DALLAS —A man was&nbsp; found deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit that led to a multi-agency search in Frisco, Texas, according to a media release from the Frisco Police Department.

Just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday, police in Frisco responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that had evaded Troopers during a pursuit that ended in the city of Frisco. After losing sight of the vehicle, Troopers found it moments later, crashed on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway.

Initial reports indicated that the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Marshawn Kneeland, a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys who liven in Plano, Texas, fled the scene on foot. Officers established a perimeter and searched the area with assistance from Frisco Police K9 and drone units.

During the course of the search, officers received information that Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideations. Just after 1:30a.m. police found him deceased with what appears to have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The cause of death is still under investigation by the county medical examiner.&nbsp;

DALLAS —A man was&nbsp; found deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit that led to a multi-agency search in Frisco, Texas, according to a media release from the Frisco Police Department.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/CbP3WAm2IB">pic.twitter.com/CbP3WAm2IB</a>&mdash; Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) <a href="https://twitter.com/dallascowboys/status/1986455923024712162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday, police in Frisco responded to assist the Texas Department of Public Safety with locating a vehicle that had evaded Troopers during a pursuit that ended in the city of Frisco. After losing sight of the vehicle, Troopers found it moments later, crashed on southbound Dallas Parkway near Warren Parkway.Initial reports indicated that the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Marshawn Kneeland, a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys who liven in Plano, Texas, fled the scene on foot. Officers established a perimeter and searched the area with assistance from Frisco Police K9 and drone units.During the course of the search, officers received information that Kneeland had expressed suicidal ideations. Just after 1:30a.m. police found him deceased with what appears to have been a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The cause of death is still under investigation by the county medical examiner.&nbsp;

Police release details on death of Dallas Cowboys' player

&nbsp; By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/timhenderson/">Tim Henderson</a>

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/06/repub/report-the-number-of-us-jobs-rose-last-month-for-the-first-time-since-july/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

The United States gained 42,000 jobs in October, the first increase since July as measured by ADP, a private payroll processing company and the only source of jobs estimates during the government shutdown, as federal jobs reports have been paused.

ADP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://adp-ri-nrip-static.adp.com/artifacts/us_ner/20251105/ADP_NATIONAL_EMPLOYMENT_REPORT_Press_Release_2025_10%20FINAL.pdf?_ga=2.188865131.119541461.1762349108-1134282795.1762349108" target="_blank">report</a>, released Wednesday, showed job increases mostly in West Coast states, which gained 37,000 jobs between September and October, and continued job losses on the East Coast. The New York area, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, lost 20,000 jobs while coastal states from Delaware to Florida lost 8,000 jobs.

Most of the job increases were in trade and transportation, which includes stores, wholesale and shipping jobs. In that sector, there were 47,000 new jobs for the month.

Those industries added jobs despite uncertainty over tariffs, said Guy Berger, a labor economist and senior fellow at the Burning Glass Institute, a labor market think tank based in Philadelphia. But Berger said it’s unclear whether the job gains will be long lasting or will disappear in new rounds of high tariffs on consumer goods.

“They’re feeling headwinds but they’re very ping-pongy, It’s like, ‘Who knows what the next bit of news will be or how you’re going to have to adjust your supply?’” Berger said.

“In years past this would have been considered quite weak, but the number was positive at least,” Berger said. “Because immigration flows have been squeezed during the current administration and maybe have even gone negative at this point, we don’t need a lot of jobs each month to keep the labor market on an even keel.”

The ADP report is based on weekly payroll data for 26 million private-sector employees. It does not include an estimate of the unemployment rate, unlike the suspended federal report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It also does not break down the statistics by race or gender.

Last month’s job gains were concentrated in large businesses with more than 500 employees, which gained 70,000 jobs for the month, while jobs dropped overall for small and medium-size businesses, according to the report.

The median annual pay growth was 4.5% for those in the same jobs and 6.7% for those in new jobs, the same as September and little changed for more than a year, the report said, indicating that “shifts in supply and demand are balanced.”

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thenderson@stateline.org">thenderson@stateline.org</a>.

&nbsp; By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/timhenderson/">Tim Henderson</a><a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/06/repub/report-the-number-of-us-jobs-rose-last-month-for-the-first-time-since-july/">Nebraska Examiner</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762447909152.png" alt=" Cleveland “Cleve” Francis, a UPS driver who retired this year, in Louisville, Kentucky. Trade and transportation jobs saw most of the gains in a new jobs report. (Photo courtesy of UPS)" />
 <figcaption> Cleveland “Cleve” Francis, a UPS driver who retired this year, in Louisville, Kentucky. Trade and transportation jobs saw most of the gains in a new jobs report. (Photo courtesy of UPS)</figcaption>
 </figure>The United States gained 42,000 jobs in October, the first increase since July as measured by ADP, a private payroll processing company and the only source of jobs estimates during the government shutdown, as federal jobs reports have been paused.ADP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://adp-ri-nrip-static.adp.com/artifacts/us_ner/20251105/ADP_NATIONAL_EMPLOYMENT_REPORT_Press_Release_2025_10%20FINAL.pdf?_ga=2.188865131.119541461.1762349108-1134282795.1762349108" target="_blank">report</a>, released Wednesday, showed job increases mostly in West Coast states, which gained 37,000 jobs between September and October, and continued job losses on the East Coast. The New York area, including New Jersey and Pennsylvania, lost 20,000 jobs while coastal states from Delaware to Florida lost 8,000 jobs.Most of the job increases were in trade and transportation, which includes stores, wholesale and shipping jobs. In that sector, there were 47,000 new jobs for the month.Those industries added jobs despite uncertainty over tariffs, said Guy Berger, a labor economist and senior fellow at the Burning Glass Institute, a labor market think tank based in Philadelphia. But Berger said it’s unclear whether the job gains will be long lasting or will disappear in new rounds of high tariffs on consumer goods.“They’re feeling headwinds but they’re very ping-pongy, It’s like, ‘Who knows what the next bit of news will be or how you’re going to have to adjust your supply?’” Berger said.“In years past this would have been considered quite weak, but the number was positive at least,” Berger said. “Because immigration flows have been squeezed during the current administration and maybe have even gone negative at this point, we don’t need a lot of jobs each month to keep the labor market on an even keel.”The ADP report is based on weekly payroll data for 26 million private-sector employees. It does not include an estimate of the unemployment rate, unlike the suspended federal report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It also does not break down the statistics by race or gender.Last month’s job gains were concentrated in large businesses with more than 500 employees, which gained 70,000 jobs for the month, while jobs dropped overall for small and medium-size businesses, according to the report.The median annual pay growth was 4.5% for those in the same jobs and 6.7% for those in new jobs, the same as September and little changed for more than a year, the report said, indicating that “shifts in supply and demand are balanced.”Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thenderson@stateline.org">thenderson@stateline.org</a>.

Report: The number of US jobs rose last month for the first time since July

November 5, 2025 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln Police Department are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Lincoln on Wednesday.

This morning, members of the Metro Area Fugitive Task Force were looking for a wanted person, identified as John Massa, 41, of Lincoln. Massa was the subject of an arrest warrant in connection with a felony narcotics and firearm possession case. Massa was believed to be armed and dangerous.

Task Force members determined that Massa was believed to be at a hotel near the intersection of 56th&nbsp;Street and Cornhusker Highway in Lincoln. Shortly before 8:45 a.m., Massa left the hotel and entered the backseat of a vehicle, which was driven by another person. Task Force members, including a Nebraska State Trooper and United States Deputy Marshal stopped the vehicle as it was attempting to turn westbound on Cornhusker.

The driver has been determined to be a rideshare driver and is not associated with Massa. The driver was able to flee the vehicle after observing Massa in possession of a firearm. The trooper and deputy marshal gave verbal commands to Massa, but he refused to comply. Preliminary investigation reveals that the trooper saw the handgun and that both the trooper and the deputy marshal fired, striking the suspect. The handgun was later located inside the vehicle.

Massa was transported to Bryan Health West Campus, where he is currently being treated for life-threatening injuries. Neither the trooper, deputy marshal, nor rideshare driver were injured during this incident. An NSP Police Service Dog in the trooper’s vehicle was also not injured.

NSP has requested that the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln Police Department conduct the investigation, with assistance from the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office. That investigation is ongoing.

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762359313583.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>November 5, 2025 (Lincoln, Neb.)&nbsp;&nbsp;— The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln Police Department are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Lincoln on Wednesday.This morning, members of the Metro Area Fugitive Task Force were looking for a wanted person, identified as John Massa, 41, of Lincoln. Massa was the subject of an arrest warrant in connection with a felony narcotics and firearm possession case. Massa was believed to be armed and dangerous.Task Force members determined that Massa was believed to be at a hotel near the intersection of 56th&nbsp;Street and Cornhusker Highway in Lincoln. Shortly before 8:45 a.m., Massa left the hotel and entered the backseat of a vehicle, which was driven by another person. Task Force members, including a Nebraska State Trooper and United States Deputy Marshal stopped the vehicle as it was attempting to turn westbound on Cornhusker.The driver has been determined to be a rideshare driver and is not associated with Massa. The driver was able to flee the vehicle after observing Massa in possession of a firearm. The trooper and deputy marshal gave verbal commands to Massa, but he refused to comply. Preliminary investigation reveals that the trooper saw the handgun and that both the trooper and the deputy marshal fired, striking the suspect. The handgun was later located inside the vehicle.Massa was transported to Bryan Health West Campus, where he is currently being treated for life-threatening injuries. Neither the trooper, deputy marshal, nor rideshare driver were injured during this incident. An NSP Police Service Dog in the trooper’s vehicle was also not injured.NSP has requested that the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln Police Department conduct the investigation, with assistance from the Lancaster County Attorney’s Office. That investigation is ongoing.

Officer-Involved Shooting Investigation in Lincoln

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>-

WASHINGTON — U.S. House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who made history as the first woman to hold the speaker’s gavel, announced Thursday she will retire, ending a 40-year legislative career as one of the most powerful Democrats in Congress.&nbsp;

Her announcement came after Tuesday’s elections. Pelosi had a hand in crafting what was known as Proposition 50&nbsp; in California to redraw the state’s congressional districts, in response to Republican redistricting efforts in Texas to gain more GOP seats in the House.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The remap passed, and Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/energized-dems-trumpet-wins-state-elections-buckle-midterms" target="_blank">swept major state races</a>&nbsp;across the country, including the governorships in Virginia and New Jersey.

In a video posted to social media, Pelosi, 85, thanked her constituents in her San Francisco congressional district.&nbsp;

“I will not be seeking reelection to Congress,” Pelosi said. “With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year in service as your proud representative.”

