WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with crimes related to child pornography.

Eric Caleb Carlson, 43, of Wichita is charged with one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Synchronoss Technologies submitted two reports in June 2023 to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding uploads of files containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials to its cloud based backup service. An investigation led law enforcement authorities to identify and arrest Carlson.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) are investigating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694123987580.png" alt="Carlson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Carlson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with crimes related to child pornography.Eric Caleb Carlson, 43, of Wichita is charged with one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Synchronoss Technologies submitted two reports in June 2023 to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) regarding uploads of files containing child sexual abuse and exploitation materials to its cloud based backup service. An investigation led law enforcement authorities to identify and arrest Carlson.Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) are investigating.

Kan. man accused of uploading child sex abuse videos

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas felon accused in a deadly shooting made his first court appearance this week.

Jeremy Miles, 36 of Wichita, is charged with 1st degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 11a.m. Aug. 30, police were dispatched to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 2000 block of S. Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp;

First responders&nbsp; located&nbsp;69-year-old James Gibson of Wichita with gunshot wounds inside an apartment. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police&nbsp; arrested <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=22921">Miles</a>&nbsp;who remains jailed on a bond of $500,000. He has three previous convictions for aggravated robbery and one for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693488696173.png" alt="Miles has three previous convictions for aggravated robbery and one for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Miles has three previous convictions for aggravated robbery and one for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas felon accused in a deadly shooting made his first court appearance this week.Jeremy Miles, 36 of Wichita, is charged with 1st degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just before 11a.m. Aug. 30, police were dispatched to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 2000 block of S. Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp;First responders&nbsp; located&nbsp;69-year-old James Gibson of Wichita with gunshot wounds inside an apartment. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police&nbsp; arrested <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=22921">Miles</a>&nbsp;who remains jailed on a bond of $500,000. He has three previous convictions for aggravated robbery and one for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kansas felon with a history of robbery now charged with murder

Governor nominates KCC’s Andrew French to a second term on regulatory panel

BY: TIM CARPENTER,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A Topeka Democrat who served a quarter century in the Kansas House was nominated by Gov. Laura Kelly to the state commission responsible for regulating the utility industry, oil and gas production and safety of commercial trucking.

Kelly appointed retired Rep. Annie Kuether, who served in the Legislature form 1997 to 2022, to replace Kansas Corporation Commission member Susan Duffy. Duffy was appointed by Kelly in 2019 to a four-year term on the commission, but the governor said Duffy chose not to seek a second term.

“Representative Kuether brings experience to the Kansas Corporation Commission from her 25 years in the Legislature, where she served as a ranking minority member on the energy, utilities and telecommunications committee,” said Kelly, a Democrat who was in the Kansas Senate for 14 years.

The KCC’s influence extends to hundreds of thousands of Kansas residences and businesses through regulation of utility rates proposed by Evergy, Southern Pioneer, Liberty Utilities, Black Hills, Kansas Gas Service and Atmos Energy. Cooperative and municipal utilities don’t generally fall under KCC jurisdiction.

If confirmed by the Republican-led Senate Confirmation Oversight Committee, Kuether would begin service on the KCC in October.

In a statement Friday, Kelly said she would renominate KCC member Andrew French to a term that would begin in March if he was confirmed again by the Senate. He was appointed in 2020 by Kelly. Prior to working in a private legal practice, French was a staff attorney at the KCC from 2012 to 2017.

The KCC consists of three members appointed by the governor to overlapping four-year terms, but no more than two members of the regulatory commission can be in the same political party.

The other member of the commission is Dwight Keen, who was initially selected by Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer in 2018 and was reappointed by Kelly in 2022. Keen, a corporate and securities attorney, served six years as Kansas securities commissioner and four years on the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals. His term on the KCC would expire in 2026.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694272102891.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly nominated former state Rep. Annie Kuether, a Topeka Democrat, to a vacancy on the Kansas Corporation Commission. Kuether spent 25 years in the Legislature and served on the House’s energy committee. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly nominated former state Rep. Annie Kuether, a Topeka Democrat, to a vacancy on the Kansas Corporation Commission. Kuether spent 25 years in the Legislature and served on the House’s energy committee. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Governor nominates KCC’s Andrew French to a second term on regulatory panel</h2>BY: TIM CARPENTER,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A Topeka Democrat who served a quarter century in the Kansas House was nominated by Gov. Laura Kelly to the state commission responsible for regulating the utility industry, oil and gas production and safety of commercial trucking.Kelly appointed retired Rep. Annie Kuether, who served in the Legislature form 1997 to 2022, to replace Kansas Corporation Commission member Susan Duffy. Duffy was appointed by Kelly in 2019 to a four-year term on the commission, but the governor said Duffy chose not to seek a second term.“Representative Kuether brings experience to the Kansas Corporation Commission from her 25 years in the Legislature, where she served as a ranking minority member on the energy, utilities and telecommunications committee,” said Kelly, a Democrat who was in the Kansas Senate for 14 years.The KCC’s influence extends to hundreds of thousands of Kansas residences and businesses through regulation of utility rates proposed by Evergy, Southern Pioneer, Liberty Utilities, Black Hills, Kansas Gas Service and Atmos Energy. Cooperative and municipal utilities don’t generally fall under KCC jurisdiction.If confirmed by the Republican-led Senate Confirmation Oversight Committee, Kuether would begin service on the KCC in October.In a statement Friday, Kelly said she would renominate KCC member Andrew French to a term that would begin in March if he was confirmed again by the Senate. He was appointed in 2020 by Kelly. Prior to working in a private legal practice, French was a staff attorney at the KCC from 2012 to 2017.The KCC consists of three members appointed by the governor to overlapping four-year terms, but no more than two members of the regulatory commission can be in the same political party.The other member of the commission is Dwight Keen, who was initially selected by Republican Gov. Jeff Colyer in 2018 and was reappointed by Kelly in 2022. Keen, a corporate and securities attorney, served six years as Kansas securities commissioner and four years on the Kansas Board of Tax Appeals. His term on the KCC would expire in 2026.

Former Dem member of Kan. House appointed to Kan. Corporation Commission

DETROIT (AP) — The United Auto Workers union on Friday rejected wage and benefit offers from all three Detroit automakers, raising tensions just six days before a strike deadline for 146,000 employees.

Union President Shawn Fain told workers in a Facebook Live appearance that he filed proposals from Ford, General Motors and Stellantis in a wastebasket.

“The automakers have yet to offer our members a fair contract,” he said.

Negotiations are continuing through the weekend, but Fain warned that if&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-strike-gm-stellantis-ford-fain-uaw-d11dfb266ce962d1e3a4582d404ba27f">there aren't agreements</a>&nbsp;by 11:59 p.m. Thursday “there will be a strike at all three if need be.”

On Friday, Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, made its first counteroffer to the union's demands with a bigger pay raise than offers from Ford and General Motors. Stellantis offered wage increases in each year of a new four-year contract totaling 14.5%.

Ford increased its offer from 9% to 10% raises over four years, but it also included lump sum payments, while GM’s offered 10% plus lump sums. All three companies offered additional lump sum payments to cover inflation.

The wage increases would be for most workers, said Mark Stewart, chief operating officer of Stellantis North America, said in a letter to employees.

The proposal by Stellantis also includes a $6,000 one-time inflation protection payment in the first year of the contract and $4,500 in inflation protection payments over the final three years of the contract.

In addition, the counteroffer includes boosting hourly wages from $15.78 to $20 for temporary workers and speeding up the progression timeline from eight years to six years for employees who are moving through the pay scale from starting wages.

The proposal from Stellantis, which was formed in a 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler and France's PSA Peugeot, is closer to the union's demands of 46% across-the-board increases over four years, but both sides still are far apart.

“We remain committed to bargaining in good faith and reaching a fair agreement by the deadline," Stewart said. “With this equitable offer, we are seeking a timely resolution to our discussions.”

A strike against all three major automakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/automakers-cars-strike-pay-uaw-union-detroit-349a6e7281f1b07710cfcad511dcaa05">could cause damage</a>&nbsp;not only to the industry as a whole but also to the Midwest and even national economy, depending on how long it lasts. The auto industry accounts for about 3% of the nation’s economic output. A prolonged strike could also lead eventually to higher vehicle prices, and shift sales largely to Asian automakers with U.S. factories.

