By:&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/iwagener/">Izzy Wagener</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>

Sophie and Colin Hortman, the children of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, issued a statement Monday calling on people to honor their parents’ legacy by doing “something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”

The Hortman children are grieving following the Saturday&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/14/minnesota-house-democratic-leader-dead-after-targeted-shooting-democratic-senator-also-shot/">killing</a>&nbsp;of their parents, in what has been called a political assassination. Rep. Melissa Hortman was a longtime Democratic-Farmer-Labor legislator beloved around the Capitol even as she scored major legislative victories.&nbsp;

“We are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark. They were the bright lights at the center of our lives, and we can’t believe they are gone. Their love for us was boundless. We miss them so much,” the release said. “We want everyone to know that we are both safe and with loved ones. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, and we appreciate your respect for our family’s privacy as we grieve.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Hortman children thanked law enforcement for their efforts, which led to the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/15/vance-boelter-accused-of-assassination-of-dfl-house-leader-melissa-hortman-apprehended/">arrest</a>&nbsp;of suspect Vance Boelter on Sunday night. Boelter also wounded Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, though they are on a path to recovery.&nbsp;

The Hortman children emphasized the legacy that their parents will leave behind.&nbsp;

“Our parents touched so many lives, and they leave behind an incredible legacy of dedication to their community that will live on in us, their friends, their colleagues and co-workers, and every single person who knew and loved them,” the release said.&nbsp;

The Hortmans asked that people do an act of kindness in the memory of their parents’ commitment to service, sharing a list of suggestions.

“The best way to honor our parents’ memory is to do something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”&nbsp;

They suggested planting a tree, telling a dad joke, and baking something to share — “bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa”.&nbsp;

“Pet a dog,” was on the list “A golden retriever is ideal but any will do.”&nbsp;

The Hortman family’s dog, a golden retriever named Gilbert, was euthanized after he was injured in the shooting. Hortman originally trained him as a service dog before he became a permanent member of the family.

Sophie and Colin Hortman ended the statement with a call to action.&nbsp;

“Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750172631971.jpeg" alt=" A growing memorial for Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband stands Monday, June 16, 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)" />
 <figcaption> A growing memorial for Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband stands Monday, June 16, 2025 at the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul. (Photo by Nicole Neri/Minnesota Reformer)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/iwagener/">Izzy Wagener</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>Sophie and Colin Hortman, the children of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, issued a statement Monday calling on people to honor their parents’ legacy by doing “something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”The Hortman children are grieving following the Saturday&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/14/minnesota-house-democratic-leader-dead-after-targeted-shooting-democratic-senator-also-shot/">killing</a>&nbsp;of their parents, in what has been called a political assassination. Rep. Melissa Hortman was a longtime Democratic-Farmer-Labor legislator beloved around the Capitol even as she scored major legislative victories.&nbsp;“We are devastated and heartbroken at the loss of our parents, Melissa and Mark. They were the bright lights at the center of our lives, and we can’t believe they are gone. Their love for us was boundless. We miss them so much,” the release said. “We want everyone to know that we are both safe and with loved ones. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received, and we appreciate your respect for our family’s privacy as we grieve.”&nbsp;&nbsp;The Hortman children thanked law enforcement for their efforts, which led to the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/15/vance-boelter-accused-of-assassination-of-dfl-house-leader-melissa-hortman-apprehended/">arrest</a>&nbsp;of suspect Vance Boelter on Sunday night. Boelter also wounded Sen. John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, though they are on a path to recovery.&nbsp;The Hortman children emphasized the legacy that their parents will leave behind.&nbsp;“Our parents touched so many lives, and they leave behind an incredible legacy of dedication to their community that will live on in us, their friends, their colleagues and co-workers, and every single person who knew and loved them,” the release said.&nbsp;The Hortmans asked that people do an act of kindness in the memory of their parents’ commitment to service, sharing a list of suggestions.“The best way to honor our parents’ memory is to do something, whether big or small, to make our community just a little better for someone else.”&nbsp;They suggested planting a tree, telling a dad joke, and baking something to share — “bread for Mark or a cake for Melissa”.&nbsp;“Pet a dog,” was on the list “A golden retriever is ideal but any will do.”&nbsp;The Hortman family’s dog, a golden retriever named Gilbert, was euthanized after he was injured in the shooting. Hortman originally trained him as a service dog before he became a permanent member of the family.Sophie and Colin Hortman ended the statement with a call to action.&nbsp;“Hope and resilience are the enemy of fear. Our parents lived their lives with immense dedication to their fellow humans. This tragedy must become a moment for us to come together. Hold your loved ones a little closer. Love your neighbors. Treat each other with kindness and respect.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Children of Melissa and Mark Hortman release statement on their deaths

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspicious death at the scene of a house fire in Kansas City announced the case has been turned over to homicide detectives, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Just after 8a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to a reported house fire in the 1600 block of Elmwood in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCFD Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

Crews reported smoke showing from the single-story residence and initiated interior operations. During the search of the structure, fire crews discovered a victim and removed her from the home.

During the patient assessment it was determined that the victim was deceased due to injuries not related to the fire. The fire was brought under control and The Kansas City Police department along with Bomb and Arson detectives were ordered to the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KCPD crime scene investigators responded as well to process the scene for evidence.

&nbsp;Detectives continue to pursue all leads and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750034093809.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspicious death at the scene of a house fire in Kansas City announced the case has been turned over to homicide detectives, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.Just after 8a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to a reported house fire in the 1600 block of Elmwood in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCFD Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750034453591.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Crews reported smoke showing from the single-story residence and initiated interior operations. During the search of the structure, fire crews discovered a victim and removed her from the home.During the patient assessment it was determined that the victim was deceased due to injuries not related to the fire. The fire was brought under control and The Kansas City Police department along with Bomb and Arson detectives were ordered to the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;KCPD crime scene investigators responded as well to process the scene for evidence.&nbsp;Detectives continue to pursue all leads and encourage anyone with information to come forward.

KCPD investigating woman's death at house fire as homicide

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate will gather behind closed doors Tuesday to hear from federal law enforcement officials about protection for lawmakers and the safety of their families, just days after a gunman said to be posing as a police officer targeted state lawmakers in Minnesota.

The briefing from U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms follows years of increased funding for both entities as threats and attempted assassinations against members of Congress have become part of the job.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, of New York, said Monday on the floor that the suspected shooter had a list of more than 70 public officials he wanted to target, including several members of the Senate.

“My highest priority right now is working with the Senate leadership on both sides, the Senate Sergeant at Arms and Capitol Police, to ensure everyone’s safety,” Schumer said. “This weekend I asked Capitol Police and the Sergeant at Arms to increase security for members, including Sen. (Alex) Padilla and the Minnesota senators.”

California Sen. Padilla moved to the forefront of the public debate about immigration and deportations last week when he was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democratic-us-sen-alex-padilla-california-cuffed-shoved-out-noem-press-event" target="_blank">forcibly removed from a press conference</a>&nbsp;after trying to ask Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a question while she was still speaking.

Schumer said the briefing would be an opportunity for USCP and the SAA to “convey what they’re doing for members to keep them safe.”

He urged senators to “come together” to oppose political violence in all forms, before criticizing Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee for social media posts. Lee made&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BasedMikeLee/status/1934262175582822629" target="_blank">two</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BasedMikeLee/status/1934268603676647646" target="_blank">posts</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/16/us/politics/mike-lee-minnesota-assassination-democrats.html" target="_blank">drew condemnation.</a>

“I was deeply disappointed and sickened to see a member of this chamber use the tragedy in Minnesota to take cheap political shots at the other side on social media and risk escalating a perilous moment,” Schumer said. “What the senior senator from Utah posted after the shooting was reckless and beneath the dignity of his office.

“For a senator to fan the flames of division with falsities while the killer was still on the loose is deeply irresponsible. He should take down his post immediately and apologize to the families of the victims.”