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ariana-figueroa/">Ariana Figueroa</a>-WASHINGTON — U.S. House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, who made history as the first woman to hold the speaker’s gavel, announced Thursday she will retire, ending a 40-year legislative career as one of the most powerful Democrats in Congress.&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, San Francisco. <a href="https://t.co/OP8ubeFzR6">pic.twitter.com/OP8ubeFzR6</a>&mdash; Nancy Pelosi (@TeamPelosi) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamPelosi/status/1986433397921833435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Her announcement came after Tuesday’s elections. Pelosi had a hand in crafting what was known as Proposition 50&nbsp; in California to redraw the state’s congressional districts, in response to Republican redistricting efforts in Texas to gain more GOP seats in the House.&nbsp;&nbsp;The remap passed, and Democrats&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/energized-dems-trumpet-wins-state-elections-buckle-midterms" target="_blank">swept major state races</a>&nbsp;across the country, including the governorships in Virginia and New Jersey.In a video posted to social media, Pelosi, 85, thanked her constituents in her San Francisco congressional district.&nbsp;“I will not be seeking reelection to Congress,” Pelosi said. “With a grateful heart, I look forward to my final year in service as your proud representative.”

🎥Farewell video: Nancy Pelosi won't seek reelection

(Lincoln) Today former Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg was sworn in as Nebraska’s 47th&nbsp;State Treasurer, taking on the role of the state’s chief financial officer. Spellerberg replaces former Treasurer Tom Briese, who resigned from the position earlier this week.

“This is a tremendous honor, and I look forward to continuing the good work started by Treasurer Briese. I am so excited for the opportunities this new challenge presents,” Spellerberg said. “I pledge I will be a trusted financial advisor for the State of Nebraska.”

As Treasurer, Spellerberg will also serve as Trustee of the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST529), Nebraska’s state-sponsored 529 college savings plan, and the Enable Savings Plan, a tax-advantage savings program for individuals with qualifying disabilities. He will also administer the dispersal of unclaimed property received by the state and will oversee the receipt and dispersal of child support payments. As Treasurer he will serve as a member of the Board of State Canvassers, the Nebraska Investment Council, and the State Records Board.

Spellerberg has been mayor of Fremont since 2020. He was re-elected to his second term last year. Spellerberg’s administration has focused on fiscal responsibility, public safety, attracting new business and economic development. Spellerberg has led efforts to reduce the city’s property tax levy and has helped to establish the Fremont Inland Port Authority.

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762451975067.jpeg" alt="Spellerberg takes oath as appointed 47th State Treasurer. (Courtesy Nebraska State Treasurers Office)" />
 <figcaption>Spellerberg takes oath as appointed 47th State Treasurer. (Courtesy Nebraska State Treasurers Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>(Lincoln) Today former Fremont Mayor Joey Spellerberg was sworn in as Nebraska’s 47th&nbsp;State Treasurer, taking on the role of the state’s chief financial officer. Spellerberg replaces former Treasurer Tom Briese, who resigned from the position earlier this week.“This is a tremendous honor, and I look forward to continuing the good work started by Treasurer Briese. I am so excited for the opportunities this new challenge presents,” Spellerberg said. “I pledge I will be a trusted financial advisor for the State of Nebraska.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762451956497.jpeg" alt="Spellerberg with his family and Governor Jim Pillen shake hands during the swearing in ceremony for Nebraska State Treasurer. (Courtesy Nebraska State Treasurers Office)" />
 <figcaption>Spellerberg with his family and Governor Jim Pillen shake hands during the swearing in ceremony for Nebraska State Treasurer. (Courtesy Nebraska State Treasurers Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>As Treasurer, Spellerberg will also serve as Trustee of the Nebraska Educational Savings Trust (NEST529), Nebraska’s state-sponsored 529 college savings plan, and the Enable Savings Plan, a tax-advantage savings program for individuals with qualifying disabilities. He will also administer the dispersal of unclaimed property received by the state and will oversee the receipt and dispersal of child support payments. As Treasurer he will serve as a member of the Board of State Canvassers, the Nebraska Investment Council, and the State Records Board.Spellerberg has been mayor of Fremont since 2020. He was re-elected to his second term last year. Spellerberg’s administration has focused on fiscal responsibility, public safety, attracting new business and economic development. Spellerberg has led efforts to reduce the city’s property tax levy and has helped to establish the Fremont Inland Port Authority.

Treasurer Spellerberg Takes Oath of Office

CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been arrested for allegedly making a threat to kill President Donald J. Trump.

Trent Schneider, 57, of&nbsp;Winthrop Harbor, Ill., is charged with making a threat in interstate commerce to injure a person, according to the United State's Attorney. Schneider was arrested Tuesday morning and made an initial court appearance Tuesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey T. Gilbert in Chicago.&nbsp; Schneider was ordered to remain detained in federal custody pending a detention hearing on Nov. 6, 2025.

According to a criminal complaint unsealed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago, Schneider&nbsp;posted a video of himself&nbsp;on Oct. 16, 2025,&nbsp;on Instagram in which he stated, “I’m going to get some guns.&nbsp; I know where I can get a lot of [expletive] guns and I am going to take care of business myself.&nbsp; I’m tired of all you [expletive] frauds.&nbsp; People need to [expletive] die and people are going to die.&nbsp; [Expletive] all of you, especially you Trump.&nbsp; You should be executed.”&nbsp; The video also included a caption that stated, in part: “THIS IS&nbsp;NOT A THREAT!!!&nbsp;AFTER LOSING EVERYTHING and My House Auction date&nbsp;is 11.04.2025 @realDonaldTrump SHOULD BE EXECUTED!!!”

According to the complaint, a concerned citizen in Florida viewed the video and reported it to law enforcement.

The complaint and arrest were announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and&nbsp;Dai Tran, Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Chicago Field Office.&nbsp; Valuable assistance was provided by the Lake County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office and the Winthrop Harbor, Ill. Police Department.

The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt.&nbsp; The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.&nbsp; The charge in the complaint&nbsp;is punishable by a&nbsp;maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.&nbsp; If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762294284266.png" alt="Schneider is in federal custody -photo Lake County. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Schneider is in federal custody -photo Lake County. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man has been arrested for allegedly making a threat to kill President Donald J. Trump.Trent Schneider, 57, of&nbsp;Winthrop Harbor, Ill., is charged with making a threat in interstate commerce to injure a person, according to the United State's Attorney. Schneider was arrested Tuesday morning and made an initial court appearance Tuesday afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey T. Gilbert in Chicago.&nbsp; Schneider was ordered to remain detained in federal custody pending a detention hearing on Nov. 6, 2025.According to a criminal complaint unsealed today in U.S. District Court in Chicago, Schneider&nbsp;posted a video of himself&nbsp;on Oct. 16, 2025,&nbsp;on Instagram in which he stated, “I’m going to get some guns.&nbsp; I know where I can get a lot of [expletive] guns and I am going to take care of business myself.&nbsp; I’m tired of all you [expletive] frauds.&nbsp; People need to [expletive] die and people are going to die.&nbsp; [Expletive] all of you, especially you Trump.&nbsp; You should be executed.”&nbsp; The video also included a caption that stated, in part: “THIS IS&nbsp;NOT A THREAT!!!&nbsp;AFTER LOSING EVERYTHING and My House Auction date&nbsp;is 11.04.2025 @realDonaldTrump SHOULD BE EXECUTED!!!”According to the complaint, a concerned citizen in Florida viewed the video and reported it to law enforcement.The complaint and arrest were announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and&nbsp;Dai Tran, Special Agent-in-Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Chicago Field Office.&nbsp; Valuable assistance was provided by the Lake County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office and the Winthrop Harbor, Ill. Police Department.The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt.&nbsp; The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.&nbsp; The charge in the complaint&nbsp;is punishable by a&nbsp;maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.&nbsp; If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.&nbsp;

Read the online threat against President Trump that landed man in jail

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 BREAKING: <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDuffy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDuffy</a> announces a 10% reduction in scheduled flight capacity at the nation&#39;s top 40 high-traffic markets due to the Democrat Shutdown&#39;s strain on air traffic controllers. <a href="https://t.co/g6yJygA96W">pic.twitter.com/g6yJygA96W</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1986182615372849270?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">My number one priority is the safety of the American people. <a href="https://t.co/lOi3Q2rpZ7">https://t.co/lOi3Q2rpZ7</a>&mdash; Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDuffy/status/1986189054568767782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There may be flight delays or cancellations. Our top priority is that when Americans fly, they will make it to their destination safely because <a href="https://twitter.com/USDOT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USDOT</a> and the <a href="https://twitter.com/FAANews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FAANews</a> have done their work. <a href="https://t.co/1uDsFr5HDL">pic.twitter.com/1uDsFr5HDL</a>&mdash; Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDuffy/status/1986194251143590306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are level-setting with the American people. We’re doing whatever it takes to get passengers to their destination safely. <a href="https://t.co/byVYfr6FEw">pic.twitter.com/byVYfr6FEw</a>&mdash; Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDuffy/status/1986215014189945064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Government shutdown: FAA reducing air traffic in ‘high-volume’ markets

LINCOLN – The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has reached an agreement reinstating Hansen-Mueller Co.’s grain dealer license and requiring the company to resolve its debts with Nebraska farmers. The Commission voted Tuesday to approve the agreement protecting Nebraska’s grain community.

Hansen-Mueller was suspended from doing business as a grain dealer in Nebraska on Oct. 24, following a PSC Grain Department investigation into complaints that the company failed to pay multiple farmers. Since that action, the company has worked closely with PSC staff to address the financial concerns and provide safeguards for Nebraska grain producers and sellers.

“Our decision today balances the public interest with the opportunity for Hansen-Mueller to correct previous concerns,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “Our top priority was making sure these debts were paid during this crucial time in the harvest season, and we’re pleased that the company has already begun issuing the outstanding funds.”

Under terms of the agreement, Hansen-Mueller must:

• Immediately fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain producers;

• Fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain dealers and warehouses by Feb. 27, 2026; and

• Remain in compliance with all standard requirements for a Nebraska grain dealer license.

The agreement means the PSC will dismiss its October complaint and will not assess civil penalties against the company.

“This is a positive outcome and provides the oversight necessary to ensure Nebraska’s grain community is protected,” said Commission Vice Chair Kevin Stocker, District 5. “The Commission will continue to demand accountability and monitor the company’s compliance with this agreement.”

Hansen-Mueller began issuing some outstanding payments electronically and via mailed checks the week of Oct. 27. The PSC encourages any producers who have not received their expected payment from Hansen-Mueller within the next two weeks to contact the Grain Department at (402) 471-0222 or psc.grain@nebraska.gov.

