BEIRUT (AP) — The U.S. military said Sunday it shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired toward a container ship by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houthi-gaza-israel-palestine-yemen-treasury-department-16cfb3b70904eb2cc6d0c2670e3bc37c">Yemen’s Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;in the Red Sea. Hours later, four boats tried to attack the same ship, but U.S. forces opened fire, killing several of the armed crews, the U.S. Central Command said. No one was injured on the ship.

The Singapore-flagged MAERSK HANZGHOU reported they had already been hit by a missile Saturday night while transiting the Southern Red Sea and requested assistance, CENTCOM said in a statement. The USS GRAVELY and USS LABOON responded to the call for help, and the Denmark-owned vessel was reportedly seaworthy and no injuries were noted, the statement added.

“This is the 23rd illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping since Nov. 19,” CENTCOM said.

In another statement, CENTCOM said the same ship issued an additional distress call about a second attack “by four Iranian-backed Houthi small boats.” The attackers fired small arms weapons at the MAERSK HANZGHOU, getting to within 20 meters (about 65 feet) of the vessel, and attempted to it, CENTCOM said.

A contract-embarked security team on the ship returned fire, the central command said. U.S. helicopters from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and GRAVELY responded to the distress call and while issuing verbal warnings to the attackers, the small boat crews opened fire on the helicopters using small arms, the statement said.

“The U.S. Navy helicopters returned fire in self-defense,” sinking three of the four boats, killing the crews while the fourth boat fled the area, CENTCOM said, and no damage to U.S. personnel or equipment was reported.

The Iran-backed Houthis have claimed attacks on ships in the Red Sea that they say are either linked to Israel or heading to Israeli ports. They say their attacks aim to end Israel’s air-and-ground offensive targeting the Gaza Strip following the attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Oct.7.

On Saturday, the top commander of U.S. naval forces in the Middle East said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/red-sea-shipping-houthi-attacks-drones-missiles-1acc4ca5ebcaf6fee932a2061d451f59">Houthi rebels have shown no signs of ending their</a>&nbsp;“reckless” attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea even as more nations join the international maritime mission to protect vessels in the vital waterway and trade traffic begins to pick up.

JERUSALEM —At approximately 8:30 p.m. (Sanaa time) Saturday, the container ship Maersk Hangzhou reported that they were struck by a missile while transiting the Southern Red Sea, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

The Singapore-flagged, Denmark-owned/operated container ship requested assistance, and the USS&nbsp; Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Laboon (DDG 58)&nbsp; responded to the ship. The vessel is reportedly seaworthy and there are no reported injuries.

While responding, the USS Gravely shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen toward the ships.

This is the 23rd illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping since Nov. 19.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza will continue for “many more months," pushing back against persistent international cease-fire calls after mounting civilian deaths, hunger and mass displacement in the besieged enclave.

Netanyahu thanked the Biden administration for its continued backing, including approval for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-israel-gaza-arms-hamas-bypass-congress-1dc77f20aac4a797df6a2338b677da4f">a new emergency weapons sale</a>, the second this month, and prevention of a U.N. Security Council resolution seeking an immediate cease-fire. Israel argues that ending the war now would mean victory for Hamas, a stance shared by the Biden administration, which at the same time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-israel-hamas-oct-7-44c4229d4c1270d9cfa484b664a22071">urged Israel to do more</a>&nbsp;to avoid harm to Palestinian civilians.

In new fighting, Israeli warplanes struck the urban refugee camps of Nuseirat and Bureij in the center of the territory Saturday as ground forces pushed deeper into the southern city of Khan Younis.

The Health Ministry in Gaza said Saturday that more than 21,600 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">unprecedented air and ground offensive</a>&nbsp;since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">deadly Oct. 7 Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;on southern Israel. The ministry, which does not distinguish between the deaths of civilians and combatants, said 165 Palestinians were killed over the past 24 hours. It has said about 70% of those killed have been women and children.

The number of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza combat rose to 170, after the military announced two more deaths Saturday.

The war has displaced some 85% of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, sending swells of people seeking shelter in Israeli-designated safe areas that the military has nevertheless bombed. Palestinians are left with a sense that nowhere is safe in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-war-90e02d26420b8fe3157f73c256f9ed6a">tiny enclave</a>.