Automakers say they need to make investments to develop and build electric vehicles, while at the same time putting out new internal combustion vehicles. They say that a big settlement with the union would saddle them with high costs and force them to charge more for vehicles than competitors.

Fain says automakers can afford raises to make up for inflation and previous concessions because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-profit-electric-vehicle-second-quarter-89fb15120107bc51b709343b5010ba64">they're making</a>&nbsp;billions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-motors-earnings-price-outlook-raised-4cbde5055ad2d37c2a2216999be502b5">in profits</a>&nbsp;and paying millions to CEOs. He blames auto price increases on corporate greed.

The union’s demands include 46% across-the-board pay raises, a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, restoration of traditional pensions for new hires, union representation of workers at new battery plants and a restoration of traditional pensions. Top-scale UAW assembly plant workers make about $32 an hour, plus annual profit sharing checks.

The union called proposals from Ford and GM “shameful and insulting,” while it labeled Stellantis' pay offer “deeply inadequate.”

Fain said the companies rejected raises for retirees who have gone without them for at least a decade. To handle inflation, Ford offered cost of living pay that he called severely deficient, while GM and Stellantis offered lump sums. All companies kept tiers of wages for factory workers but lowered the number of years needed to reach full pay, he said.

“I want all of you to be ready,” he said of Thursday's deadline. “Be ready to stand up for yourselves, your families and for your communities.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1693911002324.png" alt="Union President Shawn Fain told workers in a Facebook Live appearance that he filed proposals from Ford, General Motors and Stellantis in a wastebasket.-photo UAW" />
 <figcaption>Union President Shawn Fain told workers in a Facebook Live appearance that he filed proposals from Ford, General Motors and Stellantis in a wastebasket.-photo UAW</figcaption>
 </figure>DETROIT (AP) — The United Auto Workers union on Friday rejected wage and benefit offers from all three Detroit automakers, raising tensions just six days before a strike deadline for 146,000 employees.Union President Shawn Fain told workers in a Facebook Live appearance that he filed proposals from Ford, General Motors and Stellantis in a wastebasket.“The automakers have yet to offer our members a fair contract,” he said.Negotiations are continuing through the weekend, but Fain warned that if&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/auto-strike-gm-stellantis-ford-fain-uaw-d11dfb266ce962d1e3a4582d404ba27f">there aren't agreements</a>&nbsp;by 11:59 p.m. Thursday “there will be a strike at all three if need be.”On Friday, Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler, made its first counteroffer to the union's demands with a bigger pay raise than offers from Ford and General Motors. Stellantis offered wage increases in each year of a new four-year contract totaling 14.5%.Ford increased its offer from 9% to 10% raises over four years, but it also included lump sum payments, while GM’s offered 10% plus lump sums. All three companies offered additional lump sum payments to cover inflation.The wage increases would be for most workers, said Mark Stewart, chief operating officer of Stellantis North America, said in a letter to employees.The proposal by Stellantis also includes a $6,000 one-time inflation protection payment in the first year of the contract and $4,500 in inflation protection payments over the final three years of the contract.In addition, the counteroffer includes boosting hourly wages from $15.78 to $20 for temporary workers and speeding up the progression timeline from eight years to six years for employees who are moving through the pay scale from starting wages.The proposal from Stellantis, which was formed in a 2021 merger of Fiat Chrysler and France's PSA Peugeot, is closer to the union's demands of 46% across-the-board increases over four years, but both sides still are far apart.“We remain committed to bargaining in good faith and reaching a fair agreement by the deadline," Stewart said. “With this equitable offer, we are seeking a timely resolution to our discussions.”A strike against all three major automakers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/automakers-cars-strike-pay-uaw-union-detroit-349a6e7281f1b07710cfcad511dcaa05">could cause damage</a>&nbsp;not only to the industry as a whole but also to the Midwest and even national economy, depending on how long it lasts. The auto industry accounts for about 3% of the nation’s economic output. A prolonged strike could also lead eventually to higher vehicle prices, and shift sales largely to Asian automakers with U.S. factories.Automakers say they need to make investments to develop and build electric vehicles, while at the same time putting out new internal combustion vehicles. They say that a big settlement with the union would saddle them with high costs and force them to charge more for vehicles than competitors.Fain says automakers can afford raises to make up for inflation and previous concessions because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-profit-electric-vehicle-second-quarter-89fb15120107bc51b709343b5010ba64">they're making</a>&nbsp;billions&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-motors-earnings-price-outlook-raised-4cbde5055ad2d37c2a2216999be502b5">in profits</a>&nbsp;and paying millions to CEOs. He blames auto price increases on corporate greed.The union’s demands include 46% across-the-board pay raises, a 32-hour week with 40 hours of pay, restoration of traditional pensions for new hires, union representation of workers at new battery plants and a restoration of traditional pensions. Top-scale UAW assembly plant workers make about $32 an hour, plus annual profit sharing checks.The union called proposals from Ford and GM “shameful and insulting,” while it labeled Stellantis' pay offer “deeply inadequate.”Fain said the companies rejected raises for retirees who have gone without them for at least a decade. To handle inflation, Ford offered cost of living pay that he called severely deficient, while GM and Stellantis offered lump sums. All companies kept tiers of wages for factory workers but lowered the number of years needed to reach full pay, he said.“I want all of you to be ready,” he said of Thursday's deadline. “Be ready to stand up for yourselves, your families and for your communities.”

Auto union rejects wage offers; strike deadline days away

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Wichita Police Department is aware of a regrettable incident that occurred at the Wichita Animal Shelter this week involving a civilian supervisor that led to animals being euthanized prior to obtaining required approvals. 

Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan has directed the Professional Standards Bureau to conduct an internal investigation into the matter so appropriate action may be taken. 

Consistent with City of Wichita Human Resources policies, the involved employee has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the results of the investigation, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp;

If the investigation reveals that policies, procedures or expectations were not followed, appropriate personnel action will be taken.

The department apologizes for the pain or confusion this incident may have caused to individuals in the community. What is most unfortunate about this event is that the individuals and rescue organizations we rely on were affected greatly. WPD is working hard to ensure operations within the Wichita Animal Shelter meet or exceed recognized standards of care.

This year, Wichita Animal Services has provided care for almost 7,000 lost or stray pets within the community and owes much of their success to the dedication of staff, the respected relationships with rescue organizations and the partnership with the Kansas Humane Society. 

While the internal investigation is underway, an adjustment to operations has been made to avoid this issue recurring and we remain committed to the goal of&nbsp;providing humane care and maximizing the number of animal lives saved.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694230791657.png" alt="Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan has directed the Professional Standards Bureau to conduct an internal investigation into the matter so appropriate action may be taken.-Google image" />
 <figcaption>Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan has directed the Professional Standards Bureau to conduct an internal investigation into the matter so appropriate action may be taken.-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Wichita Police Department is aware of a regrettable incident that occurred at the Wichita Animal Shelter this week involving a civilian supervisor that led to animals being euthanized prior to obtaining required approvals. Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan has directed the Professional Standards Bureau to conduct an internal investigation into the matter so appropriate action may be taken. Consistent with City of Wichita Human Resources policies, the involved employee has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the results of the investigation, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.&nbsp;If the investigation reveals that policies, procedures or expectations were not followed, appropriate personnel action will be taken.The department apologizes for the pain or confusion this incident may have caused to individuals in the community. What is most unfortunate about this event is that the individuals and rescue organizations we rely on were affected greatly. WPD is working hard to ensure operations within the Wichita Animal Shelter meet or exceed recognized standards of care.This year, Wichita Animal Services has provided care for almost 7,000 lost or stray pets within the community and owes much of their success to the dedication of staff, the respected relationships with rescue organizations and the partnership with the Kansas Humane Society. While the internal investigation is underway, an adjustment to operations has been made to avoid this issue recurring and we remain committed to the goal of&nbsp;providing humane care and maximizing the number of animal lives saved.

Police: Dogs euthanized by mistake at Kansas animal shelter

JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a fire at a Kansas home.

Just after 2a.m. Saturday, crews from Overland Park and Lenexa responded to a house fire in the 8600 Block of West 102nd Terrace in Overland Park, according to a media release.

