BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas’ child care providers view the state’s child care subsidy program as cumbersome and ineffective, according to a new survey, but they also see ways to fix the underused system.&nbsp;

In partnership with Kansas State University, the Hutchinson-based United Methodist Health Ministry Fund highlighted&nbsp;<a href="https://healthfund.org/a/ccsubsidy/" target="_blank">a report</a>&nbsp;Wednesday detailing providers’ perceptions of the state’s child care subsidy program.&nbsp;

Child care providers and administrators across Kansas said that the state’s processes can be a barrier to those seeking assistance due to excessive paperwork, lack of communication and stringent eligibility requirements, the survey found. That’s in addition to inadequate reimbursement rates and delayed payments.

Jennifer Francois, the author of the survey and a K-State professor, said in a news release the goal of the study was to better understand providers and their thoughts on how to improve Kansas’ child care subsidy system to increase participation. Ninety-three Kansas counties were represented in Francois’ survey of nearly 300 child care providers and administrators.

In Kansas, families qualify for the state’s child care subsidy program if they fall into one of four categories: they receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, benefits; they are low income or a foster parent and working; they are pursuing education or training activities; or they are a teen parent completing high school or a GED. The Kansas Department for Children and Families administers the program and loads payments to families on their Electronic Benefit Transfer, or EBT cards, each month, and the family pays child care providers.

Desiree Streight, the owner of Little Explorers Playschool in Kingman, in south-central Kansas, accepts families using subsidies and said at a Wednesday news conference that families and child care providers are carrying the burden of a flawed system. Seven of the 12 children she cares for are part of families who are receiving child care subsidies, she said.&nbsp;

“Those families are working hard to get by,” Straight said.&nbsp;

Eligibility review takes too long, and families that are already struggling often can’t afford to shoulder the costs of child care or the penalties associated with the state’s subsidy program, she said.&nbsp;

More than 70% of providers identified higher reimbursement rates and direct payments to providers as ways to increase participation in the program, the health ministry fund’s survey found.&nbsp;

“Kansas is one of the few remaining states that pays families subsidies, or the assistance stipend, to then pay the provider, and oftentimes this is inefficient,” said David Jordan, executive director of the health ministry fund, at the news conference.&nbsp;

DCF’s subsidy program is underused. A report based on 2020 data from the Center for Law and Social Policy found that 12% of eligible families are participating. That was lower than the national rate of 14%.

Other states use presumptive eligibility, which allows families to enroll their kids in child care while they undergo the application process for assistance. Kansas has no such thing.&nbsp;

However, Kansas isn’t unique in its child care challenges.&nbsp;

“Every state is struggling in their own way,” said Emily Barnes, education policy advisor for the Topeka child advocacy nonprofit Kansas Action for Children. “Each state is working to increase the effectiveness of their system, and part of it is we have just not had adequate conversation for a really long time.”

As those working in the child care and child advocacy fields look toward the 2025 legislative session, more funding for providers, which could mean dipping into the state’s general fund, and reevaluating work requirements to qualify for child care subsidies could ease barriers.&nbsp;

Quality, affordable child care is important to Kansans. Kansas Speaks, a statewide comprehensive survey from Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute, found that more than 85% of Kansans believed that “high-quality, affordable infant and toddler child care was extremely or highly important for families in Kansas, regardless of whether or not they had young children.”

The same survey found that nearly 80% of Kansans surveyed either strongly agree or somewhat agree that access to affordable child care strengthens the economy.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647281893666.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas’ child care providers view the state’s child care subsidy program as cumbersome and ineffective, according to a new survey, but they also see ways to fix the underused system.&nbsp;In partnership with Kansas State University, the Hutchinson-based United Methodist Health Ministry Fund highlighted&nbsp;<a href="https://healthfund.org/a/ccsubsidy/" target="_blank">a report</a>&nbsp;Wednesday detailing providers’ perceptions of the state’s child care subsidy program.&nbsp;Child care providers and administrators across Kansas said that the state’s processes can be a barrier to those seeking assistance due to excessive paperwork, lack of communication and stringent eligibility requirements, the survey found. That’s in addition to inadequate reimbursement rates and delayed payments.Jennifer Francois, the author of the survey and a K-State professor, said in a news release the goal of the study was to better understand providers and their thoughts on how to improve Kansas’ child care subsidy system to increase participation. Ninety-three Kansas counties were represented in Francois’ survey of nearly 300 child care providers and administrators.In Kansas, families qualify for the state’s child care subsidy program if they fall into one of four categories: they receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or TANF, benefits; they are low income or a foster parent and working; they are pursuing education or training activities; or they are a teen parent completing high school or a GED. The Kansas Department for Children and Families administers the program and loads payments to families on their Electronic Benefit Transfer, or EBT cards, each month, and the family pays child care providers.Desiree Streight, the owner of Little Explorers Playschool in Kingman, in south-central Kansas, accepts families using subsidies and said at a Wednesday news conference that families and child care providers are carrying the burden of a flawed system. Seven of the 12 children she cares for are part of families who are receiving child care subsidies, she said.&nbsp;“Those families are working hard to get by,” Straight said.&nbsp;Eligibility review takes too long, and families that are already struggling often can’t afford to shoulder the costs of child care or the penalties associated with the state’s subsidy program, she said.&nbsp;More than 70% of providers identified higher reimbursement rates and direct payments to providers as ways to increase participation in the program, the health ministry fund’s survey found.&nbsp;“Kansas is one of the few remaining states that pays families subsidies, or the assistance stipend, to then pay the provider, and oftentimes this is inefficient,” said David Jordan, executive director of the health ministry fund, at the news conference.&nbsp;DCF’s subsidy program is underused. A report based on 2020 data from the Center for Law and Social Policy found that 12% of eligible families are participating. That was lower than the national rate of 14%.Other states use presumptive eligibility, which allows families to enroll their kids in child care while they undergo the application process for assistance. Kansas has no such thing.&nbsp;However, Kansas isn’t unique in its child care challenges.&nbsp;“Every state is struggling in their own way,” said Emily Barnes, education policy advisor for the Topeka child advocacy nonprofit Kansas Action for Children. “Each state is working to increase the effectiveness of their system, and part of it is we have just not had adequate conversation for a really long time.”As those working in the child care and child advocacy fields look toward the 2025 legislative session, more funding for providers, which could mean dipping into the state’s general fund, and reevaluating work requirements to qualify for child care subsidies could ease barriers.&nbsp;Quality, affordable child care is important to Kansans. Kansas Speaks, a statewide comprehensive survey from Fort Hays State University’s Docking Institute, found that more than 85% of Kansans believed that “high-quality, affordable infant and toddler child care was extremely or highly important for families in Kansas, regardless of whether or not they had young children.”The same survey found that nearly 80% of Kansans surveyed either strongly agree or somewhat agree that access to affordable child care strengthens the economy.&nbsp;

Kansas child care providers say subsidies difficult to access, survey finds

MOLLY M. CARVER Bethany College

WICHITA, Kan. — Bethany College recently hosted its annual Wichita-area High School Counselor Brunch at Yaya's Euro Bistro, offering nearly 25 local counselors a unique opportunity to explore the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and career counseling. The event included a presentation by Mark McDonald, Professor of Biology at Bethany College, who led discussions on "Education &amp; Technology: AI in Education &amp; Careers," examining the complex influence of AI on today's academic landscape.

McDonald, a Bethany College faculty member since 1996 and an alumnus of the institution, drew on his extensive background in biological sciences and his active role in Bethany's AI research initiatives. His presentation gave attendees valuable insights into AI's current and future applications in college admissions, student support, and administrative efficiency. McDonald also highlighted ethical considerations, addressing AI integration's benefits and potential challenges in educational settings.

"We were delighted to bring this essential topic to the forefront at our Wichita-area brunch," shared Sabrina Wollenberg, Director of Admissions at Bethany College. "As counselors noted in our follow-up discussions, many had not realized the extent of AI's tools and applications available for education today. This gathering started meaningful conversations about how AI can shape a more supportive, effective learning environment."

Following McDonald's presentation, counselors expressed a renewed interest in AI's potential to enhance educational outcomes. "The AI presentation was amazing," one counselor shared. "I left with a new perspective on how these tools can positively impact our schools and bridge the gap between high school and college counseling." Another added, "I came in skeptical, but now I'm walking away with ideas for how AI could support students and educators."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731081311576.png" alt="Mark McDonald-Photo Courtesy Bethany College" />
 <figcaption>Mark McDonald-Photo Courtesy Bethany College</figcaption>
 </figure>MOLLY M. CARVER Bethany CollegeWICHITA, Kan. — Bethany College recently hosted its annual Wichita-area High School Counselor Brunch at Yaya's Euro Bistro, offering nearly 25 local counselors a unique opportunity to explore the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education and career counseling. The event included a presentation by Mark McDonald, Professor of Biology at Bethany College, who led discussions on "Education &amp; Technology: AI in Education &amp; Careers," examining the complex influence of AI on today's academic landscape.McDonald, a Bethany College faculty member since 1996 and an alumnus of the institution, drew on his extensive background in biological sciences and his active role in Bethany's AI research initiatives. His presentation gave attendees valuable insights into AI's current and future applications in college admissions, student support, and administrative efficiency. McDonald also highlighted ethical considerations, addressing AI integration's benefits and potential challenges in educational settings."We were delighted to bring this essential topic to the forefront at our Wichita-area brunch," shared Sabrina Wollenberg, Director of Admissions at Bethany College. "As counselors noted in our follow-up discussions, many had not realized the extent of AI's tools and applications available for education today. This gathering started meaningful conversations about how AI can shape a more supportive, effective learning environment."Following McDonald's presentation, counselors expressed a renewed interest in AI's potential to enhance educational outcomes. "The AI presentation was amazing," one counselor shared. "I left with a new perspective on how these tools can positively impact our schools and bridge the gap between high school and college counseling." Another added, "I came in skeptical, but now I'm walking away with ideas for how AI could support students and educators."

Bethany professor leads discussion on AI

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department on Friday disclosed an Iranian murder-for-hire plot to kill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, charging a man who said he had been tasked by a government official before this week's election with planning the assassination of the Republican president-elect.

Investigators learned of the plan to kill Trump from Farhad Shakeri, an accused Iranian government asset who spent time in American prisons for robbery and who authorities say maintains a network of criminal associates enlisted by Tehran for surveillance and murder-for-hire plots.

Shakeri told investigators that a contact in Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard instructed him this past September to set aside other work he was doing and assemble a plan within seven days to surveil and ultimately kill Trump, according to a criminal complaint unsealed in federal court in Manhattan.

The official was quoted by Shakeri as saying that “We have already spent a lot of money" and that “money’s not an issue.” Shakeri told investigators the official told him that if he could not put together a plan within the seven-day timeframe, then the plot would be paused until after the election because the official assumed Trump would lose and that it would be easier to kill him then, the complaint said.

Shakeri is at large and remains in Iran. Two other men were arrested on charges that Shakeri recruited them to follow and kill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-murderforhire-human-rights-alinejad-1c12a0add2181238568109754f5ed6bd">prominent Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad</a>, who has endured mulitple Iranian murder-for-hire plots foiled by law enforcement.

“I’m very shocked,” said Alinejad, speaking by telephone to The Associated Press from Berlin, where she was about to attend a ceremony to mark the anniversary of the tearing down of the wall. “This is the third attempt against me and that’s shocking.”

In a post on the social media platform X, she said: "I came to America to practice my First Amendment right to freedom of speech — I don’t want to die. I want to fight against tyranny, and I deserve to be safe. Thank you to law enforcement for protecting me, but I urge the U.S. government to protect the national security of America."

Lawyers for the two other defendants, identified as Jonathan Loadholt and Carlisle Rivera, did not immediately return messages seeking comment. Iran's U.N. Mission declined to comment.

