OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers are set for the first time to pass a bill that would block the public from voting on a ballot measure initiated by citizens of the state, setting up what could be a long battle over whether to fund private school tuition with public dollars.

On Thursday, lawmakers will take a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/school-choice-nebraska-bill-ballot-1975555bf4ce97a602d77a2a910f7f6a">final vote</a>&nbsp;on a bill that would repeal a law passed last year to divert millions in income tax receipts to pay for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/private-school-scholarships-nebraska-taxpayers-c7be118aa5a43b3ebc2da82aacaa4e29">private school scholarships</a>. The bill would replace it with a measure that would directly fund private school tuition from state coffers. If it passes, it will effectively block voters from repealing the private school funding law that is set to appear on the November ballot following a successful&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-diversion-private-schools-nebraska-ballot-a4c033b5e004d1ef8f3f06214c519c21">petition drive</a>.

Retired Lincoln high school teacher Rita Bennett described lawmakers' plan to circumvent a vote of the people with one word.

The use of ballot initiatives has long been a source of pride not just for residents, but Nebraska's unique one-chamber, nonpartisan legislature. Lawmakers often refer to the state's residents as “the Nebraska Legislature's second house.”

It's why the move to “usurp the will of voters” is so audacious, said Bennett, a volunteer who collected petition signatures last summer to get the repeal question on the ballot.

For Gretna resident Angie Lauritsen — who collected signatures last summer at county fairs, on sidewalks and by knocking on doors — the issue is personal. Her son was rejected from a private preschool because he was born with a condition that left him nonverbal until he was nearly 4, but through public school, he was given a specialist at the age of 2 and is now a talkative and thriving teen, she said.

“It’s about taking away the right of the people to vote,” Lauritsen said, noting that many people who signed mentioned being related to a public school teacher. “This is personal for a lot of people, not just me.”

The new bill is an “end-run” around the ballot initiative, said State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, the author of last year’s law, during a public hearing. But it also gives a choice to families whose public school is not serving them well. A large portion of the private school scholarships would go to students who are being bullied, foster kids and students with a parent serving active military duty or had a parent killed in the line of duty, she said.

“This isn't an anti-public schools bill,” she said recently during debate. “This is to give parents a choice. Why would we be against that?”

Anthony Schutz, a law professor at the University of Nebraska College of Law, testified against Linehan's new bill to directly fund private school tuition, saying he believes it violates the Nebraska Constitution's prohibition against appropriating public funds to nonpublic schools.

Opponents could try to launch another petition effort to ask voters to repeal the new bill this November, although they would have only weeks to gather enough signatures to meet a July deadline. Or they could sue, Schutz said.

“One line of argument is that it's an appropriation to students and their parents, not a direct appropriation to private schools,” Schutz said.

But because the money can only be used for private school tuition, it might be difficult to convince a court, he said.

Linehan floated another argument earlier this year to try to convince Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen to pull the repeal measure from the November ballot. Linehan held that the ballot initiative was unconstitutional because the state constitution places the power of taxation solely in the hands of the legislature.

Evnen ultimately found the ballot initiative to be legal, but acknowledged the issue was likely to be decided in court.

Asked whether the ballot initiative to repeal last year's private school tuition scholarship law would remain on the November ballot or be pulled from it if Linehan's new bill passes, Evnen's office said it is consulting with the Nebraska Attorney General to make that decision.

Were the measure to remain on the ballot, it could prove a humbling rebuke if voters decide against public money going to private schools. Lauritsen said a good portion of the signatures she collected came from those who said they supported Linehan's bill, but wanted to give “everybody a chance to vote on it.”

“At the end of the day, it’s an unprecedented use of legislation to cut off a referendum,” Schutz said. “It’s a politically difficult action to defend.”

Opponents of the bill say they're ready for another fight.

“I stand ready to do whatever is necessary,” Bennett said. “If it means I'm out collecting signatures all summer, that's where I'll be.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713364638261.jpeg" alt="John Heineman delivers a box of petition signatures from Support Our Schools Nebraska to the Nebraska Secretary of State, Aug. 30, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Nebraska lawmakers are set for the first time to pass a bill that would block the public from voting on a ballot measure initiated by citizens of the state, setting up what could be a long battle over whether to fund private school tuition with public dollars. (Justin Wan/Lincoln Journal Star via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>John Heineman delivers a box of petition signatures from Support Our Schools Nebraska to the Nebraska Secretary of State, Aug. 30, 2023, in Lincoln, Neb. Nebraska lawmakers are set for the first time to pass a bill that would block the public from voting on a ballot measure initiated by citizens of the state, setting up what could be a long battle over whether to fund private school tuition with public dollars. (Justin Wan/Lincoln Journal Star via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska lawmakers are set for the first time to pass a bill that would block the public from voting on a ballot measure initiated by citizens of the state, setting up what could be a long battle over whether to fund private school tuition with public dollars.On Thursday, lawmakers will take a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/school-choice-nebraska-bill-ballot-1975555bf4ce97a602d77a2a910f7f6a">final vote</a>&nbsp;on a bill that would repeal a law passed last year to divert millions in income tax receipts to pay for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/private-school-scholarships-nebraska-taxpayers-c7be118aa5a43b3ebc2da82aacaa4e29">private school scholarships</a>. The bill would replace it with a measure that would directly fund private school tuition from state coffers. If it passes, it will effectively block voters from repealing the private school funding law that is set to appear on the November ballot following a successful&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tax-diversion-private-schools-nebraska-ballot-a4c033b5e004d1ef8f3f06214c519c21">petition drive</a>.Retired Lincoln high school teacher Rita Bennett described lawmakers' plan to circumvent a vote of the people with one word.“Outrage,” Bennett said.The use of ballot initiatives has long been a source of pride not just for residents, but Nebraska's unique one-chamber, nonpartisan legislature. Lawmakers often refer to the state's residents as “the Nebraska Legislature's second house.”It's why the move to “usurp the will of voters” is so audacious, said Bennett, a volunteer who collected petition signatures last summer to get the repeal question on the ballot.“It's quite chilling," she said.For Gretna resident Angie Lauritsen — who collected signatures last summer at county fairs, on sidewalks and by knocking on doors — the issue is personal. Her son was rejected from a private preschool because he was born with a condition that left him nonverbal until he was nearly 4, but through public school, he was given a specialist at the age of 2 and is now a talkative and thriving teen, she said.“It’s about taking away the right of the people to vote,” Lauritsen said, noting that many people who signed mentioned being related to a public school teacher. “This is personal for a lot of people, not just me.”The new bill is an “end-run” around the ballot initiative, said State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, the author of last year’s law, during a public hearing. But it also gives a choice to families whose public school is not serving them well. A large portion of the private school scholarships would go to students who are being bullied, foster kids and students with a parent serving active military duty or had a parent killed in the line of duty, she said.“This isn't an anti-public schools bill,” she said recently during debate. “This is to give parents a choice. Why would we be against that?”Anthony Schutz, a law professor at the University of Nebraska College of Law, testified against Linehan's new bill to directly fund private school tuition, saying he believes it violates the Nebraska Constitution's prohibition against appropriating public funds to nonpublic schools.Opponents could try to launch another petition effort to ask voters to repeal the new bill this November, although they would have only weeks to gather enough signatures to meet a July deadline. Or they could sue, Schutz said.“One line of argument is that it's an appropriation to students and their parents, not a direct appropriation to private schools,” Schutz said.But because the money can only be used for private school tuition, it might be difficult to convince a court, he said.Linehan floated another argument earlier this year to try to convince Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen to pull the repeal measure from the November ballot. Linehan held that the ballot initiative was unconstitutional because the state constitution places the power of taxation solely in the hands of the legislature.Evnen ultimately found the ballot initiative to be legal, but acknowledged the issue was likely to be decided in court.Asked whether the ballot initiative to repeal last year's private school tuition scholarship law would remain on the November ballot or be pulled from it if Linehan's new bill passes, Evnen's office said it is consulting with the Nebraska Attorney General to make that decision.Were the measure to remain on the ballot, it could prove a humbling rebuke if voters decide against public money going to private schools. Lauritsen said a good portion of the signatures she collected came from those who said they supported Linehan's bill, but wanted to give “everybody a chance to vote on it.”“At the end of the day, it’s an unprecedented use of legislation to cut off a referendum,” Schutz said. “It’s a politically difficult action to defend.”Opponents of the bill say they're ready for another fight.“I stand ready to do whatever is necessary,” Bennett said. “If it means I'm out collecting signatures all summer, that's where I'll be.”

The push for school choice in Nebraska is pitting lawmakers against their constituents

NEW YORK (AP) — Ford is recalling more than 456,000 Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles due to a battery detection issue that can result in loss of drive power, increasing crash risks.

According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the body and power train control modules for these cars may fail to detect changes in battery charge. And when undetected, a low battery charge can cause an unexpected loss of drive power — including sudden stalling or inability to restart — and the use of other electric capabilities like hazard lights.

The recall covers about 403,000 model year 2021-2024 Bronco Sports produced between February 2020 and March 2024, as well as more than 53,000 model year 2022-2023 Mavericks manufactured from February 2021 to October 2022, a&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCLRPT-24V267-6161.PDF">recall report</a>&nbsp;dated Friday notes.

To remedy this issue, dealers will recalibrate the impacted vehicles' body and power train control modules at no cost. Owner notification letters are set to be mailed out on May 13, a Tuesday NHSTA recall acknowledgment&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V267-7377.pdf">letter</a>&nbsp;notes.

Whether the remedy would be available before mid-May was not immediately clear. The Associated Press reached out to Ford for further information Wednesday, including the total number of any incidents reported to date.

As of February 8, Friday's recall report notes, Ford was not aware of any injuries tied to the issue — but the Dearborn, Michigan-based the company noted 917 related warranty reports, 11 field reports and 54 customer complaints. There were also two property damage claims and three unverified fire reports.

This isn't the only recall impacting Bronco Sport owners.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/investigation-ford-recall-gasoline-leak-bronco-sport-escape-da330635bdaa1663d9b8e4d689be4284">said last week that</a>&nbsp;it was investigating the remedy Ford had proposed after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-recall-engine-compartment-fire-fuel-leak-a002bb4d939d59cab10136abbc471fbd">recall of nearly 43,000 select Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs</a>, in which gasoline can leak from the fuel injectors onto hot engine surfaces, increasing the risk of fires. The NHTSA said remedy did not include repairing the fuel leaks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675177408123.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Ford is recalling more than 456,000 Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles due to a battery detection issue that can result in loss of drive power, increasing crash risks.According to documents published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the body and power train control modules for these cars may fail to detect changes in battery charge. And when undetected, a low battery charge can cause an unexpected loss of drive power — including sudden stalling or inability to restart — and the use of other electric capabilities like hazard lights.The recall covers about 403,000 model year 2021-2024 Bronco Sports produced between February 2020 and March 2024, as well as more than 53,000 model year 2022-2023 Mavericks manufactured from February 2021 to October 2022, a&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCLRPT-24V267-6161.PDF">recall report</a>&nbsp;dated Friday notes.To remedy this issue, dealers will recalibrate the impacted vehicles' body and power train control modules at no cost. Owner notification letters are set to be mailed out on May 13, a Tuesday NHSTA recall acknowledgment&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V267-7377.pdf">letter</a>&nbsp;notes.Whether the remedy would be available before mid-May was not immediately clear. The Associated Press reached out to Ford for further information Wednesday, including the total number of any incidents reported to date.As of February 8, Friday's recall report notes, Ford was not aware of any injuries tied to the issue — but the Dearborn, Michigan-based the company noted 917 related warranty reports, 11 field reports and 54 customer complaints. There were also two property damage claims and three unverified fire reports.This isn't the only recall impacting Bronco Sport owners.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/investigation-ford-recall-gasoline-leak-bronco-sport-escape-da330635bdaa1663d9b8e4d689be4284">said last week that</a>&nbsp;it was investigating the remedy Ford had proposed after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ford-recall-engine-compartment-fire-fuel-leak-a002bb4d939d59cab10136abbc471fbd">recall of nearly 43,000 select Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs</a>, in which gasoline can leak from the fuel injectors onto hot engine surfaces, increasing the risk of fires. The NHTSA said remedy did not include repairing the fuel leaks.