On&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenMikeLee/status/1934348952197116157" target="_blank">another social media account</a>, Lee wrote, “These hateful attacks have no place in Utah, Minnesota, or anywhere in America.”

Minnesota Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Sunday during&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/sen-rand-paul-says-it-s-not-the-u-s-s-job-to-be-involved-in-israel-iran-conflict-full-interview-241621061772" target="_blank">an interview</a>&nbsp;on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the attack on the two state lawmakers and their spouses was clearly motivated by politics.

Klobuchar said she has received additional security and that she was concerned about the possibility of more attacks against lawmakers.

“I have had threats before, as several of our colleagues have had,” Klobuchar said. “And I think one of the things is, we don’t talk about this stuff much because you don’t want to see copycats that copy exactly what they’ve done.”

The suspected gunman, who&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/15/vance-boelter-accused-of-assassination-of-dfl-house-leader-melissa-hortman-apprehended/" target="_blank">was arrested Sunday</a>&nbsp;following a manhunt, has been&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/16/boelter-faces-state-and-federal-murder-charges-death-penalty-possible/" target="_blank">charged by both state and federal prosecutors</a>&nbsp;with murdering state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and attempting to kill state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife.

The suspect&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/16/feds-boelter-stopped-at-two-other-lawmakers-homes/" target="_blank">went to the homes of at least two other state lawmakers and had a list</a>&nbsp;of Democratic lawmakers’ home addresses as well as abortion providers, according to police.

Lawmakers disclose they were on list of targets

The U.S. House won’t receive a security briefing this week since its members are out of session on a district work period, typically a time when lawmakers are back in their communities for town halls and other public events, though the shooting has led some members to change their schedules.

Michigan Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten announced Monday she would postpone her town hall in Muskegon, writing in a statement she didn’t want to “divert additional law enforcement resources away from protecting the broader public at this time.”

“Nothing matters more to me than the safety and well-being of the people I serve,” Scholten wrote. “After being made aware that my name was on a list connected to the recent tragic shooting in Minnesota, my office has made the difficult decision to postpone our planned town hall in Muskegon.”

Scholten added she hoped to “reschedule this event as soon as possible.”

Ohio Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman released a statement on Monday, announcing that USCP bolstered his security after his name was found among the suspected Minnesota shooter’s possessions.

“On Sunday morning, Capitol Police contacted my office to inform me that the FBI had found my name among the evidence collected during the search for a suspect in Minnesota — who is accused of murdering and seriously injuring lawmakers,” Landsman wrote. “Since the suspect was still at large at that time, we worked very closely with the Cincinnati Police Department to arrange for increased security for my family and me.”

Texas Democratic Rep. Veronica Escobar wrote in a statement posted to social media that she was among the people the suspected Minnesota shooter had on his list.

“This was only a day after protestors were shot in Utah, an extremist drove a car into protests in Virginia, credible threats were made against state lawmakers in Austin and a man pointed a gun at protestors here in El Paso,” Escobar wrote.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and New York Democratic Rep. Joseph D. Morelle, ranking member on the Committee on House Administration, wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on Monday, urging him to take action to ensure members’ safety.&nbsp;

“While we differ in many areas related to policy and our vision for America’s future, Member safety must be an area of common ground. Representatives from both sides of the aisle have endured assassination attempts that changed their lives and careers forever,” the two wrote. “Too many other patriotic public servants have left Congress because they no longer felt safe carrying out their duty as elected officials. We must act to protect each other and preserve this great American institution.”

Members of Congress and their families are no strangers to threats, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-capitol-police-chief-details-700-threats-against-members-congress-one-month" target="_blank">have steadily risen for years,</a>&nbsp;attacks and shootings.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/man-who-attacked-speaker-pelosis-husband-wanted-break-her-kneecaps-doj-says" target="_blank">attacked in their family home</a>&nbsp;in San Francisco in October 2022 by a man wielding a hammer, who was searching for Pelosi, a California Democrat.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La, was shot and severely wounded in 2017 when a gunman opened fire at GOP lawmakers practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball Game. Several others were injured during the shooting.

Arizona Democratic Rep. Gabby Giffords survived being shot in the head during a constituent meeting in a grocery store parking lot in 2011 when a gunman opened fire, killing six people and injuring a dozen others.

Even President Donald Trump, who has extensive Secret Service protection,&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">was shot in the ear</a>&nbsp;last July while campaigning in Pennsylvania. The gunman in that incident killed local fireman Corey Comperatore and injured two others.

The union representing U.S. Capitol Police&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-capitol-police-union-says-not-enough-done-improve-security-after-jan-6-attack" target="_blank">warned more than a year ago&nbsp;</a>that the federal law enforcement agency was struggling to keep up amid an increasingly hostile political environment and staffing shortages.

“We’ve never seen a threat environment like this,” union Chairman Gus Papathanasiou wrote in a statement. “Given the profound divisions in this country and this year’s elections, people ask me if I’m concerned and I tell them I am worried — very worried.”

Former USCP Chief Thomas Manger, who retired earlier this year, told lawmakers well before the union’s public statement that he was concerned by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/more-7500-threats-against-members-congress-2022-just-22-prosecuted" target="_blank">how few threats against members of Congress were actually prosecuted&nbsp;</a>successfully.

Klobuchar, who was chair of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee at the time of the hearing, said USCP referred 458 threat cases for prosecution during 2021, with 40 of those leading to a court case. That was out of 9,625 total threats.

Just 22 of the 7,501 threats lobbed at members during 2022 led to prosecution, a USCP spokesperson confirmed to States Newsroom at the time.

Threats against lawmakers have continued to increase ever since.