Note: The agreement does not apply to some producers and sellers, such as those who negotiated deferred payment or “price later” contracts with Hansen-Mueller. However, anyone who has done business with Hansen-Meuller, whether before or during the suspension period, may contact the Grain Department for guidance, or to report concerns.

The PSC encourages producers and sellers to always be vigilant in business dealings and to work with Nebraska-licensed grain dealers and warehouses.

For more information, including the list of licensed grain dealers in Nebraska, visit the PSC Grain Department website.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762360052835.jpeg" alt="Hansen Mueller Co. grain dealer license has been reinstated by Nebraska Public Service Commission.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Hansen Mueller Co. grain dealer license has been reinstated by Nebraska Public Service Commission.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN – The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) has reached an agreement reinstating Hansen-Mueller Co.’s grain dealer license and requiring the company to resolve its debts with Nebraska farmers. The Commission voted Tuesday to approve the agreement protecting Nebraska’s grain community.Hansen-Mueller was suspended from doing business as a grain dealer in Nebraska on Oct. 24, following a PSC Grain Department investigation into complaints that the company failed to pay multiple farmers. Since that action, the company has worked closely with PSC staff to address the financial concerns and provide safeguards for Nebraska grain producers and sellers.“Our decision today balances the public interest with the opportunity for Hansen-Mueller to correct previous concerns,” said Commission Chair Tim Schram, District 3. “Our top priority was making sure these debts were paid during this crucial time in the harvest season, and we’re pleased that the company has already begun issuing the outstanding funds.”Under terms of the agreement, Hansen-Mueller must:• Immediately fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain producers;• Fulfill all outstanding payment obligations to Nebraska grain dealers and warehouses by Feb. 27, 2026; and• Remain in compliance with all standard requirements for a Nebraska grain dealer license.The agreement means the PSC will dismiss its October complaint and will not assess civil penalties against the company.“This is a positive outcome and provides the oversight necessary to ensure Nebraska’s grain community is protected,” said Commission Vice Chair Kevin Stocker, District 5. “The Commission will continue to demand accountability and monitor the company’s compliance with this agreement.”Hansen-Mueller began issuing some outstanding payments electronically and via mailed checks the week of Oct. 27. The PSC encourages any producers who have not received their expected payment from Hansen-Mueller within the next two weeks to contact the Grain Department at (402) 471-0222 or psc.grain@nebraska.gov.Note: The agreement does not apply to some producers and sellers, such as those who negotiated deferred payment or “price later” contracts with Hansen-Mueller. However, anyone who has done business with Hansen-Meuller, whether before or during the suspension period, may contact the Grain Department for guidance, or to report concerns.The PSC encourages producers and sellers to always be vigilant in business dealings and to work with Nebraska-licensed grain dealers and warehouses.For more information, including the list of licensed grain dealers in Nebraska, visit the PSC Grain Department website.

PSC Approves Agreement to Reinstate Hansen-Mueller Grain Dealer License

On Monday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out another lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization, according to a social media report from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

"Intelligence confirmed that the vessel was involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. The strike was conducted in international waters in the Eastern Pacific."

"No U.S. forces were harmed in the strike, and two male narco-terrorists — who were aboard the vessel — were killed."

"We will find and terminate EVERY vessel with the intention of trafficking drugs to America to poison our citizens. Protecting the homeland is our TOP priority. NO cartel terrorist stands a chance against the American military."

The attack brings the death toll&nbsp;from the Trump administration’s campaign in South American waters up to 66 in 16 strikes.

On Monday, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out another lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization, according to a social media report from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Today, at the direction of President Trump, the Department of War carried out a lethal kinetic strike on a vessel operated by a Designated Terrorist Organization (DTO). Intelligence confirmed that the vessel was involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, transiting along a known… <a href="https://t.co/OsQuHrYLMp">pic.twitter.com/OsQuHrYLMp</a>&mdash; Secretary of War Pete Hegseth (@SecWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar/status/1985863010376642677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"Intelligence confirmed that the vessel was involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics. The strike was conducted in international waters in the Eastern Pacific.""No U.S. forces were harmed in the strike, and two male narco-terrorists — who were aboard the vessel — were killed.""We will find and terminate EVERY vessel with the intention of trafficking drugs to America to poison our citizens. Protecting the homeland is our TOP priority. NO cartel terrorist stands a chance against the American military."The attack brings the death toll&nbsp;from the Trump administration’s campaign in South American waters up to 66 in 16 strikes.

🎥US military kills 2 in new strike on drug-running boat

By TIM CARPENTER Kansas Reflector&nbsp;

TOPEKA — The former CEO and founder of the Beneficient investment firm that was granted a unique bank charter on orders of the Kansas Legislature was arrested and jailed Tuesday following indictment for an alleged scheme to loot more than $150 million from a company forced into bankruptcy.

Brad Heppner, who was taken into custody at his home by the Irving Police Department in Texas, was indicted in federal court in New York on counts of securities fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud, making false statements to auditors, and falsification of records. Prosecutors say he misled investors and auditors, and they said he obstructed an investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

He has for years been at the center of a flurry of civil lawsuits alleging financial misconduct. The criminal case was worked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in cooperation with the SEC.

“Heppner abused his role as a public company executive to loot the company and to funnel money into his own pockets,” said Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. “When executives like Heppner lie and cheat to enrich themselves at the expense of everyday investors, they corrupt the integrity of our public markets.”

Interest in Heppner’s business activities has been relevant to Kansans because Beneficient, the company he founded, has held a Kansas banking license since 2021.

Heppner was accused in the indictment, unsealed Tuesday, of misappropriating at least $150 million from the publicly traded, now-bankrupt GWG Holdings through a series of self-serving transactions tied to Beneficient and Highland Consolidated Limited Partnership. He was simultaneously chairman of GWG and Beneficient, and secretly controlled HCLP, according to the indictment.

“Though Heppner repeatedly described HCLP as an independent entity, it was, in fact, a shell company controlled by Heppner and operated for his benefit,” the indictment said. “Once Heppner exhausted his ability to siphon GWG’s assets for himself, he separated himself from GWG. GWG filed for bankruptcy shortly thereafter, causing losses exceeding $1 billion to thousands of investors and bondholders.”

Financial damage resulting from the catastrophe at GWG primarily fell on retail investors, “many of them retirees,” the indictment says.

The indictment says Heppner used the money for personal expenses, including $40 million for renovation of a Dallas mansion and a ranch in Montalba, Texas. He allegedly spent $10 million on upkeep, expansion and IT services on those properties as well as $10 million to cover credit card debt and private aviation expenditures. He purportedly used $20 million to pay tax expenses and bought jewelry valued at more than $500,000.

The indictment seeks to force Heppner to surrender ill-gotten cash as well as the properties in Dallas and Montalba.

Heppner, 59, faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on the fraud, false statement and false record counts. The conspiracy count carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

In June, Heppner resigned from Dallas-headquartered Beneficient rather than cooperate with an audit committee looking into financial irregularities. In 2021, Heppner left GWG and structurally separated Beneficient from GWG. GWG filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2022.

Dan Callahan, a spokesperson representing Beneficient, issued a company statement in wake of the indictment: “Beneficient parted ways with Mr. Heppner earlier this year, immediately after learning facts related to his alleged fraud on the company and others. Beneficient will continue to pursue its own claims against Mr. Heppner on behalf of its shareholders. Beneficient has and continues to cooperate with the government’s investigation of Mr. Heppner.”

Heppner was the face of Beneficient before and after it landed a Kansas banking charter for a Beneficient subsidiary. Legislation that guaranteed Beneficient received the charter was championed by Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican now in the midst of a campaign for governor. Masterson made the motion in support of the charter during a 2021 interim legislative committee hearing. The legislation was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.

While lobbying Kansas legislators in pursuit of a bank charter, Heppner allegedly continued with the covert effort to hide the funneling of $150 million from GWG to Beneficient and to HCLP.

Beneficient made financial contributions to the campaigns of Republicans and Democrats in Kansas. It’s unclear whether those donations were made with cash Heppner allegedly transferred from GWG.

David Herndon, the Kansas state banking commissioner, opposed the charter for Beneficient and repeatedly urged the Legislature to repeal the law allowing Beneficient to anchor its asset-swap business to Kansas.

The business linked to the state charter was designed to allow Beneficient to work with investors to cash out or trade for stock their illiquid assets, including venture capital and private equity. To entice Kansas to deliver the charter, Beneficient agreed to funnel money into a Kansas foundation that was to help revitalize Hesston and support economic development in other rural communities. Heppner grew up in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762351195715.jpeg" alt="Brad Heppner, former CEO of Beneficient in Texas, is arrested and indicted in Texas on securities and wire fraud, making false statements and falsification of records. (Photo by Irving Police Department)" />
 <figcaption>Brad Heppner, former CEO of Beneficient in Texas, is arrested and indicted in Texas on securities and wire fraud, making false statements and falsification of records. (Photo by Irving Police Department)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER Kansas Reflector&nbsp;TOPEKA — The former CEO and founder of the Beneficient investment firm that was granted a unique bank charter on orders of the Kansas Legislature was arrested and jailed Tuesday following indictment for an alleged scheme to loot more than $150 million from a company forced into bankruptcy.Brad Heppner, who was taken into custody at his home by the Irving Police Department in Texas, was indicted in federal court in New York on counts of securities fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud, making false statements to auditors, and falsification of records. Prosecutors say he misled investors and auditors, and they said he obstructed an investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.He has for years been at the center of a flurry of civil lawsuits alleging financial misconduct. The criminal case was worked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in cooperation with the SEC.“Heppner abused his role as a public company executive to loot the company and to funnel money into his own pockets,” said Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York. “When executives like Heppner lie and cheat to enrich themselves at the expense of everyday investors, they corrupt the integrity of our public markets.”Interest in Heppner’s business activities has been relevant to Kansans because Beneficient, the company he founded, has held a Kansas banking license since 2021.Heppner was accused in the indictment, unsealed Tuesday, of misappropriating at least $150 million from the publicly traded, now-bankrupt GWG Holdings through a series of self-serving transactions tied to Beneficient and Highland Consolidated Limited Partnership. He was simultaneously chairman of GWG and Beneficient, and secretly controlled HCLP, according to the indictment.“Though Heppner repeatedly described HCLP as an independent entity, it was, in fact, a shell company controlled by Heppner and operated for his benefit,” the indictment said. “Once Heppner exhausted his ability to siphon GWG’s assets for himself, he separated himself from GWG. GWG filed for bankruptcy shortly thereafter, causing losses exceeding $1 billion to thousands of investors and bondholders.”Financial damage resulting from the catastrophe at GWG primarily fell on retail investors, “many of them retirees,” the indictment says.The indictment says Heppner used the money for personal expenses, including $40 million for renovation of a Dallas mansion and a ranch in Montalba, Texas. He allegedly spent $10 million on upkeep, expansion and IT services on those properties as well as $10 million to cover credit card debt and private aviation expenditures. He purportedly used $20 million to pay tax expenses and bought jewelry valued at more than $500,000.The indictment seeks to force Heppner to surrender ill-gotten cash as well as the properties in Dallas and Montalba.Heppner, 59, faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on the fraud, false statement and false record counts. The conspiracy count carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.In June, Heppner resigned from Dallas-headquartered Beneficient rather than cooperate with an audit committee looking into financial irregularities. In 2021, Heppner left GWG and structurally separated Beneficient from GWG. GWG filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2022.Dan Callahan, a spokesperson representing Beneficient, issued a company statement in wake of the indictment: “Beneficient parted ways with Mr. Heppner earlier this year, immediately after learning facts related to his alleged fraud on the company and others. Beneficient will continue to pursue its own claims against Mr. Heppner on behalf of its shareholders. Beneficient has and continues to cooperate with the government’s investigation of Mr. Heppner.”Heppner was the face of Beneficient before and after it landed a Kansas banking charter for a Beneficient subsidiary. Legislation that guaranteed Beneficient received the charter was championed by Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson, an Andover Republican now in the midst of a campaign for governor. Masterson made the motion in support of the charter during a 2021 interim legislative committee hearing. The legislation was signed into law by Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly.While lobbying Kansas legislators in pursuit of a bank charter, Heppner allegedly continued with the covert effort to hide the funneling of $150 million from GWG to Beneficient and to HCLP.Beneficient made financial contributions to the campaigns of Republicans and Democrats in Kansas. It’s unclear whether those donations were made with cash Heppner allegedly transferred from GWG.David Herndon, the Kansas state banking commissioner, opposed the charter for Beneficient and repeatedly urged the Legislature to repeal the law allowing Beneficient to anchor its asset-swap business to Kansas.The business linked to the state charter was designed to allow Beneficient to work with investors to cash out or trade for stock their illiquid assets, including venture capital and private equity. To entice Kansas to deliver the charter, Beneficient agreed to funnel money into a Kansas foundation that was to help revitalize Hesston and support economic development in other rural communities. Heppner grew up in Kansas.