With Israeli forces expanding their ground offensive this week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-29-2023-d36675194a22db54970f38c1c2ed3937">tens of thousands more Palestinians streamed</a>&nbsp;into the already crowded city of Rafah at the southernmost end of Gaza.

Thousands of tents and makeshift shacks have sprung up on Rafah’s outskirts next to U.N. warehouses. Displaced people arrived in Rafah on foot or on trucks and carts piled high with mattresses. Those who did not find space in overwhelmed shelters pitched tents on roadsides.

“We don't have water. We don’t have enough food,” Nour Daher, a displaced woman, said Saturday from the sprawling tent camp. “The kids wake up in the morning wanting to eat, wanting to drink. It took us one hour to find water for them. We couldn’t bring them flour. Even when we wanted to take them to toilets, it took us one hour to walk.”

In the Nuseirat camp, resident Mustafa Abu Wawee said a strike hit the home of one of his relatives, killing two people.

“The (Israeli) occupation is doing everything to force people to leave,” he said over the phone while helping to search for four people missing under the rubble. “They want to break our spirit and will, but they will fail. We are here to stay.”

The State Department said Friday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Congress he approved a $147.5 million sale for equipment, including fuses, charges and primers, that is needed for 155 mm shells Israel bought previously.

It marked the second time this month that the Biden administration is bypassing Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale to Israel. Blinken made a similar decision on Dec. 9 to approve the sale to Israel of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth more than $106 million.

Both moves have come as President Joe Biden’s request for a nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">$106 billion aid package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other national security needs remains stalled in Congress, caught up in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security. Some Democratic lawmakers have spoken of making the proposed $14.3 billion in American assistance to its Mideast ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-israel-gaza-aid-sanders-a760c44986e5381b146d370cada95b52">contingent on concrete steps</a>&nbsp;by Netanyahu’s government to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza during the war with Hamas.

Blinken, who has repeatedly traveled to the Middle East during the war, was expected back in Israel and other countries in the region in January. U.S. officials have urged Israel to start shifting from high intensity combat to more targeted operations, but said they were not imposing a deadline.

“As the chief of staff said this week, the war will continue many more months,” he told a televised news conference Saturday. "My policy is clear. We will continue to fight until we have achieved all the objectives of the war, first and foremost the annihilation of Hamas and the release of all the hostages.”

More than 120 hostages remain in Gaza, after militants seized more than 240 in the Oct. 7 assault that also killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians.

Netanyahu is also at odds with the Biden administration over who should run Gaza after the war. He has rejected the U.S.-backed idea that a unified Palestinian government should run both Gaza and parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank as a precursor to eventual statehood. Instead, he has insisted on open-ended Israeli security control in Gaza, without saying what would come next.

Families of hostages and their supporters have demanded that the government prioritize hostage releases over other war objectives, and have staged large protests every weekend, including Saturday.

Egypt, one of the mediators between Israel and Hamas, has proposed a multistage plan that would kick off with a swap of hostages for prisoners, accompanied by a temporary cease-fire — along the lines of an exchange during a weeklong truce in November.

Hamas insists the war must end before it will discuss hostage releases. Osama Hamdan, a senior Hamas official in Beirut, reiterated that position Saturday, but also told The Associated Press that “we have not given any final answer so far” to the Egyptian proposal.

Asked about reports of possible progress toward a deal, Netanyahu said Saturday that “we see a possibility, maybe, for movement” but that he did not want to raise “exaggerated expectations.”

More than a week after a U.N. Security Council resolution called for the unhindered delivery of aid at scale across besieged Gaza, conditions have only worsened, U.N. agencies warned.

Aid officials said the aid entering Gaza remains woefully inadequate. Distributing goods is hampered by long delays at two border crossings, ongoing fighting, Israeli airstrikes, repeated cuts in internet and phone services and a breakdown of law and order that makes it difficult to secure aid convoys, they said.

