed paydays for hundreds of thousands of federal workers.Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and House Republicans&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/united-states-government-general-news-9f568e68401b4695ad8290e89169d9c2">triggered a shutdown in 2013</a>&nbsp;over Obama’s health care law. Bipartisan negotiations in the Senate finally ended the shutdown after 16 days, and Republicans did not win any major concessions on health care.“I don’t think shutdowns benefit anybody, least of all the American people,” Thune said.___

Democrats voted for a shutdown. Now they have to find a way out

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City faces charges for allegedly striking a man to death and then setting the house on fire earlier this month in Kansas City’s northeast neighborhood.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2733/brown-dianna---complaint-packet-update-final">Dianna A. Brown</a>&nbsp;46, faces 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, 2nd Degree Arson, and Tampering with Physical Evidence in a Felony Prosecution, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2732/Diana-Brown---PC-Statement-Redacted-final">According to court records</a>, on September 19, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched to an apartment building near Kensington Avenue and Independence Avenue on a reported fire. After extinguishing the fire, which was contained to only one portion of the building, firefighters located a deceased male with severe burns, apparent head trauma, and signs of decomposition.&nbsp;

Detectives responded to the scene and found mail and prescription medication belonging to the defendant at the location.&nbsp;

The Medical Examiner determined the victim’s cause of death as blunt force trauma of the head and the manner of death as homicide.&nbsp;

On Sept. 27, the detctives interviewed the defendant. She said that on Sept. 14, she was with the victim at his apartment when an argument began. After the argument stopped and the victim went to sleep, Brown told detectives she used a nearby hammer to strike the victim multiple times. She said she continued to live in the apartment until setting it on fire.&nbsp;

The defendant is being held on a $500,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758311035022.png" alt="Scene of the investigation&nbsp; -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Scene of the investigation&nbsp; -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City faces charges for allegedly striking a man to death and then setting the house on fire earlier this month in Kansas City’s northeast neighborhood.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2733/brown-dianna---complaint-packet-update-final">Dianna A. Brown</a>&nbsp;46, faces 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Criminal Action, 2nd Degree Arson, and Tampering with Physical Evidence in a Felony Prosecution, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759177714145.png" alt="Brown photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2732/Diana-Brown---PC-Statement-Redacted-final">According to court records</a>, on September 19, the Kansas City Fire Department was dispatched to an apartment building near Kensington Avenue and Independence Avenue on a reported fire. After extinguishing the fire, which was contained to only one portion of the building, firefighters located a deceased male with severe burns, apparent head trauma, and signs of decomposition.&nbsp;Detectives responded to the scene and found mail and prescription medication belonging to the defendant at the location.&nbsp;The Medical Examiner determined the victim’s cause of death as blunt force trauma of the head and the manner of death as homicide.&nbsp;On Sept. 27, the detctives interviewed the defendant. She said that on Sept. 14, she was with the victim at his apartment when an argument began. After the argument stopped and the victim went to sleep, Brown told detectives she used a nearby hammer to strike the victim multiple times. She said she continued to live in the apartment until setting it on fire.&nbsp;The defendant is being held on a $500,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

KC woman allegedly bludgeoned man to death, set home on fire

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jon-gambrell">JON GAMBRELL</a>

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order vowing to use all measures including U.S. military action to defend the energy-rich nation of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/qatar">Qatar</a>&nbsp;— though it remains unclear just what weight the pledge will carry.

The text of the order, available Wednesday on the White House’s website but dated Monday, appears to be another measure by Trump to assure the Qataris following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/qatar-explosion-doha-e319dd51b170161372442831a8023db5">Israel’s surprise attack on the country targeting Hamas leaders</a>&nbsp;as they weighed accepting a ceasefire with Israel over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">the war in the Gaza Strip</a>.

The order cites the two countries’ “close cooperation” and “shared interest,” vowing to “guarantee the security and territorial integrity of the state of Qatar against external attack.”

“The United States shall regard any armed attack on the territory, sovereignty or critical infrastructure of the state of Qatar as a threat to the peace and security of the United States,” the order says.

“In the event of such an attack, the United States shall take all lawful and appropriate measures — including diplomatic, economic, and, if necessary, military — to defend the interests of the United States and of the state of Qatar and to restore peace and stability.”

Trump accepted a $400M jet from Qatar.