Shakeri, an Afghan national who immigrated to the U.S. as a child but was later deported after spending 14 years in prison for robbery, also told investigators that he was tasked by his Revolutionary Guard contact with plotting the killings of two Jewish-Americans living in New York and Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. Officials say he overlapped with Rivera while in prison as well as an unidentified co-conspirator.

The criminal complaint says Shakeri disclosed some of the details of the alleged plots in a series of recorded telephone interviews with FBI agents while in Iran. The stated reason for his cooperation, he told investigators, was to try to get a reduced prison sentence for an associate behind bars in the U.S.

According to the complaint, though officials determined that some of the information he provided was false, his statements regarding a plot to kill Trump and Iran's willingness to pay large sums of money were determined to be accurate.

The plot, disclosed just days after Trump's defeat of Democrat Kamala Harris, reflects what federal officials have described as ongoing efforts by Iran to target U.S. government officials, including Trump, on U.S. soil. Last summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-pakistan-murderforhire-trump-justice-department-5a3abe0895ae7c2be14f89fc4e49bc53">the Justice Department charged a Pakistani man with ties to Iran</a>&nbsp;in a murder-for-hire plot targeting American officials.

“There are few actors in the world that pose as grave a threat to the national security of the United States as does Iran,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement Friday. FBI Director Christopher Wray said the case shows Iran's “continued brazen attempts to target U.S. citizens,” including Trump, “other government leaders and dissidents who criticize the regime in Tehran.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-fbi-election-interference-dni-ae96f57f438772dac08e076be7aa4904">Iranian operatives also conducted a hack-and-leak operation</a>&nbsp;of emails belonging to Trump campaign associates in what officials have assessed was an effort to interfere in the presidential election.

Intelligence officials have said Iran opposed Trump’s reelection, seeing him as more likely to increase tension between Washington and Tehran. Trump’s administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-iran-cead755353a1455bbef08ef289448994">ended a nuclear deal with Iran</a>, reimposed sanctions and ordered the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-politics-government-iraq-qassim-soleimani-3353602bd30e683afec45d8c78196886">killing of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani</a>, an act that prompted Iran’s leaders to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-tehran-international-news-iraq-e36db7c72c1adba1a6cae75091bc273d">vow revenge</a>.

Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said the president-elect was aware of the assassination plot and nothing will deter him “from returning to the White House and restoring peace around the world.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728861603734.png" alt="file photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>file photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department on Friday disclosed an Iranian murder-for-hire plot to kill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, charging a man who said he had been tasked by a government official before this week's election with planning the assassination of the Republican president-elect.Investigators learned of the plan to kill Trump from Farhad Shakeri, an accused Iranian government asset who spent time in American prisons for robbery and who authorities say maintains a network of criminal associates enlisted by Tehran for surveillance and murder-for-hire plots.Shakeri told investigators that a contact in Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard instructed him this past September to set aside other work he was doing and assemble a plan within seven days to surveil and ultimately kill Trump, according to a criminal complaint unsealed in federal court in Manhattan.The official was quoted by Shakeri as saying that “We have already spent a lot of money" and that “money’s not an issue.” Shakeri told investigators the official told him that if he could not put together a plan within the seven-day timeframe, then the plot would be paused until after the election because the official assumed Trump would lose and that it would be easier to kill him then, the complaint said.Shakeri is at large and remains in Iran. Two other men were arrested on charges that Shakeri recruited them to follow and kill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-murderforhire-human-rights-alinejad-1c12a0add2181238568109754f5ed6bd">prominent Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad</a>, who has endured mulitple Iranian murder-for-hire plots foiled by law enforcement.“I’m very shocked,” said Alinejad, speaking by telephone to The Associated Press from Berlin, where she was about to attend a ceremony to mark the anniversary of the tearing down of the wall. “This is the third attempt against me and that’s shocking.”In a post on the social media platform X, she said: "I came to America to practice my First Amendment right to freedom of speech — I don’t want to die. I want to fight against tyranny, and I deserve to be safe. Thank you to law enforcement for protecting me, but I urge the U.S. government to protect the national security of America."Lawyers for the two other defendants, identified as Jonathan Loadholt and Carlisle Rivera, did not immediately return messages seeking comment. Iran's U.N. Mission declined to comment.Shakeri, an Afghan national who immigrated to the U.S. as a child but was later deported after spending 14 years in prison for robbery, also told investigators that he was tasked by his Revolutionary Guard contact with plotting the killings of two Jewish-Americans living in New York and Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. Officials say he overlapped with Rivera while in prison as well as an unidentified co-conspirator.The criminal complaint says Shakeri disclosed some of the details of the alleged plots in a series of recorded telephone interviews with FBI agents while in Iran. The stated reason for his cooperation, he told investigators, was to try to get a reduced prison sentence for an associate behind bars in the U.S.According to the complaint, though officials determined that some of the information he provided was false, his statements regarding a plot to kill Trump and Iran's willingness to pay large sums of money were determined to be accurate.The plot, disclosed just days after Trump's defeat of Democrat Kamala Harris, reflects what federal officials have described as ongoing efforts by Iran to target U.S. government officials, including Trump, on U.S. soil. Last summer,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-pakistan-murderforhire-trump-justice-department-5a3abe0895ae7c2be14f89fc4e49bc53">the Justice Department charged a Pakistani man with ties to Iran</a>&nbsp;in a murder-for-hire plot targeting American officials.“There are few actors in the world that pose as grave a threat to the national security of the United States as does Iran,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement Friday. FBI Director Christopher Wray said the case shows Iran's “continued brazen attempts to target U.S. citizens,” including Trump, “other government leaders and dissidents who criticize the regime in Tehran.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-fbi-election-interference-dni-ae96f57f438772dac08e076be7aa4904">Iranian operatives also conducted a hack-and-leak operation</a>&nbsp;of emails belonging to Trump campaign associates in what officials have assessed was an effort to interfere in the presidential election.Intelligence officials have said Iran opposed Trump’s reelection, seeing him as more likely to increase tension between Washington and Tehran. Trump’s administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/north-america-donald-trump-ap-top-news-politics-iran-cead755353a1455bbef08ef289448994">ended a nuclear deal with Iran</a>, reimposed sanctions and ordered the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-politics-government-iraq-qassim-soleimani-3353602bd30e683afec45d8c78196886">killing of Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani</a>, an act that prompted Iran’s leaders to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-tehran-international-news-iraq-e36db7c72c1adba1a6cae75091bc273d">vow revenge</a>.Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said the president-elect was aware of the assassination plot and nothing will deter him “from returning to the White House and restoring peace around the world.”____

DOJ unseals charges in thwarted Iranian plot to kill Trump 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There will be a grand opening for a new exhibit at Strataca on Saturday, Nov. 9 from 5 to 9 p.m.

"We just opened our brand new Topside Exhibit, it was the 'Twister' bus that was actually shown in the original movie," Director of Strataca, Rachel Terry said. "It's an extension of the Underground Vaults and Storage Hollywood Memorabilia Exhibit that we have underground."

The gathering will take place in the Topside Lobby at Strataca, 3650 E. Ave. G. in Hutchinson.&nbsp;The event is free and open to the public.

"Thanks to UVS and Lee Spence, they worked with Warner Bros. Studio, and they were able to get it here," Terry said. "We had to install garage doors on the front of our lobby to get it into the actual lobby. It was quite the process working with Warner Bros. Studio and UVS, but we were able to make it happen."

Terry and her staff at Strataca were amazed to see the bus in person.&nbsp;

"It's really cool," Terry said. "We do have the movie reel showing where it was part of the movie, now I think it's really cool that they have the brand new 'Twisters' movie out, as well."

There will be local storm chasers in attendance to speak, plus other fun things to do.

"We will have Lee Spence out, he is the ex-president of UV&amp;S, and he will be giving a speech," Terry said. "Then we actually have a storm chaser coming out from Wichita to give more of an in-depth of what that type of equipment would be used for and we actually will do a free screening of the new 'Twisters' movie that was just released this past summer."

Find out more at the STRATACA <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strataca">Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583430947858.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>SEAN BOSTON Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — There will be a grand opening for a new exhibit at Strataca on Saturday, Nov. 9 from 5 to 9 p.m."We just opened our brand new Topside Exhibit, it was the 'Twister' bus that was actually shown in the original movie," Director of Strataca, Rachel Terry said. "It's an extension of the Underground Vaults and Storage Hollywood Memorabilia Exhibit that we have underground."The gathering will take place in the Topside Lobby at Strataca, 3650 E. Ave. G. in Hutchinson.&nbsp;The event is free and open to the public."Thanks to UVS and Lee Spence, they worked with Warner Bros. Studio, and they were able to get it here," Terry said. "We had to install garage doors on the front of our lobby to get it into the actual lobby. It was quite the process working with Warner Bros. Studio and UVS, but we were able to make it happen."Terry and her staff at Strataca were amazed to see the bus in person.&nbsp;"It's really cool," Terry said. "We do have the movie reel showing where it was part of the movie, now I think it's really cool that they have the brand new 'Twisters' movie out, as well."There will be local storm chasers in attendance to speak, plus other fun things to do."We will have Lee Spence out, he is the ex-president of UV&amp;S, and he will be giving a speech," Terry said. "Then we actually have a storm chaser coming out from Wichita to give more of an in-depth of what that type of equipment would be used for and we actually will do a free screening of the new 'Twisters' movie that was just released this past summer."Find out more at the STRATACA <a href="https://www.facebook.com/strataca">Facebook page</a>.

New exhibit from original 'Twister' movie to open at Strataca

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;name wasn't on the ballot, but history will likely remember&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris'</a>&nbsp;resounding defeat as his loss too.

As Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-trump-harris-election-future-5bf8bd0ca6683119a846abd446544407">pick up the pieces</a>&nbsp;after President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;decisive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">victory</a>, some of the vice president's backers are expressing frustration that Biden's decision to seek reelection until this summer — despite long-standing voter concerns about his age and unease about post-pandemic inflation as well as the U.S.-Mexico border — all but sealed his party's surrender of the White House.

“The biggest onus of this loss is on President Biden,” said Andrew Yang, who ran against Biden in 2020 for the Democratic nomination and endorsed Harris’ unsuccessful run. “If he had stepped down in January instead of July, we may be in a very different place.”

Biden will leave office after leading the United States out of the worst pandemic in a century, galvanizing international support for Ukraine after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia’s invasion</a>&nbsp;and passing a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1 trillion infrastructure bill</a>&nbsp;that will affect communities for years to come.

But having run four years ago against Trump to “restore the soul of the country,” Biden will make way after just one term for his immediate predecessor, who overcame two impeachments, a felony conviction and an insurrection launched by his supporters. Trump has pledged to radically reshape the federal government and roll back many of Biden's priorities.

“Maybe in 20 or 30 years, history will remember Biden for some of these achievements,” said Thom Reilly, co-director of the Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy at Arizona State University. “But in the shorter term, I don’t know he escapes the legacy of being the president who beat Donald Trump only to usher in another Donald Trump administration four years later.”

The president on Wednesday stayed out of sight for the second straight day, making congratulatory calls to Democratic lawmakers who won downballot races and to Trump. Biden invited Trump for a White House meeting, and the president-elect accepted.

Biden is set to deliver a Rose Garden address Thursday about the election. He issued a statement shortly after Harris delivered her concession speech Wednesday, praising Harris for running an “historic campaign” under “extraordinary circumstances.”

Some high-ranking Democrats, including three advisers to the Harris campaign, expressed deep frustration with Biden for failing to recognize earlier in the election cycle that he was not up to the challenge. The advisers spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.

Biden, 81, ended his reelection campaign in July, weeks after an abysmal debate performance sent his party into a spiral and raised questions about whether he still had the mental acuity and stamina to serve as a credible nominee.