Ford recalls Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles due to loss of drive power risk

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/16/nu-partners-with-google-to-offer-career-certificates-to-students-alumni-and-all-nebraskans/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska and Google are entering a new partnership designed to further Nebraskans’ education and support state workforce needs.

Interim NU President Chris Kabourek announced Tuesday that the university will soon offer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://grow.google/certificates/">Google Career Certificates</a>&nbsp;in a variety of fields.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=D&amp;q=https://unomaha.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_37QYcgFNHNXVf8O&amp;ust=1713357180000000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3veBMEv1c7VLur2WtVc-eq&amp;hl=en&amp;source=gmail">Pre-registration for the programs</a>&nbsp;is open now on a first-come, first-served basis and will begin with the 2024-25 academic year. Three cycles will be offered — in August, December and April —&nbsp;with 2,500 seats available in each.

Kabourek said “it’s a win” when more education is brought directly to Nebraskans and students.

“As a native of rural Nebraska myself, I believe strongly that every Nebraskan should have access to quality, affordable educational opportunities no matter where they live or what their personal circumstances are,” Kabourek said in a statement.

The goal of the partnership is to provide opportunity, not make money, Kabourek added in a text. NU will retain all revenue raised through enrollment in the certificates, which will cover administrative costs and any associated technological needs.

Google experts teach the programs, which are vetted by leading employers. NU students, alumni and Nebraska residents can get a special first-year rate of $20 per enrollment.&nbsp;

Students learn at their own pace over three to six months of part-time study in multiple courses:

Advanced certifications are also available, tailored for learners with multiple years of experience or as a next step after completing an entry-level certificate:

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., endorsed the partnership as providing affordable access to education and as “yet another pathway for Nebraskans to pursue their dreams and expand their career horizons.” He said he looks forward to seeing the positive impact it will have.

“Developing Nebraskans to take the jobs of the future is one of the cornerstones of growing Nebraska’s economy,” Flood said in a statement.

A 2023 report from the American Association of Colleges and Universities found that employers are generally in strong support of these “microcredentials.” In the report, two-thirds said they would prefer college graduates with microcredentials for entry-level positions.

More than 250,000 people in the United States have earned a Google certificate, 75% of whom had a positive career impact, such as a new job, promotion or raise, according to Google.

“We’re committed to investing in Nebraskans to ensure that they have the tech and other job ready skills to enter the workforce and reach their full economic potential,” said Lisa Gevelber, founder of Grow with Google.

Kabourek said the new partnership advances a 2022 legislative goal, which NU supported, to increase the percentage of Nebraskans with postsecondary credentials by 2030 to 70%.&nbsp;

State Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont, who was then chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, shepherded the 2022&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=47210">resolution&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/CS/LR335.pdf">unanimously through her committee</a>&nbsp;and through the Legislature&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=8358">32-1</a>.

Tim Jares, dean of the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s College of Business and Technology, described the new partnership as “terrific” and said it adds to the work faculty are doing to support students and alumni “amplify their marketability.”

“From our perspective, the more opportunities for education we provide, the better,” Jares said. “I’m proud that the University of Nebraska is playing a leadership role in creating access for Nebraskans and growing a skilled workforce for our state.”

Other leading U.S. institutions already offer career certificates, including Syracuse University, the University of Texas system and two fellow Big Ten members —&nbsp;the University of California-Los Angeles and Rutgers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713360511975.jpeg" alt=" The University of Nebraska announced Tuesday that the university will soon offer Google Career Certificates in a variety of fields. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> The University of Nebraska announced Tuesday that the university will soon offer Google Career Certificates in a variety of fields. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Zach Wendling<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/16/nu-partners-with-google-to-offer-career-certificates-to-students-alumni-and-all-nebraskans/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN —&nbsp;The University of Nebraska and Google are entering a new partnership designed to further Nebraskans’ education and support state workforce needs.Interim NU President Chris Kabourek announced Tuesday that the university will soon offer&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://grow.google/certificates/">Google Career Certificates</a>&nbsp;in a variety of fields.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=D&amp;q=https://unomaha.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_37QYcgFNHNXVf8O&amp;ust=1713357180000000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3veBMEv1c7VLur2WtVc-eq&amp;hl=en&amp;source=gmail">Pre-registration for the programs</a>&nbsp;is open now on a first-come, first-served basis and will begin with the 2024-25 academic year. Three cycles will be offered — in August, December and April —&nbsp;with 2,500 seats available in each.Kabourek said “it’s a win” when more education is brought directly to Nebraskans and students.“As a native of rural Nebraska myself, I believe strongly that every Nebraskan should have access to quality, affordable educational opportunities no matter where they live or what their personal circumstances are,” Kabourek said in a statement.The goal of the partnership is to provide opportunity, not make money, Kabourek added in a text. NU will retain all revenue raised through enrollment in the certificates, which will cover administrative costs and any associated technological needs.<h2>Learn at their own pace</h2>Google experts teach the programs, which are vetted by leading employers. NU students, alumni and Nebraska residents can get a special first-year rate of $20 per enrollment.&nbsp;Students learn at their own pace over three to six months of part-time study in multiple courses:<ul>
 <li>Cybersecurity.</li><li>IT support.</li><li>Data analytics.</li><li>Digital marketing and e-commerce.</li><li>Project management.</li><li>User experience (UX) design.</li>
 </ul>Advanced certifications are also available, tailored for learners with multiple years of experience or as a next step after completing an entry-level certificate:<ul>
 <li>IT automation with python.</li><li>Advanced data analytics.</li><li>Business intelligence.</li>
 </ul>U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., endorsed the partnership as providing affordable access to education and as “yet another pathway for Nebraskans to pursue their dreams and expand their career horizons.” He said he looks forward to seeing the positive impact it will have.“Developing Nebraskans to take the jobs of the future is one of the cornerstones of growing Nebraska’s economy,” Flood said in a statement.A 2023 report from the American Association of Colleges and Universities found that employers are generally in strong support of these “microcredentials.” In the report, two-thirds said they would prefer college graduates with microcredentials for entry-level positions.More than 250,000 people in the United States have earned a Google certificate, 75% of whom had a positive career impact, such as a new job, promotion or raise, according to Google.“We’re committed to investing in Nebraskans to ensure that they have the tech and other job ready skills to enter the workforce and reach their full economic potential,” said Lisa Gevelber, founder of Grow with Google.<h2>More postsecondary credentials</h2>Kabourek said the new partnership advances a 2022 legislative goal, which NU supported, to increase the percentage of Nebraskans with postsecondary credentials by 2030 to 70%.&nbsp;State Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont, who was then chair of the Legislature’s Education Committee, shepherded the 2022&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=47210">resolution&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/FloorDocs/107/PDF/CS/LR335.pdf">unanimously through her committee</a>&nbsp;and through the Legislature&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_votes.php?KeyID=8358">32-1</a>.Tim Jares, dean of the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s College of Business and Technology, described the new partnership as “terrific” and said it adds to the work faculty are doing to support students and alumni “amplify their marketability.”“From our perspective, the more opportunities for education we provide, the better,” Jares said. “I’m proud that the University of Nebraska is playing a leadership role in creating access for Nebraskans and growing a skilled workforce for our state.”Other leading U.S. institutions already offer career certificates, including Syracuse University, the University of Texas system and two fellow Big Ten members —&nbsp;the University of California-Los Angeles and Rutgers.

NU partners with Google to offer career certificates to students, alumni and all Nebraskans

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A two-week search for two missing Kansas women came to a fatal end last weekend when Oklahoma authorities confirmed the two were dead and announced the arrests of four people who allegedly belonged to an anti-government group that called themselves “God's Misfits.”

Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, of Hugoton, Kansas, disappeared on March 30 while driving to pick up Butler's two children for a birthday party. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation confirmed on Tuesday that the bodies found in Texas County were those of the two women.

One of the suspects charged in the case is the children's grandmother, who authorities say was in a bitter custody dispute with Butler. The four face charges including murder and are expected to make their first court appearance Wednesday in Guymon, in the rural Oklahoma panhandle.

Here are some things to know about the case.

WHAT DO AUTHORITIES SAY HAPPENED ?

Investigators have been tight-lipped about the case since the car Kelley and Butler were riding in was found in a rural area of Texas County, which is along the border with Kansas. But arrest affidavits unsealed Monday painted a gruesome picture of the scene.

According to court records, blood was left on the road and Butler’s glasses were found near a broken hammer. A magazine for a pistol was inside Kelley’s purse but authorities disclosed they did not find any firearm.

Evidence suggests the killings were planned, according to the arrest affidavit, which states that Tifany Adams, the grandmother of Butler's children, had bought pre-paid “burner” cellphones and five stun guns. Her internet searches included inquiring about pain levels using the weapons, according to the affidavits.

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation announced over the weekend that they had found two bodies, more than two weeks after the women disappeared. The state medical examiner's office has not yet released a report revealing how they were killed.

Investigators say Butler was involved in a custody fight with Adams and her son and was only allowed supervised visits with the children on Saturday. Kelley was authorized to supervise the visits, according to the affidavits.

Kelley was a pastor’s wife and mother of four. Her husband, Heath Kelley, was the pastor of First Christian Church in Hugoton. In recent months, he had accepted a new job with Willow Christian Church in Indianola, Nebraska, but hadn’t started there yet.

At Willow’s sister congregation, McCook Christian Church, Sunday’s service opened with news of the killings. “We had longed for a different outcome,” a pastor told the congregation during the service, which was posted on Facebook.

Messages left with several members of Butler’s family have not been returned

All four suspects are charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping and conspiracy to commit murder. They are being held without bond at the Texas County Jail in Guymon.

In addition to Adams, 54, the others charged are Tad Cullum, 43; Cora Twombly, 44; and her husband Cole Twombly, 50, both of Texhoma, Oklahoma.

Court records on Tuesday did not indicate if any had attorneys who could speak on their behalf. Relatives of Tad Cullum and the Twomblys have not returned phone messages seeking comment. Tifany Adams’ stepmother, Elise Adams, said she had no information on the case.

According to a witness who spoke to OSBI investigators, all four suspects were part of “an anti-government group that had a religious affiliation,” according to the affidavit. OSBI investigators learned the group called themselves “God's Misfits” and held regular meetings at the home of the Twomblys and another couple.

Tifany Adams, who was involved in the custody dispute with Butler, is the current chair of the Cimarron County Republican Party, according to Oklahoma Republican Party Chairman Nathan Dahm. Cimarron County is the westernmost county at the tip of the Oklahoma Panhandle with a population of fewer than 2,300 people.