Former CEO who acquired unique Kansas bank charter indicted on fraud charges

President&nbsp;Donald Trump’s&nbsp;authority to impose far-reaching&nbsp;tariffs&nbsp;is&nbsp; before the Supreme Court on Wednesday morning in a pivotal test of executive power with trillion-dollar implications for the global economy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1743626000304.png" alt="White House photo" />
 <figcaption>White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>President&nbsp;Donald Trump’s&nbsp;authority to impose far-reaching&nbsp;tariffs&nbsp;is&nbsp; before the Supreme Court on Wednesday morning in a pivotal test of executive power with trillion-dollar implications for the global economy.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Justice Sotomayor asks about tariffs being a kind of tax on Americans and compares President Trump&#39;s emergency tariff Executive Orders to President Biden&#39;s student loan forgiveness policy and a hypothetical climate emergency. <a href="https://t.co/nD0MYgVjv3">pic.twitter.com/nD0MYgVjv3</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1986099084961227180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Justice Barrett asks if &quot;Regulate&quot; means power to tariff. While U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer responds, Justice Sotomayor: &quot;Could you just answer the justice&#39;s question?&quot; Barrett: &quot;Can you identify any statute that used that phrase...?&quot; <a href="https://t.co/SOMhHSGZBm">pic.twitter.com/SOMhHSGZBm</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1986101612272640338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Justice Gorsuch: &quot;What&#39;s the reason to accept the notion that Congress can hand off the power to declare war to the president?&quot; U.S. Solicitor General Sauer: &quot;Well, we don&#39;t contend that.&quot; Gorsuch: &quot;You do, you say it&#39;s unreviewable…you&#39;ve backed off that position?&quot; Sauer:… <a href="https://t.co/tuPdf7295s">pic.twitter.com/tuPdf7295s</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1986105831675371866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Justice Barrett asks about refunding tariff revenue should President Trump lose the case: &quot;If you win, tell me how the reimbursement process would work. Would it be a complete mess?&quot; Neal Katyal: &quot;We don&#39;t deny that it&#39;s difficult.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/WsiVGTyBO9">pic.twitter.com/WsiVGTyBO9</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1986124253369147787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Justice Kavanaugh asks why the president may not be able to issue tariffs but can set trade embargoes, which sets off a debate among the justices and a series of questions about presidential power. <a href="https://t.co/tLDMi2MPm6">pic.twitter.com/tLDMi2MPm6</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1986131942094319755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎧History: Supreme Court oral arguments on Trump's tariffs

Sen. Dan McKeon issues statements seeking to add context to alleged groping incident; woman’s attorney defends probe

By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ebamer/">Erin Bamer</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — New statements from State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst revealed more details from his perspective about an alleged groping of a woman attending an end-of-session gathering earlier this year.

The statements also sought to add more context to his apology letter to the alleged victim that McKeon sent on July 28. Some of McKeon’s fellow lawmakers criticized the letter as a “non-apology” that made excuses for bad behavior.

“I’m deeply sorry for my actions at the end of session when we were visiting that offended you. I was saying it in a joking manner, and I know that alcohol had some influence but that’s no excuse,” McKeon wrote in the letter.

The Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/31/nebraska-state-senator-cited-for-public-indecency-during-session-ending-party/">cited McKeon last week for misdemeanor “public indecency”</a>&nbsp;after investigating the allegation by a woman attending a post-legislative session party May 29.

In the Patrol report, a woman reported McKeon “made inappropriate contact with her buttocks with his hand, over the top of her clothing,” a Nebraska State Patrol spokesman told the Examiner.

The Examiner obtained a copy of McKeon’s letter from Kathleen Neary, the attorney representing the woman making the allegation. Her name and address are redacted. The Examiner is aware of the woman’s name but is not publishing it because it is the policy of States Newsroom and the Examiner not to identify people who say they have been abused unless they wish to talk publicly.

She has so far declined to comment through her lawyer.

State Sen. John Fredrickson, a Democrat from Omaha, said McKeon’s letter felt like a “non-apology,” based on his first sentence that apologized to the staffer for actions that “offended” her.

“The other thing that I think is just obviously glaring in (the letter) is that he shrouds himself in God while apologizing for groping another person without consent,” Fredrickson said. “I think the irony of that is pretty clear to anyone who reads that.”

State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha — a progressive nonpartisan — shared similar thoughts with the Examiner, calling McKeon’s refusal to resign “disgraceful.”

“Public officials don’t get to redefine sexual misconduct as a spiritual trial. It’s a breach of trust, and it undermines the dignity of the Legislature,” Hunt said.

McKeon denied the allegations in separate statements Monday and Tuesday by his attorney Perry Pirsch. Pirsch described the incident as “light-hearted exchange” and called the allegations “politically motivated.”

Neary responded to Pirsch’s Monday statement Tuesday, saying that if McKeon files a countersuit for defamation — an idea Pirsch mentioned — “he will be met with a vigorous defense, including a request for sanctions for filing a frivolous counterclaim.”

“Following a thorough investigation, the Nebraska State Patrol determined that Senator McKeon had engaged in misconduct consistent with the criminal act of public indecency,” Neary’s statement reads. “His failure to take personal responsibility for his lewd misconduct and his despicable attempt to defame the victim clearly demonstrates that he lacks the personal integrity required of elected officials in Nebraska.”

On Tuesday, McKeon and Pirsch offered more details about McKeon’s perspective on the incident. Pirsch said McKeon “made a single remark — a joke — to a staff member about her planned trip and hoping she and her husband would receive a ‘Hawaiian lei,’ or words to that effect, and he then patted her on the back.”

“It was meant in jest and nothing about his action was in any way sexually charged or lewd, just a bad pun,” Pirsch said in the statement.

Gov. Jim Pillen and other state officials have&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/03/gov-jim-pillen-requests-state-senator-resign-amidst-groping-allegation/">called for McKeon’s resignation</a>, but McKeon’s latest statement said he will not resign.

“I have taken responsibility for attempting humor in the wrong moment and tone. I am sorry for that. But I did not engage in sexual misconduct, much less public lewd fondling or caressing. Most of my constituents enjoy my sense of humor,” McKeon said in Tuesday’s statement.

“Senator McKeon’s main dispute appears to be with Governor Pillen and his call for McKeon’s resignation,” Neary said in an email Tuesday. “As for my client’s dispute with Senator McKeon, I look forward to a jury rendering a fair and just verdict after they have heard all of the evidence.”

Roughly half of McKeon’s apology is filled with Bible verses, which he explained was meant to help “understand forgiveness.”

“God is still working on me, and I know he is here for all of us. God bless and hope your summer is going well,” McKeon wrote to end the letter.

McKeon is a registered Republican who was elected to the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature in 2024, replacing former State Sen. Fred Meyer of St. Paul. McKeon’s biographical page on the Nebraska Legislature’s website highlights that he has been married for 30 years and has four children.

The Examiner reached out to several Republican lawmakers for comment Tuesday, none of which immediately responded.

Fredrickson expressed concern that if McKeon does not resign before the next legislative session begins in January, his presence could disrupt lawmakers’ 60-day session. Considering the allegations connote sexual violence, he said having “someone like that” in a workplace is risky and potentially dangerous.