But polling long beforehand showed that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-poll-trump-2024-620e0a5cfa0039a6448f607c17c7f23e">many Americans worried about his age</a>. Some 77% of Americans said in August 2023 that Biden was too old to be effective for four more years, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-poll-trump-2024-620e0a5cfa0039a6448f607c17c7f23e">a poll</a>&nbsp;by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs.

The president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-drops-out-2024-election-ddffde72838370032bdcff946cfc2ce6">bowed out on July 21</a>&nbsp;after getting not-so-subtle nudges from Democratic Party powers, including former President Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California. Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-drops-out-2024-election-ddffde72838370032bdcff946cfc2ce6">endorsed Harris</a>&nbsp;and handed over his campaign operation to her.

Yang argued that Democratic Party leaders also deserve blame for taking too long to push out Biden. With few exceptions, most notably Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, Democrats shied away talking publicly about Biden's age.

“Why was this not coming from any Democratic leaders?" Yang said. “It’s a lack of courage and independence and an excess of careerism, if I just keep my mouth shut, we’ll just keep on trucking along.”

The campaign was also saddled by anger among some Arab American and young voters over its approach to Israel's conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an ally of Biden and Harris, said in a statement that Democrats lost the thread on working class Americans' concerns.

“Will the big money interests and well-paid consultants who control the Democratic Party learn any real lessons from this disastrous campaign?” the Vermont independent said. “Will they understand the pain and political alienation that tens of millions of Americans are experiencing?”

Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison took to social media Thursday to push back on Sanders' critique, saying that Biden was “the most-pro worker President of my life time.”

Harris managed to spur far greater enthusiasm than Biden was generating from the party's base. But she struggled to distinguish how her administration would differ from Biden's.

Appearing on ABC’s “The View” in September, Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-stern-view-colbert-60-minutes-daddy-5a2af60ba0b1099e19cca151955c9855">was not able to identify</a>&nbsp;a decision where she would have separated herself from Biden. “There is not a thing that comes to mind,” Harris said, giving the Trump campaign a sound bite it replayed through Election Day.

The strategists advising the Harris campaign said the compressed campaign timetable made it even more difficult for Harris to differentiate herself from the president.

Had Biden stepped aside early in the year, they said, it would have given Democrats enough time to hold a primary. Going through the paces of an intraparty contest would have forced Harris or another eventual nominee to more aggressively stake out differences with Biden.

The strategists acknowledged that overcoming broad dissatisfaction among the American electorate about rising costs in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic and broad concerns about the U.S. immigration system weighed heavy on the minds of voters in key states.

Still, they said that Biden had left Democrats in an untenable place.

Harris senior adviser David Plouffe in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/davidplouffe/status/1854244538036195432?s=46">a posting on X</a>&nbsp;called it a “devastating loss.” Plouffe did not assign blame and said the Harris campaign “dug out of a deep hole but not enough.” The post was later deleted.

At the vice president's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-donald-trump-election-ddeae9fb378530159201ef4196cba9b3">concession speech</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday, some Harris supporters said they wished the vice president had had more time to make her pitch to American voters.

“I think that would have made a huge difference," said Jerushatalla Pallay, a Howard University student who attended the speech at the center of her campus.

Republicans are poised to control the White House and Senate. Control of the House has yet to be determined.

Matt Bennett, executive vice president at the Democratic-aligned group Third Way, said this moment was the most devastating the party has faced in his lifetime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730999745270.png" alt="File image White House" />
 <figcaption>File image White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a>&nbsp;name wasn't on the ballot, but history will likely remember&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris'</a>&nbsp;resounding defeat as his loss too.As Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democrats-trump-harris-election-future-5bf8bd0ca6683119a846abd446544407">pick up the pieces</a>&nbsp;after President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;decisive&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">victory</a>, some of the vice president's backers are expressing frustration that Biden's decision to seek reelection until this summer — despite long-standing voter concerns about his age and unease about post-pandemic inflation as well as the U.S.-Mexico border — all but sealed his party's surrender of the White House.“The biggest onus of this loss is on President Biden,” said Andrew Yang, who ran against Biden in 2020 for the Democratic nomination and endorsed Harris’ unsuccessful run. “If he had stepped down in January instead of July, we may be in a very different place.”Biden will leave office after leading the United States out of the worst pandemic in a century, galvanizing international support for Ukraine after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia’s invasion</a>&nbsp;and passing a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-infrastructure-bill-signing-b5b8cca843133de060778f049861b144">$1 trillion infrastructure bill</a>&nbsp;that will affect communities for years to come.But having run four years ago against Trump to “restore the soul of the country,” Biden will make way after just one term for his immediate predecessor, who overcame two impeachments, a felony conviction and an insurrection launched by his supporters. Trump has pledged to radically reshape the federal government and roll back many of Biden's priorities.“Maybe in 20 or 30 years, history will remember Biden for some of these achievements,” said Thom Reilly, co-director of the Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy at Arizona State University. “But in the shorter term, I don’t know he escapes the legacy of being the president who beat Donald Trump only to usher in another Donald Trump administration four years later.”The president on Wednesday stayed out of sight for the second straight day, making congratulatory calls to Democratic lawmakers who won downballot races and to Trump. Biden invited Trump for a White House meeting, and the president-elect accepted.Biden is set to deliver a Rose Garden address Thursday about the election. He issued a statement shortly after Harris delivered her concession speech Wednesday, praising Harris for running an “historic campaign” under “extraordinary circumstances.”Some high-ranking Democrats, including three advisers to the Harris campaign, expressed deep frustration with Biden for failing to recognize earlier in the election cycle that he was not up to the challenge. The advisers spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly.Biden, 81, ended his reelection campaign in July, weeks after an abysmal debate performance sent his party into a spiral and raised questions about whether he still had the mental acuity and stamina to serve as a credible nominee.But polling long beforehand showed that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-poll-trump-2024-620e0a5cfa0039a6448f607c17c7f23e">many Americans worried about his age</a>. Some 77% of Americans said in August 2023 that Biden was too old to be effective for four more years, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-age-poll-trump-2024-620e0a5cfa0039a6448f607c17c7f23e">a poll</a>&nbsp;by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs.The president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-drops-out-2024-election-ddffde72838370032bdcff946cfc2ce6">bowed out on July 21</a>&nbsp;after getting not-so-subtle nudges from Democratic Party powers, including former President Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California. Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-drops-out-2024-election-ddffde72838370032bdcff946cfc2ce6">endorsed Harris</a>&nbsp;and handed over his campaign operation to her.Yang argued that Democratic Party leaders also deserve blame for taking too long to push out Biden. With few exceptions, most notably Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, Democrats shied away talking publicly about Biden's age.“Why was this not coming from any Democratic leaders?" Yang said. “It’s a lack of courage and independence and an excess of careerism, if I just keep my mouth shut, we’ll just keep on trucking along.”The campaign was also saddled by anger among some Arab American and young voters over its approach to Israel's conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an ally of Biden and Harris, said in a statement that Democrats lost the thread on working class Americans' concerns.“Will the big money interests and well-paid consultants who control the Democratic Party learn any real lessons from this disastrous campaign?” the Vermont independent said. “Will they understand the pain and political alienation that tens of millions of Americans are experiencing?”Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison took to social media Thursday to push back on Sanders' critique, saying that Biden was “the most-pro worker President of my life time.”Harris managed to spur far greater enthusiasm than Biden was generating from the party's base. But she struggled to distinguish how her administration would differ from Biden's.Appearing on ABC’s “The View” in September, Harris&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-stern-view-colbert-60-minutes-daddy-5a2af60ba0b1099e19cca151955c9855">was not able to identify</a>&nbsp;a decision where she would have separated herself from Biden. “There is not a thing that comes to mind,” Harris said, giving the Trump campaign a sound bite it replayed through Election Day.The strategists advising the Harris campaign said the compressed campaign timetable made it even more difficult for Harris to differentiate herself from the president.Had Biden stepped aside early in the year, they said, it would have given Democrats enough time to hold a primary. Going through the paces of an intraparty contest would have forced Harris or another eventual nominee to more aggressively stake out differences with Biden.The strategists acknowledged that overcoming broad dissatisfaction among the American electorate about rising costs in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic and broad concerns about the U.S. immigration system weighed heavy on the minds of voters in key states.Still, they said that Biden had left Democrats in an untenable place.Harris senior adviser David Plouffe in&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/davidplouffe/status/1854244538036195432?s=46">a posting on X</a>&nbsp;called it a “devastating loss.” Plouffe did not assign blame and said the Harris campaign “dug out of a deep hole but not enough.” The post was later deleted.At the vice president's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-donald-trump-election-ddeae9fb378530159201ef4196cba9b3">concession speech</a>&nbsp;on Wednesday, some Harris supporters said they wished the vice president had had more time to make her pitch to American voters.“I think that would have made a huge difference," said Jerushatalla Pallay, a Howard University student who attended the speech at the center of her campus.Republicans are poised to control the White House and Senate. Control of the House has yet to be determined.Matt Bennett, executive vice president at the Democratic-aligned group Third Way, said this moment was the most devastating the party has faced in his lifetime.

Harris' allies blame Biden for her resounding loss to Trump

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Labor is proud to announce the rollout of the Unemployment Insurance Technology Enhancement (UITE) project. The project will modernize the employer and claimant experience and is expected to launch on Nov. 19, 2024.

“Kansans needing access to unemployment benefits have depended on an outdated computer system that wreaked havoc during the Great Recession and later during the pandemic,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “What happened during the pandemic could have largely been avoided had modernization been allowed to proceed. I made a commitment to Kansans to finish the job this time, and that is exactly what Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz and the entire team at the agency have done. Their efforts to bring the state into the 21st century will ensure that we are prepared should we face similar economic downturns in the future.”

“This modernization initiative marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing seamless services to Kansas employers and our workforce,” Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz said. “Working alongside Tata Consultancy Services, the Kansas Unemployment Insurance system has achieved the most rapid deployment of any state. We are grateful to our partners who tirelessly advocated for this initiative and provided invaluable guidance throughout this journey."

The new system will deliver an improved unemployment insurance experience by:

• Streamlining operations through improved workflow efficiency and adaptability, data management, and collaborations with other agencies;

• Enhancing user experience through adoption of advanced customer relationship management&nbsp;systems and personalized communication channels, more self-service options, and improved mobile-friendly access for claimants; and

• Upgrading data security and compliance with enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard&nbsp;data and ensure regulatory compliance.

“It's thrilling to witness all the hard work on this project coming together,” said Sen. Renee Erickson,&nbsp;Chair of Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and Chair of&nbsp;Senate Commerce Committee. “The new system will offer improved security and greater ease of use for both individuals and businesses. I appreciate the diligence of all stakeholders in ensuring a successful implementation for Kansans.”

"Kansas had an urgent need for modernizing our state's Unemployment Compensation Platform,” said&nbsp;Rep. Sean Tarwater, District 27. “The outdated system exacerbated the challenges of COVID-19 and&nbsp;failed our citizens when they needed it most. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders across Kansas, including the invaluable contributions of Phil Hayes with The Arnold Group, the patience of&nbsp;KDOL's government affairs director, Julie Menghini and Kansas Secretary of Labor, Amber Shultz, who&nbsp;boldly took the helm of the Department of Labor amidst significant challenges, we have crafted robust&nbsp;new statutes and established the Unemployment Modernization Council. Together with these great Kansans, I am proud to be a part of the imminent launch of a new, adaptive platform that will ensure timely support for our citizens in need."

As part of the technology upgrade rollout, the Unemployment Contact Center and&nbsp;<a href="http://getkansasbenefits.gov\">getkansasbenefits.gov</a> site will be unavailable starting Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. and will reopen on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 8 a.m. Claimants will not be able to file claims during this time frame.