USCP investigated 8,008 “concerning statements and direct threats against the Members of Congress, including their families and staff” in 2023 and 9,474 in 2024, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscp.gov/media-center/press-releases/uscp-threat-assessment-cases-2024" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;from USCP.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750124727119.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate will gather behind closed doors Tuesday to hear from federal law enforcement officials about protection for lawmakers and the safety of their families, just days after a gunman said to be posing as a police officer targeted state lawmakers in Minnesota.The briefing from U.S. Capitol Police and the Senate Sergeant at Arms follows years of increased funding for both entities as threats and attempted assassinations against members of Congress have become part of the job.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, of New York, said Monday on the floor that the suspected shooter had a list of more than 70 public officials he wanted to target, including several members of the Senate.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750124701988.png" alt="Photo U.S. Capitol Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Capitol Police</figcaption>
 </figure>“My highest priority right now is working with the Senate leadership on both sides, the Senate Sergeant at Arms and Capitol Police, to ensure everyone’s safety,” Schumer said. “This weekend I asked Capitol Police and the Sergeant at Arms to increase security for members, including Sen. (Alex) Padilla and the Minnesota senators.”California Sen. Padilla moved to the forefront of the public debate about immigration and deportations last week when he was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/democratic-us-sen-alex-padilla-california-cuffed-shoved-out-noem-press-event" target="_blank">forcibly removed from a press conference</a>&nbsp;after trying to ask Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem a question while she was still speaking.Schumer said the briefing would be an opportunity for USCP and the SAA to “convey what they’re doing for members to keep them safe.”He urged senators to “come together” to oppose political violence in all forms, before criticizing Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee for social media posts. Lee made&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BasedMikeLee/status/1934262175582822629" target="_blank">two</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BasedMikeLee/status/1934268603676647646" target="_blank">posts</a>&nbsp;that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/16/us/politics/mike-lee-minnesota-assassination-democrats.html" target="_blank">drew condemnation.</a>“I was deeply disappointed and sickened to see a member of this chamber use the tragedy in Minnesota to take cheap political shots at the other side on social media and risk escalating a perilous moment,” Schumer said. “What the senior senator from Utah posted after the shooting was reckless and beneath the dignity of his office.“For a senator to fan the flames of division with falsities while the killer was still on the loose is deeply irresponsible. He should take down his post immediately and apologize to the families of the victims.”On&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenMikeLee/status/1934348952197116157" target="_blank">another social media account</a>, Lee wrote, “These hateful attacks have no place in Utah, Minnesota, or anywhere in America.”<h2>Suspect faces state and federal charges</h2>Minnesota Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Sunday during&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/sen-rand-paul-says-it-s-not-the-u-s-s-job-to-be-involved-in-israel-iran-conflict-full-interview-241621061772" target="_blank">an interview</a>&nbsp;on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the attack on the two state lawmakers and their spouses was clearly motivated by politics.Klobuchar said she has received additional security and that she was concerned about the possibility of more attacks against lawmakers.“I have had threats before, as several of our colleagues have had,” Klobuchar said. “And I think one of the things is, we don’t talk about this stuff much because you don’t want to see copycats that copy exactly what they’ve done.”The suspected gunman, who&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/15/vance-boelter-accused-of-assassination-of-dfl-house-leader-melissa-hortman-apprehended/" target="_blank">was arrested Sunday</a>&nbsp;following a manhunt, has been&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/16/boelter-faces-state-and-federal-murder-charges-death-penalty-possible/" target="_blank">charged by both state and federal prosecutors</a>&nbsp;with murdering state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband, and attempting to kill state Sen. John Hoffman and his wife.The suspect&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/06/16/feds-boelter-stopped-at-two-other-lawmakers-homes/" target="_blank">went to the homes of at least two other state lawmakers and had a list</a>&nbsp;of Democratic lawmakers’ home addresses as well as abortion providers, according to police.<h2>Lawmakers disclose they were on list of targets</h2>The U.S. House won’t receive a security briefing this week since its members are out of session on a district work period, typically a time when lawmakers are back in their communities for town halls and other public events, though the shooting has led some members to change their schedules.Michigan Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten announced Monday she would postpone her town hall in Muskegon, writing in a statement she didn’t want to “divert additional law enforcement resources away from protecting the broader public at this time.”“Nothing matters more to me than the safety and well-being of the people I serve,” Scholten wrote. “After being made aware that my name was on a list connected to the recent tragic shooting in Minnesota, my office has made the difficult decision to postpone our planned town hall in Muskegon.”Scholten added she hoped to “reschedule this event as soon as possible.”Ohio Democratic Rep. Greg Landsman released a statement on Monday, announcing that USCP bolstered his security after his name was found among the suspected Minnesota shooter’s possessions.“On Sunday morning, Capitol Police contacted my office to inform me that the FBI had found my name among the evidence collected during the search for a suspect in Minnesota — who is accused of murdering and seriously injuring lawmakers,” Landsman wrote. “Since the suspect was still at large at that time, we worked very closely with the Cincinnati Police Department to arrange for increased security for my family and me.”Texas Democratic Rep. Veronica Escobar wrote in a statement posted to social media that she was among the people the suspected Minnesota shooter had on his list.“This was only a day after protestors were shot in Utah, an extremist drove a car into protests in Virginia, credible threats were made against state lawmakers in Austin and a man pointed a gun at protestors here in El Paso,” Escobar wrote.House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and New York Democratic Rep. Joseph D. Morelle, ranking member on the Committee on House Administration, wrote to Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on Monday, urging him to take action to ensure members’ safety.&nbsp;“While we differ in many areas related to policy and our vision for America’s future, Member safety must be an area of common ground. Representatives from both sides of the aisle have endured assassination attempts that changed their lives and careers forever,” the two wrote. “Too many other patriotic public servants have left Congress because they no longer felt safe carrying out their duty as elected officials. We must act to protect each other and preserve this great American institution.”<h2>Threats on the rise over the years</h2>Members of Congress and their families are no strangers to threats, which&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-capitol-police-chief-details-700-threats-against-members-congress-one-month" target="_blank">have steadily risen for years,</a>&nbsp;attacks and shootings.Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/man-who-attacked-speaker-pelosis-husband-wanted-break-her-kneecaps-doj-says" target="_blank">attacked in their family home</a>&nbsp;in San Francisco in October 2022 by a man wielding a hammer, who was searching for Pelosi, a California Democrat.House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La, was shot and severely wounded in 2017 when a gunman opened fire at GOP lawmakers practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball Game. Several others were injured during the shooting.Arizona Democratic Rep. Gabby Giffords survived being shot in the head during a constituent meeting in a grocery store parking lot in 2011 when a gunman opened fire, killing six people and injuring a dozen others.Even President Donald Trump, who has extensive Secret Service protection,&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/campaigns-elections/trump-campaigns-in-western-pennsylvania-with-rally-in-butler-county/" target="_blank">was shot in the ear</a>&nbsp;last July while campaigning in Pennsylvania. The gunman in that incident killed local fireman Corey Comperatore and injured two others.The union representing U.S. Capitol Police&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-capitol-police-union-says-not-enough-done-improve-security-after-jan-6-attack" target="_blank">warned more than a year ago&nbsp;</a>that the federal law enforcement agency was struggling to keep up amid an increasingly hostile political environment and staffing shortages.“We’ve never seen a threat environment like this,” union Chairman Gus Papathanasiou wrote in a statement. “Given the profound divisions in this country and this year’s elections, people ask me if I’m concerned and I tell them I am worried — very worried.”Former USCP Chief Thomas Manger, who retired earlier this year, told lawmakers well before the union’s public statement that he was concerned by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/more-7500-threats-against-members-congress-2022-just-22-prosecuted" target="_blank">how few threats against members of Congress were actually prosecuted&nbsp;</a>successfully.<h2>Few threats led to prosecution</h2>Klobuchar, who was chair of the Senate Rules and Administration Committee at the time of the hearing, said USCP referred 458 threat cases for prosecution during 2021, with 40 of those leading to a court case. That was out of 9,625 total threats.Just 22 of the 7,501 threats lobbed at members during 2022 led to prosecution, a USCP spokesperson confirmed to States Newsroom at the time.Threats against lawmakers have continued to increase ever since.USCP investigated 8,008 “concerning statements and direct threats against the Members of Congress, including their families and staff” in 2023 and 9,474 in 2024, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscp.gov/media-center/press-releases/uscp-threat-assessment-cases-2024" target="_blank">data</a>&nbsp;from USCP.&nbsp;

Members of Congress on edge after assassination of Minnesota state legislator

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a theft involving electronics and asking for help to ID suspects.

&nbsp;The Overland Park Police Department requests public assistance in the identification of individuals suspected of committing felony theft from a retail establishment in Overland Park, according to Officer John Lacy.

Just after 4p.m. May 17,&nbsp; &nbsp;two suspects entered a retail establishment located near the intersection of W. 115th and Metcalf Avenue, The two individuals selected nine laptop computers and left without paying.

One suspect is described as a Black male, estimated to be in his late 20s, and was observed wearing a gray hat, a dark sweatshirt, and gray sweatpants and had a tattoo on his neck.

The second is described as a white male, approximately 30 years of age, and was observed wearing a black hat, a black jacket, black pants, and black and white Nike brand shoes. The suspects were observed departing the business in a gold-colored Chevrolet Equinox. The vehicle’s license plate was obscured by a white plastic shopping bag.

If you have any information pertaining to the identity of these two individuals, please contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-344-8729 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750121069263.png" alt="Photos Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a theft involving electronics and asking for help to ID suspects.&nbsp;The Overland Park Police Department requests public assistance in the identification of individuals suspected of committing felony theft from a retail establishment in Overland Park, according to Officer John Lacy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750121049246.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 4p.m. May 17,&nbsp; &nbsp;two suspects entered a retail establishment located near the intersection of W. 115th and Metcalf Avenue, The two individuals selected nine laptop computers and left without paying.One suspect is described as a Black male, estimated to be in his late 20s, and was observed wearing a gray hat, a dark sweatshirt, and gray sweatpants and had a tattoo on his neck.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750121021630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The second is described as a white male, approximately 30 years of age, and was observed wearing a black hat, a black jacket, black pants, and black and white Nike brand shoes. The suspects were observed departing the business in a gold-colored Chevrolet Equinox. The vehicle’s license plate was obscured by a white plastic shopping bag.If you have any information pertaining to the identity of these two individuals, please contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-344-8729 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

Police working to ID Kansas computer theft suspects

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a double-homicide in Kansas City have identified the victims as 19-year-old&nbsp;Arron L. Hall Jr. and 19-year-old&nbsp;Deron McHenry,&nbsp;according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

just after midnight, patrol officers were dispatched to the area of 69th and College on a reported sound of shots.