The order apparently came during a visit to Washington on Monday by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump organized a call by Netanyahu to Qatar during the visit in which Netanyahu&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-netanyahu-israel-hamas-war-gaza-708a08671b8842d7a7a5e250ec51351c">“expressed his deep regret”</a>&nbsp;over the strike that killed six people, including a member of the Qatari security forces, the White House said.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry described the U.S. pledge as “an important step in strengthening the two countries’ close defense partnership.” The Qatari-funded Al Jazeera satellite news network declared: “New Trump executive order guarantees Qatar security after Israeli attack.”

Trump also spoke on the phone later Wednesday to Qatar’s ruling emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, according to a White House official who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The White House did not release details about the call, though Qatar later said the two men spoke about Doha’s efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.

The true scope of the pledge by the U.S. remains in question. Typically, legally binding agreements, or treaties, need to receive the approval of the U.S. Senate. However, presidents have entered international agreements without the Senate’s approval, like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-united-states-government-911f25e443e64bb7a116afd8d0bfccf8">President Barack Obama did</a>&nbsp;with Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.

And ultimately, any decision to take military action rests with the president. That uncertainty has clouded previous U.S. defense agreements in Trump’s second term, like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-nato-article-5-88883436438dae49ba9cacb6d4cfad0a">NATO’s Article 5 guarantees</a>.

Qatar order comes as Gulf Arabs reassess their security

Qatar, a peninsular nation that sticks out into the Persian Gulf, became fantastically wealthy through its natural gas reserves. It has been a key partner of the U.S. military, allowing its Central Command to have its forward operating base at its vast Al Udeid Air Base.

U.S. President Joe Biden named&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-russia-ukraine-coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-dfff33604f12df2665d060abb3ff8705">Qatar as a major non-NATO ally</a>&nbsp;in 2022, in part due to its help during America’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. And Qatar has maintained close ties to Trump, whether through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-deal-conflicts-saudi-arabia-emoluments-7379bee2e307d39bd43b534a05ae3207">a real estate project with his eponymous Trump Organization</a>&nbsp;to offering the president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-air-force-one-gift-plane-c4e1d73c3dbe18397c10e3d3d267bcd6">a Boeing 747 to use as Air Force One</a>.

In the aftermath of the Israeli attack, Saudi Arabia entered a mutual defense agreement with Pakistan,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-saudi-nuclear-pact-defense-e66e0ded8045812c8aea39e21d764836">bringing the kingdom under Islamabad’s nuclear umbrella</a>. It’s unclear whether other Gulf Arab countries, both worried about Israel and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-snapback-sanctions-nuclear-us-israel-war-5b13ed1781659c1a9871427881ef239b">Iran as it faces reimposed United Nations sanctions</a>&nbsp;over its nuclear program, may seek similar arrangements as well with the region’s longtime security guarantor.