Weekly certification for the benefits week ending Nov. 16 will be available starting Tuesday, Nov. 19, at <a href="http://KansasUI.gov">KansasUI.gov</a>.

More information on the UITE project can be found at <a href="http://dol.ks.gov/UITEResources">dol.ks.gov/UITEResources</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614187542067.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Labor is proud to announce the rollout of the Unemployment Insurance Technology Enhancement (UITE) project. The project will modernize the employer and claimant experience and is expected to launch on Nov. 19, 2024.“Kansans needing access to unemployment benefits have depended on an outdated computer system that wreaked havoc during the Great Recession and later during the pandemic,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “What happened during the pandemic could have largely been avoided had modernization been allowed to proceed. I made a commitment to Kansans to finish the job this time, and that is exactly what Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz and the entire team at the agency have done. Their efforts to bring the state into the 21st century will ensure that we are prepared should we face similar economic downturns in the future.”“This modernization initiative marks a significant milestone in our commitment to providing seamless services to Kansas employers and our workforce,” Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz said. “Working alongside Tata Consultancy Services, the Kansas Unemployment Insurance system has achieved the most rapid deployment of any state. We are grateful to our partners who tirelessly advocated for this initiative and provided invaluable guidance throughout this journey."The new system will deliver an improved unemployment insurance experience by:• Streamlining operations through improved workflow efficiency and adaptability, data management, and collaborations with other agencies;• Enhancing user experience through adoption of advanced customer relationship management&nbsp;systems and personalized communication channels, more self-service options, and improved mobile-friendly access for claimants; and• Upgrading data security and compliance with enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard&nbsp;data and ensure regulatory compliance.“It's thrilling to witness all the hard work on this project coming together,” said Sen. Renee Erickson,&nbsp;Chair of Unemployment Compensation Modernization and Improvement Council and Chair of&nbsp;Senate Commerce Committee. “The new system will offer improved security and greater ease of use for both individuals and businesses. I appreciate the diligence of all stakeholders in ensuring a successful implementation for Kansans.”"Kansas had an urgent need for modernizing our state's Unemployment Compensation Platform,” said&nbsp;Rep. Sean Tarwater, District 27. “The outdated system exacerbated the challenges of COVID-19 and&nbsp;failed our citizens when they needed it most. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders across Kansas, including the invaluable contributions of Phil Hayes with The Arnold Group, the patience of&nbsp;KDOL's government affairs director, Julie Menghini and Kansas Secretary of Labor, Amber Shultz, who&nbsp;boldly took the helm of the Department of Labor amidst significant challenges, we have crafted robust&nbsp;new statutes and established the Unemployment Modernization Council. Together with these great Kansans, I am proud to be a part of the imminent launch of a new, adaptive platform that will ensure timely support for our citizens in need."As part of the technology upgrade rollout, the Unemployment Contact Center and&nbsp;<a href="http://getkansasbenefits.gov\">getkansasbenefits.gov</a> site will be unavailable starting Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 5 p.m. and will reopen on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 8 a.m. Claimants will not be able to file claims during this time frame.Weekly certification for the benefits week ending Nov. 16 will be available starting Tuesday, Nov. 19, at <a href="http://KansasUI.gov">KansasUI.gov</a>.More information on the UITE project can be found at <a href="http://dol.ks.gov/UITEResources">dol.ks.gov/UITEResources</a>.

Unemployment system upgrade this month

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;spent his first day as president-elect receiving congratulatory phone calls from his defeated opponent, world leaders and President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;as he began the process of turning his election victory into a government.

Trump was keeping a low profile, staying out of the public eye after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">addressing supporters in Florida</a>&nbsp;during the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

Vice President Kamala Harris called Trump to concede the race and to congratulate him, while Biden invited the man he ousted from the White House four years ago to an Oval Office meeting to prepare to return the keys.

“President Trump looks forward to the meeting, which will take place shortly, and very much appreciated the call,” said Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung.

Biden's chief of staff later Wednesday nudged the Trump team to sign the required federal agreements necessary to begin an orderly presidential transition, a White House official said.

A source with knowledge of the Trump campaign said transition talks to take over power on Jan. 20, 2025, had not begun in earnest. Instead, the president-elect was busy taking calls from leaders, domestic and international, donors and key supporters. Transition discussions are expected to ramp up later in the week, as attention turns to naming an inaugural committee and a formal transition team.

Biden chief of staff Jeff Zients reached out to Trump transition co-chairs Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon to reiterate the important role the agreements with the White House and the General Services Administration play in beginning a presidential transition. The White House official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive transition planning.

The delay is holding up the federal government’s ability to begin processing security clearances for potential Trump administration national security appointees, which could limit the number of his staff who could work on sensitive information by Inauguration Day. It also means they can’t yet access federal facilities, documents and personnel to prepare for taking office.

The agreements are required by the Presidential Transition Act, and require the president-elect’s team to agree to an ethics plan and to limit and disclose private donations. Congress, in the act, set a deadline of Sept. 1 for the GSA agreement and Oct. 1 for the White House agreement, in an effort to ensure that incoming administrations are prepared to govern when they enter office on Jan. 20.

Lutnick and McMahon released a statement late Wednesday saying Trump will be selecting personnel for his administration in the “days and weeks ahead," but did not address the agreements with the Biden administration.

“As he chooses the best people to join his team and best policies to pursue, his transition team will ensure the implementation of President Trump’s common sense agenda starting on Day 1,” they said.

The White House announced that Biden had spoken to the president-elect and expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition, while emphasizing the importance of working to bring the country together.

Biden also called Harris to salute her for her campaign. And Trump and Harris spoke on a call where the president-elect "acknowledged Vice President Harris on her strength, professionalism, and tenacity throughout the campaign, and both leaders agreed on the importance of unifying the country,” according to Trump spokesman Steven Cheung.

Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said he called Trump and the pair had a “warm and cordial” conversation while also also discussing the ”Iranian threat.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had an “excellent call” with Trump, who has threatened to cut off the steady flow of U.S. aid and arms to his nation in its fight against Russia's nearly three-year-old invasion. “I praised his family and team for their great work," Zelenskyy said. "We agreed to maintain close dialogue and advance our cooperation. Strong and unwavering U.S. leadership is vital for the world and for a just peace.”

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Trump, too, as did Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mohammad-bin-salman-bin-abdulaziz-al-saud">Mohammed bin Salman,</a>&nbsp;who spoke to the president-elect to express "the kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen the historical and strategic relations between the two countries, wishing the friendly American people progress and prosperity under his excellency’s leadership,” according to a statement from Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry.

Trump made his first foreign trip as president during his first term to Saudi Arabia. He stood by the kingdom then, even as ties became strained over the killing of Washington Post columnist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jamal-khashoggi">Jamal Khashoggi</a>&nbsp;by Saudi operatives in Istanbul.

The president-elect has since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mideast-netanyahu-israel-gaza-iran-wars-2e37305522d19bdc34e956586cce99bd">vowed to bring peace to the Middle East</a>&nbsp;at a time when Israel is at war with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon and has recently traded fire with Iran. Trump, who was a staunch supporter of Israel during his previous term, has not said how he'd accomplish that.

Meanwhile, U.S. markets, banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-crypto-donald-trump-election-c2e2a1a895288c5e9c0df2721012a5bb">bitcoin</a>&nbsp;all stormed higher Wednesday, as did Tesla, owned by outspoken Trump supporter Elon Musk, as investors looked favorably on a smooth election and Trump returning to the White House.

Trump got more potential good news with word that special counsel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jack-smith">Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;is evaluating how to wind down the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-investigations-civil-criminal-tracker/">two federal cases against</a>&nbsp;the president-elect before he takes office in light of longstanding Justice Department policy that says sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted, according to a person familiar with Smith’s plans who was not authorized to discuss the matter by name and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press.

Smith charged Trump last year with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate</a>. The latter case had already been dismissed. But Trump’s election victory means that the Justice Department believes he can no longer face prosecution in accordance with decades-old department legal opinions meant to shield presidents from criminal charges while in office.

Miller and Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Eric Tucker, Tom Beamont and Michelle L. Price in Washington contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719509357152.png" alt="Inage courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Inage courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;spent his first day as president-elect receiving congratulatory phone calls from his defeated opponent, world leaders and President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;as he began the process of turning his election victory into a government.Trump was keeping a low profile, staying out of the public eye after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-day-trump-harris-white-house-83c8e246ab97f5b97be45cdc156af4e2">addressing supporters in Florida</a>&nbsp;during the wee hours of Wednesday morning.Vice President Kamala Harris called Trump to concede the race and to congratulate him, while Biden invited the man he ousted from the White House four years ago to an Oval Office meeting to prepare to return the keys.“President Trump looks forward to the meeting, which will take place shortly, and very much appreciated the call,” said Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung.Biden's chief of staff later Wednesday nudged the Trump team to sign the required federal agreements necessary to begin an orderly presidential transition, a White House official said.A source with knowledge of the Trump campaign said transition talks to take over power on Jan. 20, 2025, had not begun in earnest. Instead, the president-elect was busy taking calls from leaders, domestic and international, donors and key supporters. Transition discussions are expected to ramp up later in the week, as attention turns to naming an inaugural committee and a formal transition team.Biden chief of staff Jeff Zients reached out to Trump transition co-chairs Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon to reiterate the important role the agreements with the White House and the General Services Administration play in beginning a presidential transition. The White House official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive transition planning.The delay is holding up the federal government’s ability to begin processing security clearances for potential Trump administration national security appointees, which could limit the number of his staff who could work on sensitive information by Inauguration Day. It also means they can’t yet access federal facilities, documents and personnel to prepare for taking office.The agreements are required by the Presidential Transition Act, and require the president-elect’s team to agree to an ethics plan and to limit and disclose private donations. Congress, in the act, set a deadline of Sept. 1 for the GSA agreement and Oct. 1 for the White House agreement, in an effort to ensure that incoming administrations are prepared to govern when they enter office on Jan. 20.Lutnick and McMahon released a statement late Wednesday saying Trump will be selecting personnel for his administration in the “days and weeks ahead," but did not address the agreements with the Biden administration.“As he chooses the best people to join his team and best policies to pursue, his transition team will ensure the implementation of President Trump’s common sense agenda starting on Day 1,” they said.The White House announced that Biden had spoken to the president-elect and expressed his commitment to ensuring a smooth transition, while emphasizing the importance of working to bring the country together.Biden also called Harris to salute her for her campaign. And Trump and Harris spoke on a call where the president-elect "acknowledged Vice President Harris on her strength, professionalism, and tenacity throughout the campaign, and both leaders agreed on the importance of unifying the country,” according to Trump spokesman Steven Cheung.Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/benjamin-netanyahu">Benjamin Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;’s office said he called Trump and the pair had a “warm and cordial” conversation while also also discussing the ”Iranian threat.”Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had an “excellent call” with Trump, who has threatened to cut off the steady flow of U.S. aid and arms to his nation in its fight against Russia's nearly three-year-old invasion. “I praised his family and team for their great work," Zelenskyy said. "We agreed to maintain close dialogue and advance our cooperation. Strong and unwavering U.S. leadership is vital for the world and for a just peace.”French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Trump, too, as did Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mohammad-bin-salman-bin-abdulaziz-al-saud">Mohammed bin Salman,</a>&nbsp;who spoke to the president-elect to express "the kingdom’s aspiration to strengthen the historical and strategic relations between the two countries, wishing the friendly American people progress and prosperity under his excellency’s leadership,” according to a statement from Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry.Trump made his first foreign trip as president during his first term to Saudi Arabia. He stood by the kingdom then, even as ties became strained over the killing of Washington Post columnist&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jamal-khashoggi">Jamal Khashoggi</a>&nbsp;by Saudi operatives in Istanbul.The president-elect has since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-mideast-netanyahu-israel-gaza-iran-wars-2e37305522d19bdc34e956586cce99bd">vowed to bring peace to the Middle East</a>&nbsp;at a time when Israel is at war with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon and has recently traded fire with Iran. Trump, who was a staunch supporter of Israel during his previous term, has not said how he'd accomplish that.Meanwhile, U.S. markets, banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-crypto-donald-trump-election-c2e2a1a895288c5e9c0df2721012a5bb">bitcoin</a>&nbsp;all stormed higher Wednesday, as did Tesla, owned by outspoken Trump supporter Elon Musk, as investors looked favorably on a smooth election and Trump returning to the White House.Trump got more potential good news with word that special counsel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jack-smith">Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;is evaluating how to wind down the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/trump-investigations-civil-criminal-tracker/">two federal cases against</a>&nbsp;the president-elect before he takes office in light of longstanding Justice Department policy that says sitting presidents cannot be prosecuted, according to a person familiar with Smith’s plans who was not authorized to discuss the matter by name and spoke on condition of anonymity to The Associated Press.Smith charged Trump last year with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">illegally hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate</a>. The latter case had already been dismissed. But Trump’s election victory means that the Justice Department believes he can no longer face prosecution in accordance with decades-old department legal opinions meant to shield presidents from criminal charges while in office.__Miller and Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Eric Tucker, Tom Beamont and Michelle L. Price in Washington contributed to this report.