Nearly the entire population is fully dependent on outside humanitarian aid, said Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-21-2023-7d9718b32bf0d308c44c7c9e3c4e0deb">quarter of the population</a>&nbsp;is starving because too few trucks enter with food, medicine, fuel and other supplies — sometimes fewer than 100 trucks a day, according to U.N. daily reports.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703990687604.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIRUT (AP) — The U.S. military said Sunday it shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired toward a container ship by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/houthi-gaza-israel-palestine-yemen-treasury-department-16cfb3b70904eb2cc6d0c2670e3bc37c">Yemen’s Houthi rebels</a>&nbsp;in the Red Sea. Hours later, four boats tried to attack the same ship, but U.S. forces opened fire, killing several of the armed crews, the U.S. Central Command said. No one was injured on the ship.The Singapore-flagged MAERSK HANZGHOU reported they had already been hit by a missile Saturday night while transiting the Southern Red Sea and requested assistance, CENTCOM said in a statement. The USS GRAVELY and USS LABOON responded to the call for help, and the Denmark-owned vessel was reportedly seaworthy and no injuries were noted, the statement added.“This is the 23rd illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping since Nov. 19,” CENTCOM said.In another statement, CENTCOM said the same ship issued an additional distress call about a second attack “by four Iranian-backed Houthi small boats.” The attackers fired small arms weapons at the MAERSK HANZGHOU, getting to within 20 meters (about 65 feet) of the vessel, and attempted to it, CENTCOM said.A contract-embarked security team on the ship returned fire, the central command said. U.S. helicopters from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and GRAVELY responded to the distress call and while issuing verbal warnings to the attackers, the small boat crews opened fire on the helicopters using small arms, the statement said.“The U.S. Navy helicopters returned fire in self-defense,” sinking three of the four boats, killing the crews while the fourth boat fled the area, CENTCOM said, and no damage to U.S. personnel or equipment was reported.The Iran-backed Houthis have claimed attacks on ships in the Red Sea that they say are either linked to Israel or heading to Israeli ports. They say their attacks aim to end Israel’s air-and-ground offensive targeting the Gaza Strip following the attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on Oct.7.On Saturday, the top commander of U.S. naval forces in the Middle East said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/red-sea-shipping-houthi-attacks-drones-missiles-1acc4ca5ebcaf6fee932a2061d451f59">Houthi rebels have shown no signs of ending their</a>&nbsp;“reckless” attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea even as more nations join the international maritime mission to protect vessels in the vital waterway and trade traffic begins to pick up.----------JERUSALEM —At approximately 8:30 p.m. (Sanaa time) Saturday, the container ship Maersk Hangzhou reported that they were struck by a missile while transiting the Southern Red Sea, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.The Singapore-flagged, Denmark-owned/operated container ship requested assistance, and the USS&nbsp; Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Laboon (DDG 58)&nbsp; responded to the ship. The vessel is reportedly seaworthy and there are no reported injuries.While responding, the USS Gravely shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles fired from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen toward the ships.This is the 23rd illegal attack by the Houthis on international shipping since Nov. 19.Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza will continue for “many more months," pushing back against persistent international cease-fire calls after mounting civilian deaths, hunger and mass displacement in the besieged enclave.Netanyahu thanked the Biden administration for its continued backing, including approval for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-israel-gaza-arms-hamas-bypass-congress-1dc77f20aac4a797df6a2338b677da4f">a new emergency weapons sale</a>, the second this month, and prevention of a U.N. Security Council resolution seeking an immediate cease-fire. Israel argues that ending the war now would mean victory for Hamas, a stance shared by the Biden administration, which at the same time&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-israel-hamas-oct-7-44c4229d4c1270d9cfa484b664a22071">urged Israel to do more</a>&nbsp;to avoid harm to Palestinian civilians.In new fighting, Israeli warplanes struck the urban refugee camps of Nuseirat and Bureij in the center of the territory Saturday as ground forces pushed deeper into the southern city of Khan Younis.The Health Ministry in Gaza said Saturday that more than 21,600 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">unprecedented air and ground offensive</a>&nbsp;since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">deadly Oct. 7 Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;on southern Israel. The ministry, which does not distinguish between the deaths of civilians and combatants, said 165 Palestinians were killed over the past 24 