First responders found heavy smoke coming from the two-story, single family home.

Firefighters went to work attacking the fire on a deck in the back of the home while others searched the home to make sure all residents were safely out.

It took 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. The blaze was contained to the back deck and sitting area. One person was displaced and will stay with neighbors. There were no injuries reported.

Investigators believe careless discard of smoking materials to blame for the fire. The home did have working smoke alarms. Officials did not release a damage estimate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694265827344.png" alt="Photo Overland Park Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Overland Park Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are investigating a fire at a Kansas home.Just after 2a.m. Saturday, crews from Overland Park and Lenexa responded to a house fire in the 8600 Block of West 102nd Terrace in Overland Park, according to a media release.First responders found heavy smoke coming from the two-story, single family home.Firefighters went to work attacking the fire on a deck in the back of the home while others searched the home to make sure all residents were safely out.It took 30 minutes to bring the fire under control. The blaze was contained to the back deck and sitting area. One person was displaced and will stay with neighbors. There were no injuries reported.Investigators believe careless discard of smoking materials to blame for the fire. The home did have working smoke alarms. Officials did not release a damage estimate.

Improperly discarded smoking material caused Kan. house fire

Biden administration has taken other measures after Supreme Court ruling

By RACHEL MIPRO,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — For thousands of Kansans knee-deep in student debt, relief will come soon —&nbsp; just not as much relief as initially promised.&nbsp;

The Biden administration announced Tuesday that more than 4 million federal student loan borrowers have been enrolled in the Saving on A Valuable Education, or SAVE, program. In Kansas, 35,000 borrowers are enrolled, according to U.S. Department of Education data.&nbsp;

“Millions of borrowers are already benefiting from enrollment in the SAVE plan, and I’m thrilled to see so many Americans submitting applications every day so that they, too, can take advantage of the most affordable student loan repayment plan in history,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in the Tuesday news release.&nbsp;

Cardona emphasized the Biden administration’s focus on student debt relief while speaking at a Topeka public school Tuesday, during the kick-off of his Midwest bus tour.&nbsp;

We’re committed to giving you the tools to make sure you have a good pathway into the profession and that you’re not paying debt for the rest of your life,” Cardona told&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/05/u-s-education-secretary-touts-kansas-school-initiatives-national-debt-forgiveness/">Kansas students Tuesday</a>.&nbsp;

The new repayment program is a response to the Supreme Court’s June decision to kill the debt relief program unrolled by the&nbsp; Biden administration. The original program would have canceled up to $20,000 in student loan debt for some borrowers.&nbsp;In Kansas,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/20/thousands-of-kansans-eligible-for-student-debt-forgiveness-white-house-officials-say/">officials estimated that more</a>&nbsp;than 360,000 residents would have received some form of debt forgiveness under the original program.

Federal student loan repayments, which have been paused for more than three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume in October.&nbsp;&nbsp;As the repayment deadline approaches, the Department of Education has scrambled to roll out several repayment and loan forgiveness programs.&nbsp;

Under SAVE, debt payments are calculated using borrower income and family size, with balances forgiven after a certain time frame. Borrowers who are currently in the Revised Pay as You Earn plan will automatically roll over to SAVE.

A single person who makes less than $15 an hour wouldn’t have to make payments under the program, and most borrowers will save about $1,000 per year under the new plan.&nbsp;

“The new application is easy and quick. Most people only need about 10 minutes to complete it,” said Federal Student Aid Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray. “Borrowers can get their monthly payment calculated in real time, and they can choose to have their IDR application recertified automatically each year.”

<h2>Biden administration has taken other measures after Supreme Court ruling</h2>By RACHEL MIPRO,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — For thousands of Kansans knee-deep in student debt, relief will come soon —&nbsp; just not as much relief as initially promised.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Folks, join the 4 million Americans who have already signed up for the most affordable student loan repayment plan ever created, our Administration&#39;s SAVE Plan. Don&#39;t wait – head to <a href="https://t.co/RlyR0iT5yU">https://t.co/RlyR0iT5yU</a>. <a href="https://t.co/dcMJ39NSy1">pic.twitter.com/dcMJ39NSy1</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1699460012161040878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Biden administration announced Tuesday that more than 4 million federal student loan borrowers have been enrolled in the Saving on A Valuable Education, or SAVE, program. In Kansas, 35,000 borrowers are enrolled, according to U.S. Department of Education data.&nbsp;“Millions of borrowers are already benefiting from enrollment in the SAVE plan, and I’m thrilled to see so many Americans submitting applications every day so that they, too, can take advantage of the most affordable student loan repayment plan in history,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona in the Tuesday news release.&nbsp;Cardona emphasized the Biden administration’s focus on student debt relief while speaking at a Topeka public school Tuesday, during the kick-off of his Midwest bus tour.&nbsp;We’re committed to giving you the tools to make sure you have a good pathway into the profession and that you’re not paying debt for the rest of your life,” Cardona told&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/09/05/u-s-education-secretary-touts-kansas-school-initiatives-national-debt-forgiveness/">Kansas students Tuesday</a>.&nbsp;The new repayment program is a response to the Supreme Court’s June decision to kill the debt relief program unrolled by the&nbsp; Biden administration. The original program would have canceled up to $20,000 in student loan debt for some borrowers.&nbsp;In Kansas,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/09/20/thousands-of-kansans-eligible-for-student-debt-forgiveness-white-house-officials-say/">officials estimated that more</a>&nbsp;than 360,000 residents would have received some form of debt forgiveness under the original program.Federal student loan repayments, which have been paused for more than three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will resume in October.&nbsp;&nbsp;As the repayment deadline approaches, the Department of Education has scrambled to roll out several repayment and loan forgiveness programs.&nbsp;Under SAVE, debt payments are calculated using borrower income and family size, with balances forgiven after a certain time frame. Borrowers who are currently in the Revised Pay as You Earn plan will automatically roll over to SAVE.A single person who makes less than $15 an hour wouldn’t have to make payments under the program, and most borrowers will save about $1,000 per year under the new plan.&nbsp;“The new application is easy and quick. Most people only need about 10 minutes to complete it,” said Federal Student Aid Chief Operating Officer Richard Cordray. “Borrowers can get their monthly payment calculated in real time, and they can choose to have their IDR application recertified automatically each year.”

Far fewer Kansans benefit from new student loan repayment program

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a homicide have identified the victim as Hevair D. Loucious, 31, of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 2200 Block of SE Emerson Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

First responders located Loucious with a life threatening gunshot wound. American Medical Response transported him to a local hospital where he were pronounced deceased.

Police reported detectives identified and interviewed all individuals involved in this incident. Upon completion of this investigation the case will be sent to the Shawnee County District Attorney for consideration of charges.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim or a possible suspect.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694136475623.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a homicide have identified the victim as Hevair D. Loucious, 31, of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 2200 Block of SE Emerson Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.First responders located Loucious with a life threatening gunshot wound. American Medical Response transported him to a local hospital where he were pronounced deceased.Police reported detectives identified and interviewed all individuals involved in this incident. Upon completion of this investigation the case will be sent to the Shawnee County District Attorney for consideration of charges.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim or a possible suspect.

Police ID 31-year-old Kan. man who died in neighborhood shooting

RENO COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 5p.m. Friday in Reno County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1987 Buick Century driven by Janice L. Richardson, 77, Partridge, was northbound on Partridge Road and stopped at the stop sign at Kansas 61.

The Buick then attempted to drive across Kansas 61. A 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Ronald Lee Johnson, 57, Moundridge, that was traveling northeast on Kansas 61 and the Buick collided in the intersection.

EMS transported Richardson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Johnson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

RENO COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 5p.m. Friday in Reno County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1987 Buick Century driven by Janice L. Richardson, 77, Partridge, was northbound on Partridge Road and stopped at the stop sign at Kansas 61.The Buick then attempted to drive across Kansas 61. A 2005 Peterbilt semi driven by Ronald Lee Johnson, 57, Moundridge, that was traveling northeast on Kansas 61 and the Buick collided in the intersection.EMS transported Richardson to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. Johnson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman dies after crash with a semi

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon with over two dozen convictions on new charges after a high-speed chase in Douglas County.