Biden invites Trump to meeting at the White House

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Evergy, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVRG) today announced third quarter 2024 GAAP earnings of $465.6 million, or $2.02 per share, compared to GAAP earnings of $351.6 million, or $1.53 per share, for the third quarter 2023.

Evergy’s third quarter 2024 adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) were $465.6 million and $2.02, respectively, compared to $432.3 million and $1.88 in 2023.

Third quarter 2024 adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) per share were higher than last year due primarily to new retail rates, FERC regulated investments and growth in weather-normalized demand, partially offset by cooler summer weather and higher depreciation and amortization expense.

"We were pleased to announce a unanimous settlement agreement in our Missouri West rate case which, if approved by the Missouri Public Service Commission (MPSC), delivers a constructive outcome for our Missouri West customers," said David Campbell, Evergy chairman and chief executive officer. "We also recently announced the sites of two 705 megawatt combined-cycle natural gas plants that will help us meet the growing energy needs in our region, while creating jobs and tax dollars and ensuring we can attract and serve new businesses to our area given the historic opportunities ahead of us in Kansas and Missouri."&nbsp;

"We're also excited to announce our 2025E-2029E capital investment plan of $16.2 billion, which reflects the infrastructure investment needed to enable these opportunities," continued Campbell.&nbsp; "This update incorporates a significant portion of the new generation needed to serve our growing customer base as outlined in our 2024 Integrated Resource Plans, along with other beneficial projects to modernize our transmission and distribution systems to deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable power to the communities we serve."&nbsp;

"We are reaffirming our 2024 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) guidance range of $3.73 to $3.93 and establishing 2025 adjusted EPS guidance of $3.92 to $4.12.&nbsp; Based on our updated financial outlook, we expect long-term adjusted EPS growth in the upper half of our 4% to 6% range starting in 2026.”

The Board of Directors declared a dividend on the Company’s common stock of $0.6675 per share payable on December 20, 2024. The dividends are payable to shareholders of record as of November 21, 2024.

Evergy management will host a conference call Thursday, November 7, with the investment community at 9:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. CT).&nbsp;&nbsp;To view the webcast and presentation slides, please go to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BLGkNj1RHg5CNBVA5cAhPLBpRslB-2BMQvGmfgjCCk4P3FDae_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQL-2BARv53MULACJ4wE1D0tWPii3fqeZnbsz8nt1MKhZnpamgTuzWJnEKgE0gF3kXyRG6E56kqxzpU6hvYaVxVhyJCduk3nrhJU-2FzLxoxK6L-2Fxl-2BejUqT1v6y4162LjMLJtkM-2BykvFcmjO-2F4RoKx2jZqQ-3D" target="_blank">investors.evergy.com</a>. To access via phone, investors and analysts will need to register using this&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC7MOZVxxtnvzqjtVIRUiyBPSC-2Bvnil3eoJdLyq3bzFelUQpCErXEE-2BAlHvJBTEykUltsoB6ZL36h3YQJ5TniuS4-3DM8oL_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQBn9kKVW9oHTpFNU2IRuPpfE0ujLd96aU1VTUxl-2Fgix0kt2b-2FZhmhkJ3ZYhQNNr28BUAX-2FlVgJsj1k0MwrGImxWHSNwr0dV6BBbtAkSAPmHIen9HqkqukLbVW92VR3AyKIZ9hQy0Ros9GGFHpTBa7XQ-3D" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;where they will be provided a phone number and access code.

This earnings announcement, a package of detailed third quarter financial information, the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024, and other filings the Company has made with the Securities and Exchange Commission are available on the Company's website at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.U6B0n537usfiRfMfLBKvW49dOL0TpwDjXdbCZ8UhRZsw8fLz-2FsUqguufUtmFxoy3FM8f_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQFbcr7-2FTCxLwVi5aDQ-2FYT5rxlKByw-2FcugDWbF3oz3G0Nuu56gcMZ4eGkwvM6yuhxOjICJBrRNs-2BajYptplUJnXSVRUctfVZfnAegxcJDKpxoUTwvDU0janFPUJFsGvjMH39LkmXG1pj1eU8a3ztNZXE-3D" target="_blank">http://investors.evergy.com</a>.

Adjusted Earnings (non-GAAP) and Adjusted Earnings Per Share (non-GAAP)

Management believes that adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) are representative measures of Evergy's recurring earnings, assist in the comparability of results and are consistent with how management reviews performance.

Evergy's adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) for the three months ended and year to date September 30, 2024 were $465.6 million or $2.02 per share and $797.3 million or $3.46 per share, respectively. For the three months ended and year to date September 30, 2023, Evergy's adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) were $432.3 million or $1.88 per share and $754.5 million or $3.27 per share, respectively.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623869057385.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>EvergyKANSAS CITY, Mo. — Evergy, Inc. (NASDAQ: EVRG) today announced third quarter 2024 GAAP earnings of $465.6 million, or $2.02 per share, compared to GAAP earnings of $351.6 million, or $1.53 per share, for the third quarter 2023.Evergy’s third quarter 2024 adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted earnings per share (non-GAAP) were $465.6 million and $2.02, respectively, compared to $432.3 million and $1.88 in 2023.Third quarter 2024 adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) per share were higher than last year due primarily to new retail rates, FERC regulated investments and growth in weather-normalized demand, partially offset by cooler summer weather and higher depreciation and amortization expense."We were pleased to announce a unanimous settlement agreement in our Missouri West rate case which, if approved by the Missouri Public Service Commission (MPSC), delivers a constructive outcome for our Missouri West customers," said David Campbell, Evergy chairman and chief executive officer. "We also recently announced the sites of two 705 megawatt combined-cycle natural gas plants that will help us meet the growing energy needs in our region, while creating jobs and tax dollars and ensuring we can attract and serve new businesses to our area given the historic opportunities ahead of us in Kansas and Missouri."&nbsp;"We're also excited to announce our 2025E-2029E capital investment plan of $16.2 billion, which reflects the infrastructure investment needed to enable these opportunities," continued Campbell.&nbsp; "This update incorporates a significant portion of the new generation needed to serve our growing customer base as outlined in our 2024 Integrated Resource Plans, along with other beneficial projects to modernize our transmission and distribution systems to deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable power to the communities we serve."&nbsp;"We are reaffirming our 2024 adjusted earnings per share (EPS) guidance range of $3.73 to $3.93 and establishing 2025 adjusted EPS guidance of $3.92 to $4.12.&nbsp; Based on our updated financial outlook, we expect long-term adjusted EPS growth in the upper half of our 4% to 6% range starting in 2026.”Dividend DeclarationThe Board of Directors declared a dividend on the Company’s common stock of $0.6675 per share payable on December 20, 2024. The dividends are payable to shareholders of record as of November 21, 2024.Earnings Conference CallEvergy management will host a conference call Thursday, November 7, with the investment community at 9:00 a.m. ET (8:00 a.m. CT).&nbsp;&nbsp;To view the webcast and presentation slides, please go to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC-2BLGkNj1RHg5CNBVA5cAhPLBpRslB-2BMQvGmfgjCCk4P3FDae_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQL-2BARv53MULACJ4wE1D0tWPii3fqeZnbsz8nt1MKhZnpamgTuzWJnEKgE0gF3kXyRG6E56kqxzpU6hvYaVxVhyJCduk3nrhJU-2FzLxoxK6L-2Fxl-2BejUqT1v6y4162LjMLJtkM-2BykvFcmjO-2F4RoKx2jZqQ-3D" target="_blank">investors.evergy.com</a>. To access via phone, investors and analysts will need to register using this&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.gqh-2BaxUzlo7XKIuSly0rC7MOZVxxtnvzqjtVIRUiyBPSC-2Bvnil3eoJdLyq3bzFelUQpCErXEE-2BAlHvJBTEykUltsoB6ZL36h3YQJ5TniuS4-3DM8oL_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQBn9kKVW9oHTpFNU2IRuPpfE0ujLd96aU1VTUxl-2Fgix0kt2b-2FZhmhkJ3ZYhQNNr28BUAX-2FlVgJsj1k0MwrGImxWHSNwr0dV6BBbtAkSAPmHIen9HqkqukLbVW92VR3AyKIZ9hQy0Ros9GGFHpTBa7XQ-3D" target="_blank">link</a>&nbsp;where they will be provided a phone number and access code.This earnings announcement, a package of detailed third quarter financial information, the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024, and other filings the Company has made with the Securities and Exchange Commission are available on the Company's website at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.U6B0n537usfiRfMfLBKvW49dOL0TpwDjXdbCZ8UhRZsw8fLz-2FsUqguufUtmFxoy3FM8f_-2BBxK0BSqAd-2BprHf4m5NZjVsYrwneFvFXH6RGjOVtkAEfkWkzNEsurIsNG3bUBUSqm4pvOdMc0DZ5ME8M8hc-2FiRncvkiq4BvsXa-2BllN91Qrxzw07zp8j4UeUYN1lBnAfbgD3Y8o6wUpDeWfTVM-2F4l-2BGGPqC6ecn1cKEw-2FsmY4uYg1WhJLpT1J2zbHTEXN3gkTTktFl054nMME7HjxPbEBQFbcr7-2FTCxLwVi5aDQ-2FYT5rxlKByw-2FcugDWbF3oz3G0Nuu56gcMZ4eGkwvM6yuhxOjICJBrRNs-2BajYptplUJnXSVRUctfVZfnAegxcJDKpxoUTwvDU0janFPUJFsGvjMH39LkmXG1pj1eU8a3ztNZXE-3D" target="_blank">http://investors.evergy.com</a>.Adjusted Earnings (non-GAAP) and Adjusted Earnings Per Share (non-GAAP)Management believes that adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) are representative measures of Evergy's recurring earnings, assist in the comparability of results and are consistent with how management reviews performance.Evergy's adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) for the three months ended and year to date September 30, 2024 were $465.6 million or $2.02 per share and $797.3 million or $3.46 per share, respectively. For the three months ended and year to date September 30, 2023, Evergy's adjusted earnings (non-GAAP) and adjusted EPS (non-GAAP) were $432.3 million or $1.88 per share and $754.5 million or $3.27 per share, respectively.

Evergy announces Third Quarter 2024 results

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson is going to put additional visibility on the signs in school zones for schools close to arterial streets.