“No one working in the Nebraska Legislature should have to worry about being touched without consent,” Hunt said. “When a senator does that and then excuses it as a joke, or blames alcohol, or hides behind religion, he tells every staffer and member of the public that the rules don’t apply to him.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761963289167.png" alt=" State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst. Oct. 24, 2025. (Photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst. Oct. 24, 2025. (Photo by Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Sen. Dan McKeon issues statements seeking to add context to alleged groping incident; woman’s attorney defends probe</h2>By:<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/ebamer/">Erin Bamer</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — New statements from State Sen. Dan McKeon of Amherst revealed more details from his perspective about an alleged groping of a woman attending an end-of-session gathering earlier this year.The statements also sought to add more context to his apology letter to the alleged victim that McKeon sent on July 28. Some of McKeon’s fellow lawmakers criticized the letter as a “non-apology” that made excuses for bad behavior.“I’m deeply sorry for my actions at the end of session when we were visiting that offended you. I was saying it in a joking manner, and I know that alcohol had some influence but that’s no excuse,” McKeon wrote in the letter.The Nebraska State Patrol&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/10/31/nebraska-state-senator-cited-for-public-indecency-during-session-ending-party/">cited McKeon last week for misdemeanor “public indecency”</a>&nbsp;after investigating the allegation by a woman attending a post-legislative session party May 29.In the Patrol report, a woman reported McKeon “made inappropriate contact with her buttocks with his hand, over the top of her clothing,” a Nebraska State Patrol spokesman told the Examiner.The Examiner obtained a copy of McKeon’s letter from Kathleen Neary, the attorney representing the woman making the allegation. Her name and address are redacted. The Examiner is aware of the woman’s name but is not publishing it because it is the policy of States Newsroom and the Examiner not to identify people who say they have been abused unless they wish to talk publicly.She has so far declined to comment through her lawyer.State Sen. John Fredrickson, a Democrat from Omaha, said McKeon’s letter felt like a “non-apology,” based on his first sentence that apologized to the staffer for actions that “offended” her.“The other thing that I think is just obviously glaring in (the letter) is that he shrouds himself in God while apologizing for groping another person without consent,” Fredrickson said. “I think the irony of that is pretty clear to anyone who reads that.”State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha — a progressive nonpartisan — shared similar thoughts with the Examiner, calling McKeon’s refusal to resign “disgraceful.”“Public officials don’t get to redefine sexual misconduct as a spiritual trial. It’s a breach of trust, and it undermines the dignity of the Legislature,” Hunt said.McKeon denied the allegations in separate statements Monday and Tuesday by his attorney Perry Pirsch. Pirsch described the incident as “light-hearted exchange” and called the allegations “politically motivated.”Neary responded to Pirsch’s Monday statement Tuesday, saying that if McKeon files a countersuit for defamation — an idea Pirsch mentioned — “he will be met with a vigorous defense, including a request for sanctions for filing a frivolous counterclaim.”“Following a thorough investigation, the Nebraska State Patrol determined that Senator McKeon had engaged in misconduct consistent with the criminal act of public indecency,” Neary’s statement reads. “His failure to take personal responsibility for his lewd misconduct and his despicable attempt to defame the victim clearly demonstrates that he lacks the personal integrity required of elected officials in Nebraska.”On Tuesday, McKeon and Pirsch offered more details about McKeon’s perspective on the incident. Pirsch said McKeon “made a single remark — a joke — to a staff member about her planned trip and hoping she and her husband would receive a ‘Hawaiian lei,’ or words to that effect, and he then patted her on the back.”“It was meant in jest and nothing about his action was in any way sexually charged or lewd, just a bad pun,” Pirsch said in the statement.Gov. Jim Pillen and other state officials have&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2025/11/03/gov-jim-pillen-requests-state-senator-resign-amidst-groping-allegation/">called for McKeon’s resignation</a>, but McKeon’s latest statement said he will not resign.“I have taken responsibility for attempting humor in the wrong moment and tone. I am sorry for that. But I did not engage in sexual misconduct, much less public lewd fondling or caressing. Most of my constituents enjoy my sense of humor,” McKeon said in Tuesday’s statement.“Senator McKeon’s main dispute appears to be with Governor Pillen and his call for McKeon’s resignation,” Neary said in an email Tuesday. “As for my client’s dispute with Senator McKeon, I look forward to a jury rendering a fair and just verdict after they have heard all of the evidence.”Roughly half of McKeon’s apology is filled with Bible verses, which he explained was meant to help “understand forgiveness.”“God is still working on me, and I know he is here for all of us. God bless and hope your summer is going well,” McKeon wrote to end the letter.McKeon is a registered Republican who was elected to the officially nonpartisan Nebraska Legislature in 2024, replacing former State Sen. Fred Meyer of St. Paul. McKeon’s biographical page on the Nebraska Legislature’s website highlights that he has been married for 30 years and has four children.The Examiner reached out to several Republican lawmakers for comment Tuesday, none of which immediately responded.Fredrickson expressed concern that if McKeon does not resign before the next legislative session begins in January, his presence could disrupt lawmakers’ 60-day session. Considering the allegations connote sexual violence, he said having “someone like that” in a workplace is risky and potentially dangerous.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762348693811.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“No one working in the Nebraska Legislature should have to worry about being touched without consent,” Hunt said. “When a senator does that and then excuses it as a joke, or blames alcohol, or hides behind religion, he tells every staffer and member of the public that the rules don’t apply to him.”

Accused Nebraska lawmaker’s statements allude to ‘joke’ in incident during party

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Mamdani: So Donald Trump, since I know you&#39;re watching, I have four words for you: TURN THE VOLUME UP. We will hold landlords to account because the Donald Trumps of our city have grown far to comfortable taking advantage of their tenants. We will put an end to corruption that… <a href="https://t.co/eCXh6VCPQB">pic.twitter.com/eCXh6VCPQB</a>&mdash; Ron Smith (@Ronxyz00) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ronxyz00/status/1985931708416328138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani: &quot;We can respond to oligarchy and authoritarianism with the strength it fears not the appeasement it craves. After all, if anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him it is the city that gave rise to him...So,… <a href="https://t.co/Vt7pmuIGpd">pic.twitter.com/Vt7pmuIGpd</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1985931014498062675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani: &quot;We have toppled a political dynasty. I wish Andrew Cuomo only the best in private life but let tonight be the final time I utter his name as we turn the page on a politics that abandons the many and answers only to the few.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Pf0j4I1TDK">pic.twitter.com/Pf0j4I1TDK</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1985927747638632471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Zohran Mamdani's message to Trump after winning New York City mayor's race

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;SNAP BENEFITS, which increased by Billions and Billions of Dollars (MANY FOLD!) during Crooked Joe Biden’s disastrous term in office... will be given only when the Radical Left Democrats open up government, which they can easily do, and not before!&quot; - President Donald J. Trump <a href="https://t.co/VvPP6DU2qH">pic.twitter.com/VvPP6DU2qH</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1985741263472042069?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a>: &quot;We are digging into a contingency fund that is supposed to be for emergencies, catastrophes, for war... The best way to get the full amount of SNAP benefits to those beneficiaries is for Democrats to reopen the government.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/tcicftrOYI">pic.twitter.com/tcicftrOYI</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1985780097089994860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥President Trump threatens SNAP funding despite court orders

LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) are now accepting orders for conservation tree seedlings for spring planting. By ordering early, you can secure your preferred species and make a lasting contribution to the environment.

Since 1972, Nebraska’s NRDs have partnered with landowners to plant over 102 million trees statewide. At approximately $1.20 per seedling, and with cost-share programs available in many districts, these conservation trees provide immense benefits to people, wildlife, and the environment. They offer shade, shelter homes, reduce soil erosion, protect crops and livestock, support wildlife by providing food and cover, buffer noise, and add beauty to the landscape.

“The NRD Conservation Tree Program is about more than just trees—it’s about protecting our natural resources like soil, water, and wildlife,” said Martin Graff, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts president. “Every tree seedling planted helps prevent soil erosion, shields crops and livestock, filters water and acts as a natural defense against harsh weather.”

As windbreaks mature, NRD foresters recommend landowners consider rehabilitating old windbreaks or planning new plantings. The NRD Conservation Tree Program provides an affordable way for landowners to safeguard their property. NRD staff and foresters collaborate with landowners to choose the best tree species, create planting plans, and, in many cases, even handle the planting.

A notable collaboration in tree planting began in December 2021 when Lincoln-based Executive Travel launched its ETGreen campaign, pledging to plant 1 million trees in partnership with Nebraska’s NRDs. The campaign funded nearly 207,000 trees between 2022 and 2025, and Executive Travel has committed another $50,000 for tree planting in 2026. This partnership offsets seedling costs for Nebraska landowners while supporting Executive Travel’s long-term tree planting goal. Learn more about ETGreen:&nbsp;<a href="https://vimeo.com/648711812" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/648711812</a>

NRD tree programs offer various services such as planting assistance, weed barrier installation, weed control, and drip irrigation. Popular tree species sell out quickly, so don’t miss the opportunity to order early for the best selection. To learn more about cost-share options or to place an order, contact your local NRD or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>&nbsp;and click on “Find Your NRD.”

For more information on the NRD Conservation Tree Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdtrees.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdtrees.org</a>.

The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), the trade association for Nebraska's 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRD), works with individual districts to protect lives, property and the future of Nebraska’s natural resources. NRDs are unique to Nebraska, and act as local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect Nebraska’s natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond to local conservation and resource management needs. Learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>.

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762265167371.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>LINCOLN, Nebraska&nbsp;– Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) are now accepting orders for conservation tree seedlings for spring planting. By ordering early, you can secure your preferred species and make a lasting contribution to the environment.Since 1972, Nebraska’s NRDs have partnered with landowners to plant over 102 million trees statewide. At approximately $1.20 per seedling, and with cost-share programs available in many districts, these conservation trees provide immense benefits to people, wildlife, and the environment. They offer shade, shelter homes, reduce soil erosion, protect crops and livestock, support wildlife by providing food and cover, buffer noise, and add beauty to the landscape.“The NRD Conservation Tree Program is about more than just trees—it’s about protecting our natural resources like soil, water, and wildlife,” said Martin Graff, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts president. “Every tree seedling planted helps prevent soil erosion, shields crops and livestock, filters water and acts as a natural defense against harsh weather.”As windbreaks mature, NRD foresters recommend landowners consider rehabilitating old windbreaks or planning new plantings. The NRD Conservation Tree Program provides an affordable way for landowners to safeguard their property. NRD staff and foresters collaborate with landowners to choose the best tree species, create planting plans, and, in many cases, even handle the planting.A notable collaboration in tree planting began in December 2021 when Lincoln-based Executive Travel launched its ETGreen campaign, pledging to plant 1 million trees in partnership with Nebraska’s NRDs. The campaign funded nearly 207,000 trees between 2022 and 2025, and Executive Travel has committed another $50,000 for tree planting in 2026. This partnership offsets seedling costs for Nebraska landowners while supporting Executive Travel’s long-term tree planting goal. Learn more about ETGreen:&nbsp;<a href="https://vimeo.com/648711812" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/648711812</a>NRD tree programs offer various services such as planting assistance, weed barrier installation, weed control, and drip irrigation. Popular tree species sell out quickly, so don’t miss the opportunity to order early for the best selection. To learn more about cost-share options or to place an order, contact your local NRD or visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>&nbsp;and click on “Find Your NRD.”For more information on the NRD Conservation Tree Program, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdtrees.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdtrees.org</a>.The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), the trade association for Nebraska's 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRD), works with individual districts to protect lives, property and the future of Nebraska’s natural resources. NRDs are unique to Nebraska, and act as local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect Nebraska’s natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond to local conservation and resource management needs. Learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.nrdnet.org/" target="_blank">www.nrdnet.org</a>.