“The Gulf’s centrality in the Middle East and its significance to the United States warrants specific U.S. guarantees beyond President Donald J. Trump’s assurances of nonrepetition and dinner meetings,” wrote Bader al-Saif, a history professor at Kuwait University who analyzes Gulf Arab affairs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759369544150.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/jon-gambrell">JON GAMBRELL</a>DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order vowing to use all measures including U.S. military action to defend the energy-rich nation of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/qatar">Qatar</a>&nbsp;— though it remains unclear just what weight the pledge will carry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759369908795.png" alt="President Trump arrives and greets at Lusail Palace in Doha Qatar in May-image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Trump arrives and greets at Lusail Palace in Doha Qatar in May-image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>The text of the order, available Wednesday on the White House’s website but dated Monday, appears to be another measure by Trump to assure the Qataris following&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/qatar-explosion-doha-e319dd51b170161372442831a8023db5">Israel’s surprise attack on the country targeting Hamas leaders</a>&nbsp;as they weighed accepting a ceasefire with Israel over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">the war in the Gaza Strip</a>.The order cites the two countries’ “close cooperation” and “shared interest,” vowing to “guarantee the security and territorial integrity of the state of Qatar against external attack.”“The United States shall regard any armed attack on the territory, sovereignty or critical infrastructure of the state of Qatar as a threat to the peace and security of the United States,” the order says.“In the event of such an attack, the United States shall take all lawful and appropriate measures — including diplomatic, economic, and, if necessary, military — to defend the interests of the United States and of the state of Qatar and to restore peace and stability.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">NEWS: Pres. Trump accepts this luxury 747 from Qatar for use as Air Force One - he toured in Feb 2025 <a href="https://t.co/usQ8hlUcG2">pic.twitter.com/usQ8hlUcG2</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1921616343910011324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Trump accepted a $400M jet from Qatar.<h2>Order follows Netanyahu apology call</h2>The order apparently came during a visit to Washington on Monday by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump organized a call by Netanyahu to Qatar during the visit in which Netanyahu&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-netanyahu-israel-hamas-war-gaza-708a08671b8842d7a7a5e250ec51351c">“expressed his deep regret”</a>&nbsp;over the strike that killed six people, including a member of the Qatari security forces, the White House said.Qatar’s Foreign Ministry described the U.S. pledge as “an important step in strengthening the two countries’ close defense partnership.” The Qatari-funded Al Jazeera satellite news network declared: “New Trump executive order guarantees Qatar security after Israeli attack.”Trump also spoke on the phone later Wednesday to Qatar’s ruling emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, according to a White House official who was not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.The White House did not release details about the call, though Qatar later said the two men spoke about Doha’s efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war.The true scope of the pledge by the U.S. remains in question. Typically, legally binding agreements, or treaties, need to receive the approval of the U.S. Senate. However, presidents have entered international agreements without the Senate’s approval, like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-united-states-government-911f25e443e64bb7a116afd8d0bfccf8">President Barack Obama did</a>&nbsp;with Iran’s 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.And ultimately, any decision to take military action rests with the president. That uncertainty has clouded previous U.S. defense agreements in Trump’s second term, like&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-nato-article-5-88883436438dae49ba9cacb6d4cfad0a">NATO’s Article 5 guarantees</a>.<h2>Qatar order comes as Gulf Arabs reassess their security</h2>Qatar, a peninsular nation that sticks out into the Persian Gulf, became fantastically wealthy through its natural gas reserves. It has been a key partner of the U.S. military, allowing its Central Command to have its forward operating base at its vast Al Udeid Air Base.U.S. President Joe Biden named&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-russia-ukraine-coronavirus-pandemic-joe-biden-business-dfff33604f12df2665d060abb3ff8705">Qatar as a major non-NATO ally</a>&nbsp;in 2022, in part due to its help during America’s chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan. And Qatar has maintained close ties to Trump, whether through&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-deal-conflicts-saudi-arabia-emoluments-7379bee2e307d39bd43b534a05ae3207">a real estate project with his eponymous Trump Organization</a>&nbsp;to offering the president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-qatar-air-force-one-gift-plane-c4e1d73c3dbe18397c10e3d3d267bcd6">a Boeing 747 to use as Air Force One</a>.In the aftermath of the Israeli attack, Saudi Arabia entered a mutual defense agreement with Pakistan,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-saudi-nuclear-pact-defense-e66e0ded8045812c8aea39e21d764836">bringing the kingdom under Islamabad’s nuclear umbrella</a>. It’s unclear whether other Gulf Arab countries, both worried about Israel and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-snapback-sanctions-nuclear-us-israel-war-5b13ed1781659c1a9871427881ef239b">Iran as it faces reimposed United Nations sanctions</a>&nbsp;over its nuclear program, may seek similar arrangements as well with the region’s longtime security guarantor.“The Gulf’s centrality in the Middle East and its significance to the United States warrants specific U.S. guarantees beyond President Donald J. Trump’s assurances of nonrepetition and dinner meetings,” wrote Bader al-Saif, a history professor at Kuwait University who analyzes Gulf Arab affairs.

Trump signs order vowing to defend Qatar in the wake of Israel’s strike

PAWNEE COUNTY– William M. Boos, 54 of Ellis, appeared in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff Tuesday before Pawnee Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell for Felony First Appearances on a four count felony complaint, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Boos is currently charged with two counts of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property in excess of $5,000 done with the intent to obtain scrap metal, one count of Theft of at least $25,000, but less than $100,000, and one count of Theft of at least $1,500, but less than $25,000.

The charges stem from an investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff into the theft of radiators from approximately 26 vintage automobiles at two separate rural locations in the western portion of Pawnee County occurring between April 18, 2025, and June 20, 2025. The thefts were reported on June 29, 2025. The investigation determined approximately 40 vehicles were damaged.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled October 14.

Under Kansas law, criminal damage to property becomes as aggravated offense if the damage is done with the intent to obtain regulated scrap materials.