Just before 9:30a.m. Wednesday, a 59-year-old man wanted for an alleged parole violation driving a red pickup fled from a traffic stop near Fourth and Maine Streets in Lawrence, according to a media release from the Douglas County Sheriff.

The suspect then led deputies on a pursuit through numerous neighborhoods in central Lawrence near the University of Kansas campus and into east Lawrence before returning to the west side of town.&nbsp;

Due to the traffic in Old West Lawrence and the suspect ignoring multiple traffic laws, a deputy discontinued pursuit.

Deputies later found the pickup near Ninth and Mississippi and then found the suspect Russell Aloysius Van Wey hiding in the area. Deputies took him into custody on the warrant. He also faces additional charges for the pursuit.

Van Wey has over two dozen previous felony convictions that include forgery, theft, burglary, aggravated escape from custody and criminal threat, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He absconded from parole in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694083987322.png" alt="Van Wey-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Van Wey-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon with over two dozen convictions on new charges after a high-speed chase in Douglas County.Just before 9:30a.m. Wednesday, a 59-year-old man wanted for an alleged parole violation driving a red pickup fled from a traffic stop near Fourth and Maine Streets in Lawrence, according to a media release from the Douglas County Sheriff.The suspect then led deputies on a pursuit through numerous neighborhoods in central Lawrence near the University of Kansas campus and into east Lawrence before returning to the west side of town.&nbsp; Due to the traffic in Old West Lawrence and the suspect ignoring multiple traffic laws, a deputy discontinued pursuit.Deputies later found the pickup near Ninth and Mississippi and then found the suspect Russell Aloysius Van Wey hiding in the area. Deputies took him into custody on the warrant. He also faces additional charges for the pursuit.Van Wey has over two dozen previous felony convictions that include forgery, theft, burglary, aggravated escape from custody and criminal threat, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He absconded from parole in July.

Kan. man with over 2-dozen convictions found hiding after chase

BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide at a home in Butler County have identified the victim as 93-year-old Joanne Johnson, according to Augusta Department of Public Safety Detective Sergeant Chris Scheuber.&nbsp;

On Sunday evening, police responded to report of an unattended death at the home in the 1700 Block of Robbins Street in Augusta, according to Augusta Director of Public Safety Todd Ackerman.

After further investigating, police determined the incident was a homicide that occurred sometime between Saturday night and Sunday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;There were no other individuals living at the home.

Police have not identified any suspects, according to Scheuber.

BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Butler County.

On Sunday evening, police responded to report of an unattended death at a home the 1700 Block of Robbins Street in Augusta, according to Augusts Director of Public Safety Todd Ackerman.

After further investigating, police determined the incident was a homicide that occurred sometime between Saturday night and Sunday night.&nbsp;

Police have not released the victim's name or additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694019724772.png" alt="Police crime scene tape at the residence in Augusta-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police crime scene tape at the residence in Augusta-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide at a home in Butler County have identified the victim as 93-year-old Joanne Johnson, according to Augusta Department of Public Safety Detective Sergeant Chris Scheuber.&nbsp;On Sunday evening, police responded to report of an unattended death at the home in the 1700 Block of Robbins Street in Augusta, according to Augusta Director of Public Safety Todd Ackerman.After further investigating, police determined the incident was a homicide that occurred sometime between Saturday night and Sunday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;There were no other individuals living at the home.Police have not identified any suspects, according to Scheuber.----------BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide in Butler County.On Sunday evening, police responded to report of an unattended death at a home the 1700 Block of Robbins Street in Augusta, according to Augusts Director of Public Safety Todd Ackerman.After further investigating, police determined the incident was a homicide that occurred sometime between Saturday night and Sunday night.&nbsp;Police have not released the victim's name or additional details.

Homicide: 93-year-old Kansas woman found dead in her home

WASHINGTON – A Kansas man pleaded guilty on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, to a felony offense related to his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Christopher Kuehne, 50, of Olathe, Kansas, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to a felony offense of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder before U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly. Judge Kelly scheduled Kuehne to be sentenced on Feb. 23, 2024.

&nbsp;According to court documents, Kuehne, associated with the Kansas City chapter of the Proud Boys, made plans with other members of the group to attend a rally in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021. Prior to his arrival, Kuehne sent a message to others in the group regarding a potential confrontation with Antifa and BLM, stating, “Be prepared not only to beat down but when you do action of violence so utterly massive that we send a message.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;Kuehne traveled to Arlington, Virginia, on Jan. 4, 2021, with other members of the Proud Boys chapter. On Jan. 6, Kuehne met with a larger group of Proud Boys at the Washington Monument. Kuehne, wearing a ballistic helmet and carrying protective gloves, then made his way to the U.S. Capitol, shouting, among other things, “Whose streets? Our streets!”&nbsp;

&nbsp;Kuehne and others in the group proceded to the west side of the Capitol’s grounds and gathered outside of the barricades. Shortly before 1 p.m., the crowd breached the barriers and surged toward the Capitol building, allowing Kuehne and others in the group to move past multiple lines of barricades and toward the Lower West Plaza, inside the restricted area. Kuehne remained on the west front of the Capitol for more than an hour, ignoring law enforcement commands to disperse. Eventually, Kuehne made his way to the base of the Capitol and onto the Upper West Terrace. Kuehne entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing Door at approximately 2:25 p.m.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Once inside the building, Kuehne and others in the group made their way to the Crypt. Kuehne and others in the group maneuvered a portable lectern to block police from closing a door in the Crypt that would have prevented the group from moving further throughout the building. Kuehne and others then moved from the Crypt to the Capitol Visitor Center and eventually left the building through the Senate Wing Door. Kuehne later deleted materials from his phone that he had sent to others in the group and encouraged others to do the same.&nbsp;

A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas.&nbsp;

This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Kansas City and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

&nbsp;In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,146 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 398 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613070020356.png" alt="Kuehne was held in Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Kuehne was held in Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – A Kansas man pleaded guilty on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, to a felony offense related to his actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.Christopher Kuehne, 50, of Olathe, Kansas, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to a felony offense of obstruction of law enforcement during a civil disorder before U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly. Judge Kelly scheduled Kuehne to be sentenced on Feb. 23, 2024.&nbsp;According to court documents, Kuehne, associated with the Kansas City chapter of the Proud Boys, made plans with other members of the group to attend a rally in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021. Prior to his arrival, Kuehne sent a message to others in the group regarding a potential confrontation with Antifa and BLM, stating, “Be prepared not only to beat down but when you do action of violence so utterly massive that we send a message.”&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694202876021.png" alt="Photo U.S. Dept. of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Dept. of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Kuehne traveled to Arlington, Virginia, on Jan. 4, 2021, with other members of the Proud Boys chapter. On Jan. 6, Kuehne met with a larger group of Proud Boys at the Washington Monument. Kuehne, wearing a ballistic helmet and carrying protective gloves, then made his way to the U.S. Capitol, shouting, among other things, “Whose streets? Our streets!”&nbsp;&nbsp;Kuehne and others in the group proceded to the west side of the Capitol’s grounds and gathered outside of the barricades. Shortly before 1 p.m., the crowd breached the barriers and surged toward the Capitol building, allowing Kuehne and others in the group to move past multiple lines of barricades and toward the Lower West Plaza, inside the restricted area. Kuehne remained on the west front of the Capitol for more than an hour, ignoring law enforcement commands to disperse. Eventually, Kuehne made his way to the base of the Capitol and onto the Upper West Terrace. Kuehne entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing Door at approximately 2:25 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once inside the building, Kuehne and others in the group made their way to the Crypt. Kuehne and others in the group maneuvered a portable lectern to block police from closing a door in the Crypt that would have prevented the group from moving further throughout the building. Kuehne and others then moved from the Crypt to the Capitol Visitor Center and eventually left the building through the Senate Wing Door. Kuehne later deleted materials from his phone that he had sent to others in the group and encouraged others to do the same.&nbsp;A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas.&nbsp;This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Kansas City and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.&nbsp;In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,146 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 398 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Kan. man enters plea to felony charge in January 6 Capitol riot 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nancy-pelosi">Nancy Pelosi</a>&nbsp;said Friday that she will seek reelection to Congress in 2024 as Democrats try to win back the majority.