Dahm said officials at the state party did not know Adams. He said given how rural the county is, “it could have been three people who showed up at the county convention and elected her.”

All four suspects were scheduled for an initial appearance Wednesday in Texas County District Court.

During an initial appearance in Oklahoma, a judge will typically review the formal charges and enter a not guilty plea on behalf of the defendant. The judge also will determine if the defendants have hired an attorney or will have a state-appointed attorney represent them and will schedule another court date for the defendants to appear.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713359723848.jpeg" alt="This combination photo shows Veronica Butler, left, and Jilian Kelley, right. On Saturday, April 13, 2024, Oklahoma authorities said they arrested and charged four people with murder and kidnapping over the weekend in connection with the disappearances of the two Oklahoma women. (Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>This combination photo shows Veronica Butler, left, and Jilian Kelley, right. On Saturday, April 13, 2024, Oklahoma authorities said they arrested and charged four people with murder and kidnapping over the weekend in connection with the disappearances of the two Oklahoma women. (Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A two-week search for two missing Kansas women came to a fatal end last weekend when Oklahoma authorities confirmed the two were dead and announced the arrests of four people who allegedly belonged to an anti-government group that called themselves “God's Misfits.”Veronica Butler, 27, and Jilian Kelley, 39, of Hugoton, Kansas, disappeared on March 30 while driving to pick up Butler's two children for a birthday party. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation confirmed on Tuesday that the bodies found in Texas County were those of the two women.One of the suspects charged in the case is the children's grandmother, who authorities say was in a bitter custody dispute with Butler. The four face charges including murder and are expected to make their first court appearance Wednesday in Guymon, in the rural Oklahoma panhandle.Here are some things to know about the case.WHAT DO AUTHORITIES SAY HAPPENED ?Investigators have been tight-lipped about the case since the car Kelley and Butler were riding in was found in a rural area of Texas County, which is along the border with Kansas. But arrest affidavits unsealed Monday painted a gruesome picture of the scene.According to court records, blood was left on the road and Butler’s glasses were found near a broken hammer. A magazine for a pistol was inside Kelley’s purse but authorities disclosed they did not find any firearm.Evidence suggests the killings were planned, according to the arrest affidavit, which states that Tifany Adams, the grandmother of Butler's children, had bought pre-paid “burner” cellphones and five stun guns. Her internet searches included inquiring about pain levels using the weapons, according to the affidavits.The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation announced over the weekend that they had found two bodies, more than two weeks after the women disappeared. The state medical examiner's office has not yet released a report revealing how they were killed.WHO WERE THE VICTIMS?Investigators say Butler was involved in a custody fight with Adams and her son and was only allowed supervised visits with the children on Saturday. Kelley was authorized to supervise the visits, according to the affidavits.Kelley was a pastor’s wife and mother of four. Her husband, Heath Kelley, was the pastor of First Christian Church in Hugoton. In recent months, he had accepted a new job with Willow Christian Church in Indianola, Nebraska, but hadn’t started there yet.At Willow’s sister congregation, McCook Christian Church, Sunday’s service opened with news of the killings. “We had longed for a different outcome,” a pastor told the congregation during the service, which was posted on Facebook.Messages left with several members of Butler’s family have not been returnedWHO ARE THE SUSPECTS?All four suspects are charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping and conspiracy to commit murder. They are being held without bond at the Texas County Jail in Guymon.In addition to Adams, 54, the others charged are Tad Cullum, 43; Cora Twombly, 44; and her husband Cole Twombly, 50, both of Texhoma, Oklahoma.Court records on Tuesday did not indicate if any had attorneys who could speak on their behalf. Relatives of Tad Cullum and the Twomblys have not returned phone messages seeking comment. Tifany Adams’ stepmother, Elise Adams, said she had no information on the case.According to a witness who spoke to OSBI investigators, all four suspects were part of “an anti-government group that had a religious affiliation,” according to the affidavit. OSBI investigators learned the group called themselves “God's Misfits” and held regular meetings at the home of the Twomblys and another couple.Tifany Adams, who was involved in the custody dispute with Butler, is the current chair of the Cimarron County Republican Party, according to Oklahoma Republican Party Chairman Nathan Dahm. Cimarron County is the westernmost county at the tip of the Oklahoma Panhandle with a population of fewer than 2,300 people.Dahm said officials at the state party did not know Adams. He said given how rural the county is, “it could have been three people who showed up at the county convention and elected her.”WHAT'S NEXT?All four suspects were scheduled for an initial appearance Wednesday in Texas County District Court.During an initial appearance in Oklahoma, a judge will typically review the formal charges and enter a not guilty plea on behalf of the defendant. The judge also will determine if the defendants have hired an attorney or will have a state-appointed attorney represent them and will schedule another court date for the defendants to appear.

How Kansas women's disappearance on a drive to pick up kids led to 4 arrests in Oklahoma

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned whether federal prosecutors went too far in bringing obstruction charges against hundreds of participants in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/search?q=trump#nt=navsearch">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;faces the same charge for his efforts to overturn his election loss in 2020.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/23-5572">Click here to listen</a> to the oral arguments

The justices heard arguments over the charge of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-jan-6-obstruction-charges-challenge-2c6205622672c65a4ce81b2ba4c8303c">obstruction of an official proceeding</a>&nbsp;in the case of Joseph Fischer, a former Pennsylvania police officer who has been indicted for his role in disrupting Congress’ certification of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory</a>&nbsp;over Trump. Fischer is one of 330 people facing that charge, which stems from a law passed in the aftermath of the Enron financial scandal more than two decades ago.

It was not clear after more than 90 minutes of arguments precisely where the court would land, although conservative justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch appeared most likely to side with Fischer, while liberal Justices Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor seemed more favorable to the Justice Department's position.

The former president and presumptive nominee for the 2024 Republican nomination is facing two charges in a separate case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;in Washington that could be knocked out with a favorable ruling from the nation’s highest court. Next week, the justices will hear arguments over whether Trump has “absolute immunity” from prosecution in that case, a proposition that has so far been rejected by two lower courts.

Smith has argued separately in the immunity case that the obstruction charges against Trump are valid no matter how the court decides Fischer's case. The first former U.S. president under indictment, Trump is on trial on hush money charges in New York and also has been charged with election interference in Georgia and with mishandling classified documents in Florida.

On Tuesday, some of the conservative justices said the law was so broad that it could be used against even peaceful protests and also questioned why the Justice Department has not brought charges under the provision in other violent protests.

Gorsuch appeared to be drawing on actual events when he asked Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar whether people could be charged with obstructing an official proceeding if they rose in protest inside the courtroom, heckled the president at the State of the Union or pulled a fire alarm in the Capitol complex to delay a vote in Congress.

Alito, suggesting the government's reading of the law is too broad, asked whether the charge could be applied to people who disrupted the day's court session by shouting “Keep the January 6 insurrectionists in jail or ”Free the January 6 patriots."

He hastened to add, “What happened on Jan. 6 was very, very serious and I'm not equating this with that.”

The high court case focuses on whether the anti-obstruction provision of a law that was enacted in 2002 in response to the financial scandal that brought down Enron Corp. can be used against Jan. 6 defendants.

Lawyers for Fischer, the former North Cornwall Township police officer, argue that the provision was meant to close a loophole in criminal law and discourage the destruction of records in response to an investigation. Until the Capitol riot, lawyer Jeffrey Green told the court on Fischer's behalf, the provision “had never been used to prosecute anything other than evidence tampering.”

But Prelogar, the administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, said the other side is reading the law too narrowly, arguing it serves as a “classic catchall” designed to deal with the obstruction of an official proceeding. She said Fischer joined a “violent mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol to prevent the peaceful transition of power.”

The obstruction charge is among the most widely used felony charges brought in the massive federal prosecution following the violent insurrection. It carries a maximum prison term of 20 years, but Prelogar said the average term imposed so far is about two years.

Roughly 170 Jan. 6 defendants have been convicted of obstructing or conspiring to obstruct the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress, including the leaders of two far-right extremist groups, the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. A number of defendants have had their sentencings delayed until after the justices rule on the matter.

Some rioters have even won early release from prison while the appeal is pending over concerns that they might end up serving longer than they should have if the Supreme Court rules against the Justice Department. They include&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-delaware-prisons-6057e74630701e1f77cf84aacbb3caaf">Kevin Seefried, a Delaware man who threatened a Black police officer</a>&nbsp;with a pole attached to a Confederate battle flag as he stormed the Capitol. Seefried was sentenced last year to three years behind bars, but a judge recently ordered that he be released one year into his prison term while awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling.

Most lower court judges who have weighed in have allowed the charge to stand. Among them, U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, a Trump appointee, wrote that “statutes often reach beyond the principal evil that animated them.”

But U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, another Trump appointee, dismissed the charge against Fischer and two other defendants, writing that prosecutors went too far. A divided panel of the federal appeals court in Washington reinstated the charge before the Supreme Court agreed to take up the case.

While it’s not important to the Supreme Court case, the two sides present starkly differing accounts of Fischer’s actions on Jan. 6. Fischer's lawyers say he “was not part of the mob” that forced lawmakers to flee the House and Senate chambers, noting that he entered the Capitol after Congress had recessed. The weight of the crowd pushed Fischer into a line of police inside, they said in a court filing.

Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Matt Gaetz of Florida and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia are among 23 Republican members of Congress who say the administration's use of the obstruction charge “presents an intolerable risk of politicized prosecutions. Only a clear rebuke from this Court will stop the madness.”

The Justice Department says Fischer can be heard on a video yelling “Charge!” before he pushed through a crowd and “crashed into the police line.” Prosecutors also cite text messages Fischer sent before Jan. 6 saying things might turn violent and social media posts after the riot in which he wrote, “we pushed police back about 25 feet.”

More than 1,350 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes. Approximately 1,000 of them have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury or judge after a trial.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday is taking up the first of two cases that could affect the criminal prosecution of former President Donald Trump for his efforts to overturn his election loss in 2020. Hundreds of charges stemming from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Capitol riot</a>&nbsp;also are at stake.

The justices are hearing arguments over the charge of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-jan-6-obstruction-charges-challenge-2c6205622672c65a4ce81b2ba4c8303c">obstruction of an official proceeding</a>. That charge, stemming from a law passed in the aftermath of the Enron financial scandal more than two decades ago, has been brought against 330 people, according to the Justice Department. The court will consider whether it can be used against those who disrupted Congress’ certification of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory</a>&nbsp;over Trump.

The former president and presumptive nominee for the 2024 Republican nomination is facing two charges in the case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;in Washington that could be knocked out with a favorable ruling from the nation's highest court. Next week, the justices will hear arguments over whether Trump has “absolute immunity” from prosecution in the case, a proposition that has so far been rejected by two lower courts.

The first former U.S. president under indictment, Trump is on trial on hush money charges in New York and also has been charged with election interference in Georgia and with mishandling classified documents in Florida.

In Tuesday's case, the court is hearing an appeal from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-pennsylvania-lebanon-elections-6d2ee8d62956fbefb167e0c079192d9b">Joseph Fischer</a>, a former Pennsylvania police officer who has been indicted on seven counts, including obstruction, for his actions on Jan. 6, 2021, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a mob of Trump supporters</a>&nbsp;stormed the Capitol in a bid to keep Biden, a Democrat, from taking the White House. Lawyers for Fischer argue that the charge doesn't cover his conduct.