The defendant remains in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff with bond set at $65,000 cash or surety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759352925335.png" alt="Boos photo Pawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Boos photo Pawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY– William M. Boos, 54 of Ellis, appeared in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff Tuesday before Pawnee Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell for Felony First Appearances on a four count felony complaint, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Boos is currently charged with two counts of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property in excess of $5,000 done with the intent to obtain scrap metal, one count of Theft of at least $25,000, but less than $100,000, and one count of Theft of at least $1,500, but less than $25,000.The charges stem from an investigation by the Pawnee County Sheriff into the theft of radiators from approximately 26 vintage automobiles at two separate rural locations in the western portion of Pawnee County occurring between April 18, 2025, and June 20, 2025. The thefts were reported on June 29, 2025. The investigation determined approximately 40 vehicles were damaged.A preliminary hearing is scheduled October 14.Under Kansas law, criminal damage to property becomes as aggravated offense if the damage is done with the intent to obtain regulated scrap materials.The defendant remains in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff with bond set at $65,000 cash or surety.

Kan. man accused of theft of radiators from 26 vintage vehicles

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jane-goodall">Jane Goodall</a>, the conservationist renowned for her groundbreaking chimpanzee field research and globe-spanning environmental advocacy, has died. She was 91.

The Jane Goodall Institute announced the primatologist’s death Wednesday in an Instagram post. According to the Washington, D.C.-based institute, Goodall died of natural causes while in California on a U.S. speaking tour.

Her discoveries “revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world," it said.

While living among chimpanzees in Africa decades ago, Goodall documented the animals using tools and doing other activities previously believed to be exclusive to humans, and also noted their distinct personalities. Her observations and subsequent magazine and documentary appearances in the 1960s transformed how the world perceived not only humans' closest living biological relatives but also the emotional and social complexity of all animals, while propelling her into the public consciousness.