As officers arrived they located a vehicle near the intersection. Inside the vehicle there were Hall and McHenery suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began performing life saving measures and ordered EMS to the scene. 

Medics declared one man deceased at the scene. The second victim was transported to a local hospital where he died a short time later.

This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody. Investigators are working to determine what led up to the victims being shot.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749989590110.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a double-homicide in Kansas City have identified the victims as 19-year-old&nbsp;Arron L. Hall Jr. and 19-year-old&nbsp;Deron McHenry,&nbsp;according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.just after midnight, patrol officers were dispatched to the area of 69th and College on a reported sound of shots.As officers arrived they located a vehicle near the intersection. Inside the vehicle there were Hall and McHenery suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers immediately began performing life saving measures and ordered EMS to the scene. Medics declared one man deceased at the scene. The second victim was transported to a local hospital where he died a short time later.This is being investigated as a homicide and there is no one in custody. Investigators are working to determine what led up to the victims being shot.&nbsp;

Double homicide: Police ID teens found in car in Kansas City

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Israel appeared to be expanding its air campaign on Tehran five days after its surprise attack on Iran’s military and nuclear program, as U.S. President Donald Trump posted an ominous message warning residents of the city to evacuate.

“IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” Trump wrote Monday night before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-g7-carney-canada-trade-iran-75c17fffe96c9031d8ebb22af923d86c">returning to Washington early</a>&nbsp;from a Group of Seven summit in Canada. “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” he added.

Trump later denied reports that he had rushed back to Washington to work on a ceasefire, saying his early departure “has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that,” without elaborating.

Earlier, the Israeli military had called for some 330,000 residents of a neighborhood in the city center to evacuate. Tehran is one of the largest cities in the Middle East, with around 10 million people, roughly equivalent to the entire population of Israel. People have been fleeing since the hostilities began.

Israel says its sweeping assault on Iran’s top military leaders, nuclear scientists, uranium enrichment sites and ballistic missile program is necessary to prevent its longtime adversary from getting any closer to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-explosions-israel-tehran-00234a06e5128a8aceb406b140297299">building an atomic weapon</a>. The strikes have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-attacks-mood-tehran-8de6647cf89b3630ccbcc302f433d81e">killed at least 224 people</a>&nbsp;since Friday.

Iran has retaliated by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-missiles-attack-tel-aviv-0d75e7309887a0ef0fd55554e3ba9415">launching more than 370 missiles and hundreds of drones</a>&nbsp;at Israel. So far, 24 people have been killed in Israel and more than 500 wounded. The Israeli military said a new barrage of missiles was launched on Tuesday, and explosions could be heard in northern Israel.

Shops closed, lines for gas in Iran’s capital

Downtown Tehran appeared to be starting to empty out early Tuesday, with many shops closed. The city’s ancient Grand Bazaar was also closed, something that has only happened in the past during anti-government demonstrations or at the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

On the roads out of Tehran to the west, traffic stood bumper to bumper. Many appeared to be heading to the Caspian Sea area. Long lines also could be seen at gas stations in Tehran.

Authorities within Iran’s government continued to insist everything was under control and did not offer any guidance for the public on what to do.

The Israeli military meanwhile claimed to have killed someone it described as Iran’s top general in a strike on Tehran. Iran did not immediately comment on the reported killing of Gen. Ali Shadmani, who had just been named as the head of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, part of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.

Iran has named other generals to replace the top leaders of the Guard and the regular armed forces after they were killed in earlier strikes.

Trump leaves G7 early to focus on conflict

Before leaving the summit in Canada, Trump joined the other leaders in a joint statement saying Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon” and calling for a “de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza.”

French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/president-macron-says-us-plays-key-role-in-de-escalating-conflict-between-israel-and-iran-fa727283624d469a88e096ad0aa9f362">told reporters</a>&nbsp;that discussions were underway on a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, but Trump appeared to shoot that down in his overnight social media post.

Macron “mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a ‘cease fire’ between Israel and Iran,” Trump wrote. “Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth headed to the White House Situation Room to meet with the president and his national security team.

Hegseth didn’t provide details on what prompted the meeting but said on Fox News late Monday that the movements were to “ensure that our people are safe.”

Israel says it has ‘aerial superiority’ over Tehran

Israeli military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said Monday that his country’s forces had “achieved full aerial superiority over Tehran’s skies.”

The military said it destroyed more than 120 surface-to-surface missile launchers in central Iran, a third of Iran’s total, including multiple launchers just before they launched ballistic missiles towards Israel. It also destroyed two F-14 fighter planes that Iran used to target Israeli aircraft, the military said.

Israeli military officials also said fighter jets had struck 10 command centers in Tehran belonging to Iran’s Quds Force, an elite arm of its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard that conducts military and intelligence operations outside Iran.

Israel’s military issued an evacuation warning to a part of central Tehran that houses the country’s state TV and police headquarters, as well as three large hospitals, including one owned by the Guard. It has issued similar evacuation warnings for parts of the Gaza Strip and Lebanon ahead of strikes.

Health authorities reported that 1,277 people were wounded in Iran.

Rights groups such as the Washington-based Iranian advocacy group Human Rights Activists have suggested that the Iranian government’s death toll is a significant undercount. The group says it has documented more than 400 people killed, among them 197 civilians.

Israel says strikes have set back nuclear program

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;said the Israeli strikes have set&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-program-us-negotiations-explained-085748abe53152378e017e25b956359f">Iran’s nuclear program</a>&nbsp;back a “very, very long time,” and told reporters he is in daily touch with Trump.

Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. and others have assessed that Tehran has not had an organized effort to pursue a nuclear weapon since 2003. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-iaea-nuclear-program-143e3e3c015dbf9c17316ad60ff989da">repeatedly warned</a>&nbsp;that the country has enough enriched uranium&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-iran-politics-government-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-6acdb64d36fcbe05b3ee725d8a585d96">to make several nuclear bombs</a>&nbsp;should it choose to do so.

So far, Israel has targeted multiple Iranian nuclear program sites but has not been able to destroy Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility.

The site is buried deep underground — and to eliminate it, Israel may need the 30,000-pound (14,000-kilogram) GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a U.S. bunker-busting bomb that uses its weight and sheer kinetic force to reach deeply buried targets. Israel does not have the munition or the bomber needed to deliver it. The penetrator is currently delivered by the B-2 stealth bomber.

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, appeared to make a veiled plea Monday for the U.S. to step in and negotiate an end to hostilities between Israel and Iran.

In a post on X, Araghchi wrote that if Trump is “genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential.”

“It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like Netanyahu,” Iran’s top diplomat wrote. “That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy.”

The message to Washington was sent as the latest talks between the U.S. and Iran were canceled over the weekend after Israel’s surprise bombardment.

On Sunday, Araghchi said that Iran will stop its strikes if Israel does the same.

Egypt, Jordan and others call for a halt to the conflict

Twenty countries denounced in a joint statement the escalating tensions in the Middle East caused by what they term Israel’s aggression against Iran and called for diplomacy and dialogue to restore stability in the region.

“There’s an imperative need to halt Israeli hostilities against Iran, which come during a time of increasing tension in the Middle East, and to work towards de-escalation, to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire and restoration of calm,” read the statement.

Foreign ministers of Algeria, Bahrain, Brunei, Chad, the Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, and Mauritania rejected finding resolution through military campaigns. Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates also condemned the escalation.

They also highlighted the importance of clearing the region of nuclear and mass destruction weapons and called for refraining from targeting nuclear facilities and protecting maritime navigation in international waters.