Pelosi, 83, made the announcement before volunteers and labor allies in the San Francisco area district she has represented for more than 35 years.

“Now more than ever our City needs us to advance San Francisco values and further our recovery,” Pelosi said in a tweet. “Our country needs America to show the world that our flag is still there, with liberty and justice for ALL. That is why I am running for reelection — and respectfully ask for your vote.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-house-control-79475a4fc11e4375cd0dded651b9eede">Republicans now control the House,</a>&nbsp;but just narrowly, with a 222-212 majority and one vacancy. Democrats believe they have a chance to regain power as President Joe Biden runs for a second term.

Pelosi's announcement quells any talk of retirement for the long-serving leader, who, with the honorific title of speaker emeritus, remains an influential lawmaker, pivotal party figure and strong fundraiser for Democrats.

It also unfolds as Washington is grappling with the sunset of a political era as an older generation of leaders, including Biden, 80, face questions about their age. This past week, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, 81, said he would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/united-states-senate-u-s-republican-party-access-to-health-care-charles-schumer-district-of-columbia-ddc9d8e4c3cc4d8bb55dc7a51c834b55">finish his term</a>&nbsp;as leader and senator despite concerns about his recent health episodes.

Pelosi has long charted her own course, from her arrival in Congress as one of few women elected to the House to her tenure as one of the most powerful women in U.S. politics.

First elected to Congress in 1987, Pelosi made history becoming the first female speaker in 2007, and in 2019 she regained the speaker’s gavel.

Pelosi led the party through substantial legislative achievements, including passage of the Affordable Care Act, as well as turbulent times with two impeachments of Republican President Donald Trump and the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Her announcement comes as House Republicans are preparing to launch an impeachment inquiry into Biden over the business dealings of his son, Hunter.

Pelosi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-house-future-plans-updates-3839ff31c605efa0ec1ee4ff004b72d2">stepped away</a>&nbsp;from the day-to-day political limelight after a younger generation of Democrats led by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-hakeem-jeffries-congress-government-and-politics-e6dee438b2cfd776b70ff29495072ab5">Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries</a>&nbsp;took charge in 2023, but she remains a political force and keeps a robust schedule of public and private events.

According to a person familiar with Pelosi's thinking about her 2024 decision, Pelosi believes democracy hangs in the balance in the upcoming election as she works to reelect Biden and make Jeffries the next House speaker

Pelosi is among the party’s most prolific fundraisers for the House and key political strategists. She has said she does not intend to hover over the new Democratic House leadership team, but she and Jeffries are often seen huddling quietly on the House floor.

It's rare, but not unprecedented, for former party leaders to continue in Congress as members.

Back in California, Pelosi's decision to seek another term is sure to disappoint other Democrats who have wanted a run for the congressional seat.

But Pelosi has priorities she is trying to secure for her home state and especially San Francisco as the city&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-downtown-retail-exodus-6c956f6f219a25aafd292f567a45a302">works to recover</a>&nbsp;from the coronavirus pandemic-era closures that have also dimmed other metro downtowns.

San Francisco faces a delicate moment, Pelosi believes, and needs federal resources to continue its recovery, said the person familiar with her thinking, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.

One of the state's long-serving leaders, Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein, 90,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-not-running-for-reelection-1140a033b78e63687633bc154bc358ff#:~:text=Feinstein%20says%20she%20won't%20run%20for%20reelection,-Nancy%20Pelosi%20reacts&amp;text=LOS%20ANGELES%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Democratic,t%20seek%20reelection%20in%202024.">has announced</a>&nbsp;she would not seek another term.

Pelosi has long been portrayed as a political villain by Republican critics, who view her as a far-left liberal and raise vast sums of their own using her image and actions.

Last year, her husband, Paul Pelosi, was seriously injured when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-nancy-pelosi-government-and-politics-3a0ec4302ee4f11c612678038997c0d7">an attacker broke into the family’s San Francisco home</a>, seeking the Democratic leader at a highly divisive time in American politics.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-husband-attacked-trial-venue-8bdeefb544b3dec5379be39af6fab328">A trial</a>&nbsp;is expected.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659127005765.png" alt="Pelosi, 83, made the announcement before volunteers and labor allies in the San Francisco area district she has represented for more than 35 years-file photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Pelosi, 83, made the announcement before volunteers and labor allies in the San Francisco area district she has represented for more than 35 years-file photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Former House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nancy-pelosi">Nancy Pelosi</a>&nbsp;said Friday that she will seek reelection to Congress in 2024 as Democrats try to win back the majority.Pelosi, 83, made the announcement before volunteers and labor allies in the San Francisco area district she has represented for more than 35 years.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Now more than ever our City needs us to advance San Francisco values and further our recovery. Our country needs America to show the world that our flag is still there, with liberty and justice for ALL. That is why I am running for reelection — and respectfully ask for your vote.…&mdash; Nancy Pelosi (@TeamPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamPelosi/status/1700177174542876754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Now more than ever our City needs us to advance San Francisco values and further our recovery,” Pelosi said in a tweet. “Our country needs America to show the world that our flag is still there, with liberty and justice for ALL. That is why I am running for reelection — and respectfully ask for your vote.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-house-control-79475a4fc11e4375cd0dded651b9eede">Republicans now control the House,</a>&nbsp;but just narrowly, with a 222-212 majority and one vacancy. Democrats believe they have a chance to regain power as President Joe Biden runs for a second term.Pelosi's announcement quells any talk of retirement for the long-serving leader, who, with the honorific title of speaker emeritus, remains an influential lawmaker, pivotal party figure and strong fundraiser for Democrats.It also unfolds as Washington is grappling with the sunset of a political era as an older generation of leaders, including Biden, 80, face questions about their age. This past week, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, 81, said he would&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/united-states-senate-u-s-republican-party-access-to-health-care-charles-schumer-district-of-columbia-ddc9d8e4c3cc4d8bb55dc7a51c834b55">finish his term</a>&nbsp;as leader and senator despite concerns about his recent health episodes.Pelosi has long charted her own course, from her arrival in Congress as one of few women elected to the House to her tenure as one of the most powerful women in U.S. politics.First elected to Congress in 1987, Pelosi made history becoming the first female speaker in 2007, and in 2019 she regained the speaker’s gavel.Pelosi led the party through substantial legislative achievements, including passage of the Affordable Care Act, as well as turbulent times with two impeachments of Republican President Donald Trump and the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.Her announcement comes as House Republicans are preparing to launch an impeachment inquiry into Biden over the business dealings of his son, Hunter.Pelosi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-house-future-plans-updates-3839ff31c605efa0ec1ee4ff004b72d2">stepped away</a>&nbsp;from the day-to-day political limelight after a younger generation of Democrats led by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-hakeem-jeffries-congress-government-and-politics-e6dee438b2cfd776b70ff29495072ab5">Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries</a>&nbsp;took charge in 2023, but she remains a political force and keeps a robust schedule of public and private events.According to a person familiar with Pelosi's thinking about her 2024 decision, Pelosi believes democracy hangs in the balance in the upcoming election as she works to reelect Biden and make Jeffries the next House speakerPelosi is among the party’s most prolific fundraisers for the House and key political strategists. She has said she does not intend to hover over the new Democratic House leadership team, but she and Jeffries are often seen huddling quietly on the House floor.It's rare, but not unprecedented, for former party leaders to continue in Congress as members.Back in California, Pelosi's decision to seek another term is sure to disappoint other Democrats who have wanted a run for the congressional seat.But Pelosi has priorities she is trying to secure for her home state and especially San Francisco as the city&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-downtown-retail-exodus-6c956f6f219a25aafd292f567a45a302">works to recover</a>&nbsp;from the coronavirus pandemic-era closures that have also dimmed other metro downtowns.San Francisco faces a delicate moment, Pelosi believes, and needs federal resources to continue its recovery, said the person familiar with her thinking, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the matter.One of the state's long-serving leaders, Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein, 90,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dianne-feinstein-not-running-for-reelection-1140a033b78e63687633bc154bc358ff#:~:text=Feinstein%20says%20she%20won't%20run%20for%20reelection,-Nancy%20Pelosi%20reacts&amp;text=LOS%20ANGELES%20(AP)%20%E2%80%94%20Democratic,t%20seek%20reelection%20in%202024.">has announced</a>&nbsp;she would not seek another term.Pelosi has long been portrayed as a political villain by Republican critics, who view her as a far-left liberal and raise vast sums of their own using her image and actions.Last year, her husband, Paul Pelosi, was seriously injured when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/san-francisco-nancy-pelosi-government-and-politics-3a0ec4302ee4f11c612678038997c0d7">an attacker broke into the family’s San Francisco home</a>, seeking the Democratic leader at a highly divisive time in American politics.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nancy-pelosi-husband-attacked-trial-venue-8bdeefb544b3dec5379be39af6fab328">A trial</a>&nbsp;is expected.