The obstruction charge, which carries up to 20 years behind bars, is among the most widely used felony charges brought in the massive federal prosecution following the deadly insurrection.

Some rioters have even won early release from prison while the appeal is pending over concerns that they might end up serving longer than they should have if the Supreme Court rules against the Justice Department. That includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-delaware-prisons-6057e74630701e1f77cf84aacbb3caaf">Kevin Seefried, a Delaware man who threatened a Black police officer</a>&nbsp;with a pole attached to a Confederate battle flag as he stormed the Capitol. Seefried was sentenced last year to three years behind bars, but a judge recently ordered that he be released one year into his prison term while awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling.

Fischer's lawyers argue that the provision was meant to close a loophole in criminal law and discourage the destruction of records in response to an investigation. Until the Capitol riot, they told the court, every criminal case using the provision had involved allegations of destroying or otherwise manipulating records.

But the administration says the other side is reading the law too narrowly, arguing it serves “as a catchall offense designed to ensure complete coverage of all forms of corrupt obstruction of an official proceeding,” including Fischer's “alleged conduct in joining a violent riot to disrupt the joint session of Congress certifying the presidential election results.”

Smith has argued separately in the immunity case that the obstruction charges against Trump are valid, no matter the outcome of Fischer's case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614042711157.png" alt="Photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned whether federal prosecutors went too far in bringing obstruction charges against hundreds of participants in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/search?q=trump#nt=navsearch">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;faces the same charge for his efforts to overturn his election loss in 2020.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/audio/2023/23-5572">Click here to listen</a> to the oral argumentsThe justices heard arguments over the charge of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-jan-6-obstruction-charges-challenge-2c6205622672c65a4ce81b2ba4c8303c">obstruction of an official proceeding</a>&nbsp;in the case of Joseph Fischer, a former Pennsylvania police officer who has been indicted for his role in disrupting Congress’ certification of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory</a>&nbsp;over Trump. Fischer is one of 330 people facing that charge, which stems from a law passed in the aftermath of the Enron financial scandal more than two decades ago.It was not clear after more than 90 minutes of arguments precisely where the court would land, although conservative justices Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch appeared most likely to side with Fischer, while liberal Justices Elena Kagan and Sonia Sotomayor seemed more favorable to the Justice Department's position.The former president and presumptive nominee for the 2024 Republican nomination is facing two charges in a separate case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;in Washington that could be knocked out with a favorable ruling from the nation’s highest court. Next week, the justices will hear arguments over whether Trump has “absolute immunity” from prosecution in that case, a proposition that has so far been rejected by two lower courts.Smith has argued separately in the immunity case that the obstruction charges against Trump are valid no matter how the court decides Fischer's case. The first former U.S. president under indictment, Trump is on trial on hush money charges in New York and also has been charged with election interference in Georgia and with mishandling classified documents in Florida.On Tuesday, some of the conservative justices said the law was so broad that it could be used against even peaceful protests and also questioned why the Justice Department has not brought charges under the provision in other violent protests.Gorsuch appeared to be drawing on actual events when he asked Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar whether people could be charged with obstructing an official proceeding if they rose in protest inside the courtroom, heckled the president at the State of the Union or pulled a fire alarm in the Capitol complex to delay a vote in Congress.Alito, suggesting the government's reading of the law is too broad, asked whether the charge could be applied to people who disrupted the day's court session by shouting “Keep the January 6 insurrectionists in jail or ”Free the January 6 patriots."He hastened to add, “What happened on Jan. 6 was very, very serious and I'm not equating this with that.”The high court case focuses on whether the anti-obstruction provision of a law that was enacted in 2002 in response to the financial scandal that brought down Enron Corp. can be used against Jan. 6 defendants.Lawyers for Fischer, the former North Cornwall Township police officer, argue that the provision was meant to close a loophole in criminal law and discourage the destruction of records in response to an investigation. Until the Capitol riot, lawyer Jeffrey Green told the court on Fischer's behalf, the provision “had never been used to prosecute anything other than evidence tampering.”But Prelogar, the administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, said the other side is reading the law too narrowly, arguing it serves as a “classic catchall” designed to deal with the obstruction of an official proceeding. She said Fischer joined a “violent mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol to prevent the peaceful transition of power.”The obstruction charge is among the most widely used felony charges brought in the massive federal prosecution following the violent insurrection. It carries a maximum prison term of 20 years, but Prelogar said the average term imposed so far is about two years.Roughly 170 Jan. 6 defendants have been convicted of obstructing or conspiring to obstruct the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress, including the leaders of two far-right extremist groups, the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. A number of defendants have had their sentencings delayed until after the justices rule on the matter.Some rioters have even won early release from prison while the appeal is pending over concerns that they might end up serving longer than they should have if the Supreme Court rules against the Justice Department. They include&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-delaware-prisons-6057e74630701e1f77cf84aacbb3caaf">Kevin Seefried, a Delaware man who threatened a Black police officer</a>&nbsp;with a pole attached to a Confederate battle flag as he stormed the Capitol. Seefried was sentenced last year to three years behind bars, but a judge recently ordered that he be released one year into his prison term while awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling.Most lower court judges who have weighed in have allowed the charge to stand. Among them, U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, a Trump appointee, wrote that “statutes often reach beyond the principal evil that animated them.”But U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, another Trump appointee, dismissed the charge against Fischer and two other defendants, writing that prosecutors went too far. A divided panel of the federal appeals court in Washington reinstated the charge before the Supreme Court agreed to take up the case.While it’s not important to the Supreme Court case, the two sides present starkly differing accounts of Fischer’s actions on Jan. 6. Fischer's lawyers say he “was not part of the mob” that forced lawmakers to flee the House and Senate chambers, noting that he entered the Capitol after Congress had recessed. The weight of the crowd pushed Fischer into a line of police inside, they said in a court filing.Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Matt Gaetz of Florida and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia are among 23 Republican members of Congress who say the administration's use of the obstruction charge “presents an intolerable risk of politicized prosecutions. Only a clear rebuke from this Court will stop the madness.”The Justice Department says Fischer can be heard on a video yelling “Charge!” before he pushed through a crowd and “crashed into the police line.” Prosecutors also cite text messages Fischer sent before Jan. 6 saying things might turn violent and social media posts after the riot in which he wrote, “we pushed police back about 25 feet.”More than 1,350 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes. Approximately 1,000 of them have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury or judge after a trial.-----------------WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Tuesday is taking up the first of two cases that could affect the criminal prosecution of former President Donald Trump for his efforts to overturn his election loss in 2020. Hundreds of charges stemming from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/capitol-siege">Capitol riot</a>&nbsp;also are at stake.The justices are hearing arguments over the charge of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-riot-jan-6-obstruction-charges-challenge-2c6205622672c65a4ce81b2ba4c8303c">obstruction of an official proceeding</a>. That charge, stemming from a law passed in the aftermath of the Enron financial scandal more than two decades ago, has been brought against 330 people, according to the Justice Department. The court will consider whether it can be used against those who disrupted Congress’ certification of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-wins-white-house-ap-fd58df73aa677acb74fce2a69adb71f9">Joe Biden’s 2020 presidential election victory</a>&nbsp;over Trump.The former president and presumptive nominee for the 2024 Republican nomination is facing two charges in the case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;in Washington that could be knocked out with a favorable ruling from the nation's highest court. Next week, the justices will hear arguments over whether Trump has “absolute immunity” from prosecution in the case, a proposition that has so far been rejected by two lower courts.The first former U.S. president under indictment, Trump is on trial on hush money charges in New York and also has been charged with election interference in Georgia and with mishandling classified documents in Florida.In Tuesday's case, the court is hearing an appeal from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-pennsylvania-lebanon-elections-6d2ee8d62956fbefb167e0c079192d9b">Joseph Fischer</a>, a former Pennsylvania police officer who has been indicted on seven counts, including obstruction, for his actions on Jan. 6, 2021, when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-confirm-joe-biden-78104aea082995bbd7412a6e6cd13818">a mob of Trump supporters</a>&nbsp;stormed the Capitol in a bid to keep Biden, a Democrat, from taking the White House. Lawyers for Fischer argue that the charge doesn't cover his conduct.The obstruction charge, which carries up to 20 years behind bars, is among the most widely used felony charges brought in the massive federal prosecution following the deadly insurrection.Roughly 170 Jan. 6 defendants have been convicted of obstructing or conspiring to obstruct the Jan. 6 joint session of Congress, including the leaders of two far-right extremist groups, the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. A number of defendants have had their sentencings delayed until after the justices rule on the matter.Some rioters have even won early release from prison while the appeal is pending over concerns that they might end up serving longer than they should have if the Supreme Court rules against the Justice Department. That includes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-united-states-government-delaware-prisons-6057e74630701e1f77cf84aacbb3caaf">Kevin Seefried, a Delaware man who threatened a Black police officer</a>&nbsp;with a pole attached to a Confederate battle flag as he stormed the Capitol. Seefried was sentenced last year to three years behind bars, but a judge recently ordered that he be released one year into his prison term while awaiting the Supreme Court’s ruling.The high court case focuses on whether the anti-obstruction provision of a law that was enacted in 2002 in response to the financial scandal that brought down Enron Corp. can be used against Jan. 6 defendants.Fischer's lawyers argue that the provision was meant to close a loophole in criminal law and discourage the destruction of records in response to an investigation. Until the Capitol riot, they told the court, every criminal case using the provision had involved allegations of destroying or otherwise manipulating records.But the administration says the other side is reading the law too narrowly, arguing it serves “as a catchall offense designed to ensure complete coverage of all forms of corrupt obstruction of an official proceeding,” including Fischer's “alleged conduct in joining a violent riot to disrupt the joint session of Congress certifying the presidential election results.”Smith has argued separately in the immunity case that the obstruction charges against Trump are valid, no matter the outcome of Fischer's case.Most lower court judges who have weighed in have allowed the charge to stand. Among them, U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, a Trump appointee, wrote that “statutes often reach beyond the principal evil that animated them.”But U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols, another Trump appointee, dismissed the charge against Fischer and two other defendants, writing that prosecutors went too far. A divided panel of the federal appeals court in Washington reinstated the charge before the Supreme Court agreed to take up the case.While it’s not important to the Supreme Court case, the two sides present starkly differing accounts of Fischer’s actions on Jan. 6. Fischer's lawyers say he “was not part of the mob” that forced lawmakers to flee the House and Senate chambers, noting that he entered the Capitol after Congress had recessed. The weight of the crowd pushed Fischer into a line of police inside, they said in a court filing.Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Matt Gaetz of Florida and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia are among 23 Republican members of Congress who say the administration's use of the obstruction charge “presents an intolerable risk of politicized prosecutions. Only a clear rebuke from this Court will stop the madness.”The Justice Department says Fischer can be heard on a video yelling “Charge!” before he pushed through a crowd and “crashed into the police line.” Prosecutors also cite text messages Fischer sent before Jan. 6 saying things might turn violent and social media posts after the riot in which he wrote, “we pushed police back about 25 feet.”More than 1,350 people have been charged with Capitol riot-related federal crimes. Approximately 1,000 of them have pleaded guilty or been convicted by a jury or judge after a trial.