"We have Morgan up there, which has Adams right beside it," said Gregg DeGarmo with engineering. "Graber, which has 17th, Allen Magnet School, which is on Monroe and then HMS-7, which is on Avenue A. HMS-8 and Hutch High School are both on arterials and they don't have any type of signals for crosswalks or anything at this time. We're looking at the signs for Graber and Allen Magnet School and then HMS-7 and HMS-8 to begin with."

The signs are less expensive than they used to be, but there is still an expense.

"The signs we're looking at actually have flashing beacons, to alert traffic as to what's going on and why," said Cecil Weible, acting Public Works Director. "It's going to be the same signage. We're not changing the zones in any way. It's just bringing more attention to them and then one other thing is, because there is a cost, each of these signs are going to be solar paneled. They are going to be nice, bright, you'll be able to see them, but they are going to be about $5000 per sign."

A reminder that fines double in school zones, so please watch your speed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683043073149.jpeg" alt="City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell" />
 <figcaption>City of Hutchinson generic-Photo by Nick Gosnell</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson is going to put additional visibility on the signs in school zones for schools close to arterial streets."We have Morgan up there, which has Adams right beside it," said Gregg DeGarmo with engineering. "Graber, which has 17th, Allen Magnet School, which is on Monroe and then HMS-7, which is on Avenue A. HMS-8 and Hutch High School are both on arterials and they don't have any type of signals for crosswalks or anything at this time. We're looking at the signs for Graber and Allen Magnet School and then HMS-7 and HMS-8 to begin with."The signs are less expensive than they used to be, but there is still an expense."The signs we're looking at actually have flashing beacons, to alert traffic as to what's going on and why," said Cecil Weible, acting Public Works Director. "It's going to be the same signage. We're not changing the zones in any way. It's just bringing more attention to them and then one other thing is, because there is a cost, each of these signs are going to be solar paneled. They are going to be nice, bright, you'll be able to see them, but they are going to be about $5000 per sign."A reminder that fines double in school zones, so please watch your speed.

School zone signs approved 

The abortion-rights groups behind the amendment are challenging Missouri’s TRAP laws in the hopes of opening up more access than Missourians have seen in decades

Missouri’s Planned Parenthood clinics filed a lawsuit Wednesday seeking to strike down the state’s current abortion restrictions, less than 24 hours after&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">an amendment enshrining reproductive rights in the constitution was approved by voters.&nbsp;</a>

The news was announced Wednesday afternoon by coalition members of Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, the organization behind Amendment 3.&nbsp;

Leaders with both Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers said if the court grants their injunction, they plan to start providing abortions the day the amendment goes into effect on Dec. 5 at the health centers in Columbia, the Central West End in St. Louis and the Midtown neighborhood of Kansas City.

A series of “targeted regulation of abortion providers” laws enacted by the legislature, including a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the initial appointment and a surgical abortion and mandatory pelvic exams for medication abortions “were parts of a&nbsp;web of impenetrable, onerous, and medically unnecessary restrictions targeted at abortion providers,” that limited access for Missourians for years prior to the state’s abortion ban, the lawsuit reads.

“The restrictions we’re challenging today do not actually help patients. They hurt them,” Richard Muniz, interim President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, said during a press conference Wednesday. “The ripple effects of these overreaching policies can be felt throughout the state. Missouri continues to have high STI rates and poor pregnancy outcomes, and providers do not want to train or practice in Missouri, creating even further scarcity and gaps in coverage for thousands of women and pregnant people throughout Missouri.”

The constitutional amendment, which won with<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/election-results-2024/missouri/?r=83071" target="_blank">&nbsp;51.7% of the nearly 3 million votes</a>&nbsp;cast Tuesday, goes into effect in 30 days and prohibits the legislature from regulating abortion prior to the point of fetal viability — generally seen as the point at which a fetus can likely survive outside the womb without extraordinary measures.

But both proponents of and those opposed to Amendment 3 have warned that abortion access would not be immediate, as a bevy of challenges to current law must first make their way through the courts.

The lawsuit, which was filed in Jackson County, challenges a number of current state laws, including the state’s current abortion ban, a trigger law enacted in June 2022 that only allows abortions exceptions in cases of medical emergencies.&nbsp;

Among the TRAP laws targeted by the new lawsuit include:&nbsp;

The lawsuit also addresses access to medication abortion, asking that a judge lift the current restrictions that would make it difficult to prescribe, including a telemedicine ban that requires the physician who prescribes the medication to also be in the room when the patient takes the first dose of the medication.&nbsp;

It also seeks to end criminal penalties for abortion providers, who currently face loss of their license and up to 15 years in prison if they perform an abortion that doesn’t fall under the current exception for medical emergencies.&nbsp;

The lawsuit does not challenge Missouri’s current law requiring parental or guardian consent for minors seeking abortions. Muniz did not specifically say whether this will be challenged in the future, but rather noted this is only the first lawsuit.

Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights one year ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge just struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>

Freda Levenson, legal director for the ACLU of Ohio, said while the payoff is worthwhile, the road can be long to reach widespread access.&nbsp;

“They shouldn’t engage in magical thinking or fiction that these restrictions will fall away on their own,” she advised Missourians who voted in support of Amendment 3. “This is going to take hard work.”

Tori Schafer, director of policy and campaigns at the ACLU of Missouri, said while she hopes the legislature will respect the will of the people, those who supported Amendment 3 stand ready to hold them accountable.

Missouri lawmakers including state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman and U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley have said<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-abortion-amendment-march-life/">&nbsp;they intend to give Missourians the opportunity to vote on abortion again.&nbsp;</a>

When asked in September what GOP lawmakers might do if Amendment 3 passed, Coleman pointed to a 2018 citizen-led amendment that would have required legislative districts be drawn to ensure partisan fairness. This amendment, known as&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2020/11/04/voters-repeal-clean-missouri-redistricting-plan-they-enacted-in-2018/">“Clean Missouri,” was repealed two years later</a>&nbsp;through a legislature-proposed amendment.

On Wednesday morning, Mary Catherine Martin, an attorney with the Thomas More Society who previously argued against the amendment before the Missouri Supreme Court, promised to defend Missouri against Amendment 3.&nbsp;

“They’re not going to stand back and give up,” Levenson said. “They’ll fight around the edges to keep any restrictions in that they can.”&nbsp;

Former President Donald Trump’s victory means Missouri abortion-rights organizations may have more than just state anti-abortion forces working against them. It could soon also be the federal government.&nbsp;&nbsp;

One example is federal enforcement of the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that bans mailing obscene material, including for the use of abortion.

Hawley, who was re-elected to a second term on Tuesday, was among a number of senators who signed a letter in 2023 asking the U.S. Attorney General to enforce the Comstock Act&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24834197-20230123-letter-on-comstock-to-doj" target="_blank">and make illegal the mailing of abortion medication</a>, which has increasingly become popular and accessible across the United States over the last two years.

“We are being thoughtful about what a change in the federal administration could mean,” said Emily Wales, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Plains. “I think more than anything, it will be the time for Missourians and individuals in other states who may have crossed political lines to hold accountable national leaders who have said they think this should be an issue decided by the states.”

Kellie Copeland, executive director of Pro-Choice Ohio, which led that state’s successful abortion-rights ballot measure last year,&nbsp;noted that it also takes time to rebuild health care infrastructure that had been limited or eliminated with abortion restrictions.&nbsp;

While abortion wasn’t outlawed in Missouri until the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion two years ago, Missourians have long lacked access to the procedure as TRAP laws whittled away at abortion clinics’ abilities to stay open.&nbsp;

For clinics near the Kansas and Illinois borders, providers began sending Missourians across state lines where laws were less restrictive.&nbsp;

A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the health department. By 2020, that number dropped to 167 as a result of the TRAP laws.

Between June 24, 2022 and July 31, 2024, 74 abortions were performed in Missouri under the state’s emergency exemption, according to data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

Despite facing additional hurdles to care, including the time and financial costs of travel, time off work and childcare, many Missourians have continued accessing abortion in the post-Roe era.

In 2023 alone, approximately 2,860 Missourians traveled to Kansas last year for abortions, and 8,710 traveled to Illinois,&nbsp;<a href="https://guttmacherinstitute.github.io/provision-dashboard/" target="_blank">according to the Guttmacher Institute,</a>&nbsp;a reproductive rights research group that closely tracks abortion data.&nbsp;

Abortion access in Missouri will likely have ripple effects across the Midwest and south, opening up another access point for those in states with bans like Iowa, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

Copeland said Missouri’s first step toward legal action is nothing short of “momentous.”