NRDs Now Taking Orders for Spring Tree Seedlings

OMAHA, NE –&nbsp;Midwestern communities across the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Field Division safely disposed of 18,710 pounds of unneeded and expired medications, October 25, at the 29th&nbsp;National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Nationally, the DEA and its law enforcement partners removed 571,054 pounds of medication at 4,317 collection sites.

More than 125 law enforcement partners in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota and counties in western Illinois joined the DEA in hosting 132 Take Back Day locations.

“Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to clean out medicine cabinets and drawers of unused and expired medications,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “Each pill, patch and capsule that was dropped off at a Take Back location represents one less temptation for misuse or abuse. We’re grateful for your support and hope you will continue to dispose of unneeded medications at year-round collection sites near you.”

Since its inception in 2010, more than 20 million pounds of medication have been collected at DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The removal of these medications from homes nationwide helps prevent prescription drug misuse and reduces the potential for accidental overdoses and poisonings.&nbsp;

For those unable to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, there are nearly 16,500 pharmacies, hospitals and businesses, in addition to numerous police departments, that offer safe medication disposal year-round. For information on permanent drop-off locations, please visit DEA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dea.gov/everyday-takeback-day" target="_blank">Every Day is Take Back Day</a>&nbsp;website.

Complete results for DEA’s fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/TakeBackDay" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/TakeBackDay</a>.

For Immediate Release<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707235326814.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, NE –&nbsp;Midwestern communities across the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Field Division safely disposed of 18,710 pounds of unneeded and expired medications, October 25, at the 29th&nbsp;National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Nationally, the DEA and its law enforcement partners removed 571,054 pounds of medication at 4,317 collection sites.More than 125 law enforcement partners in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, South Dakota and counties in western Illinois joined the DEA in hosting 132 Take Back Day locations.“Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to clean out medicine cabinets and drawers of unused and expired medications,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “Each pill, patch and capsule that was dropped off at a Take Back location represents one less temptation for misuse or abuse. We’re grateful for your support and hope you will continue to dispose of unneeded medications at year-round collection sites near you.”Since its inception in 2010, more than 20 million pounds of medication have been collected at DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The removal of these medications from homes nationwide helps prevent prescription drug misuse and reduces the potential for accidental overdoses and poisonings.&nbsp;For those unable to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, there are nearly 16,500 pharmacies, hospitals and businesses, in addition to numerous police departments, that offer safe medication disposal year-round. For information on permanent drop-off locations, please visit DEA’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dea.gov/everyday-takeback-day" target="_blank">Every Day is Take Back Day</a>&nbsp;website.Complete results for DEA’s fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day are available at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.dea.gov/TakeBackDay" target="_blank">www.dea.gov/TakeBackDay</a>.

Midwestern Communities Safely Dispose of 18,710 Pounds of Unwanted Medications at DEA Take Back Day Event

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY LESLEY A. WOODS

United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Justin Jelinek, 43, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was charged on October 29, 2025, by criminal complaint in Lincoln, Nebraska. Jelinek is charged with Assault on a Federal Task Force Officer with a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon, Attempted Murder of a Federal Task Force Officer, Discharge of a Firearm During and Relation to a Crime of Violence, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography. These charges carry penalties with a minimum of 5 years’ imprisonment to life.&nbsp; Discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence carries with it a 10-year mandatory minimum imprisonment term and qualifies for up to life in prison.

The complaint alleges that on October 15, 2025, Jelinek fired upon Federal Task Force Officers employed with the Nebraska State Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations when executing a judicially issued search warrant in relation to receipt and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.

The complaint alleges that Jelinek confronted the officers with a firearm when they entered his residence after he did not respond to knocking and officers’ commands. Jelinek is alleged to have fired one round from a high-powered rifle when negotiations with Jelinek to drop his weapon and end the confrontation peacefully and safely failed. Jelinek shot out the front door of the residence at 7 officers who were on or around the front porch. One officer returned fire. Eventually, Jelinek surrendered and was arrested. The officers executed the search warrant and seized several electronic devices and performed a preliminary review for child sexual abuse materials. Law enforcement obtained additional search warrants while on site and seized firearms valued at approximately $100,000 and approximately 25,000 rounds of ammunition.

Jelinek appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. DeLuca on October 30, 2025, for his initial appearance. A preliminary and detention hearing is scheduled for November 6, 2025, before Magistrate Judge DeLuca.

“This case underscores the extreme dangers our HSI agents and Task Force Officers face every day in the pursuit of justice and the protection of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge for HSI Kansas City Mark Zito. “Despite Jelinek’s continued disregard for anyone other than himself, our Task Force Officers remained steadfast in their mission to hold him accountable. HSI, in collaboration with our partners, will ensure that he faces the full weight of federal justice for his actions. We are grateful that our officers and task force members emerged from this incident unharmed, and we remain committed to safeguarding the public from those who threaten the safety and security of our communities.”

A Criminal Complaint is a charging document that contains one or more individual counts that are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

This case is being investigated by&nbsp;Homeland Security Investigations.

Press ReleaseUNITED STATES ATTORNEY LESLEY A. WOODSDISTRICT OF NEBRASKA<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760627506366.jpeg" alt="Justin M. Jelinek (Hall County Sheriff's Office)" />
 <figcaption>Justin M. Jelinek (Hall County Sheriff's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure>United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Justin Jelinek, 43, of Grand Island, Nebraska, was charged on October 29, 2025, by criminal complaint in Lincoln, Nebraska. Jelinek is charged with Assault on a Federal Task Force Officer with a Deadly or Dangerous Weapon, Attempted Murder of a Federal Task Force Officer, Discharge of a Firearm During and Relation to a Crime of Violence, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography. These charges carry penalties with a minimum of 5 years’ imprisonment to life.&nbsp; Discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence carries with it a 10-year mandatory minimum imprisonment term and qualifies for up to life in prison.The complaint alleges that on October 15, 2025, Jelinek fired upon Federal Task Force Officers employed with the Nebraska State Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations when executing a judicially issued search warrant in relation to receipt and distribution of child sexual abuse materials.The complaint alleges that Jelinek confronted the officers with a firearm when they entered his residence after he did not respond to knocking and officers’ commands. Jelinek is alleged to have fired one round from a high-powered rifle when negotiations with Jelinek to drop his weapon and end the confrontation peacefully and safely failed. Jelinek shot out the front door of the residence at 7 officers who were on or around the front porch. One officer returned fire. Eventually, Jelinek surrendered and was arrested. The officers executed the search warrant and seized several electronic devices and performed a preliminary review for child sexual abuse materials. Law enforcement obtained additional search warrants while on site and seized firearms valued at approximately $100,000 and approximately 25,000 rounds of ammunition.Jelinek appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. DeLuca on October 30, 2025, for his initial appearance. A preliminary and detention hearing is scheduled for November 6, 2025, before Magistrate Judge DeLuca.“This case underscores the extreme dangers our HSI agents and Task Force Officers face every day in the pursuit of justice and the protection of our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge for HSI Kansas City Mark Zito. “Despite Jelinek’s continued disregard for anyone other than himself, our Task Force Officers remained steadfast in their mission to hold him accountable. HSI, in collaboration with our partners, will ensure that he faces the full weight of federal justice for his actions. We are grateful that our officers and task force members emerged from this incident unharmed, and we remain committed to safeguarding the public from those who threaten the safety and security of our communities.”A Criminal Complaint is a charging document that contains one or more individual counts that are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.This case is being investigated by&nbsp;Homeland Security Investigations.

Grand Island Man Charged with Assault and Attempted Murder of Federal Task Force Officers

The divisive and powerful 9/11-era vice president was also a devoted husband, avid outdoorsman and close advisor to his daughter, Liz Cheney.

by&nbsp;<a href="https://wyofile.com/author/katie-klingsporn/">Katie Klingsporn</a> <a href="https://wyofile.com/">WyoFile</a>

Dick Cheney, the Wyoming oilman and politician who was widely considered to be the most powerful vice president in America’s history, died on Monday. He was 84.&nbsp;

Cheney, who grew up largely in Casper, served as Wyoming’s sole U.S. representative in Congress from 1979-1989. It was among his many roles in Washington. At age 34, he became the youngest presidential chief of staff in history when President Gerald Ford appointed him to the post. He served as secretary of defense under George H.W. Bush, and years later joined the ticket of George W. Bush to become vice president, serving two terms.

He and his wife of 61 years, Lynne, continued to live part-time in Jackson, and often hosted family there. Later in his life, Cheney became a close political advisor to his eldest daughter, Liz Cheney, who followed in his footsteps with a career in politics —&nbsp;and one that also grew polarizing.

Cheney was famously in D.C. as terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11, 2001, the defining event of his career. With President Bush in Florida that day, Cheney&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archives.gov/files/declassification/iscap/pdf/2012-163-doc-1-release-material.pdf">presided over the chaotic and terrifying early hours of the attack</a>&nbsp;from the Presidential Emergency Operations Center located underneath the White House — authorizing military force against civilian airplanes. He later became the chief architect of the war on terror.&nbsp;

While Cheney had admirers who respected his clear-eyed decisiveness, formidable intelligence and enduring patriotism, he also had detractors. The latter camp decried the surveillance and interrogation tactics implemented under his leadership as blatant civil liberties violations, and portrayed him as a Darth-Vaderesque figure — a sinister, secretive force orchestrating behind the scenes of the Bush administration.&nbsp;

In a nod to that, Cheney once showed up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66FRAcBu9PA">dressed as the “Star Wars” villain for a “Tonight Show” interview with Jay Leno</a>. That, friends say, is an example of his sense of humor and proof that he was far more complicated than he was portrayed to be.

“He was fun and he could be funny, but he was also very serious,” said Judy Legerski of Lander, who has known Cheney since she worked on his first congressional campaign. “He was just a good, solid person. And a real guy.”

Friends remember Cheney as a cool-headed man of steely loyalty and deep consideration for others. He was a devoted husband and father, an avid fisherman and an accomplished outdoorsman. (He did find himself the subject of jokes after accidentally shooting an acquaintance during a 2006 hunting trip.) He wasn’t one for small talk, but if engaged on the right topic, he would expound at length.&nbsp;

“Dick’s one of the smartest people I’ve ever known in my life,” Legerski said. “His abilities of analysis were remarkable. You could ask a question, and he’d answer it like he’d done a research study on the topic two days before.”

Cheney was even-keeled and straightforward, a scholar of American history who loved dogs and was never one for the drama.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“He looked you right in the face if you had something to say,” remembers John McConnell, who was Cheney’s speechwriter in the White House. “He kind of had a way of tilting his head and listening to you, and he just was always great to work with. He was the most considerate and appreciative person I’ve ever worked for.”