🎧 Supreme Court divided over Jan. 6 charges; implications for Trump

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House sent two articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/alejandro-mayorkas">Alejandro Mayorkas</a>&nbsp;to the Senate on Tuesday, forcing a trial on allegations that he has “willfully and systematically” refused to enforce immigration laws.

<a href="https://d3i6fh83elv35t.cloudfront.net/static/2024/01/Articles-of-Impeachment.pdf">Click here to read full</a> articles of impeachment against Sec. Mayorkas

While the Senate is obligated to hold a trial under the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mayorkas-impeachment-senate-border-a3db11783bbcb197e3e30a3ebad26ed6">rules of impeachment</a>&nbsp;once the charges are walked across the Capitol, the proceedings may not last long. Democrats are expected to try to dismiss or table the charges later this week before the full arguments get underway.

After delivering the articles, the Republican prosecutors appointed by House Speaker Mike Johnson stood in the well of the Senate. The Senate sergeant-at-arms, the chamber’s top security official, called the session to order with a “hear ye! hear ye!” and a notice that “all persons are commanded to keep silence, on pain of imprisonment.”

The House Homeland Security Committee chairman, Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican who is one of the impeachment managers, read the articles aloud as most senators sat in their seats, following along with their own paper copies.

Republicans have argued there should be a full trial. As Johnson signed the articles Monday in preparation for sending them across the Capitol, he said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer should convene a trial to “hold those who engineered this crisis to full account.”

Schumer “is the only impediment to delivering accountability for the American people,” Johnson said. “Pursuant to the Constitution, the House demands a trial.”

After Tuesday's ceremonial procession and presentation of the articles, the proceedings will not begin until Wednesday. Senators will be sworn in as jurors, turning the chamber into the court of impeachment. The Senate will then issue a summons to Mayorkas to inform him of the charges and ask for a written answer. He will not have to appear.

The entire process could be done within hours on Wednesday. Majority Democrats have said the GOP case against Mayorkas doesn’t rise to the “high crimes and misdemeanors” laid out as a bar for impeachment in the Constitution, and Schumer probably has enough votes to end the trial immediately if he decides to do so.

Schumer has said he wants to “address this issue as expeditiously as possible.”

“Impeachment should never be used to settle a policy disagreement,” Schumer said. “That would set a horrible precedent for the Congress.”

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-mayorkas-impeachment-vote-border-security-80cbd5bbb8f512c6814f155f825a1214">narrowly voted</a>&nbsp;in February to impeach Mayorkas for his handling of the U.S.-Mexico border. House Republicans charged in two articles of impeachment that Mayorkas has not only refused to enforce existing law but also breached the public trust by lying to Congress and saying the border was secure. It was the first time in nearly 150 years a Cabinet secretary was impeached.

Since then, Johnson has delayed sending the articles to the Senate for weeks while both chambers finished work on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-shutdown-budget-speaker-johnson-85dc1e93f6c49c154c02a166d0e8e784">government funding</a>&nbsp;legislation and took a two-week recess. Johnson had said he would send them to the Senate last week, but he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mayorkas-impeachment-house-speaker-johnson-border-534cbf59e92c9cf141bba1ff38dc01cf">punted again</a>&nbsp;after Senate Republicans said they wanted more time to prepare.

South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the Senate's No. 2 Republican, has said the Senate needs to hold a full trial at which it can examine the evidence against Mayorkas and come to a conclusion.

“This is an absolute debacle at the southern border," Thune said. “It is a national security crisis. There needs to be accountability.”

House impeachment managers previewed some of their arguments at a hearing with Mayorkas on Tuesday morning on President Joe Biden's budget request for the department.

Green, the chairman of the House Homeland Security panel, told the secretary that he has a duty under the law to control and guard U.S. borders, and “during your three years as secretary, you have failed to fulfill this oath. You have refused to comply with the laws passed by Congress, and you have breached the public trust.”

Mayorkas defended the department's efforts but said the nation's immigration system is “fundamentally broken, and only Congress can fix it."

Other impeachment managers are Michael McCaul of Texas, Andy Biggs of Arizona, Ben Cline of Virginia, Andrew Garbarino of New York, Michael Guest of Mississippi, Harriet Hageman of Wyoming, Clay Higgins of Louisiana, Laurel Lee of Florida, August Plfuger of Texas and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.

At a press conference with a group of Republican senators after the articles were delivered, the impeachment managers demanded that Schumer move forward with their case.

“The voice of the people is very clear,” said Texas Rep. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “Secure the border and impeach this man, this criminal.”

Exactly how Democrats will proceed on Wednesday is still unclear. Impeachment rules generally allow the Senate majority to decide how to manage the trial, and Schumer has not said exactly what he will do.

After the jurors are sworn in, Senate Republicans are likely to try to raise a series of objections if Schumer calls a vote to dismiss or table. But ultimately they cannot block a dismissal if majority Democrats have the votes.

Some Republicans have said they would like time to debate whether Mayorkas should be impeached, even though debate time is usually not included in impeachment proceedings. Negotiations were underway between the two parties over whether Schumer may allow that time and give senators in both parties a chance to discuss the impeachment before it is dismissed.

While most Republicans oppose quick dismissal, some have hinted they could vote with Democrats.

Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said last week he wasn't sure what he would do if there were a move to dismiss the trial. “I think it’s virtually certain that there will not be the conviction of someone when the constitutional test has not been met,” he said.

At the same time, Romney said he wants to at least express his view that “Mayorkas has done a terrible job, but he’s following the direction of the president and has not met the constitutional test of a high crime or misdemeanor.”

In any case, Republicans would not be able to win the support of the two-thirds of the Senate that is needed to convict and remove Mayorkas from office. Democrats control the Senate, 51-49, and they appear to be united against the impeachment effort. Not one House Democrat supported it, either.

Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat who is facing a tough reelection bid in Ohio, called the impeachment trial a “distraction," arguing that Republicans should instead support a bipartisan border compromise they scuttled earlier this year.

If Democrats are unable to dismiss or table the articles, they could follow the precedent of several impeachment trials for federal judges over the last century and hold a vote to create a trial committee that would investigate the charges. While there is sufficient precedent for this approach, Democrats may prefer to end the process completely, especially in a presidential election year when immigration and border security are top issues.

If the Senate were to proceed to an impeachment trial, it would be the third in five years. Democrats impeached President Donald Trump twice, once over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-elections-politics-election-2020-d78192d45b176f73ad435ae9fb926ed3">his dealings with Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-vote-capitol-siege-0a6f2a348a6e43f27d5e1dc486027860">a second time</a>&nbsp;in the days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2021-united-states-capitol-riot">the Jan. 6, 2021, attack</a>&nbsp;on the Capitol.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-ut-state-wire-acquittals-politics-93c85dcfb0e6b2185391965e77ebea51">Trump was acquitted</a>&nbsp;by the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-riots-trials-impeachments-b245b52fd7d4a079ae199c954baba452">both times</a>.

At a trial, senators would be forced to sit in their seats for the duration, maybe weeks, while the House impeachment managers and lawyers representing Mayorkas make their cases. The Senate is allowed to call witnesses, as well, if it so decides, and it can ask questions of both sides after the opening arguments are finished.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713313631127.png" alt="Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (left aisle) watches as the articles of impeachment arrive in the Senate Tuesday-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (left aisle) watches as the articles of impeachment arrive in the Senate Tuesday-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House sent two articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/alejandro-mayorkas">Alejandro Mayorkas</a>&nbsp;to the Senate on Tuesday, forcing a trial on allegations that he has “willfully and systematically” refused to enforce immigration laws.<a href="https://d3i6fh83elv35t.cloudfront.net/static/2024/01/Articles-of-Impeachment.pdf">Click here to read full</a> articles of impeachment against Sec. Mayorkas<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WATCH: House impeachment managers deliver articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to the U.S. Senate. <a href="https://t.co/dNCsJ3Qgeu">pic.twitter.com/dNCsJ3Qgeu</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1780306614072783343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>While the Senate is obligated to hold a trial under the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mayorkas-impeachment-senate-border-a3db11783bbcb197e3e30a3ebad26ed6">rules of impeachment</a>&nbsp;once the charges are walked across the Capitol, the proceedings may not last long. Democrats are expected to try to dismiss or table the charges later this week before the full arguments get underway.After delivering the articles, the Republican prosecutors appointed by House Speaker Mike Johnson stood in the well of the Senate. The Senate sergeant-at-arms, the chamber’s top security official, called the session to order with a “hear ye! hear ye!” and a notice that “all persons are commanded to keep silence, on pain of imprisonment.”The House Homeland Security Committee chairman, Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican who is one of the impeachment managers, read the articles aloud as most senators sat in their seats, following along with their own paper copies.Republicans have argued there should be a full trial. As Johnson signed the articles Monday in preparation for sending them across the Capitol, he said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer should convene a trial to “hold those who engineered this crisis to full account.”Schumer “is the only impediment to delivering accountability for the American people,” Johnson said. “Pursuant to the Constitution, the House demands a trial.”After Tuesday's ceremonial procession and presentation of the articles, the proceedings will not begin until Wednesday. Senators will be sworn in as jurors, turning the chamber into the court of impeachment. The Senate will then issue a summons to Mayorkas to inform him of the charges and ask for a written answer. He will not have to appear.The entire process could be done within hours on Wednesday. Majority Democrats have said the GOP case against Mayorkas doesn’t rise to the “high crimes and misdemeanors” laid out as a bar for impeachment in the Constitution, and Schumer probably has enough votes to end the trial immediately if he decides to do so.Schumer has said he wants to “address this issue as expeditiously as possible.”“Impeachment should never be used to settle a policy disagreement,” Schumer said. “That would set a horrible precedent for the Congress.”The House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/house-mayorkas-impeachment-vote-border-security-80cbd5bbb8f512c6814f155f825a1214">narrowly voted</a>&nbsp;in February to impeach Mayorkas for his handling of the U.S.-Mexico border. House Republicans charged in two articles of impeachment that Mayorkas has not only refused to enforce existing law but also breached the public trust by lying to Congress and saying the border was secure. It was the first time in nearly 150 years a Cabinet secretary was impeached.Since then, Johnson has delayed sending the articles to the Senate for weeks while both chambers finished work on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-shutdown-budget-speaker-johnson-85dc1e93f6c49c154c02a166d0e8e784">government funding</a>&nbsp;legislation and took a two-week recess. Johnson had said he would send them to the Senate last week, but he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mayorkas-impeachment-house-speaker-johnson-border-534cbf59e92c9cf141bba1ff38dc01cf">punted again</a>&nbsp;after Senate Republicans said they wanted more time to prepare.South Dakota Sen. John Thune, the Senate's No. 2 Republican, has said the Senate needs to hold a full trial at which it can examine the evidence against Mayorkas and come to a conclusion.“This is an absolute debacle at the southern border," Thune said. “It is a national security crisis. There needs to be accountability.”House impeachment managers previewed some of their arguments at a hearing with Mayorkas on Tuesday morning on President Joe Biden's budget request for the department.Green, the chairman of the House Homeland Security panel, told the secretary that he has a duty under the law to control and guard U.S. borders, and “during your three years as secretary, you have failed to fulfill this oath. You have refused to comply with the laws passed by Congress, and you have breached the public trust.”Mayorkas defended the department's efforts but said the nation's immigration system is “fundamentally broken, and only Congress can fix it."Other impeachment managers are Michael McCaul of Texas, Andy Biggs of Arizona, Ben Cline of Virginia, Andrew Garbarino of New York, Michael Guest of Mississippi, Harriet Hageman of Wyoming, Clay Higgins of Louisiana, Laurel Lee of Florida, August Plfuger of Texas and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia.At a press conference with a group of Republican senators after the articles were delivered, the impeachment managers demanded that Schumer move forward with their case.“The voice of the people is very clear,” said Texas Rep. Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “Secure the border and impeach this man, this criminal.”Exactly how Democrats will proceed on Wednesday is still unclear. Impeachment rules generally allow the Senate majority to decide how to manage the trial, and Schumer has not said exactly what he will do.After the jurors are sworn in, Senate Republicans are likely to try to raise a series of objections if Schumer calls a vote to dismiss or table. But ultimately they cannot block a dismissal if majority Democrats have the votes.Some Republicans have said they would like time to debate whether Mayorkas should be impeached, even though debate time is usually not included in impeachment proceedings. Negotiations were underway between the two parties over whether Schumer may allow that time and give senators in both parties a chance to discuss the impeachment before it is dismissed.While most Republicans oppose quick dismissal, some have hinted they could vote with Democrats.Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, said last week he wasn't sure what he would do if there were a move to dismiss the trial. “I think it’s virtually certain that there will not be the conviction of someone when the constitutional test has not been met,” he said.At the same time, Romney said he wants to at least express his view that “Mayorkas has done a terrible job, but he’s following the direction of the president and has not met the constitutional test of a high crime or misdemeanor.”In any case, Republicans would not be able to win the support of the two-thirds of the Senate that is needed to convict and remove Mayorkas from office. Democrats control the Senate, 51-49, and they appear to be united against the impeachment effort. Not one House Democrat supported it, either.Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat who is facing a tough reelection bid in Ohio, called the impeachment trial a “distraction," arguing that Republicans should instead support a bipartisan border compromise they scuttled earlier this year.If Democrats are unable to dismiss or table the articles, they could follow the precedent of several impeachment trials for federal judges over the last century and hold a vote to create a trial committee that would investigate the charges. While there is sufficient precedent for this approach, Democrats may prefer to end the process completely, especially in a presidential election year when immigration and border security are top issues.If the Senate were to proceed to an impeachment trial, it would be the third in five years. Democrats impeached President Donald Trump twice, once over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-elections-politics-election-2020-d78192d45b176f73ad435ae9fb926ed3">his dealings with Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-impeachment-vote-capitol-siege-0a6f2a348a6e43f27d5e1dc486027860">a second time</a>&nbsp;in the days after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/2021-united-states-capitol-riot">the Jan. 6, 2021, attack</a>&nbsp;on the Capitol.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-ap-top-news-ut-state-wire-acquittals-politics-93c85dcfb0e6b2185391965e77ebea51">Trump was acquitted</a>&nbsp;by the Senate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-capitol-siege-riots-trials-impeachments-b245b52fd7d4a079ae199c954baba452">both times</a>.At a trial, senators would be forced to sit in their seats for the duration, maybe weeks, while the House impeachment managers and lawyers representing Mayorkas make their cases. The Senate is allowed to call witnesses, as well, if it so decides, and it can ask questions of both sides after the opening arguments are finished.