“That the Missouri team did it this year of all years in this political climate is astounding,” she said. “It shows what an incredible campaign they waged, but also how deeply people feel about abortion access and reproductive freedom regardless of the party they identify with.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1728400594576.png" alt=" The Planned Parenthood clinic in Missouri (Tessa Weinberg/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> The Planned Parenthood clinic in Missouri (Tessa Weinberg/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The abortion-rights groups behind the amendment are challenging Missouri’s TRAP laws in the hopes of opening up more access than Missourians have seen in decades</h2>Missouri’s Planned Parenthood clinics filed a lawsuit Wednesday seeking to strike down the state’s current abortion restrictions, less than 24 hours after&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">an amendment enshrining reproductive rights in the constitution was approved by voters.&nbsp;</a>The news was announced Wednesday afternoon by coalition members of Missourians for Constitutional Freedom, the organization behind Amendment 3.&nbsp;Leaders with both Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers said if the court grants their injunction, they plan to start providing abortions the day the amendment goes into effect on Dec. 5 at the health centers in Columbia, the Central West End in St. Louis and the Midtown neighborhood of Kansas City.A series of “targeted regulation of abortion providers” laws enacted by the legislature, including a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the initial appointment and a surgical abortion and mandatory pelvic exams for medication abortions “were parts of a&nbsp;web of impenetrable, onerous, and medically unnecessary restrictions targeted at abortion providers,” that limited access for Missourians for years prior to the state’s abortion ban, the lawsuit reads.“The restrictions we’re challenging today do not actually help patients. They hurt them,” Richard Muniz, interim President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Rivers, said during a press conference Wednesday. “The ripple effects of these overreaching policies can be felt throughout the state. Missouri continues to have high STI rates and poor pregnancy outcomes, and providers do not want to train or practice in Missouri, creating even further scarcity and gaps in coverage for thousands of women and pregnant people throughout Missouri.”The constitutional amendment, which won with<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/election-results-2024/missouri/?r=83071" target="_blank">&nbsp;51.7% of the nearly 3 million votes</a>&nbsp;cast Tuesday, goes into effect in 30 days and prohibits the legislature from regulating abortion prior to the point of fetal viability — generally seen as the point at which a fetus can likely survive outside the womb without extraordinary measures.But both proponents of and those opposed to Amendment 3 have warned that abortion access would not be immediate, as a bevy of challenges to current law must first make their way through the courts.The lawsuit, which was filed in Jackson County, challenges a number of current state laws, including the state’s current abortion ban, a trigger law enacted in June 2022 that only allows abortions exceptions in cases of medical emergencies.&nbsp;Among the TRAP laws targeted by the new lawsuit include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Requirements that abortion clinics be licensed as ambulatory surgical centers.&nbsp;</li><li>A 72-hour waiting period between a patient’s initial visit with a doctor and their abortion procedure.</li><li>Mandates that abortion clinics be located within 30 miles of a hospital where they have admitting privileges.&nbsp;</li><li>The required submission of all tissue removed during an abortion be submitted to a pathologist.&nbsp;</li><li>Rules requiring abortion providers report all abortions and abortion complications to the state.&nbsp;</li><li>Requirements that the same physician who initially sees a patient must also be the physician who performs the abortion procedure.</li><li>Current law requiring only physicians can perform abortions, excluding physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The lawsuit also addresses access to medication abortion, asking that a judge lift the current restrictions that would make it difficult to prescribe, including a telemedicine ban that requires the physician who prescribes the medication to also be in the room when the patient takes the first dose of the medication.&nbsp;It also seeks to end criminal penalties for abortion providers, who currently face loss of their license and up to 15 years in prison if they perform an abortion that doesn’t fall under the current exception for medical emergencies.&nbsp;The lawsuit does not challenge Missouri’s current law requiring parental or guardian consent for minors seeking abortions. Muniz did not specifically say whether this will be challenged in the future, but rather noted this is only the first lawsuit.Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights one year ago,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge just struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>Freda Levenson, legal director for the ACLU of Ohio, said while the payoff is worthwhile, the road can be long to reach widespread access.&nbsp;“They shouldn’t engage in magical thinking or fiction that these restrictions will fall away on their own,” she advised Missourians who voted in support of Amendment 3. “This is going to take hard work.”Tori Schafer, director of policy and campaigns at the ACLU of Missouri, said while she hopes the legislature will respect the will of the people, those who supported Amendment 3 stand ready to hold them accountable.Missouri lawmakers including state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman and U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley have said<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-abortion-amendment-march-life/">&nbsp;they intend to give Missourians the opportunity to vote on abortion again.&nbsp;</a>When asked in September what GOP lawmakers might do if Amendment 3 passed, Coleman pointed to a 2018 citizen-led amendment that would have required legislative districts be drawn to ensure partisan fairness. This amendment, known as&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2020/11/04/voters-repeal-clean-missouri-redistricting-plan-they-enacted-in-2018/">“Clean Missouri,” was repealed two years later</a>&nbsp;through a legislature-proposed amendment.On Wednesday morning, Mary Catherine Martin, an attorney with the Thomas More Society who previously argued against the amendment before the Missouri Supreme Court, promised to defend Missouri against Amendment 3.&nbsp;“They’re not going to stand back and give up,” Levenson said. “They’ll fight around the edges to keep any restrictions in that they can.”&nbsp;Former President Donald Trump’s victory means Missouri abortion-rights organizations may have more than just state anti-abortion forces working against them. It could soon also be the federal government.&nbsp;&nbsp;One example is federal enforcement of the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that bans mailing obscene material, including for the use of abortion.Hawley, who was re-elected to a second term on Tuesday, was among a number of senators who signed a letter in 2023 asking the U.S. Attorney General to enforce the Comstock Act&nbsp;<a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24834197-20230123-letter-on-comstock-to-doj" target="_blank">and make illegal the mailing of abortion medication</a>, which has increasingly become popular and accessible across the United States over the last two years.“We are being thoughtful about what a change in the federal administration could mean,” said Emily Wales, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Great Plains. “I think more than anything, it will be the time for Missourians and individuals in other states who may have crossed political lines to hold accountable national leaders who have said they think this should be an issue decided by the states.”Kellie Copeland, executive director of Pro-Choice Ohio, which led that state’s successful abortion-rights ballot measure last year,&nbsp;noted that it also takes time to rebuild health care infrastructure that had been limited or eliminated with abortion restrictions.&nbsp;While abortion wasn’t outlawed in Missouri until the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the constitutional right to an abortion two years ago, Missourians have long lacked access to the procedure as TRAP laws whittled away at abortion clinics’ abilities to stay open.&nbsp;For clinics near the Kansas and Illinois borders, providers began sending Missourians across state lines where laws were less restrictive.&nbsp;A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the health department. By 2020, that number dropped to 167 as a result of the TRAP laws.Between June 24, 2022 and July 31, 2024, 74 abortions were performed in Missouri under the state’s emergency exemption, according to data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.Despite facing additional hurdles to care, including the time and financial costs of travel, time off work and childcare, many Missourians have continued accessing abortion in the post-Roe era.In 2023 alone, approximately 2,860 Missourians traveled to Kansas last year for abortions, and 8,710 traveled to Illinois,&nbsp;<a href="https://guttmacherinstitute.github.io/provision-dashboard/" target="_blank">according to the Guttmacher Institute,</a>&nbsp;a reproductive rights research group that closely tracks abortion data.&nbsp;Abortion access in Missouri will likely have ripple effects across the Midwest and south, opening up another access point for those in states with bans like Iowa, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texas.Copeland said Missouri’s first step toward legal action is nothing short of “momentous.”“That the Missouri team did it this year of all years in this political climate is astounding,” she said. “It shows what an incredible campaign they waged, but also how deeply people feel about abortion access and reproductive freedom regardless of the party they identify with.”

Lawsuit challenges Missouri’s abortion restrictions hours after voters approve Amendment 3

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Prairie Hills Middle School students are getting the chance to volunteer and make their school better.

"It's the second year we've done it and we've started it up just in the last week or two," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "What they do is the students get to sign up for various jobs around the Prairie Hills Middle School. And in fact, there are 144 students who are interested in these jobs and it's volunteer time. Let's make sure that we understand that we're not paying them to do it, but there are three different sessions throughout the year and 144 kids are interested in helping out around Prairie Hills Middle School. And the jobs vary from celebrating birthdays and birthdays of the students by decorating their lockers. They help with the athletic director, setting up for events. They are library aides, teacher aides. They help with traffic control before school and after school. There's greeters in the morning. There's lunchroom leaders. There are bulletin board designers. There's pledge leaders and window washing and happy helpers and math tutors. It just goes on and on. In fact, I think there are 20 job opportunities that these 144 students are participating in."

This gives them a chance to learn skills they might not otherwise in the regular classroom.

"We're very thankful for Mrs. Abby Thompson, who's the middle school principal, and Mrs. Ashley Bunting, who is also a teacher there that helps lead these, and between Mrs. Bunting and Mrs. Thompson, that's a lot to organize and they don't get paid for it. They do this on their own time after school to give these students the soft skills. So many students don't have the opportunity to have jobs anymore."

You can follow their progress at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/prairiehills">Prairie Hills Middle School Facebook page</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730903896024.jpeg" alt="Image Courtesy Prairie Hills Middle School" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy Prairie Hills Middle School</figcaption>
 </figure>NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Prairie Hills Middle School students are getting the chance to volunteer and make their school better."It's the second year we've done it and we've started it up just in the last week or two," said Buhler USD 313 Superintendent Cindy Couchman. "What they do is the students get to sign up for various jobs around the Prairie Hills Middle School. And in fact, there are 144 students who are interested in these jobs and it's volunteer time. Let's make sure that we understand that we're not paying them to do it, but there are three different sessions throughout the year and 144 kids are interested in helping out around Prairie Hills Middle School. And the jobs vary from celebrating birthdays and birthdays of the students by decorating their lockers. They help with the athletic director, setting up for events. They are library aides, teacher aides. They help with traffic control before school and after school. There's greeters in the morning. There's lunchroom leaders. There are bulletin board designers. There's pledge leaders and window washing and happy helpers and math tutors. It just goes on and on. In fact, I think there are 20 job opportunities that these 144 students are participating in."This gives them a chance to learn skills they might not otherwise in the regular classroom."We're very thankful for Mrs. Abby Thompson, who's the middle school principal, and Mrs. Ashley Bunting, who is also a teacher there that helps lead these, and between Mrs. Bunting and Mrs. Thompson, that's a lot to organize and they don't get paid for it. They do this on their own time after school to give these students the soft skills. So many students don't have the opportunity to have jobs anymore."You can follow their progress at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/prairiehills">Prairie Hills Middle School Facebook page</a>.

Jobs at school teach soft skills at Prairie Hills

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. stock market, Elon Musk’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tesla-stock-trump-election-b54454aaabd4cbe1e1e1c9754649b869">Tesla</a>, banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-crypto-donald-trump-election-c2e2a1a895288c5e9c0df2721012a5bb">bitcoin</a>&nbsp;all stormed higher Wednesday as investors made bets on what&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-takeaways-d0e4677f4cd53b4d2d8d18d674be5bf4">Donald Trump’s return to the White House</a>&nbsp;will mean for the economy and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-election-trump-global-reaction-7f7d4c5f6b84f263d7c49bb4978ab418">world</a>. Among the losers the market sees: the renewable-energy industry and potentially anyone worried about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inflation-tariffs-taxes-immigration-federal-reserve-a18de763fcc01557258c7f33cab375ed">higher inflation</a>.

The S&amp;P 500 rallied 2.5% for its best day in nearly two years. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 1,508 points, or 3.6%, while the Nasdaq composite jumped 3%. All three indexes topped records they had set in recent weeks.

The U.S. stock market has historically tended to rise&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-stocks-volatility-bonds-economy-retirement-59201a39bffd596b253021a6526a4b60">regardless of which party wins</a>&nbsp;the White House, with Democrats scoring bigger average gains since 1945. But Republican control could mean big shifts in the winning and losing industries underneath the surface, and investors are adding to bets built earlier on what the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-wins-second-term-policies-de3dcf0f173b42602b258042fd7aaafb">higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation</a>&nbsp;that Trump favors will mean.

“The markets are scrambling to figure out what happens next, but for the time being, the market is pricing in a higher growth and higher inflation outlook,” Peter Esho of Esho Capital said.

Of course, how much change Trump effects in his second term will likely depend on whether his fellow Republicans win control of Congress, and that’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/maine-election-2024-house-golden-theriault-a40d15b56af47193171e6da358d591c2">still to be determined</a>. That could leave room for snaps back in some of Wednesday’s big knee-jerk movements.

Nevertheless, the market is cleaving between rather clear winners and losers following Trump’s dramatic win. Among them:

Bank stocks led the market higher, in part on hopes that a stronger economy would mean more customers getting loans and paying them back with interest. They also rallied on hopes for lighter regulation from a Republican White House. JPMorgan Chase soared 11.5%, and financial stocks had the biggest gain by far among the 11 sectors that make up the S&amp;P 500. Capital One Financial climbed 15%, and Discover Financial jumped 20.2% for some of the market's biggest gains on speculation their pending merger will more easily get federal clearance under Trump.

Trump has pledged to make the country “the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-elections-crypto-cryptocurrency-treasury-blockchain-29df24818d03e557c6c434533052b33c">crypto capital</a>&nbsp;of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. The price of bitcoin hit an all-time high above $76,480, according to CoinDesk, and was recently just under $76,100. Companies in the crypto industry also jumped, including trading platform Coinbase’s 31.1% leap.

Musk has become a close ally of Trump, exhorting the former president’s run. While Trump may end up hurting the electric-vehicle industry broadly by limiting government subsidies, analysts say Tesla could gain somewhat of an advantage by already being such a big player in the industry. Tesla revved 14.8% higher, while rival Rivian Automotive fell 8.3%.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-media-stock-musk-x-social-5328feb1a782cc65bd05b7e30756b8db">company behind Trump’s Truth Social</a>&nbsp;platform rose 5.9% after earlier nearly 35% earlier in the day. It regularly trades more on Trump’s popularity than on prospects for its profits. Its rise came even after it filed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/truth-social-donald-trump-media-earnings-d2cf7bd5483660080f678ba74deb6c52">unaudited financial documents</a>&nbsp;with regulators on Tuesday saying it lost $19.2 million during the latest quarter and that its sales weakened from a year earlier.

A Trump-led Washington could push for tougher enforcement of the nation’s borders, which could mean more business for companies that work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. GEO Group, which runs ICE processing centers, surged 42.1%.