“Out there in nature by myself, when you’re alone, you can become part of nature and your humanity doesn’t get in the way,” she told The Associated Press in 2021. “It’s almost like an out-of-body experience when suddenly you hear different sounds and you smell different smells and you’re actually part of this amazing tapestry of life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1759356690455.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>0By HALLIE GOLDEN Associated Press<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jane-goodall">Jane Goodall</a>, the conservationist renowned for her groundbreaking chimpanzee field research and globe-spanning environmental advocacy, has died. She was 91.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jane Goodall has died at the age of 91. Here&#39;s her receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in January. Find all of her C-SPAN appearances here: <a href="https://t.co/9yN0ncolvf">https://t.co/9yN0ncolvf</a> <a href="https://t.co/FPvK99srtp">https://t.co/FPvK99srtp</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1973461332411449525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Jane Goodall Institute announced the primatologist’s death Wednesday in an Instagram post. According to the Washington, D.C.-based institute, Goodall died of natural causes while in California on a U.S. speaking tour.Her discoveries “revolutionized science, and she was a tireless advocate for the protection and restoration of our natural world," it said.While living among chimpanzees in Africa decades ago, Goodall documented the animals using tools and doing other activities previously believed to be exclusive to humans, and also noted their distinct personalities. Her observations and subsequent magazine and documentary appearances in the 1960s transformed how the world perceived not only humans' closest living biological relatives but also the emotional and social complexity of all animals, while propelling her into the public consciousness.“Out there in nature by myself, when you’re alone, you can become part of nature and your humanity doesn’t get in the way,” she told The Associated Press in 2021. “It’s almost like an out-of-body experience when suddenly you hear different sounds and you smell different smells and you’re actually part of this amazing tapestry of life.”<h2>Goodall never lost hope for the future</h2>She had been scheduled to meet with students and teachers on Wednesday to launch the planting of 5,000 trees around wildfire burn zones in the Los Angeles area. Organizers learned of her death as the event was to begin at EF Academy in Pasadena, said spokesperson Shawna Marino. The first tree was planted in Goodall’s name after a moment of silence.“I don’t think there’s any better way to honor her legacy than having a thousand children gathered for her,” Marino said.Goodall in her later years devoted decades to education and advocacy on humanitarian causes and protecting the natural world. In her usual soft-spoken British accent, she was known for balancing the grim realities of the climate crisis with a sincere message of hope for the future.From her base in the British coastal town of Bournemouth, she traveled nearly 300 days a year, even after she turned 90, to speak to packed auditoriums. Between more serious messages, her speeches often featured her whooping like a chimpanzee or lamenting that Tarzan chose the wrong Jane.Tributes from animal rights organizations, political leaders and admirers poured in following news of her death.“I’m deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Jane Goodall, our dear Messenger of Peace. She is leaving an extraordinary legacy for humanity &amp; our planet," said United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.<h2>Living among the chimpanzees</h2>While first studying chimps in Tanzania in the early 1960s, Goodall was known for her unconventional approach. She didn’t simply observe them from afar but immersed herself in every aspect of their lives. She fed them and gave them names instead of numbers, which some scientists criticized.Her findings were circulated to millions when she first appeared on the cover of National Geographic in 1963 and then in a popular documentary. A collection of photos of Goodall in the field helped her and even some of the chimps become famous. One iconic image showed her crouching across from the infant chimpanzee named Flint. Each has arms outstretched, reaching for the other.In 1972,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rootsandshoots.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/flo-obituary.pdf">the Sunday Times</a>&nbsp;published an obituary for Flo, Flint's mother and the dominant matriarch. Flint died soon after showing signs of grief and losing weight.″What the chimps have taught me over the years is they’re so like us. They’ve blurred the line between humans and animals,″ she said in 1997.Goodall earned top civilian honors from a number of countries. She was awarded the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-medal-of-freedom-clinton-soros-denzel-washington-4b19a363d3058ac3b8107e2002b93651">Presidential Medal of Freedom</a>&nbsp;in 2025 by then-U.S. President Joe Biden and won the prestigious&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jane-goodall-templeton-prize-1ee6d31271e9329799342c0fa8f1e8b9">Templeton Prize</a>&nbsp;in 2021.“Her groundbreaking discoveries have changed humanity’s understanding of its role in an interconnected world, and her advocacy has pointed to a greater purpose for our species in caring for life on this planet,” said the Templeton Prize citation, which honors individuals whose life’s work embodies a fusion of science and spirituality.The Humane World for Animals said Wednesday that Goodall’s influence on the animal protection community was immeasurable.“Her work on behalf of primates and all animals will never be forgotten,” said Kitty Block, president and CEO of the group formerly the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International.<h2>Charting a course from an early age</h2>Born in London in 1934, Goodall said her fascination with animals began around when she learned to crawl. In her book, “In the Shadow of Man,” she described an early memory of hiding in a henhouse to see a chicken lay an egg. She was there so long her mother reported her missing to police.She bought her first book — Edgar Rice Burroughs’ “Tarzan of the Apes” — when she was 10 and soon made up her mind about her future: Live with wild animals in Africa.That plan stayed with her through a secretarial course when she was 18 and two different jobs. By 1957, she accepted an invitation to travel to a farm in Kenya.There she met the famed anthropologist and paleontologist Louis Leakey at a natural history museum in Nairobi. He gave her a job as an assistant secretary.Three years later, despite Goodall not having a college degree, Leakey asked if she would be interested in studying chimpanzees in what is now Tanzania. She told the AP that he chose her “because he wanted an open mind.”The beginning was filled with complications. British authorities insisted she have a companion, so she brought her mother. The chimps fled if she got within 500 yards (460 meters) of them. She also spent weeks sick from what she believed was malaria.Eventually she gained the animals’ trust. By the fall of 1960 she observed the chimpanzee named David Greybeard make a tool from twigs to fish termites from a nest. It was previously believed that only humans made and used tools.She also found that chimps have individual personalities and share humans’ emotions of pleasure, joy, sadness and fear. She documented bonds between mothers and infants, sibling rivalry and male dominance. She found there was no sharp line between humans and the animal kingdom.In later years, she discovered chimpanzees engage in a type of warfare, and in 1987 she and her staff observed a chimp “adopt” a 3-year-old orphan that wasn't closely related.<h2>Becoming an activist</h2>Her work moved into global advocacy after she watched a disturbing film of experiments on laboratory animals in 1986.″I knew I had to do something,″ she said. ″It was payback time.″When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020 and halted her in-person events, she began podcasting from her childhood home in England. Through dozens of “Jane Goodall Hopecast” episodes, she talked with guests including U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, author Margaret Atwood and marine biologist Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.“If one wants to reach people; If one wants to change attitudes, you have to reach the heart," she said during her first episode. "You can reach the heart by telling stories, not by arguing with people’s intellects.”In later years, she pushed back on “gloom and doom” messaging and aggressive tactics by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/greta-thunberg-international-news-environment-climate-change-switzerland-ee36c1b18874d3ebec2c743f0968396f">climate activists</a>, saying they could backfire.Her advice: “Focus on the present and make choices today whose impact will build over time.”___Associated Press journalist Christopher Weber in Los Angeles and Tammy Webber in Fenton, Michigan; contributed.___The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. 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