Read the Mayorkas impeachment articles delivered to the U.S. Senate

Nebraska Department of Transportation

April 15, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Nebraska chapter, and partner contractors across the state are recognizing Work Zone Awareness Week, which occurs nationally from April 15-19. This national effort, sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), emphasizes simple actions everyone can take.

“The safety of NDOT’s people and our fellow contractors who are out in work zones, as well as Nebraskans and our state’s guests traveling through, is not a coincidence. Maintaining the quality of life we have in Nebraska requires a lot of commitment, intention and cooperation," says Vicki Kramer, NDOT Director. "We all must prioritize their safety by avoiding phone use while driving, slowing down, and remaining watchful when driving through work zones in Nebraska. This is everyone’s responsibility.”

Governor Pillen signed a proclamation declaring this week as Work Zone Awareness Week to serve as a reminder for everyone to drive safely this construction season and remain vigilant.

“One of our biggest concerns when it comes to the contractors working hard to build our state’s infrastructure is distracted driving. When you see orange cones and signs, please slow down and pay attention. Our goal at the end of the day is to get all construction workers and members of the travelling public home safe to their families, said Katie Wilson, AGC Executive Director.

NDOT and AGC encourage all motorists to slow down, be alert, and give construction workers the space they need to work. Together, we can create a safer environment for those who are at the highest risk in work zones.

Nebraska Department of TransportationApril 15, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Nebraska chapter, and partner contractors across the state are recognizing Work Zone Awareness Week, which occurs nationally from April 15-19. This national effort, sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), emphasizes simple actions everyone can take.“The safety of NDOT’s people and our fellow contractors who are out in work zones, as well as Nebraskans and our state’s guests traveling through, is not a coincidence. Maintaining the quality of life we have in Nebraska requires a lot of commitment, intention and cooperation," says Vicki Kramer, NDOT Director. "We all must prioritize their safety by avoiding phone use while driving, slowing down, and remaining watchful when driving through work zones in Nebraska. This is everyone’s responsibility.”Governor Pillen signed a proclamation declaring this week as Work Zone Awareness Week to serve as a reminder for everyone to drive safely this construction season and remain vigilant.“One of our biggest concerns when it comes to the contractors working hard to build our state’s infrastructure is distracted driving. When you see orange cones and signs, please slow down and pay attention. Our goal at the end of the day is to get all construction workers and members of the travelling public home safe to their families, said Katie Wilson, AGC Executive Director.NDOT and AGC encourage all motorists to slow down, be alert, and give construction workers the space they need to work. Together, we can create a safer environment for those who are at the highest risk in work zones.

NDOT, AGC, and Partner Contractors Across the State Recognize Work Zone Awareness Week

Lincoln, April 16, 2024- Selection is underway for consumers served by Black Hills Energy’s Choice Gas Program. The selection period for residential/commercial Choice customers in the Black Hills area runs through April 24.

The Choice Gas Program, administered by Black Hills Energy allows residential, commercial,and ag customers residing in certain areas of the state to choose a third-party supplier to providetheir natural gas.

“Each choice customer has an opportunity to choose their natural gas supplier,” said NicholeMulcahy, Director PSC Natural Gas Department. “If they make a choice, they could see a benefitby receiving a lower price for their natural gas. Customers who don’t make a selection, areassigned a default supplier and rate, which may result in them paying more.”

Consumers in the areas served by the program, should have received information from providersto help them make an informed choice on which company they would like to be their supplier.Those unsure if they are in an area served by the Choice Gas Program, are encouraged to contactBlack Hills Energy at 1-877-245-3506.Mulcahy said, “We urge all customers to review their options and take the time to make achoice.”

Information for Nebraska Choice Gas customers can be found on the Black Hills Energy website&lt;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/services/choice-gas-program/nebraska-choice-gas-%0bcustomers" target="_blank">https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/services/choice-gas-program/nebraska-choice-gas-customers</a>&nbsp;&gt;.&nbsp; Additional information on the Choice Gas Program can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/natural-gas/consumer-choice-program" target="_blank">Consumer Choice Program</a>&nbsp;page of the PSC website.

Public Service CommissionLincoln, April 16, 2024- Selection is underway for consumers served by Black Hills Energy’s Choice Gas Program. The selection period for residential/commercial Choice customers in the Black Hills area runs through April 24.The Choice Gas Program, administered by Black Hills Energy allows residential, commercial,and ag customers residing in certain areas of the state to choose a third-party supplier to providetheir natural gas.“Each choice customer has an opportunity to choose their natural gas supplier,” said NicholeMulcahy, Director PSC Natural Gas Department. “If they make a choice, they could see a benefitby receiving a lower price for their natural gas. Customers who don’t make a selection, areassigned a default supplier and rate, which may result in them paying more.”Consumers in the areas served by the program, should have received information from providersto help them make an informed choice on which company they would like to be their supplier.Those unsure if they are in an area served by the Choice Gas Program, are encouraged to contactBlack Hills Energy at 1-877-245-3506.Mulcahy said, “We urge all customers to review their options and take the time to make achoice.”Information for Nebraska Choice Gas customers can be found on the Black Hills Energy website&lt;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/services/choice-gas-program/nebraska-choice-gas-%0bcustomers" target="_blank">https://www.blackhillsenergy.com/services/choice-gas-program/nebraska-choice-gas-customers</a>&nbsp;&gt;.&nbsp; Additional information on the Choice Gas Program can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://psc.nebraska.gov/natural-gas/consumer-choice-program" target="_blank">Consumer Choice Program</a>&nbsp;page of the PSC website.

PSC REMINDS CHOICE GAS CUSTOMERS TO CHOOSE A PROVIDER

Attorney General Mike Hilgers&nbsp;

LINCOLN—In the concluding days of the 2024 Session, Attorney General Mike Hilgers thanks the sponsoring Senators and Legislature for strengthening protections for vulnerable Nebraskans who have been exploited.

"I am grateful for the Legislature’s unanimous vote in favor of our office's priority bills to protect Nebraskans. I am especially grateful to Senator Bosn and Senator Armendariz for their leadership in successfully carrying these bills. As a result, our office will be better able to protect Nebraskans from financial exploitation and stand up for survivors of sex trafficking, abuse, and assault,” stated Attorney General Hilgers.&nbsp;

Senator Carolyn Bosn sponsored and prioritized LB934 to strengthen the Attorney General's ability to protect Nebraskans who have been financially exploited. Nebraskans who get scammed or otherwise deceived deserve the best opportunity to get their money back. This bill allows the Attorney General to impound or freeze stolen money or assets, increasing the likelihood that consumers get made whole. The bill also harmonizes Nebraska’s two main consumer protection statutes and allows for consumer claims to be heard by juries.&nbsp;

Senator Christy Armendariz sponsored LB1096 to combat the proliferation of child exploitation, human trafficking, and sexual assault content online, with the primary goal of standing up for survivors. LB1096 allows the Attorney General to hold online actors and platforms accountable for purveying sexual abuse content, including content that exploits children and trafficking survivors. The bill is a continuation of the ongoing partnership between the Legislature, the Attorney General, and the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force.

On March 19, the Legislature amended LB1096 into LB934. On April 10, 2024, this combined priority bill passed 46-0. Governor Jim Pillen signed LB 934 into law on&nbsp;April 15, 2024. Because the bill has an Emergency Clause, the law goes into effect on the day of the Governor's signature.

Nebraskans can report financial exploitation and exploitative content directly to the Consumer Affairs Response Team in the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office at 402-471-2682.