83-year-old Nancy Pelosi says she'll seek reelection in 2024

MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the aggravated battery of a college student, according to a media release from&nbsp;The McPherson Police Department.

Just before 4a.m. Friday, McPherson County Emergency Communications/911 received report of a possible vehicle rollover on 56 Highway near 19th Avenue in McPherson County. 

Sheriff’s Deputies responded and found a vehicle off the roadway. The driver of the vehicle, an 18-year-old&nbsp; college student in McPherson, was also found in the area. 

The teen had injuries, which he said were caused by an unknown person. No one else was found in the area at that time. McPherson Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported him to McPherson Center for Care and, he was later flown to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment. 

He is in critical condition. The extent of his injuries is unknown. Preliminary investigation indicates the incident may have originated at the college in McPherson.2

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the investigation. Police did not release where the student was attending college.

The McPherson Police Department asks anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the aggravated battery of a college student, according to a media release from&nbsp;The McPherson Police Department.Just before 4a.m. Friday, McPherson County Emergency Communications/911 received report of a possible vehicle rollover on 56 Highway near 19th Avenue in McPherson County. Sheriff’s Deputies responded and found a vehicle off the roadway. The driver of the vehicle, an 18-year-old&nbsp; college student in McPherson, was also found in the area. The teen had injuries, which he said were caused by an unknown person. No one else was found in the area at that time. McPherson Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported him to McPherson Center for Care and, he was later flown to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment. He is in critical condition. The extent of his injuries is unknown. Preliminary investigation indicates the incident may have originated at the college in McPherson.2The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the investigation. Police did not release where the student was attending college.The McPherson Police Department asks anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the department at (620) 245-1266 or McPherson County Crime Stoppers at (620) 241-1122.

Kan. college student airlifted to hospital after brutal attack

ATLANTA (AP) — A special grand jury that aided a Georgia election subversion probe that ultimately ended up indicting Donald Trump and 18 others had recommended charging many more people, including South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, two former senators from Georgia and Michael Flynn, according to a report released Friday.

<a href="https://www.democracydocket.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Fulton-County-Special-Grand-Jury-Report-.pdf">Click here to read</a> the full grand jury report

Parts of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23944944-georgia-special-grand-jury-report">the report</a>&nbsp;had been released in February, but a judge had delayed the release of any recommendations for specific charges against specific people until after last month's indictment. While most of the intrigue in the inner workings of the case has diminished with the filing of charges, it is notable that the special grand jury recommended many people who were not actually indicted. They include Graham of South Carolina, former Georgia U.S. Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, and former national security adviser Michael Flynn

The panel spent seven months hearing from some 75 witnesses before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-georgia-donald-trump-juries-united-states-government-fc08d39209ce3be768d933f96a434abf">completing a report</a>&nbsp;in December with recommendations for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis on charges related to attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Willis had said she needed the panel's subpoena power to compel the testimony of witnesses who might otherwise not have been willing to appear.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-georgia-grand-jury-fb2b882c3f404c196b73bc637e7cb32d">ordered the partial release</a>&nbsp;of the report in February but declined to immediately release the panel’s recommendations on who should or should not be prosecuted. The judge said at the time that he wanted to protect people’s due process rights.

McBurney said in a new order filed Aug. 28 that the due process concerns were moot since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-0cfd32492da81697879b8c8ac00f8c83">regular grand jury</a>&nbsp;has indicted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-indictment-meadows-guiliani-084efc6796becef3714196cee3854cf6">Trump and 18 other people</a>&nbsp;under the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-investigation-indictment-rico-willis-2b18a1c1ed6a4ce22b1a2ca88ea861e3">anti-racketeering law.</a>&nbsp;All have pleaded not guilty.

Many of those indicted — including former New York mayor and Trump attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-testimony-georgia-election-investigation-e9be9d1c149214b8a386d1621e2c3dfb">Rudy Giuliani</a>&nbsp;and Trump White House chief of staff&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mark-meadows-georgia-ordered-to-testify-698723852274be361fd7b427c13d1752">Mark Meadows</a>&nbsp;— are known to have testified before the special grand jury. Trump himself was never called and did not appear before the panel.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-documents-40535dd2b4401e804af515229c6c2d68">parts of the report previously released</a>&nbsp;in February included its introduction and conclusion, as well as a section in which the grand jurors expressed concerns that one or more witnesses may have lied under oath and urged prosecutors to seek charges for perjury. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-new-york-city-only-on-ap-donald-trump-georgia-266e28c4e47e54731b233e0f770f6729">panel’s foreperson</a>&nbsp;had said in news interviews that the special grand jurors had recommended that numerous people be indicted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694183036266.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ATLANTA (AP) — A special grand jury that aided a Georgia election subversion probe that ultimately ended up indicting Donald Trump and 18 others had recommended charging many more people, including South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, two former senators from Georgia and Michael Flynn, according to a report released Friday.<a href="https://www.democracydocket.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Fulton-County-Special-Grand-Jury-Report-.pdf">Click here to read</a> the full grand jury reportParts of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/23944944-georgia-special-grand-jury-report">the report</a>&nbsp;had been released in February, but a judge had delayed the release of any recommendations for specific charges against specific people until after last month's indictment. While most of the intrigue in the inner workings of the case has diminished with the filing of charges, it is notable that the special grand jury recommended many people who were not actually indicted. They include Graham of South Carolina, former Georgia U.S. Senators Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue, and former national security adviser Michael FlynnThe panel spent seven months hearing from some 75 witnesses before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-georgia-donald-trump-juries-united-states-government-fc08d39209ce3be768d933f96a434abf">completing a report</a>&nbsp;in December with recommendations for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis on charges related to attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. Willis had said she needed the panel's subpoena power to compel the testimony of witnesses who might otherwise not have been willing to appear.Fulton County Superior Court Judge Robert McBurney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-georgia-grand-jury-fb2b882c3f404c196b73bc637e7cb32d">ordered the partial release</a>&nbsp;of the report in February but declined to immediately release the panel’s recommendations on who should or should not be prosecuted. The judge said at the time that he wanted to protect people’s due process rights.McBurney said in a new order filed Aug. 28 that the due process concerns were moot since a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-0cfd32492da81697879b8c8ac00f8c83">regular grand jury</a>&nbsp;has indicted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-indictment-meadows-guiliani-084efc6796becef3714196cee3854cf6">Trump and 18 other people</a>&nbsp;under the state's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/georgia-trump-election-investigation-indictment-rico-willis-2b18a1c1ed6a4ce22b1a2ca88ea861e3">anti-racketeering law.</a>&nbsp;All have pleaded not guilty.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692827609455.png" alt="Former New York City may Rudy Giuliani among those indicted in Georgia-photo courtesy Fulton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Former New York City may Rudy Giuliani among those indicted in Georgia-photo courtesy Fulton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Many of those indicted — including former New York mayor and Trump attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/rudy-giuliani-testimony-georgia-election-investigation-e9be9d1c149214b8a386d1621e2c3dfb">Rudy Giuliani</a>&nbsp;and Trump White House chief of staff&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mark-meadows-georgia-ordered-to-testify-698723852274be361fd7b427c13d1752">Mark Meadows</a>&nbsp;— are known to have testified before the special grand jury. Trump himself was never called and did not appear before the panel.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-georgia-election-investigation-grand-jury-documents-40535dd2b4401e804af515229c6c2d68">parts of the report previously released</a>&nbsp;in February included its introduction and conclusion, as well as a section in which the grand jurors expressed concerns that one or more witnesses may have lied under oath and urged prosecutors to seek charges for perjury. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-new-york-city-only-on-ap-donald-trump-georgia-266e28c4e47e54731b233e0f770f6729">panel’s foreperson</a>&nbsp;had said in news interviews that the special grand jurors had recommended that numerous people be indicted.