Trump’s America-First policies could help companies that focus on customers within the United States, rather than big multinationals that could be hurt by increased tariffs and protectionism. The Russell 2000 index of smaller stocks, which are seen as more domestically focused than the big stocks in the S&amp;P 500, jumped 5.8%. That was more than double the S&amp;P 500’s gain.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1730904710641.png" alt="File photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications" />
 <figcaption>File photo courtesy Margo Martin Deputy Director of Communications</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. stock market, Elon Musk’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tesla-stock-trump-election-b54454aaabd4cbe1e1e1c9754649b869">Tesla</a>, banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-crypto-donald-trump-election-c2e2a1a895288c5e9c0df2721012a5bb">bitcoin</a>&nbsp;all stormed higher Wednesday as investors made bets on what&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-presidential-election-takeaways-d0e4677f4cd53b4d2d8d18d674be5bf4">Donald Trump’s return to the White House</a>&nbsp;will mean for the economy and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-election-trump-global-reaction-7f7d4c5f6b84f263d7c49bb4978ab418">world</a>. Among the losers the market sees: the renewable-energy industry and potentially anyone worried about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inflation-tariffs-taxes-immigration-federal-reserve-a18de763fcc01557258c7f33cab375ed">higher inflation</a>.The S&amp;P 500 rallied 2.5% for its best day in nearly two years. The Dow Jones Industrial Average surged 1,508 points, or 3.6%, while the Nasdaq composite jumped 3%. All three indexes topped records they had set in recent weeks.The U.S. stock market has historically tended to rise&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-stocks-volatility-bonds-economy-retirement-59201a39bffd596b253021a6526a4b60">regardless of which party wins</a>&nbsp;the White House, with Democrats scoring bigger average gains since 1945. But Republican control could mean big shifts in the winning and losing industries underneath the surface, and investors are adding to bets built earlier on what the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-wins-second-term-policies-de3dcf0f173b42602b258042fd7aaafb">higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation</a>&nbsp;that Trump favors will mean.“The markets are scrambling to figure out what happens next, but for the time being, the market is pricing in a higher growth and higher inflation outlook,” Peter Esho of Esho Capital said.Of course, how much change Trump effects in his second term will likely depend on whether his fellow Republicans win control of Congress, and that’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/maine-election-2024-house-golden-theriault-a40d15b56af47193171e6da358d591c2">still to be determined</a>. That could leave room for snaps back in some of Wednesday’s big knee-jerk movements.Nevertheless, the market is cleaving between rather clear winners and losers following Trump’s dramatic win. Among them:<h2>Bank stocks, UP</h2>Bank stocks led the market higher, in part on hopes that a stronger economy would mean more customers getting loans and paying them back with interest. They also rallied on hopes for lighter regulation from a Republican White House. JPMorgan Chase soared 11.5%, and financial stocks had the biggest gain by far among the 11 sectors that make up the S&amp;P 500. Capital One Financial climbed 15%, and Discover Financial jumped 20.2% for some of the market's biggest gains on speculation their pending merger will more easily get federal clearance under Trump.<h2>Crypto, UP</h2>Trump has pledged to make the country “the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-elections-crypto-cryptocurrency-treasury-blockchain-29df24818d03e557c6c434533052b33c">crypto capital</a>&nbsp;of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. The price of bitcoin hit an all-time high above $76,480, according to CoinDesk, and was recently just under $76,100. Companies in the crypto industry also jumped, including trading platform Coinbase’s 31.1% leap.<h2>Tesla, UP</h2>Musk has become a close ally of Trump, exhorting the former president’s run. While Trump may end up hurting the electric-vehicle industry broadly by limiting government subsidies, analysts say Tesla could gain somewhat of an advantage by already being such a big player in the industry. Tesla revved 14.8% higher, while rival Rivian Automotive fell 8.3%.<h2>Trump Media &amp; Technology Group, UP</h2>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-media-stock-musk-x-social-5328feb1a782cc65bd05b7e30756b8db">company behind Trump’s Truth Social</a>&nbsp;platform rose 5.9% after earlier nearly 35% earlier in the day. It regularly trades more on Trump’s popularity than on prospects for its profits. Its rise came even after it filed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/truth-social-donald-trump-media-earnings-d2cf7bd5483660080f678ba74deb6c52">unaudited financial documents</a>&nbsp;with regulators on Tuesday saying it lost $19.2 million during the latest quarter and that its sales weakened from a year earlier.<h2>Private-prison operators, UP</h2>A Trump-led Washington could push for tougher enforcement of the nation’s borders, which could mean more business for companies that work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE. GEO Group, which runs ICE processing centers, surged 42.1%.<h2>Stocks of smaller companies, UP</h2>Trump’s America-First policies could help companies that focus on customers within the United States, rather than big multinationals that could be hurt by increased tariffs and protectionism. The Russell 2000 index of smaller stocks, which are seen as more domestically focused than the big stocks in the S&amp;P 500, jumped 5.8%. That was more than double the S&amp;P 500’s gain.<h2>Treasury bond prices, DOWN</h2>Investors see Trump’s policies potentially leading to stronger economic growth, which helps push prices down for Treasurys and their yields up. Tax cuts under Trump could also further swell the U.S. government’s deficit, which would increase its borrowing needs and force yields even higher. The yield on the 10-year Treasury jumped to 4.43% from 4.29% late Tuesday, which is a major move for the bond market. It’s up substantially from August, when it was below 4%.<h2>Inflation worries, UP</h2>Investors also see Trump’s policies likely adding to future inflation, particularly tariffs, which can add costs to U.S. households’ bills.“Trump keeps openly telling people that he will increase tariffs not just on China but with every trade partner,” said Andrzej Skiba, head of BlueBay U.S. Fixed Income at RBC Global Asset Management. “We’re talking 10% tariffs across all global partners. This is a big deal because this could add 1% to inflation. If you add 1% to next year’s inflation numbers, we should say bye to rate cuts.”A drop-off in immigration could also mean a crunch of available workers for employers, which could force companies to raise wages for workers faster and put more upward pressure on inflation.<h2>Expectations for interest rate cuts, MUDDLED</h2>Much of Wall Street’s run to records this year was built on expectations for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-election-inflation-economy-prices-rates-302de435f48e4de701a15dc99880fc9d">coming cuts to interest rates by the Federal Reserve</a>, now that inflation seems to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-interest-rates-economy-federal-reserve-cd6d9712bfd484d6e1bc4ccb958dcf23">heading back down to its 2% target</a>. Easier interest rates help boost the economy, but they can also give inflation more fuel.The Fed will announce its latest decision on interest rates Thursday, where the expectation is still for a cut, according to data from CME Group. But traders are already paring back forecasts for how many cuts the Fed will provide through the middle of next year.<h2>Foreign currencies, DOWN against the dollar</h2>Trump has vowed to sharply hike tariffs on imports from China, Mexico and other countries, raising worries about trade wars and disruptions to the global economy. A measure of the U.S. dollar’s value against several major currencies climbed 1.6%, which means that those other currencies fell.The euro sank 1.5%, and the South Korean won fell 1.2% The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trump-taxes-imports-inflation-consumers-prices-c2eef295a078a76ce2bb7fedb0c5e58c">Mexican peso</a>, which has been falling against the dollar since the summer, in part on worries about a possible Trump re-election, fell early in the day but then pared its loss.<h2>Rewnewable energy stocks, DOWN</h2>Trump is a fan of fossil fuels, encouraging production of oil and natural gas. His win sent solar stocks sharply lower, including a 10.1% fall for First Solar and 16.8% slide for Enphase Energy.The only stock with a bigger loss in the S&amp;P 500 was Super Micro Computer, which said its sales for the latest quarter could come in below its prior forecast. Its stock sank 18.1%.All told, the S&amp;P 500 rose 146.28 points to 5,929.04. The Dow surged 1,508.05 to 43,729.93, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 544.29 to 18,983.47.------------NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. stock market, Elon Musk’s Tesla, banks and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bitcoin-crypto-donald-trump-election-c2e2a1a895288c5e9c0df2721012a5bb">bitcoin</a>&nbsp;are all storming higher Wednesday as investors bet on what Donald Trump’s return to the White House will mean for the economy and world. Among the losers the market sees: the value of the Mexican peso and potentially anyone worried about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-inflation-tariffs-taxes-immigration-federal-reserve-a18de763fcc01557258c7f33cab375ed">higher inflation</a>.The S&amp;P 500 was jumping by 2.1% in early trading and on track to top its all-time high set last month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1,292 points, or 3.1%, as of 9:35 a.m. Eastern time, while the Nasdaq composite was 2.1% higher.The U.S. stock market has historically tended to rise&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-stocks-volatility-bonds-economy-retirement-59201a39bffd596b253021a6526a4b60">regardless of which party wins</a>&nbsp;the White House, with Democrats scoring bigger average gains since 1945. But Republican control could mean big shifts in the winners and losers underneath the surface, and investors are adding to bets built earlier on what the higher tariffs, lower tax rates and lighter regulation that Trump favors will mean.“The markets are scrambling to figure out what happens next, but for the time being, the market is pricing in a higher growth and higher inflation outlook,” Peter Esho of Esho Capital said.Of course, how much change Trump will be able to effect will likely depend on whether his fellow Republicans win control of Congress, and that’s still to be determined. That could leave room for snaps back in some of Wednesday’s big knee-jerk movements. Nevertheless, the market is cleaving between rather clear winners and losers following Trump’s dramatic win. Among them:BANK STOCKS, upBank stocks led the market higher, in part on hopes that a stronger economy would mean more customers getting loans and paying them back with interest. They also rallied on hopes for lighter regulation from a Republican White House, which could also spur more mergers and buyouts where investment banks could earn fees. JPMorgan Chase rose 8.3%, and the 5.1% jump for financial stocks in the S&amp;P 500 was by far the biggest gain among the index’s 11 sectors.CRYPTO, upTrump has pledged to make the country “the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-harris-elections-crypto-cryptocurrency-treasury-blockchain-29df24818d03e557c6c434533052b33c">crypto capital</a>&nbsp;of the planet” and create a “strategic reserve” of bitcoin. The price of bitcoin hit an all-time high above $75,000, according to Coindesk, and was recently up 7% at nearly $74,000. Other cryptocurrencies also rallied, including dogecoin, which is a favorite of Musk. Companies in the crypto industry jumped, including trading platform Coinbase’s 19.4% leap.TESLA, upMusk has become a close ally of Trump, exhorting the former president’s run. While Trump may end up hurting the electric-vehicle industry broadly by pulling government subsidies, analysts say Tesla could gain somewhat of an advantage by already being such a big player in an industry. Tesla revved 15.1% higher, while rival Rivian Automotive fell 7.3%TREASURY BOND PRICES, downInvestors see Trump's policies potentially leading to stronger economic growth, which helps to push prices down and yields up for Treasurys. The yield on the 10-year Treasury jumped to 4.47% from 4.29% late Tuesday, which is a major move for the bond market. It's up substantially from August, when it was below 4%.INFLATION WORRIES, upInvestors also see Trump's policies adding to future inflation, which likewise pushes up Treasury yields.“Trump keeps openly telling people that he will increase tariffs not just on China but with every trade partner," said Andrzej Skiba, Head of BlueBay U.S. Fixed Income at RBC Global Asset Management. "We’re talking 10% tariffs across all global partners. This is a big deal because this could add 1% to inflation. If you add 1% to next year’s inflation numbers, we should say bye to rate cuts.”Much of Wall Street's run to records this year was built on expectations for coming cuts to interest rates by the Federal Reserve, now that inflation seems to be heading back down to its 2% target. The Fed will announce its latest decision on interest rates on Thursday, where the expectation is still for a cut, according to data from CME Group.But traders are already paring back their expectations for how many cuts the Fed will make through the middle of next year.FOREIGN CURRENCY VALUES, down against the dollarTrump has talked about raising tariffs, which would likely mean Trump has also vowed to sharply raise tariffs on imports from China, Mexico and other countries, darkening the outlook for Chinese exporters at a time when Beijing has relied heavily on ramping up manufacturing to try to revive its slowing economy. The value of the Mexican peso fell another 2.3% against the dollar.RENEWABLE ENERGY STOCKS, down