India has evacuated an unspecified number of students from Tehran amid rising tension in the region, the foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.

Some Indian nationals have also received assistance to leave Iran through the borders with Armenia, it added.

Those who can afford transport on their own have been advised to evacuate as soon as possible.

Israel says it killed high-ranking Iranian general

Israel claimed Tuesday it killed another high-ranking Iranian general after decimating its military command.

The Israeli military said it killed Gen. Ali Shadmani, who had just been named as the head of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.

Iran did not immediately acknowledge Shadmani’s death.

Shadmani was a general in Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750109382018.png" alt="File photo President Trump at the G7 Monday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo President Trump at the G7 Monday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Israel appeared to be expanding its air campaign on Tehran five days after its surprise attack on Iran’s military and nuclear program, as U.S. President Donald Trump posted an ominous message warning residents of the city to evacuate.“IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON,” Trump wrote Monday night before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-g7-carney-canada-trade-iran-75c17fffe96c9031d8ebb22af923d86c">returning to Washington early</a>&nbsp;from a Group of Seven summit in Canada. “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” he added.Trump later denied reports that he had rushed back to Washington to work on a ceasefire, saying his early departure “has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that,” without elaborating.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">REPORTER: &quot;What are you looking for here?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;An end. A real end. Not a ceasefire — an end.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/EESQ7zzhw1">pic.twitter.com/EESQ7zzhw1</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1934917749391687794?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750154083784.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on his early departure from the G7 Summit: &quot;I have to be back early — for obvious reasons.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/vtM4wwy1r9">pic.twitter.com/vtM4wwy1r9</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1934773306324042177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Iran should have signed the “deal” I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!&quot; –President Donald J. Trump <a href="https://t.co/oniUSgsMWA">pic.twitter.com/oniUSgsMWA</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1934745869821370570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump: &quot;I think a deal will be signed or something will happen, but a deal will be signed, and I think Iran is foolish not to sign one.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/dPo8zXKZ0v">pic.twitter.com/dPo8zXKZ0v</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1934726877752565821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Earlier, the Israeli military had called for some 330,000 residents of a neighborhood in the city center to evacuate. Tehran is one of the largest cities in the Middle East, with around 10 million people, roughly equivalent to the entire population of Israel. People have been fleeing since the hostilities began.Israel says its sweeping assault on Iran’s top military leaders, nuclear scientists, uranium enrichment sites and ballistic missile program is necessary to prevent its longtime adversary from getting any closer to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-explosions-israel-tehran-00234a06e5128a8aceb406b140297299">building an atomic weapon</a>. The strikes have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-attacks-mood-tehran-8de6647cf89b3630ccbcc302f433d81e">killed at least 224 people</a>&nbsp;since Friday.Iran has retaliated by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-missiles-attack-tel-aviv-0d75e7309887a0ef0fd55554e3ba9415">launching more than 370 missiles and hundreds of drones</a>&nbsp;at Israel. So far, 24 people have been killed in Israel and more than 500 wounded. The Israeli military said a new barrage of missiles was launched on Tuesday, and explosions could be heard in northern Israel.<h2>Shops closed, lines for gas in Iran’s capital</h2>Downtown Tehran appeared to be starting to empty out early Tuesday, with many shops closed. The city’s ancient Grand Bazaar was also closed, something that has only happened in the past during anti-government demonstrations or at the height of the coronavirus pandemic.On the roads out of Tehran to the west, traffic stood bumper to bumper. Many appeared to be heading to the Caspian Sea area. Long lines also could be seen at gas stations in Tehran.Authorities within Iran’s government continued to insist everything was under control and did not offer any guidance for the public on what to do.The Israeli military meanwhile claimed to have killed someone it described as Iran’s top general in a strike on Tehran. Iran did not immediately comment on the reported killing of Gen. Ali Shadmani, who had just been named as the head of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, part of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.Iran has named other generals to replace the top leaders of the Guard and the regular armed forces after they were killed in earlier strikes.<h2>Trump leaves G7 early to focus on conflict</h2>Before leaving the summit in Canada, Trump joined the other leaders in a joint statement saying Iran “can never have a nuclear weapon” and calling for a “de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza.”French President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/president-macron-says-us-plays-key-role-in-de-escalating-conflict-between-israel-and-iran-fa727283624d469a88e096ad0aa9f362">told reporters</a>&nbsp;that discussions were underway on a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, but Trump appeared to shoot that down in his overnight social media post.Macron “mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a ‘cease fire’ between Israel and Iran,” Trump wrote. “Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that.”Meanwhile, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth headed to the White House Situation Room to meet with the president and his national security team.Hegseth didn’t provide details on what prompted the meeting but said on Fox News late Monday that the movements were to “ensure that our people are safe.”<h2>Israel says it has ‘aerial superiority’ over Tehran</h2>Israeli military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said Monday that his country’s forces had “achieved full aerial superiority over Tehran’s skies.”The military said it destroyed more than 120 surface-to-surface missile launchers in central Iran, a third of Iran’s total, including multiple launchers just before they launched ballistic missiles towards Israel. It also destroyed two F-14 fighter planes that Iran used to target Israeli aircraft, the military said.Israeli military officials also said fighter jets had struck 10 command centers in Tehran belonging to Iran’s Quds Force, an elite arm of its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard that conducts military and intelligence operations outside Iran.Israel’s military issued an evacuation warning to a part of central Tehran that houses the country’s state TV and police headquarters, as well as three large hospitals, including one owned by the Guard. It has issued similar evacuation warnings for parts of the Gaza Strip and Lebanon ahead of strikes.Health authorities reported that 1,277 people were wounded in Iran.Rights groups such as the Washington-based Iranian advocacy group Human Rights Activists have suggested that the Iranian government’s death toll is a significant undercount. The group says it has documented more than 400 people killed, among them 197 civilians.<h2>Israel says strikes have set back nuclear program</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;said the Israeli strikes have set&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-nuclear-program-us-negotiations-explained-085748abe53152378e017e25b956359f">Iran’s nuclear program</a>&nbsp;back a “very, very long time,” and told reporters he is in daily touch with Trump.Iran maintains that its nuclear program is peaceful, and the U.S. and others have assessed that Tehran has not had an organized effort to pursue a nuclear weapon since 2003. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-iaea-nuclear-program-143e3e3c015dbf9c17316ad60ff989da">repeatedly warned</a>&nbsp;that the country has enough enriched uranium&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-iran-politics-government-mahmoud-ahmadinejad-6acdb64d36fcbe05b3ee725d8a585d96">to make several nuclear bombs</a>&nbsp;should it choose to do so.So far, Israel has targeted multiple Iranian nuclear program sites but has not been able to destroy Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility.The site is buried deep underground — and to eliminate it, Israel may need the 30,000-pound (14,000-kilogram) GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a U.S. bunker-busting bomb that uses its weight and sheer kinetic force to reach deeply buried targets. Israel does not have the munition or the bomber needed to deliver it. The penetrator is currently delivered by the B-2 stealth bomber.<h2>No sign of conflict letting up</h2>Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, appeared to make a veiled plea Monday for the U.S. to step in and negotiate an end to hostilities between Israel and Iran.In a post on X, Araghchi wrote that if Trump is “genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential.”“It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like Netanyahu,” Iran’s top diplomat wrote. “That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy.”The message to Washington was sent as the latest talks between the U.S. and Iran were canceled over the weekend after Israel’s surprise bombardment.On Sunday, Araghchi said that Iran will stop its strikes if Israel does the same.<h2>Egypt, Jordan and others call for a halt to the conflict</h2>Twenty countries denounced in a joint statement the escalating tensions in the Middle East caused by what they term Israel’s aggression against Iran and called for diplomacy and dialogue to restore stability in the region.“There’s an imperative need to halt Israeli hostilities against Iran, which come during a time of increasing tension in the Middle East, and to work towards de-escalation, to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire and restoration of calm,” read the statement.Foreign ministers of Algeria, Bahrain, Brunei, Chad, the Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, and Mauritania rejected finding resolution through military campaigns. Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates also condemned the escalation.They also highlighted the importance of clearing the region of nuclear and mass destruction weapons and called for refraining from targeting nuclear facilities and protecting maritime navigation in international waters.<h2>India evacuates its citizens</h2>India has evacuated an unspecified number of students from Tehran amid rising tension in the region, the foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday.Some Indian nationals have also received assistance to leave Iran through the borders with Armenia, it added.Those who can afford transport on their own have been advised to evacuate as soon as possible.<h2>Israel says it killed high-ranking Iranian general</h2>Israel claimed Tuesday it killed another high-ranking Iranian general after decimating its military command.The Israeli military said it killed Gen. Ali Shadmani, who had just been named as the head of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters.Iran did not immediately acknowledge Shadmani’s death.Shadmani was a general in Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard.