Attorney General Mike Hilgers&nbsp;LINCOLN—In the concluding days of the 2024 Session, Attorney General Mike Hilgers thanks the sponsoring Senators and Legislature for strengthening protections for vulnerable Nebraskans who have been exploited."I am grateful for the Legislature’s unanimous vote in favor of our office's priority bills to protect Nebraskans. I am especially grateful to Senator Bosn and Senator Armendariz for their leadership in successfully carrying these bills. As a result, our office will be better able to protect Nebraskans from financial exploitation and stand up for survivors of sex trafficking, abuse, and assault,” stated Attorney General Hilgers.&nbsp;Senator Carolyn Bosn sponsored and prioritized LB934 to strengthen the Attorney General's ability to protect Nebraskans who have been financially exploited. Nebraskans who get scammed or otherwise deceived deserve the best opportunity to get their money back. This bill allows the Attorney General to impound or freeze stolen money or assets, increasing the likelihood that consumers get made whole. The bill also harmonizes Nebraska’s two main consumer protection statutes and allows for consumer claims to be heard by juries.&nbsp;Senator Christy Armendariz sponsored LB1096 to combat the proliferation of child exploitation, human trafficking, and sexual assault content online, with the primary goal of standing up for survivors. LB1096 allows the Attorney General to hold online actors and platforms accountable for purveying sexual abuse content, including content that exploits children and trafficking survivors. The bill is a continuation of the ongoing partnership between the Legislature, the Attorney General, and the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force.On March 19, the Legislature amended LB1096 into LB934. On April 10, 2024, this combined priority bill passed 46-0. Governor Jim Pillen signed LB 934 into law on&nbsp;April 15, 2024. Because the bill has an Emergency Clause, the law goes into effect on the day of the Governor's signature.Nebraskans can report financial exploitation and exploitative content directly to the Consumer Affairs Response Team in the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office at 402-471-2682.

 Attorney General Hilgers Thanks the Legislature for Strengthening Protections for Vulnerable Nebraskans

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defiant and determined, House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;pushed back Tuesday against mounting Republican anger over his proposed U.S. aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other allies, and rejected a call to step aside or risk a vote to oust him from office.

“I am not resigning,” Johnson said after a testy morning meeting of fellow House Republicans at the Capitol

Johnson referred to himself as a “wartime speaker” of the House and indicated in his strongest self-defense yet he would press forward with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-ukraine-house-speaker-42a2f281a5437beaa8af4c3345987637">U.S. national security aid package</a>, a situation that would force him to rely on Democrats to help pass it, over objections from his weakened majority.

“We are simply here trying to do our jobs,” Johnson said, calling the motion to oust him “absurd ... not helpful.”

Tuesday brought a definitive shift in tone from both the House Republicans and the speaker himself at a pivotal moment as the embattled leader tries, against the wishes of his majority, to marshal the votes needed to send the stalled national security aid for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-hamas-latest-04-16-2024-2d556f46e9dd08b68930f86777524b21">Israel</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-conscription-law-a8ccc48e6c15276c5b5035288ed016ee">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and other overseas allies to passage.

Johnson appeared emboldened by his meeting late last week with Donald Trump when the Republican former president threw him a political lifeline with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-johnson-maralago-congress-c6eaace204882df054795cf70a5fe60a">nod of support</a>&nbsp;after their private talk at Trump's Mar-A-Lago resort in Florida. At his own press conference Tuesday, Johnson spoke of the importance of ensuring Trump, who is now at his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/trump-trial-hush-money-updates-april-16">criminal trial</a>&nbsp;in New York, is re-elected to the White House.

Johnson also spoke over the weekend with President Joe Biden as well as other congressional leaders about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-ukraine-aid-house-speaker-johnson-912a7419b00749fbc2f472df93f67bb1">emerging U.S. aid package</a>, which the speaker plans to move in separate votes for each section — with bills for Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific region. He spoke about it with Biden again late Monday.

It's a complicated approach that breaks apart the Senate's $95 billion aid package for separate votes, and then stitches it back together for the president's signature.

The approach will require the speaker to cobble together bipartisan majorities with different factions of House Republicans and Democrats on each measure. Additionally, Johnson is preparing a fourth measure that would include various Republican-preferred national security priorities, such as a plan to seize some Russian assets in U.S. banks to help fund Ukraine and another to turn the economic aid for Ukraine into loans.

The plan is not an automatic deal-breaker for Democrats in the House and Senate, with leaders refraining from comment until they see the actual text of the measure, due out later Tuesday.

House Republicans, however, were livid that Johnson will be leaving their top priority — efforts to impose more security at the U.S.-Mexico border — on the sidelines. Some predicted Johnson will not be able to push ahead with voting on the package this week, as planned..

Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., called the morning meeting an “argument fest.”

She said Johnson was "most definitely'' losing support for the plan, but he seemed undeterred in trying to move forward despite “what the majority of the Conference” of Republicans wanted.

When the speaker said the House GOP's priority border security bill H.R. 2 would not be considered germane to the package, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a chief sponsor, said it's for the House to determine which provisions and amendments are relevant.

“Things are very unresolved,” Roy said.

Roy said said Republicans want “to be united. They just have to be able to figure out how to do it.”

The speaker faces a threat of ouster from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., the top Trump ally who has filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/speaker-johnson-motion-vacate-marjorie-taylor-greene-3461bd8b95e718e178132ac16f36562a">motion to vacate the speaker</a>&nbsp;from office in a snap vote — much the way Republicans ousted their former speaker, Kevin McCarthy, last fall..

While Greene has not said if or when she will force the issue, and has not found much support for her plan after last year's turmoil over McCarthy's exit, she drew at least one key supporter Tuesday.

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., rose in the meeting and suggested Johnson should step aside, pointing to the example of John Boehner, an even earlier House speaker who announced an early resignation in 2015 rather than risk a vote to oust him, according to Republicans in the room.

“Speaker Johnson must announce a resignation date and allow Republicans to elect a new Speaker to put America First and pass a Republican agenda,” Greene wrote on social media, thanking Massie for his support for her motion to vacate.

Johnson did not respond, according to Republicans in the room, but told the lawmakers they have a "binary" choice" before them.

The speaker explained they either try to pass the package as he is proposing or risk facing a discharge petition from Democrats that would force a vote on their preferred package — the Senate approved measure. But that would leave behind the extra Republican priorities.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defiant and determined, House Speaker&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/mike-johnson/">Mike Johnson</a>&nbsp;pushed back Tuesday against mounting Republican anger over his proposed U.S. aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other allies, and rejected a call to step aside or risk a vote to oust him from office.“I am not resigning,” Johnson said after a testy morning meeting of fellow House Republicans at the Capitol<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpeakerJohnson</a> on calls for his resignation and possible motion to vacate the chair: &quot;I am not resigning and it is in my view an absurd notion that someone would bring a vacate motion when we are simply here trying to do our jobs.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/R0fR3re7JQ">pic.twitter.com/R0fR3re7JQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1780248122024702030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Johnson referred to himself as a “wartime speaker” of the House and indicated in his strongest self-defense yet he would press forward with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-ukraine-house-speaker-42a2f281a5437beaa8af4c3345987637">U.S. national security aid package</a>, a situation that would force him to rely on Democrats to help pass it, over objections from his weakened majority.“We are simply here trying to do our jobs,” Johnson said, calling the motion to oust him “absurd ... not helpful.”Tuesday brought a definitive shift in tone from both the House Republicans and the speaker himself at a pivotal moment as the embattled leader tries, against the wishes of his majority, to marshal the votes needed to send the stalled national security aid for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-hamas-latest-04-16-2024-2d556f46e9dd08b68930f86777524b21">Israel</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-conscription-law-a8ccc48e6c15276c5b5035288ed016ee">Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and other overseas allies to passage.Johnson appeared emboldened by his meeting late last week with Donald Trump when the Republican former president threw him a political lifeline with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-speaker-johnson-maralago-congress-c6eaace204882df054795cf70a5fe60a">nod of support</a>&nbsp;after their private talk at Trump's Mar-A-Lago resort in Florida. At his own press conference Tuesday, Johnson spoke of the importance of ensuring Trump, who is now at his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/trump-trial-hush-money-updates-april-16">criminal trial</a>&nbsp;in New York, is re-elected to the White House.Johnson also spoke over the weekend with President Joe Biden as well as other congressional leaders about the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-ukraine-aid-house-speaker-johnson-912a7419b00749fbc2f472df93f67bb1">emerging U.S. aid package</a>, which the speaker plans to move in separate votes for each section — with bills for Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific region. He spoke about it with Biden again late Monday.It's a complicated approach that breaks apart the Senate's $95 billion aid package for separate votes, and then stitches it back together for the president's signature.The approach will require the speaker to cobble together bipartisan majorities with different factions of House Republicans and Democrats on each measure. Additionally, Johnson is preparing a fourth measure that would include various Republican-preferred national security priorities, such as a plan to seize some Russian assets in U.S. banks to help fund Ukraine and another to turn the economic aid for Ukraine into loans.The plan is not an automatic deal-breaker for Democrats in the House and Senate, with leaders refraining from comment until they see the actual text of the measure, due out later Tuesday.House Republicans, however, were livid that Johnson will be leaving their top priority — efforts to impose more security at the U.S.-Mexico border — on the sidelines. Some predicted Johnson will not be able to push ahead with voting on the package this week, as planned..Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., called the morning meeting an “argument fest.”She said Johnson was "most definitely'' losing support for the plan, but he seemed undeterred in trying to move forward despite “what the majority of the Conference” of Republicans wanted.When the speaker said the House GOP's priority border security bill H.R. 2 would not be considered germane to the package, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a chief sponsor, said it's for the House to determine which provisions and amendments are relevant.“Things are very unresolved,” Roy said.Roy said said Republicans want “to be united. They just have to be able to figure out how to do it.”The speaker faces a threat of ouster from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., the top Trump ally who has filed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/speaker-johnson-motion-vacate-marjorie-taylor-greene-3461bd8b95e718e178132ac16f36562a">motion to vacate the speaker</a>&nbsp;from office in a snap vote — much the way Republicans ousted their former speaker, Kevin McCarthy, last fall..While Greene has not said if or when she will force the issue, and has not found much support for her plan after last year's turmoil over McCarthy's exit, she drew at least one key supporter Tuesday.Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., rose in the meeting and suggested Johnson should step aside, pointing to the example of John Boehner, an even earlier House speaker who announced an early resignation in 2015 rather than risk a vote to oust him, according to Republicans in the room.“Speaker Johnson must announce a resignation date and allow Republicans to elect a new Speaker to put America First and pass a Republican agenda,” Greene wrote on social media, thanking Massie for his support for her motion to vacate.Johnson did not respond, according to Republicans in the room, but told the lawmakers they have a "binary" choice" before them.The speaker explained they either try to pass the package as he is proposing or risk facing a discharge petition from Democrats that would force a vote on their preferred package — the Senate approved measure. But that would leave behind the extra Republican priorities.

🎥 House Speaker won't resign, wants a vote on aid for Ukraine, Israel

NEW YORK (AP) — The historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-new-york-criminal-case-fbdff18df40920b75873b3a40317f5ee">hush-money</a>&nbsp;trial of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;got underway Monday with the arduous process of selecting a jury to hear the case charging the former president with falsifying business records in order to stifle stories about his sex life.

<a href="https://www.nycourts.gov/LegacyPDFS/press/PDFs/Letter-re-jury-selection-4-8-24.pdf">Click here to read </a>the jury selection questionnaire

The day ended without any jurors being chosen. The selection process was scheduled to resume Tuesday.

The first criminal trial of any former U.S. president began as Trump vies to reclaim the White House, creating a remarkable split-screen spectacle of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-primary-georgia-washington-mississippi-hawaii-15bb0084ad656903ffef14cfae822abd">presumptive Republican nominee</a>&nbsp;spending his days as a criminal defendant while simultaneously campaigning for office. He's blended those roles over the last year by presenting himself to supporters, on the campaign trail and on social media, as a target of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-gag-order-hush-money-juan-merchan-f182e7d5c27967b86a59277fd24743e4">politically motivated prosecutions designed to derail his candidacy</a>.