He was hard-working and deeply committed to serving the country, said Steve Hadley, who served with Cheney at the Pentagon then in the White House as national security adviser.&nbsp;

“I would hope that [Americans] would recognize him as a man of integrity and talent, who loved the country, who put service to the country as his top priority, and was a terrific vice president in being supportive of the president and doing what the president needed him to do in order to keep this country safe,” Hadley said.

Cheney is survived by his wife, Lynne, daughters Liz and Mary, and several grandchildren.

Richard Bruce Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on Jan. 30, 1941 to a family of New Deal Democrats. His father was quiet, his mother high-spirited and convivial. His family moved to Casper when he was 13 after the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Service reassigned his father to a new post.

As an adolescent, he played sports, explored the high plains with his brother, Bob, and developed a fishing addiction. Though a voracious reader of history, he was never a great student. In high school, he met and fell in love with Lynne Vincent, a bright and pretty student who was the state champion baton twirler. During their senior year at Natrona County High School, he was class president and she was homecoming queen. (The school’s football field&nbsp;<a href="https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/vicepresident/vpphotoessay/cheneyalumnifield/peindex.html">now bears his name</a>.)

Though a bit aimless, Cheney was advised by Casper oilman Tom Stroock to apply to Yale. Stroock assured Cheney the elite East Coast university was interested in geographic diversity. Cheney was accepted and awarded a full scholarship.&nbsp;

But after arriving in New Haven, Cheney fell in with a group of boys more interested in a good time than good grades, according to his memoir, “In My Time.” After two false starts, Cheney failed out.&nbsp;

He returned to Wyoming to “work in the tools” as a union member on jobs like installing electrical transmission lines. The work, which was physical and could be dangerous, paid well, but Cheney fell deeper into drinking with his work buddies. He was arrested twice for driving under the influence. The second arrest became a crucial fulcrum point in his life.

“Lynne, after spending a semester in Europe, had graduated summa cum laude from Colorado College,” Cheney recalled in his memoir. “And I was sleeping off a hangover in the Rock Springs jail.”

Determined to turn his life around, he stopped frequenting bars and enrolled at the University of Wyoming. In 1964, Lynne accepted his marriage proposal. They were married in August that year, and Cheney turned his focus to a career and fatherhood.

Cheney studied political science at UW, and got his first taste of political machinations as an intern in the Wyoming Legislature. Though he and Lynne had both planned to become college professors, his interests led him instead into politics. His first job came during the Nixon administration in 1969, when then-Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity Donald Rumsfeld hired Cheney as a congressional relations aide. That was the beginning of a decades-long mentorship and working relationship with Rumsfeld.&nbsp;

When Rumsfeld became President Gerald Ford’s chief of staff in 1974, Cheney acted as his deputy. And when Rumsfeld was bumped to secretary of defense in 1975, Cheney was promoted to fill the chief of staff vacancy.&nbsp;

After Ford lost his re-election bid to Jimmy Carter in 1976, Cheney decided to run for office himself. Not long after he moved Lynne and their two daughters back to Casper, he set his sights on the state’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. That’s when Legerski met him.&nbsp;

“Dick and two others were running on the Republican primary, and at the time, I was, for whatever reason, a hot political commodity around here,” Legerski said. “So each of these three people came and talked to me, and after talking to them, I determined that Dick was the guy I would support.”

She was impressed with his intellect and demeanor, she said.

That first primary, when Cheney vied against Ed Witzenburger and Jack Gage for the GOP nomination, was the toughest of his six campaigns for House, Cheney recalled in his memoir. After many previous years in D.C., one of his major tasks was convincing residents that he was in touch with them. He embarked on a dizzying tour of Wyoming diners, radio stations and town halls.&nbsp;

He was campaigning in Cheyenne in June 1978 when he awoke in the middle of the night with tingling in his left hand. Cheney, 37 at the time, was having a heart attack.&nbsp;

He was treated and released with instructions to rest. He quit smoking and began to eat healthier. Meanwhile, Lynne filled in on his campaign events. After winning the primary, he beat the Democratic challenger.&nbsp;

Cheney was re-elected five times, serving until 1989.&nbsp;

He honed his national security knowledge, assembled a team of Wyoming staffers and worked alongside Republicans such as Newt Gingrich and Phil Gramm. Cheney served as House Minority Whip and chairman of the House Republican Conference.

Among his legislative achievements, he was particularly proud of the 1984 Wyoming Wilderness Act, which added nearly 1 million acres to the state’s wilderness areas. Cheney worked closely with fellow Wyoming congressmen Alan Simpson and Malcolm Wallop to pass the legislation.

The campaign heart attack, however, would be the first of a string of health troubles to plague Cheney. He experienced a second heart attack in 1984, and a third in 1988. He underwent quadruple bypass surgery, suffered a fourth attack in 2000 and received a ventricular assist device implant in 2010. In 2012, at the age of 71, he received a heart transplant, which bought him several more years of life.

Cheney left the House in 1989 after President H.W. Bush appointed him secretary of defense. In that post, he oversaw Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm — key phases of the Gulf War. After Bill Clinton’s presidential election, Cheney took the opportunity to do some fishing, plying blue-ribbon waters from British Columbia to Oregon and New Zealand.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Then he went into the private sector, working as chairman and CEO of the energy juggernaut Halliburton, headquartered in Dallas. The proximity allowed him to get to know George W. Bush, who was governor of Texas. Bush’s camp first asked Cheney to run Bush’s presidential campaign, which he declined.&nbsp;

They came back with a new request: help search for a veep. Cheney agreed. Early efforts, however, were fruitless. Bush eventually persuaded Cheney to accept the post.&nbsp;

Legerski remembers where she was — riding the elevator at Little America in Salt Lake — when Cheney called to give her the news. “And I said, ‘Dick, I remember you telling me you were never hitching your wagon onto someone else’s star.’ And he said, ‘When your president asks, the only answer is yes,’” she said. “And that’s the kind of guy he was.”

The decision vaulted him into the national spotlight, where every aspect of his life was under scrutiny. That included his views on gay rights. Cheney’s daughter, Mary, had come out as gay to the family years before, and he supported her. When asked in a debate about gay marriage, he was careful, answering that while people should be free to enter any relationship they want, gay marriage should be left to individual states, not subject to federal policy.

Famously, the Bush v. Gore election was controversial, with the U.S. Supreme Court settling the recount dispute in Bush’s favor in December 2000. It was a bumpy start for Cheney, who had suffered another heart attack during the prolonged recount process. It also foretold a difficult era.&nbsp;