Read the full Georgia grand jury report that helped indict Trump

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement and school district officials are investigating an incident at a Kansas City-area middle school.

Just after&nbsp; 7:12 a.m. Wednesday, a middle school student at Excelsior Springs Middle school,&nbsp;701 Crown Hill Road, Excelsior Springs, reported to a teacher that another student may have had a weapon or gun in their backpack, according to a statement from School District 40.

The teacher immediately alerted school district administration, who in turn, promptly contacted the School Resource Officer.

The school administration and the SRO immediately had alleged student and their backpack secured separately. 

Upon searching the student and their backpack, an unloaded gun was discovered in the backpack. Officials found no ammunition which further contributed to de-escalating the situation. 

The incident was contained before students were scheduled to enter the building at the normal time of 7:15a.m.

"We would like to emphasize that this rapid response ensured the safety of all students," according to the release.&nbsp; The school district extended&nbsp; gratitude to the student who reported their concerns to the teacher. "Your courage and responsibility in sharing this information played a pivotal role in our ability to address the situation swiftly and effectively."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694190212505.png" alt="Excelsior Springs Middle School -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Excelsior Springs Middle School -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement and school district officials are investigating an incident at a Kansas City-area middle school.Just after&nbsp; 7:12 a.m. Wednesday, a middle school student at Excelsior Springs Middle school,&nbsp;701 Crown Hill Road, Excelsior Springs, reported to a teacher that another student may have had a weapon or gun in their backpack, according to a statement from School District 40.The teacher immediately alerted school district administration, who in turn, promptly contacted the School Resource Officer.The school administration and the SRO immediately had alleged student and their backpack secured separately. Upon searching the student and their backpack, an unloaded gun was discovered in the backpack. Officials found no ammunition which further contributed to de-escalating the situation. The incident was contained before students were scheduled to enter the building at the normal time of 7:15a.m."We would like to emphasize that this rapid response ensured the safety of all students," according to the release.&nbsp; The school district extended&nbsp; gratitude to the student who reported their concerns to the teacher. "Your courage and responsibility in sharing this information played a pivotal role in our ability to address the situation swiftly and effectively."

Student had unloaded gun in backpack at KC-area middle school

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Progress continues on a 43-year-old murder case in Barton County. On Dec. 8, 2022, Steven Hanks of Burden was arrested for the 1980 murder of Mary Robin Walter. Hanks was bound over for arraignment in Barton County District Court following Wednesday's preliminary hearing. Sheriff Brian Bellendir said that's one of many hurdles cleared so far in the case.

"In a felony case, they have to have a preliminary hearing," he said. "This is where the judge decides whether or not we've got the probable cause to try him for the felony. They said we did."

In January 1980, Walter was found deceased by her husband. She had been shot multiple times in a now-defunct Nelson Trailer Park west of Great Bend.

"Hanks was developed fairly early in the case as a suspect but they were not able to nail it down," Bellendir said. "We took another run at the case a year and a half ago. My Det. Sgt. Adam Hales got COVID and he had nothing to do. He had to stay home, so he took the case home and went through it all."

Hales was joined by detectives David Paden, Bryan Volkel, and Alex Lomas, as well as Patrol Sgt. Travis Doze. The detectives made their case and presented it to the Barton County Attorney's Office in October 2022. Hanks, then 68 years old, was arrested at his home in Burden two months later.

Hanks' arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 9 at 12:45 p.m. at the temporary Barton County District Court facility located at 1709 Main St. in Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670608379475.png" alt="Mary Robin Walter-photo courtesy Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Mary Robin Walter-photo courtesy Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostProgress continues on a 43-year-old murder case in Barton County. On Dec. 8, 2022, Steven Hanks of Burden was arrested for the 1980 murder of Mary Robin Walter. Hanks was bound over for arraignment in Barton County District Court following Wednesday's preliminary hearing. Sheriff Brian Bellendir said that's one of many hurdles cleared so far in the case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670617705007.jpeg" alt="In December, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir announced the arrest of Steven Hanks for the 1980 murder of Mary Robin Walter. A preliminary hearing in the case was held Wednesday." />
 <figcaption>In December, Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir announced the arrest of Steven Hanks for the 1980 murder of Mary Robin Walter. A preliminary hearing in the case was held Wednesday.</figcaption>
 </figure>"In a felony case, they have to have a preliminary hearing," he said. "This is where the judge decides whether or not we've got the probable cause to try him for the felony. They said we did."In January 1980, Walter was found deceased by her husband. She had been shot multiple times in a now-defunct Nelson Trailer Park west of Great Bend.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1670609613326.jpeg" alt="Hanks -Photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Hanks -Photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>"Hanks was developed fairly early in the case as a suspect but they were not able to nail it down," Bellendir said. "We took another run at the case a year and a half ago. My Det. Sgt. Adam Hales got COVID and he had nothing to do. He had to stay home, so he took the case home and went through it all."Hales was joined by detectives David Paden, Bryan Volkel, and Alex Lomas, as well as Patrol Sgt. Travis Doze. The detectives made their case and presented it to the Barton County Attorney's Office in October 2022. Hanks, then 68 years old, was arrested at his home in Burden two months later.Hanks' arraignment has been scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 9 at 12:45 p.m. at the temporary Barton County District Court facility located at 1709 Main St. in Great Bend.

Suspect held over for arraignment in 1980 murder of Kan. woman

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the 2023 Kansas State Fair opening Friday, General Manager Bryan Schulz noted some of the improvements made for this year's Fair, including the walking surface in much of the grounds.&nbsp;

"Right now, we spent close to a million dollars, it will be closer to $2 million when we get done. The legislature a couple of years ago, gave us some monies to start upgrading, one of them was for asphalt and we have put down a lot of asphalt on these grounds."

There is also a new integrated PA system that is the largest by area covered in the state.

"That was another part of the monies that we got from the legislature," Schulz said. "When I started, it was, okay, how do we tell people, we're in tornado alley, how do we tell people that there could be imminent weather? How do we tell people that we've got a lost child? How do we tell people you've triple parked, please move your car. We worked with Hopp's Sound out of McPherson and the sound system that we have is absolutely phenomenal. We've been able to create 19 different emergency announcements by the push of a button, both in English and Spanish. That can tell people that we've got a storm coming, but then we're also able to play a little bit of background music and be able to talk to people as they are coming and going."

The hope is that the fair can get back to the pre-COVID attendance numbers they had a few years back.

"We're hoping to get to 350,000, absolutely," Schulz said. "That's kind of the average we had prior to COVID. We're hoping to gain back up into that."

The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 8 to 17 in Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632137691150.jpeg" alt="Grandstand at the Kansas State Fair-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>Grandstand at the Kansas State Fair-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — With the 2023 Kansas State Fair opening Friday, General Manager Bryan Schulz noted some of the improvements made for this year's Fair, including the walking surface in much of the grounds.&nbsp;"Right now, we spent close to a million dollars, it will be closer to $2 million when we get done. The legislature a couple of years ago, gave us some monies to start upgrading, one of them was for asphalt and we have put down a lot of asphalt on these grounds."There is also a new integrated PA system that is the largest by area covered in the state."That was another part of the monies that we got from the legislature," Schulz said. "When I started, it was, okay, how do we tell people, we're in tornado alley, how do we tell people that there could be imminent weather? How do we tell people that we've got a lost child? How do we tell people you've triple parked, please move your car. We worked with Hopp's Sound out of McPherson and the sound system that we have is absolutely phenomenal. We've been able to create 19 different emergency announcements by the push of a button, both in English and Spanish. That can tell people that we've got a storm coming, but then we're also able to play a little bit of background music and be able to talk to people as they are coming and going."The hope is that the fair can get back to the pre-COVID attendance numbers they had a few years back."We're hoping to get to 350,000, absolutely," Schulz said. "That's kind of the average we had prior to COVID. We're hoping to gain back up into that."The Kansas State Fair is Sept. 8 to 17 in Hutchinson.