“It’s a scam. It’s a political witch hunt. It continues, and it continues forever,” Trump said after exiting the courtroom, where he sat at the defense table with his lawyers.

After a norm-shattering presidency shadowed by years of investigations, the trial amounts to a reckoning for Trump, who faces four indictments charging him with crimes ranging from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">hoarding classified documents</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">plotting to overturn an election</a>. Yet the political stakes are less clear because a conviction would not preclude him from becoming president and because the allegations in this case date back years and are seen as less grievous than the conduct behind the three other indictments.

The day began with pretrial arguments — including over a potential fine for Trump — before moving in the afternoon into jury selection, where the parties will decide who among them might be picked to determine the legal fate of the former, and potentially future, American president.

After the first members of the jury pool, 96 in all, were summoned into the courtroom, Trump craned his neck to look back at them, whispering to his lawyer as they entered the jury box.

“You are about to participate in a trial by jury. The system of trial by jury is one of the cornerstones of our judicial system,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-criminal-trial-judge-merchan-c227f5eab200cccffb19ed931b4dac92">Judge Juan Merchan told the jurors</a>. “The name of this case is the People of the State of New York vs. Donald Trump.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713221753266.png" alt="Page 11 of the 17 page letter&nbsp; from the court of New York" />
 <figcaption>Page 11 of the 17 page letter&nbsp; from the court of New York</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — The historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-new-york-criminal-case-fbdff18df40920b75873b3a40317f5ee">hush-money</a>&nbsp;trial of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;got underway Monday with the arduous process of selecting a jury to hear the case charging the former president with falsifying business records in order to stifle stories about his sex life.<a href="https://www.nycourts.gov/LegacyPDFS/press/PDFs/Letter-re-jury-selection-4-8-24.pdf">Click here to read </a>the jury selection questionnaireThe day ended without any jurors being chosen. The selection process was scheduled to resume Tuesday.The first criminal trial of any former U.S. president began as Trump vies to reclaim the White House, creating a remarkable split-screen spectacle of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-biden-primary-georgia-washington-mississippi-hawaii-15bb0084ad656903ffef14cfae822abd">presumptive Republican nominee</a>&nbsp;spending his days as a criminal defendant while simultaneously campaigning for office. He's blended those roles over the last year by presenting himself to supporters, on the campaign trail and on social media, as a target of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-gag-order-hush-money-juan-merchan-f182e7d5c27967b86a59277fd24743e4">politically motivated prosecutions designed to derail his candidacy</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Former President Trump remarks ahead of Hush Money Trial: &quot;This is political persecution this is a persecution like never before....it&#39;s an assault on America.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/gdPUMgl8KQ">pic.twitter.com/gdPUMgl8KQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1779869871066448377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“It’s a scam. It’s a political witch hunt. It continues, and it continues forever,” Trump said after exiting the courtroom, where he sat at the defense table with his lawyers.After a norm-shattering presidency shadowed by years of investigations, the trial amounts to a reckoning for Trump, who faces four indictments charging him with crimes ranging from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-indictment-classified-documents-miami-8315a5b23c18f27083ed64eef21efff3">hoarding classified documents</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-indicted-jan-6-investigation-special-counsel-debb59bb7a4d9f93f7e2dace01feccdc">plotting to overturn an election</a>. Yet the political stakes are less clear because a conviction would not preclude him from becoming president and because the allegations in this case date back years and are seen as less grievous than the conduct behind the three other indictments.The day began with pretrial arguments — including over a potential fine for Trump — before moving in the afternoon into jury selection, where the parties will decide who among them might be picked to determine the legal fate of the former, and potentially future, American president.After the first members of the jury pool, 96 in all, were summoned into the courtroom, Trump craned his neck to look back at them, whispering to his lawyer as they entered the jury box.“You are about to participate in a trial by jury. The system of trial by jury is one of the cornerstones of our judicial system,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hush-money-criminal-trial-judge-merchan-c227f5eab200cccffb19ed931b4dac92">Judge Juan Merchan told the jurors</a>. “The name of this case is the People of the State of New York vs. Donald Trump.”Trump’s notoriety would make the process of picking 12 jurors and six alternates a near-herculean task in any year, but it’s likely to be especially challenging now, unfolding in a closely contested presidential election in the heavily Democratic city where Trump grew up and catapulted to celebrity status decades before winning the White House.Underscoring the difficulty, only about a third of the 96 people in the first panel of potential jurors remained after the judge excused some members. More than half the group was excused after telling the judge they could not be fair and impartial. At least nine more were excused after raising their hands when Merchan asked if they could not serve for any other reason.A female juror was excused after saying she had strong opinions about Trump. Earlier in the questionnaire, the woman, a Harlem resident, indicated she could be neutral in deciding the case. But when asked whether she had strong opinions about the former president, the woman answered matter-of-factly: “Yes.”When Merchan asked her to repeat the response, she replied: “Yeah, I said yes.” She was dismissed.Merchan has written that the key is “whether the prospective juror can assure us that they will set aside any personal feelings or biases and render a decision that is based on the evidence and the law.”No matter the outcome, Trump is determined to benefit from the proceedings, casting the case, and his indictments elsewhere, as a broad “weaponization of law enforcement” by Democratic prosecutors and officials. He maintains they are orchestrating sham charges in hopes of impeding his presidential run.He’s lambasted judges and prosecutors for years, a pattern of attacks that continued Monday as he entered court Monday after calling the case an “assault on America."“This is political persecution. This is a persecution like never before,” he said.Earlier Monday, the judge denied a defense request to recuse himself from the case after Trump's lawyers claimed he had a conflict of interest. He also said prosecutors could not play for the jury the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-access-hollywood-hush-money-new-york-2c52279a45ede2a111ff1fe447d2fdac">2005 “Access Hollywood” recording</a>&nbsp;in which Trump was captured discussing grabbing women sexually without their permission. However, prosecutors will be allowed to question witnesses about the recording, which became public in the final weeks of the 2016 campaign.Prosecutors with the Manhattan district attorney's office also asked for Merchan to fine Trump $3,000 over social media posts they said violated the judge's gag order barring him from attacking witnesses. Last week, he used his Truth Social platform to call his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=michael+cohen+apnews&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1084US1084&amp;oq=michael+cohen+ap&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqCAgAEEUYJxg7MggIABBFGCcYOzIGCAEQRRg5MgcIAhAAGIAEMgcIAxAAGIAEMggIBBAAGBYYHjIGCAUQRRg8MgYIBhBFGDwyBggHEEUYPKgCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">former lawyer Michael Cohen</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-michael-cohen-stormy-daniels-e40532d3bce7768e296fdaf9591ef05b">adult film actor Stormy Daniels</a>&nbsp;“two sleaze bags who have, with their lies and misrepresentations, cost our Country dearly!”Trump lawyer Todd Blanche maintained Trump was simply responding to the witnesses' statements.“It's not as if President Trump is going out and targeting individuals. He is responding to salacious, repeated vehement attacks by these witnesses,” Blanche said.Merchan setting a hearing for next week on the request.<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=eric+tucker+apnews+34+counts+sisak&amp;sca_esv=9cc8c3117245717b&amp;rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS1084US1084&amp;sxsrf=ACQVn0-xRhBNg7BxytGvKstnrKo_s1We3w%3A1713208166354&amp;ei=ZnsdZu6KFdWu5NoP5oWIkAI&amp;ved=0ahUKEwju1bnh9cSFAxVVF1kFHeYCAiIQ4dUDCBE&amp;uact=5&amp;oq=eric+tucker+apnews+34+counts+sisak&amp;gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiImVyaWMgdHVja2VyIGFwbmV3cyAzNCBjb3VudHMgc2lzYWsyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigATIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABSI4kUABYmiFwAHgBkAEBmAGGAqAB5RyqAQcxOC4xNS4xuAEDyAEA-AEBmAIeoAKjGsICBBAjGCfCAhcQLhiABBiKBRiRAhixAxiDARjHARjRA8ICDhAuGIAEGIoFGJECGLEDwgIREC4YgAQYsQMYgwEYxwEY0QPCAg4QLhiABBiKBRixAxiDAcICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBwgILEC4YgAQYigUYkQLCAgsQABiABBiKBRiRAsICChAuGIAEGIoFGEPCAggQABiABBixA8ICChAuGIAEGBQYhwLCAggQLhiABBixA8ICDRAuGIAEGIoFGEMYsQPCAgoQABiABBiKBRhDwgILEC4YgAQYsQMYgwHCAhAQLhiABBiKBRhDGLEDGIMBwgIKEAAYgAQYFBiHAsICBRAuGIAEwgIFEAAYgATCAgYQABgWGB7CAggQABiABBiiBMICBBAhGBWYAwCSBwcxMi4xNy4xoAfe7wI&amp;sclient=gws-wiz-serp">Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts</a>&nbsp;of falsifying business records. Prosecutors say the alleged fraud was part of an effort to keep salacious — and, Trump says, bogus — stories about his sex life from emerging during his 2016 campaign.The charges center on $130,000 in payments that Trump’s company made to Cohen. He paid that sum on Trump’s behalf to keep Daniels from going public, a month before the election, with her claims of a sexual encounter with the married mogul a decade earlier.Prosecutors say the payments to Cohen were falsely logged as legal fees in order to cloak their actual purpose. Trump's lawyers say the disbursements indeed were legal expenses, not a cover-up.After decades of fielding and initiating lawsuits, the businessman-turned-politician now faces a trial that could result in up to four years in prison if he’s convicted, though a no-jail sentence also would be possible.Trump's attorneys lost a bid to get the hush-money case dismissed and have since repeatedly sought to delay it, prompting a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-hush-money-appeal-juan-merchan-43ce6ef13f3b7a2ea017a658e6b4e01b">flurry of last-minute appeals court hearings</a>&nbsp;last week.Among other things, Trump's lawyers maintain that the jury pool in overwhelmingly Democratic Manhattan has been tainted by negative publicity about Trump and that the case should be moved elsewhere.An appeals judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-juan-merchan-hush-money-appeal-lawsuit-6abe221a7cb2ea670eb3ed1a7a134643">turned down an emergency request</a>&nbsp;to delay the trial while the change-of-venue request goes to a group of appellate judges, who are set to consider it in the coming weeks.Manhattan prosecutors have countered that a lot of the publicity stems from Trump’s own comments and that questioning will tease out whether prospective jurors can put aside any preconceptions they may have. There’s no reason, prosecutors said, to think that 12 fair and impartial people can’t be found amid Manhattan’s roughly 1.4 million adult residents.The prospective jurors will be known only by number, as the judge has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-hush-money-new-york-jury-9b36769997f86c6c172daf5b267c7dd8">ordered that their names be kept secret</a>&nbsp;from everyone except prosecutors, Trump and their legal teams. The 42 preapproved, sometimes multi-pronged queries include background basics but also reflect the uniqueness of the case.They're being asked, among other questions, about hobbies and news habits, whether they hold strong beliefs about Trump that would prevent them being impartial and about attendance at Trump or anti-Trump rallies.Based on the answers, the attorneys can ask a judge to eliminate people “for cause” if they meet certain criteria for being unable to serve or can't be unbiased. The lawyers also can use “peremptory challenges” to nix 10 potential jurors and two prospective alternates without giving a reason._____