Less than a year later, terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11. That morning, a special agent burst through Cheney’s office door, hoisted him by his belt and hustled him down to the emergency operation room, telling Cheney an unidentified aircraft was heading toward the White House.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762260671709.png" alt="then-U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney and her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, in Cody July 30, 2022. photo by Dewey Vanderhoff" />
 <figcaption>then-U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney and her father, former Vice President Dick Cheney, in Cody July 30, 2022. photo by Dewey Vanderhoff</figcaption>
 </figure>The divisive and powerful 9/11-era vice president was also a devoted husband, avid outdoorsman and close advisor to his daughter, Liz Cheney.by&nbsp;<a href="https://wyofile.com/author/katie-klingsporn/">Katie Klingsporn</a> <a href="https://wyofile.com/">WyoFile</a>Dick Cheney, the Wyoming oilman and politician who was widely considered to be the most powerful vice president in America’s history, died on Monday. He was 84.&nbsp;Cheney, who grew up largely in Casper, served as Wyoming’s sole U.S. representative in Congress from 1979-1989. It was among his many roles in Washington. At age 34, he became the youngest presidential chief of staff in history when President Gerald Ford appointed him to the post. He served as secretary of defense under George H.W. Bush, and years later joined the ticket of George W. Bush to become vice president, serving two terms.He and his wife of 61 years, Lynne, continued to live part-time in Jackson, and often hosted family there. Later in his life, Cheney became a close political advisor to his eldest daughter, Liz Cheney, who followed in his footsteps with a career in politics —&nbsp;and one that also grew polarizing.Cheney was famously in D.C. as terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11, 2001, the defining event of his career. With President Bush in Florida that day, Cheney&nbsp;<a href="https://www.archives.gov/files/declassification/iscap/pdf/2012-163-doc-1-release-material.pdf">presided over the chaotic and terrifying early hours of the attack</a>&nbsp;from the Presidential Emergency Operations Center located underneath the White House — authorizing military force against civilian airplanes. He later became the chief architect of the war on terror.&nbsp;While Cheney had admirers who respected his clear-eyed decisiveness, formidable intelligence and enduring patriotism, he also had detractors. The latter camp decried the surveillance and interrogation tactics implemented under his leadership as blatant civil liberties violations, and portrayed him as a Darth-Vaderesque figure — a sinister, secretive force orchestrating behind the scenes of the Bush administration.&nbsp;In a nod to that, Cheney once showed up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66FRAcBu9PA">dressed as the “Star Wars” villain for a “Tonight Show” interview with Jay Leno</a>. That, friends say, is an example of his sense of humor and proof that he was far more complicated than he was portrayed to be.“He was fun and he could be funny, but he was also very serious,” said Judy Legerski of Lander, who has known Cheney since she worked on his first congressional campaign. “He was just a good, solid person. And a real guy.”Friends remember Cheney as a cool-headed man of steely loyalty and deep consideration for others. He was a devoted husband and father, an avid fisherman and an accomplished outdoorsman. (He did find himself the subject of jokes after accidentally shooting an acquaintance during a 2006 hunting trip.) He wasn’t one for small talk, but if engaged on the right topic, he would expound at length.&nbsp;“Dick’s one of the smartest people I’ve ever known in my life,” Legerski said. “His abilities of analysis were remarkable. You could ask a question, and he’d answer it like he’d done a research study on the topic two days before.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762260606545.png" alt="Vice President Dick Cheney in the President’s Emergency Operations Center on Sept. 11, 2001. (U.S. National Archives)" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Dick Cheney in the President’s Emergency Operations Center on Sept. 11, 2001. (U.S. National Archives)</figcaption>
 </figure>Cheney was even-keeled and straightforward, a scholar of American history who loved dogs and was never one for the drama.&nbsp;&nbsp;“He looked you right in the face if you had something to say,” remembers John McConnell, who was Cheney’s speechwriter in the White House. “He kind of had a way of tilting his head and listening to you, and he just was always great to work with. He was the most considerate and appreciative person I’ve ever worked for.”He was hard-working and deeply committed to serving the country, said Steve Hadley, who served with Cheney at the Pentagon then in the White House as national security adviser.&nbsp;“I would hope that [Americans] would recognize him as a man of integrity and talent, who loved the country, who put service to the country as his top priority, and was a terrific vice president in being supportive of the president and doing what the president needed him to do in order to keep this country safe,” Hadley said.Cheney is survived by his wife, Lynne, daughters Liz and Mary, and several grandchildren.<h2>Early life</h2>Richard Bruce Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on Jan. 30, 1941 to a family of New Deal Democrats. His father was quiet, his mother high-spirited and convivial. His family moved to Casper when he was 13 after the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Soil Conservation Service reassigned his father to a new post.As an adolescent, he played sports, explored the high plains with his brother, Bob, and developed a fishing addiction. Though a voracious reader of history, he was never a great student. In high school, he met and fell in love with Lynne Vincent, a bright and pretty student who was the state champion baton twirler. During their senior year at Natrona County High School, he was class president and she was homecoming queen. (The school’s football field&nbsp;<a href="https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/vicepresident/vpphotoessay/cheneyalumnifield/peindex.html">now bears his name</a>.)Though a bit aimless, Cheney was advised by Casper oilman Tom Stroock to apply to Yale. Stroock assured Cheney the elite East Coast university was interested in geographic diversity. Cheney was accepted and awarded a full scholarship.&nbsp;But after arriving in New Haven, Cheney fell in with a group of boys more interested in a good time than good grades, according to his memoir, “In My Time.” After two false starts, Cheney failed out.&nbsp;He returned to Wyoming to “work in the tools” as a union member on jobs like installing electrical transmission lines. The work, which was physical and could be dangerous, paid well, but Cheney fell deeper into drinking with his work buddies. He was arrested twice for driving under the influence. The second arrest became a crucial fulcrum point in his life.“Lynne, after spending a semester in Europe, had graduated summa cum laude from Colorado College,” Cheney recalled in his memoir. “And I was sleeping off a hangover in the Rock Springs jail.”Determined to turn his life around, he stopped frequenting bars and enrolled at the University of Wyoming. In 1964, Lynne accepted his marriage proposal. They were married in August that year, and Cheney turned his focus to a career and fatherhood.<h2>Politics&nbsp;</h2>Cheney studied political science at UW, and got his first taste of political machinations as an intern in the Wyoming Legislature. Though he and Lynne had both planned to become college professors, his interests led him instead into politics. His first job came during the Nixon administration in 1969, when then-Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity Donald Rumsfeld hired Cheney as a congressional relations aide. That was the beginning of a decades-long mentorship and working relationship with Rumsfeld.&nbsp;When Rumsfeld became President Gerald Ford’s chief of staff in 1974, Cheney acted as his deputy. And when Rumsfeld was bumped to secretary of defense in 1975, Cheney was promoted to fill the chief of staff vacancy.&nbsp;After Ford lost his re-election bid to Jimmy Carter in 1976, Cheney decided to run for office himself. Not long after he moved Lynne and their two daughters back to Casper, he set his sights on the state’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. That’s when Legerski met him.&nbsp;“Dick and two others were running on the Republican primary, and at the time, I was, for whatever reason, a hot political commodity around here,” Legerski said. “So each of these three people came and talked to me, and after talking to them, I determined that Dick was the guy I would support.”She was impressed with his intellect and demeanor, she said.That first primary, when Cheney vied against Ed Witzenburger and Jack Gage for the GOP nomination, was the toughest of his six campaigns for House, Cheney recalled in his memoir. After many previous years in D.C., one of his major tasks was convincing residents that he was in touch with them. He embarked on a dizzying tour of Wyoming diners, radio stations and town halls.&nbsp;He was campaigning in Cheyenne in June 1978 when he awoke in the middle of the night with tingling in his left hand. Cheney, 37 at the time, was having a heart attack.&nbsp;He was treated and released with instructions to rest. He quit smoking and began to eat healthier. Meanwhile, Lynne filled in on his campaign events. After winning the primary, he beat the Democratic challenger.&nbsp;Cheney was re-elected five times, serving until 1989.&nbsp;He honed his national security knowledge, assembled a team of Wyoming staffers and worked alongside Republicans such as Newt Gingrich and Phil Gramm. Cheney served as House Minority Whip and chairman of the House Republican Conference.Among his legislative achievements, he was particularly proud of the 1984 Wyoming Wilderness Act, which added nearly 1 million acres to the state’s wilderness areas. Cheney worked closely with fellow Wyoming congressmen Alan Simpson and Malcolm Wallop to pass the legislation.The campaign heart attack, however, would be the first of a string of health troubles to plague Cheney. He experienced a second heart attack in 1984, and a third in 1988. He underwent quadruple bypass surgery, suffered a fourth attack in 2000 and received a ventricular assist device implant in 2010. In 2012, at the age of 71, he received a heart transplant, which bought him several more years of life.<h2>Road to veep&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>Cheney left the House in 1989 after President H.W. Bush appointed him secretary of defense. In that post, he oversaw Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm — key phases of the Gulf War. After Bill Clinton’s presidential election, Cheney took the opportunity to do some fishing, plying blue-ribbon waters from British Columbia to Oregon and New Zealand.&nbsp;&nbsp;Then he went into the private sector, working as chairman and CEO of the energy juggernaut Halliburton, headquartered in Dallas. The proximity allowed him to get to know George W. Bush, who was governor of Texas. Bush’s camp first asked Cheney to run Bush’s presidential campaign, which he declined.&nbsp;They came back with a new request: help search for a veep. Cheney agreed. Early efforts, however, were fruitless. Bush eventually persuaded Cheney to accept the post.&nbsp;Legerski remembers where she was — riding the elevator at Little America in Salt Lake — when Cheney called to give her the news. “And I said, ‘Dick, I remember you telling me you were never hitching your wagon onto someone else’s star.’ And he said, ‘When your president asks, the only answer is yes,’” she said. “And that’s the kind of guy he was.”The decision vaulted him into the national spotlight, where every aspect of his life was under scrutiny. That included his views on gay rights. Cheney’s daughter, Mary, had come out as gay to the family years before, and he supported her. When asked in a debate about gay marriage, he was careful, answering that while people should be free to enter any relationship they want, gay marriage should be left to individual states, not subject to federal policy.Famously, the Bush v. Gore election was controversial, with the U.S. Supreme Court settling the recount dispute in Bush’s favor in December 2000. It was a bumpy start for Cheney, who had suffered another heart attack during the prolonged recount process. It also foretold a difficult era.&nbsp;Less than a year later, terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11. That morning, a special agent burst through Cheney’s office door, hoisted him by his belt and hustled him down to the emergency operation room, telling Cheney an unidentified aircraft was heading toward the White House.&nbsp;As with the rest of the country, 9/11 left indelible impacts on Cheney. He became determined to quash terrorists and their supporters with whatever tools of national power were accessible.&nbsp;“I think that had a searing effect on him,” said Pete Williams, a former NBC news correspondent who worked as Cheney’s press secretary for seven years. “I think he felt that virtually anything that was conceivable to prosecute the war on terror, he was willing to consider.”Pete Williams sits on WyoFile’s board of directors.&nbsp;In the years that followed, Cheney was criticized for authorizing controversial counterterrorism policies, promoting the inaccurate claim that Iraq was linked to 9/11 and helping to expand executive power. Critics said Cheney committed war crimes, citing the country’s use of domestic spying, torture and indefinite detention.&nbsp;“He never flinched when the going got tough, or when the criticism became heated as it did,” McConnell said.&nbsp;The actions also stem from Cheney’s interpretation of the job, Hadley said. “I think he would say that the first responsibility of the president and vice president was to keep the nation secure, and he took that very seriously.”&nbsp;Other factors led to Cheney exerting power in ways beyond previous VPs, who had mainly been figureheads. Unlike Bush, Cheney possessed decades of foreign policy, White House and congressional experience. Bush delegated meaningful tasks to him, which meant he served as a kind of chief operating officer for the president, exerting major influence in policy decisions.As a vice president, Cheney divided the public in unprecedented fashion. People either viewed him with deep admiration, or as a secretive and corrupt man who orchestrated a dark chapter in America’s history — and not much in between.&nbsp;The latter view was made manifest in&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vice_(2018_film)">“Vice,” a 2018 film</a>&nbsp;starring Christian Bale as Cheney, a cunning and ruthlessly ambitious sociopath.&nbsp;<h2>Reconciling the man and the reputation&nbsp;</h2>Those who knew Cheney personally are adamant that the “Vice” character couldn’t be further from the truth.&nbsp;“The last thing I would describe him as is taciturn or sour,” said Williams. “He was thoughtful, he was serious, he was highly focused. I very quickly realized that Dick Cheney did not do small talk … but I found him to have a great sense of humor, a very self-deprecating sense of humor.”When it came to the war on terror, Williams said, “I think he felt that was the right thing to do to save the country.”Legerski can see why Cheney could come off as remote. “I think in some ways, his gravitas was off-putting to some people,” she said. But she remembers a warm and considerate family man. The first time Liz Cheney ran for Congress, Legerski remembers, one of the drawbacks was that she wouldn’t be available to chauffeur her daughter to rodeos.&nbsp;“So Dick got a truck, and he hauled [his granddaughter] and her horse to all the summer rodeos,” Legerski said. He&nbsp;<a href="https://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/dick-cheney-embraces-the-darth-vader-meme-msna609146">adorned the pickup’s trailer hitch cover with an image of Darth Vader</a>.Cheney largely disappeared from the public eye until the aftermath of Jan. 6. Republican support of Cheney and Liz fractured after the younger&nbsp;<a href="https://wyofile.com/a-year-later-cheneys-jan-6-response-divides-wyoming/">Cheney became a prominent critic of Donald Trump’s</a>&nbsp;actions related to the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/videos/politics/2022/01/06/dick-cheney-liz-cheney-only-gop-january-6-house-floor-nr-sot-vpx.cnn">Cheney backed</a>&nbsp;his daughter.He had a refreshing straightforwardness, McConnell said.&nbsp;“He had high expectations, but he was always fair, easy to deal with in the sense that you knew where you stood with him,” he said. McConnell remembers getting irritated when Cheney would be attacked in the press. Cheney seemed to accept it as part of the gig, and was too busy doing his job to spend much effort refuting the flak. McConnell often wondered if Cheney took the heat so that Bush didn’t have to.“He wasn’t out there to improve his own image, he was there to serve the president and the country,” he said.In a&nbsp;<a href="https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2014/02/dick-cheney-on-his-heart-transplant-its-the-gift-of-life-itself.html">2014 article in Stanford Medicine</a>&nbsp;about Cheney’s long-standing heart issues, Cheney told the publication that before his transplant, he had confronted his mortality.&nbsp;“I thought about it, I guess, I was at peace,” Cheney said in the article. “I had come to that point where I fully expected that I had lived a wonderful and remarkable life. I had a tremendous family. I had everything a man could ask for.”