Improvements to State Fair include walking surface, PA system

WASHINGTON (AP) — Concern for U.S. democracy amid deep national polarization has prompted the entities supporting 13 presidential libraries dating back to Herbert Hoover to call for a recommitment to the country's bedrock principles, including the rule of law and respecting a diversity of beliefs.&nbsp;The Eisenhower Foundation did not sign the statement.

The statement released Thursday, the first time the libraries have joined to make such a public declaration, said Americans have a strong interest in supporting democratic movements and human rights around the world because "free societies elsewhere contribute to our own security and prosperity here at home."

"But that interest," it said, "is undermined when others see our own house in disarray."

The joint message from presidential centers, foundations and institutes emphasized the need for compassion, tolerance and pluralism while urging Americans to respect democratic institutions and uphold secure and accessible elections.

The statement noted that "debate and disagreement" are central to democracy but also alluded to the coarsening of dialogue in the public arena during an era when officials and their families are receiving death threats.

"Civility and respect in political discourse, whether in an election year or otherwise, are essential," it said.

Most of the living former presidents have been sparing in giving their public opinions about the state of the nation as polls show that large swaths of Republicans still believe the lies perpetuated by former President Donald Trump and his allies that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. Trump, a Republican, also has lashed out at the justice system as he faces indictments in four criminal cases, including two related to his efforts to overturn the results of his reelection loss to Joe Biden, a Democrat.

Thursday's statement stopped short of calling out individuals, but it still marked one of the most substantive acknowledgments that people associated with the nation's former presidents are worried about the country's trajectory.

"I think there's great concern about the state of our democracy at this time," said Mark Updegrove, CEO of the LBJ Foundation, which supports the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas. "We don't have to go much farther than January 6 to realize that we are in a perilous state."

Efforts to suppress or weaken voter turnout are of special interest to the LBJ Foundation, Updegrove said, given that President Lyndon Johnson considered his signing of the Voting Rights Act his "proudest legislative accomplishment."

The bipartisan statement was signed by the Hoover Presidential Foundation, the Roosevelt Institute, the Truman Library Institute, the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, the LBJ Foundation, the Richard Nixon Foundation, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, the Carter Center, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, the George &amp; Barbara Bush Foundation, the Clinton Foundation, the George W. Bush Presidential Center and the Obama Foundation. Those organizations all support presidential libraries created under the Presidential Library Act of 1955, along with the Eisenhower Foundation.

The Eisenhower Foundation chose not to sign, and it said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press: "The Eisenhower Foundation has respectfully declined to sign this statement. It would be the first common statement that the presidential centers and foundations have ever issued as a group, but we have had no collective discussion about it, only an invitation to sign."

The foundation said each presidential entity had its own programs related to democracy.

The push for the joint statement was spearheaded by Daniel Kramer, executive director of the George W. Bush Institute. Kramer said the former president "did see and signed off on this statement."

He said the effort was intended to send "a positive message reminding us of who we are and also reminding us that when we are in disarray, when we're at loggerheads, people overseas are also looking at us and wondering what's going on." He also said it was necessary to remind Americans that their democracy cannot be taken for granted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694093820633.png" alt="Colleen Shogan(left) Archivist of the United States, during a visit to the Eisenhower Library and boyhood home in Abilene last month. Photo courtesy U.S. National Archives&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Colleen Shogan(left) Archivist of the United States, during a visit to the Eisenhower Library and boyhood home in Abilene last month. Photo courtesy U.S. National Archives&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Concern for U.S. democracy amid deep national polarization has prompted the entities supporting 13 presidential libraries dating back to Herbert Hoover to call for a recommitment to the country's bedrock principles, including the rule of law and respecting a diversity of beliefs.&nbsp;The Eisenhower Foundation did not sign the statement.The statement released Thursday, the first time the libraries have joined to make such a public declaration, said Americans have a strong interest in supporting democratic movements and human rights around the world because "free societies elsewhere contribute to our own security and prosperity here at home.""But that interest," it said, "is undermined when others see our own house in disarray."The joint message from presidential centers, foundations and institutes emphasized the need for compassion, tolerance and pluralism while urging Americans to respect democratic institutions and uphold secure and accessible elections.The statement noted that "debate and disagreement" are central to democracy but also alluded to the coarsening of dialogue in the public arena during an era when officials and their families are receiving death threats."Civility and respect in political discourse, whether in an election year or otherwise, are essential," it said.Most of the living former presidents have been sparing in giving their public opinions about the state of the nation as polls show that large swaths of Republicans still believe the lies perpetuated by former President Donald Trump and his allies that the 2020 presidential election was stolen. Trump, a Republican, also has lashed out at the justice system as he faces indictments in four criminal cases, including two related to his efforts to overturn the results of his reelection loss to Joe Biden, a Democrat.Thursday's statement stopped short of calling out individuals, but it still marked one of the most substantive acknowledgments that people associated with the nation's former presidents are worried about the country's trajectory."I think there's great concern about the state of our democracy at this time," said Mark Updegrove, CEO of the LBJ Foundation, which supports the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas. "We don't have to go much farther than January 6 to realize that we are in a perilous state."Efforts to suppress or weaken voter turnout are of special interest to the LBJ Foundation, Updegrove said, given that President Lyndon Johnson considered his signing of the Voting Rights Act his "proudest legislative accomplishment."The bipartisan statement was signed by the Hoover Presidential Foundation, the Roosevelt Institute, the Truman Library Institute, the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, the LBJ Foundation, the Richard Nixon Foundation, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, the Carter Center, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, the George &amp; Barbara Bush Foundation, the Clinton Foundation, the George W. Bush Presidential Center and the Obama Foundation. Those organizations all support presidential libraries created under the Presidential Library Act of 1955, along with the Eisenhower Foundation.The Eisenhower Foundation chose not to sign, and it said in a statement emailed to The Associated Press: "The Eisenhower Foundation has respectfully declined to sign this statement. It would be the first common statement that the presidential centers and foundations have ever issued as a group, but we have had no collective discussion about it, only an invitation to sign."The foundation said each presidential entity had its own programs related to democracy.The push for the joint statement was spearheaded by Daniel Kramer, executive director of the George W. Bush Institute. Kramer said the former president "did see and signed off on this statement."He said the effort was intended to send "a positive message reminding us of who we are and also reminding us that when we are in disarray, when we're at loggerheads, people overseas are also looking at us and wondering what's going on." He also said it was necessary to remind Americans that their democracy cannot be taken for granted.He said the Bush Institute has hosted several events on elections, including one as part of a joint initiative with the other groups called More Perfect that featured Bill Gates, a member of the board of supervisors in Arizona's Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix. The county, its supervisors and its elections staff have been targeted repeatedly by election conspiracy theorists in recent years.Gates and his family have been threatened by people who believe false allegations of election fraud."We wanted to remind people that those who oversee our elections are our fellow citizens," Kramer said. "Some of them told stories that are almost heartbreaking about the threats they faced."He said he hoped the joint statement would generate wide support, but he added: "It's hard to say whether it will or not in these polarized times."Melissa Giller, chief marketing officer at the Ronald Reagan Foundation and Institute, said the decision to sign on was a quick one. The foundation was approached shortly after it launched a new effort, its Center on Public Civility in Washington, D.C. She said the statement represents "everything our center will stand for.""We need to help put an end to the serious discord and division in our society," Giller said in an emailed response. "America is experiencing a decline in trust, social cohesion, and personal interaction."Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to former President Barack Obama who is now CEO of the Obama Foundation, said the former president supported the statement."This is a moment where we could all come together and show that democracy is not about partisan politics," she said. "It's about making our country strong, making our country more decent, more kind, more humane."Jarrett said one of the foundation's priorities is trying to restore faith in the institutions that are the pillars of society. To do that has meant taking on disinformation and creating opportunity where "people believe that our democracy is on the up-and-up."She said Obama has led a democracy forum and is planning another later this year in Chicago."I think part of it is recognizing that we are very fragile right now," Jarrett said, citing the fact that "we didn't have a smooth orderly transition of power in the last election" along with people's mistrust of the court system and elected officials."The wheels on our democracy bus," she said, "feel a little wobbly right now."