Read President's ominous warning on why he left G7, returned to DC

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Monday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Honda motorcycle driven by Wyatt T.&nbsp;Johnson, 22,&nbsp;Coffeyville, was northbound on County Road 4300 just north of Morning Lane Road.

The motorcycle struck a southbound 2012 Freightliner truck driven by Derek A.&nbsp;Taggart, 38, Altamont, who was attempting a left turn into a driveway.

Johnson was transported to&nbsp;Coffeyville Regional Medical Center where he died. Taggart was not injured and properly restrained. Johnson was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 4p.m. Monday in Montgomery County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Honda motorcycle driven by Wyatt T.&nbsp;Johnson, 22,&nbsp;Coffeyville, was northbound on County Road 4300 just north of Morning Lane Road.The motorcycle struck a southbound 2012 Freightliner truck driven by Derek A.&nbsp;Taggart, 38, Altamont, who was attempting a left turn into a driveway.Johnson was transported to&nbsp;Coffeyville Regional Medical Center where he died. Taggart was not injured and properly restrained. Johnson was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after motorcycle, truck crash

GREENWOOD COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Greenwood County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported law enforcement were in pursuit of a reported stolen 2012 Honda Pilot driven by Joshua M. Walker, 32, Galena,&nbsp;southbound on HH road one mile south of U.S. 400.

The driver failed to negotiate the intersection of 1600 Road as HH Road ends. The vehicle then proceeded off the roadway southwest of the intersection where it struck a tree, a metal rail and became disabled.

EMS transported Walker to Fredonia Regional Hospital. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750081825153.png" alt="Walker photo Greenwood Co." />
 <figcaption>Walker photo Greenwood Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>GREENWOOD COUNTY — One person was injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Sunday in Greenwood County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported law enforcement were in pursuit of a reported stolen 2012 Honda Pilot driven by Joshua M. Walker, 32, Galena,&nbsp;southbound on HH road one mile south of U.S. 400.The driver failed to negotiate the intersection of 1600 Road as HH Road ends. The vehicle then proceeded off the roadway southwest of the intersection where it struck a tree, a metal rail and became disabled.EMS transported Walker to Fredonia Regional Hospital. He was also not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas  man injured after crash during chase in stolen SUV

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect who called police and was arrested, after he allegedly assaulted a woman in a Salina home.

Just before 9:30p.m. June 13, officers responded to a domestic disturbance that occurred in the 200 block of N. Oakdale in Salina, according to the Salina Police Department where a 29-year old woman lives with a 30-year old man identified as Adrian Del Real.

Allegedly, Del Real and the victim got into an argument on the driveway of the home. Del Real wanted to see the victim's phone and decided to push her. After she was pushed, Police stated the victim was "struck in the bridge of her nose, causing her to bleed."&nbsp;

Subsequently, the victim then went inside the home and went into a bathroom. Del Real then followed her as the argument continued, and it was reported that he "ripped off her apple watch and threw it into the toilet." The victim was able to leave the bathroom and get away from Del Real.&nbsp;

Del Real then called police and when officers arrived to the home, he was taken into custody without incident. Del Real was booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Robbery, Criminal Deprivation of Property and Domestic Battery. The victim received medical treatment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750089780088.png" alt="Del Real photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Del Real photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect who called police and was arrested, after he allegedly assaulted a woman in a Salina home.Just before 9:30p.m. June 13, officers responded to a domestic disturbance that occurred in the 200 block of N. Oakdale in Salina, according to the Salina Police Department where a 29-year old woman lives with a 30-year old man identified as Adrian Del Real.Allegedly, Del Real and the victim got into an argument on the driveway of the home. Del Real wanted to see the victim's phone and decided to push her. After she was pushed, Police stated the victim was "struck in the bridge of her nose, causing her to bleed."&nbsp;Subsequently, the victim then went inside the home and went into a bathroom. Del Real then followed her as the argument continued, and it was reported that he "ripped off her apple watch and threw it into the toilet." The victim was able to leave the bathroom and get away from Del Real.&nbsp;Del Real then called police and when officers arrived to the home, he was taken into custody without incident. Del Real was booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Robbery, Criminal Deprivation of Property and Domestic Battery. The victim received medical treatment.

Kansas man called police after he allegedly attacked roommate

KANANASKIS, Alberta (AP) — U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and British Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/keir-starmer">Keir Starmer</a>&nbsp;said Monday that they had signed a trade deal that will slash tariffs on U.K. auto and aerospace industry imports — but they are still discussing how to handle steel production.

(click below to watch the fumble and announcement)

The pair spoke to reporters at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-g7-carney-canada-trade-iran-75c17fffe96c9031d8ebb22af923d86c">Group of Seven summit</a>&nbsp;in the Canadian Rockies, with Trump brandishing the pages of what he said was a long-awaited agreement. The rollout was anything but smooth, however, as Trump dropped the papers and at first said his administration had reached an agreement with the European Union when he meant the United Kingdom.

The president nonetheless insisted the pact is “a fair deal for both” and would “produce a lot of jobs, a lot of income.”

“We just signed it,” Trump said, “and it's done.”

Starmer said it meant “a very good day for both our countries, a real sign of strength.”

Reaching an agreement is significant as Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-prices-inflation-trump-trade-6ea513a44876c2f4dc948a25c15b0eb0">threatened much of the world with steep import tariffs</a>&nbsp;that have unsettled markets and raised the possibility of a global trade war.

He has since backed off on many of his proposed levies but also continued to suggest that administration officials were furiously negotiating new trade pacts with dozens of countries — even as few have actually materialized.

Trump said “the U.K. is very well protected,” from tariffs. “You know why? Because I like them.”

The signing of the deal at the G7 followed Trump and Starmer's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-trade-deal-us-trump-starmer-tariff-steel-f65fb13f17cfc14d0b5b8d267953d5c4">announcement in May</a>&nbsp;that they’d reached a framework for a trade pact that would slash U.S. import taxes on British cars, steel and aluminum in return for greater access to the British market for U.S. products, including beef and ethanol.

But Monday's agreement fully covers only British cars and aerospace materials, with more work to come on steel.

The British government said the new agreement removes U.S. tariffs on U.K. aerospace products, exempting Britain from a 10% levy the Trump White House has sought to impose on all other countries — a boost to British firms, including engine-maker Rolls-Royce.

It also sets the tax on British autos at 10% from the end of the month, down from the current 27.5%, up to a quota of 100,000 vehicles a year.

U.K. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the deal protects “jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors.” Mike Hawes, chief executive of Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said it was “great news for the U.K. automotive industry.”

But there was no final agreement to cut the tax on British steel to zero as originally foreseen — seen as vital to preserving the U.K.'s beleaguered steel industry. Britain's steel output has fallen 80% since the late 1960s due to high costs and the rapid growth of cheaper Chinese production.

Monday's agreement fleshes out the terms of the framework deal announced in May. That framework didn’t immediately take effect, leaving British businesses uncertain about whether the U.K. could be exposed to any surprise hikes from Trump.

British businesses, and the U.K. government, were then blindsided earlier this month when Trump doubled metals tariffs on countries around the world to 50%. He later clarified the level would remain at 25% for the U.K.

After the two leaders spoke, the White House released a statement seeking to clarify matters, saying that with respect to steel and aluminum, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick will “determine a quota of products that can enter the United States without being subject” to previous tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

The British government said Monday that the plan was still for “0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.”

Trump’s executive order authorizing the deal contained several references to security of supply chains, reflecting the U.S. administration’s concerns about China. It said the U.K. “committed to working to meet American requirements on the security of the supply chains of steel and aluminum products intended for export to the United States.”

There also was no final deal on pharmaceuticals, where “work will continue,” the U.K. said.

The deal signed Monday also confirms that American farmers can export 13,000 metric tons (29 million pounds) of beef to the U.K. each year, and vice versa — though a British ban on hormone-treated beef remains in place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750113048678.png" alt="President Donald Trump drops papers as he meets with Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the G7 Summit,&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>President Donald Trump drops papers as he meets with Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the sidelines of the G7 Summit,&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANANASKIS, Alberta (AP) — U.S. President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;and British Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/keir-starmer">Keir Starmer</a>&nbsp;said Monday that they had signed a trade deal that will slash tariffs on U.K. auto and aerospace industry imports — but they are still discussing how to handle steel production.(click below to watch the fumble and announcement)<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">President Trump on U.S.–U.K. trade agreement: &quot;It&#39;s a fair deal for both. It will produce a lot of jobs, a lot of income.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/WclqkfQsK4">pic.twitter.com/WclqkfQsK4</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1934725589237203107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The pair spoke to reporters at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-g7-carney-canada-trade-iran-75c17fffe96c9031d8ebb22af923d86c">Group of Seven summit</a>&nbsp;in the Canadian Rockies, with Trump brandishing the pages of what he said was a long-awaited agreement. The rollout was anything but smooth, however, as Trump dropped the papers and at first said his administration had reached an agreement with the European Union when he meant the United Kingdom.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750115525010.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN vide0" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN vide0</figcaption>
 </figure>The president nonetheless insisted the pact is “a fair deal for both” and would “produce a lot of jobs, a lot of income.”“We just signed it,” Trump said, “and it's done.”Starmer said it meant “a very good day for both our countries, a real sign of strength.”Reaching an agreement is significant as Trump has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/consumer-prices-inflation-trump-trade-6ea513a44876c2f4dc948a25c15b0eb0">threatened much of the world with steep import tariffs</a>&nbsp;that have unsettled markets and raised the possibility of a global trade war.He has since backed off on many of his proposed levies but also continued to suggest that administration officials were furiously negotiating new trade pacts with dozens of countries — even as few have actually materialized.Trump said “the U.K. is very well protected,” from tariffs. “You know why? Because I like them.”The signing of the deal at the G7 followed Trump and Starmer's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/uk-trade-deal-us-trump-starmer-tariff-steel-f65fb13f17cfc14d0b5b8d267953d5c4">announcement in May</a>&nbsp;that they’d reached a framework for a trade pact that would slash U.S. import taxes on British cars, steel and aluminum in return for greater access to the British market for U.S. products, including beef and ethanol.But Monday's agreement fully covers only British cars and aerospace materials, with more work to come on steel.The British government said the new agreement removes U.S. tariffs on U.K. aerospace products, exempting Britain from a 10% levy the Trump White House has sought to impose on all other countries — a boost to British firms, including engine-maker Rolls-Royce.It also sets the tax on British autos at 10% from the end of the month, down from the current 27.5%, up to a quota of 100,000 vehicles a year.U.K. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said the deal protects “jobs and livelihoods in some of our most vital sectors.” Mike Hawes, chief executive of Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said it was “great news for the U.K. automotive industry.”But there was no final agreement to cut the tax on British steel to zero as originally foreseen — seen as vital to preserving the U.K.'s beleaguered steel industry. Britain's steel output has fallen 80% since the late 1960s due to high costs and the rapid growth of cheaper Chinese production.Monday's agreement fleshes out the terms of the framework deal announced in May. That framework didn’t immediately take effect, leaving British businesses uncertain about whether the U.K. could be exposed to any surprise hikes from Trump.British businesses, and the U.K. government, were then blindsided earlier this month when Trump doubled metals tariffs on countries around the world to 50%. He later clarified the level would remain at 25% for the U.K.After the two leaders spoke, the White House released a statement seeking to clarify matters, saying that with respect to steel and aluminum, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick will “determine a quota of products that can enter the United States without being subject” to previous tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.The British government said Monday that the plan was still for “0% tariffs on core steel products as agreed.”Trump’s executive order authorizing the deal contained several references to security of supply chains, reflecting the U.S. administration’s concerns about China. It said the U.K. “committed to working to meet American requirements on the security of the supply chains of steel and aluminum products intended for export to the United States.”There also was no final deal on pharmaceuticals, where “work will continue,” the U.K. said.The deal signed Monday also confirms that American farmers can export 13,000 metric tons (29 million pounds) of beef to the U.K. each year, and vice versa — though a British ban on hormone-treated beef remains in place.

🎥 Despite President's fumble, US and UK announce trade deal

OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations.

Just before 6p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 13, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 189th and Stanley Road for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.

Daniel L. Bigenwalt Jr, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Driving while license suspended

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749996474234.png" alt="Bigenwalt-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Bigenwalt-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple drug allegations.Just before 6p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;June 13, an Osage County Sheriff’s Office K-9 unit conducted a traffic stop at 189th and Stanley Road for a traffic violation, according to Osage County Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, illegal narcotics were located.Daniel L. Bigenwalt Jr, 59, of Topeka was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Driving while license suspended

Sheriff's K9 unit ruins Kansas man's weekend plans

JOHNSON COUNTY— Two people were injured in a small plane crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Monday in Johnson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Beech King Air piloted by Leslie&nbsp;Gorden, 73, Lee's Summit, Missouri, was southbound when a mechanical malfunction caused the left engine to become inoperable. The pilot lost control of airplane turning left and crashing into the roof of a building at the New Century AirCenter, 1 New Century Parkway, Gardner, Kansas.

EMS transported&nbsp; Gordon and a passenger Delaney&nbsp;Rindal, 30,&nbsp;Wasilla, Arkansas, to Overland Park Regional Medical Center&nbsp;for treatment of minor injuries.

The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750106633244.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY— Two people were injured in a small plane crash that occurred just before 1:30p.m. Monday in Johnson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a Beech King Air piloted by Leslie&nbsp;Gorden, 73, Lee's Summit, Missouri, was southbound when a mechanical malfunction caused the left engine to become inoperable. The pilot lost control of airplane turning left and crashing into the roof of a building at the New Century AirCenter, 1 New Century Parkway, Gardner, Kansas.EMS transported&nbsp; Gordon and a passenger Delaney&nbsp;Rindal, 30,&nbsp;Wasilla, Arkansas, to Overland Park Regional Medical Center&nbsp;for treatment of minor injuries.The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the incident.

2 hospitalized after plane crash into building at Kansas airport

Washington –&nbsp;On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall published an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///The%2520U.S.%2520Army%E2%80%99s%2520250th%2520birthday/%2520a%2520personal%2520and%2520national%2520triumph">op-ed&nbsp;</a>in The Washington Times, marking the celebration of the 250th&nbsp;Birthday of the United States Army, and reflecting on how these celebrations can restore pride in America again.

The Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National Triumph

Standing in a quiet room at Gettysburg last month, I read about Lincoln’s Address—many headlines from 1863 called it “silly,” others “a perfected gem.” That’s the America I love: where we speak freely, protest boldly, and debate fiercely. Yet, as I scanned coverage of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration on June 14, 2025, one truth was missing: 1.3 million soldiers gave their lives to protect those freedoms. The grand parade and festival on the National Mall weren’t just a showcase of strength; it was a rebirth of patriotism, a moment that hit me personally and resonated for our nation.

My family’s story is woven into the Army’s 250 years. Every generation has served. Three ancestors fell in the Civil War’s brutal fields. A great-uncle, along with many other brave soldiers, suffocated from nerve gas in the Argonne Forest during World War I, the “war to end all wars.” Two other great-uncles stormed Normandy’s beaches; later in the Second World War, my wife lost an uncle. My dad served, my brother served, I served, and my son serves today. I’ve always believed every American should serve, not just for duty, but to feel the weight of sacrifice. At this great celebration, watching my grandsons’ eyes light up as tanks rumbled by on the Mall, I saw history spark their young hearts. This celebration wasn’t just about the past; it was about inspiring the future.

I’ve lived through patriotism’s highs and lows. The Korean War, before my time, sparked questions about America’s global role. Vietnam, which I watched as a kid, left us confused—protests clashed with America First pride. The Gulf Wars came, and as 9/11’s memory faded, we debated how far was too far. Over the last four years, an open border signaled a nation adrift, with our military and law enforcement wondering if their commander-in-chief had their backs. Patriotism seemed shattered. But June 14 was a new day. The first-ever Army birthday celebration on the National Mall, with 6,600 soldiers marching, felt like a reset—a bold reclaiming of national pride.

My daughter and niece, there with their young kids, saw it too. They said the parade taught their children military history, American pride, and gratitude for freedoms won through sacrifice. Veterans at home, glued to their TVs, felt seen—many watched every moment, marveling at “cool weapons,” tanks, and drones. Nearby us was a mom whose son re-enlisted, sworn in by President Trump. Tears streamed down her face as she waved her flag, her Army shirt emblazoned with her son’s regiment. “This is for all who served,” she said. I wish every veteran could’ve been flown to D.C. to feel that joy.

The celebration’s significance ran deeper. It honored a legacy: the Army, born a year before the Declaration of Independence, secured our freedom in the Revolutionary War and defended us through the Civil War, World Wars, and modern conflicts. It showcased unity, with events like the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier echoing the Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend.” It highlighted innovation—radar, the internet, wireless tech—all rooted in Army ingenuity that shaped global progress. It inspired, with the “Be All You Can Be” campaign driving recruitment to 85% of 2025’s target, promising the strongest class in years. And as a prelude to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, it set the stage for national reflection.

While too much of the media focused on other issues, no one can doubt that this celebration restored pride, boosted military morale, and sent a message to the world. As my grandson exclaimed, “America’s Army is undefeated,” rolling through 250 years of victories. To those burning flags or kneeling during the anthem, it’s a gut punch—a pain that breaks the hearts of those who served. I wish they’d served, felt the cost of freedom, had held a dying soldier in their arms as they said their last words, or joined a Chaplain as they delivered the news of a lost loved one to a young wife and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;As riots flare, let’s remember: millions died so we can stand, debate, and rebuild.

Regardless, when the President calls, the Army is rolling along!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749942947564.png" alt="Images from White House video" />
 <figcaption>Images from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington –&nbsp;On Monday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall published an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="file:///The%2520U.S.%2520Army%E2%80%99s%2520250th%2520birthday/%2520a%2520personal%2520and%2520national%2520triumph">op-ed&nbsp;</a>in The Washington Times, marking the celebration of the 250th&nbsp;Birthday of the United States Army, and reflecting on how these celebrations can restore pride in America again.The Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National TriumphStanding in a quiet room at Gettysburg last month, I read about Lincoln’s Address—many headlines from 1863 called it “silly,” others “a perfected gem.” That’s the America I love: where we speak freely, protest boldly, and debate fiercely. Yet, as I scanned coverage of the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration on June 14, 2025, one truth was missing: 1.3 million soldiers gave their lives to protect those freedoms. The grand parade and festival on the National Mall weren’t just a showcase of strength; it was a rebirth of patriotism, a moment that hit me personally and resonated for our nation.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750110648171.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>My family’s story is woven into the Army’s 250 years. Every generation has served. Three ancestors fell in the Civil War’s brutal fields. A great-uncle, along with many other brave soldiers, suffocated from nerve gas in the Argonne Forest during World War I, the “war to end all wars.” Two other great-uncles stormed Normandy’s beaches; later in the Second World War, my wife lost an uncle. My dad served, my brother served, I served, and my son serves today. I’ve always believed every American should serve, not just for duty, but to feel the weight of sacrifice. At this great celebration, watching my grandsons’ eyes light up as tanks rumbled by on the Mall, I saw history spark their young hearts. This celebration wasn’t just about the past; it was about inspiring the future.I’ve lived through patriotism’s highs and lows. The Korean War, before my time, sparked questions about America’s global role. Vietnam, which I watched as a kid, left us confused—protests clashed with America First pride. The Gulf Wars came, and as 9/11’s memory faded, we debated how far was too far. Over the last four years, an open border signaled a nation adrift, with our military and law enforcement wondering if their commander-in-chief had their backs. Patriotism seemed shattered. But June 14 was a new day. The first-ever Army birthday celebration on the National Mall, with 6,600 soldiers marching, felt like a reset—a bold reclaiming of national pride.My daughter and niece, there with their young kids, saw it too. They said the parade taught their children military history, American pride, and gratitude for freedoms won through sacrifice. Veterans at home, glued to their TVs, felt seen—many watched every moment, marveling at “cool weapons,” tanks, and drones. Nearby us was a mom whose son re-enlisted, sworn in by President Trump. Tears streamed down her face as she waved her flag, her Army shirt emblazoned with her son’s regiment. “This is for all who served,” she said. I wish every veteran could’ve been flown to D.C. to feel that joy.The celebration’s significance ran deeper. It honored a legacy: the Army, born a year before the Declaration of Independence, secured our freedom in the Revolutionary War and defended us through the Civil War, World Wars, and modern conflicts. It showcased unity, with events like the wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier echoing the Army’s motto, “This We’ll Defend.” It highlighted innovation—radar, the internet, wireless tech—all rooted in Army ingenuity that shaped global progress. It inspired, with the “Be All You Can Be” campaign driving recruitment to 85% of 2025’s target, promising the strongest class in years. And as a prelude to America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, it set the stage for national reflection.While too much of the media focused on other issues, no one can doubt that this celebration restored pride, boosted military morale, and sent a message to the world. As my grandson exclaimed, “America’s Army is undefeated,” rolling through 250 years of victories. To those burning flags or kneeling during the anthem, it’s a gut punch—a pain that breaks the hearts of those who served. I wish they’d served, felt the cost of freedom, had held a dying soldier in their arms as they said their last words, or joined a Chaplain as they delivered the news of a lost loved one to a young wife and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;As riots flare, let’s remember: millions died so we can stand, debate, and rebuild.Regardless, when the President calls, the Army is rolling along!

Senator Marshall Op-Ed: U.S. Army’s 250th Birthday: A Personal and National Triumph

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured a teen in Johnson County.

Just after 11:30 p.m. Sunday, responded to a report of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 9800 block of Buckingham Road in Lenexa, according to a media release. When officers arrived, all involved individuals had already left the scene.

A short time later, officers located a 16-year-old boy a few blocks away who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp;Johnson County Med-Act transported him a local hospital. His injuries are considered non-life-threatening.

Officers also located and detained a possible suspect—a 19-year-old male—near the area. He is currently in police custody as the investigation continues.

This case remains under active investigation by Lenexa Police Department detectives, with support from the Johnson County Crime Lab.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Lenexa Police Department at 913-477-7301.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that injured a teen in Johnson County.Just after 11:30 p.m. Sunday, responded to a report of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 9800 block of Buckingham Road in Lenexa, according to a media release. When officers arrived, all involved individuals had already left the scene.A short time later, officers located a 16-year-old boy a few blocks away who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.&nbsp;Johnson County Med-Act transported him a local hospital. His injuries are considered non-life-threatening.Officers also located and detained a possible suspect—a 19-year-old male—near the area. He is currently in police custody as the investigation continues.This case remains under active investigation by Lenexa Police Department detectives, with support from the Johnson County Crime Lab.Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Lenexa Police Department at 913-477-7301.