hours. It has said about 70% of those killed have been women and children.The number of Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza combat rose to 170, after the military announced two more deaths Saturday.The war has displaced some 85% of Gaza's 2.3 million residents, sending swells of people seeking shelter in Israeli-designated safe areas that the military has nevertheless bombed. Palestinians are left with a sense that nowhere is safe in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-hamas-war-90e02d26420b8fe3157f73c256f9ed6a">tiny enclave</a>.With Israeli forces expanding their ground offensive this week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-29-2023-d36675194a22db54970f38c1c2ed3937">tens of thousands more Palestinians streamed</a>&nbsp;into the already crowded city of Rafah at the southernmost end of Gaza.Thousands of tents and makeshift shacks have sprung up on Rafah’s outskirts next to U.N. warehouses. Displaced people arrived in Rafah on foot or on trucks and carts piled high with mattresses. Those who did not find space in overwhelmed shelters pitched tents on roadsides.“We don't have water. We don’t have enough food,” Nour Daher, a displaced woman, said Saturday from the sprawling tent camp. “The kids wake up in the morning wanting to eat, wanting to drink. It took us one hour to find water for them. We couldn’t bring them flour. Even when we wanted to take them to toilets, it took us one hour to walk.”In the Nuseirat camp, resident Mustafa Abu Wawee said a strike hit the home of one of his relatives, killing two people.“The (Israeli) occupation is doing everything to force people to leave,” he said over the phone while helping to search for four people missing under the rubble. “They want to break our spirit and will, but they will fail. We are here to stay.”MORE U.S. WEAPONS FOR ISRAELThe State Department said Friday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Congress he approved a $147.5 million sale for equipment, including fuses, charges and primers, that is needed for 155 mm shells Israel bought previously.It marked the second time this month that the Biden administration is bypassing Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale to Israel. Blinken made a similar decision on Dec. 9 to approve the sale to Israel of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth more than $106 million.Both moves have come as President Joe Biden’s request for a nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">$106 billion aid package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other national security needs remains stalled in Congress, caught up in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security. Some Democratic lawmakers have spoken of making the proposed $14.3 billion in American assistance to its Mideast ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-israel-gaza-aid-sanders-a760c44986e5381b146d370cada95b52">contingent on concrete steps</a>&nbsp;by Netanyahu’s government to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza during the war with Hamas.THE WAR'S TIMELINEBlinken, who has repeatedly traveled to the Middle East during the war, was expected back in Israel and other countries in the region in January. U.S. officials have urged Israel to start shifting from high intensity combat to more targeted operations, but said they were not imposing a deadline.Netanyahu said Israel needs more time.“As the chief of staff said this week, the war will continue many more months,” he told a televised news conference Saturday. "My policy is clear. We will continue to fight until we have achieved all the objectives of the war, first and foremost the annihilation of Hamas and the release of all the hostages.”More than 120 hostages remain in Gaza, after militants seized more than 240 in the Oct. 7 assault that also killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians.Netanyahu is also at odds with the Biden administration over who should run Gaza after the war. He has rejected the U.S.-backed idea that a unified Palestinian government should run both Gaza and parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank as a precursor to eventual statehood. Instead, he has insisted on open-ended Israeli security control in Gaza, without saying what would come next.TRADING FOR HOSTAGESFamilies of hostages and their supporters have demanded that the government prioritize hostage releases over other war objectives, and have staged large protests every weekend, including Saturday.Egypt, one of the mediators between Israel and Hamas, has proposed a multistage plan that would kick off with a swap of hostages for prisoners, accompanied by a temporary cease-fire — along the lines of an exchange during a weeklong truce in November.Hamas insists the war must end before it will discuss hostage releases. Osama Hamdan, a senior Hamas official in Beirut, reiterated that position Saturday, but also told The Associated Press that “we have not given any final answer so far” to the Egyptian proposal.Asked about reports of possible progress toward a deal, Netanyahu said Saturday that “we see a possibility, maybe, for movement” but that he did not want to raise “exaggerated expectations.”DIFFICULTIES IN DELIVERING AIDMore than a week after a U.N. Security Council resolution called for the unhindered delivery of aid at scale across besieged Gaza, conditions have only worsened, U.N. agencies warned.Aid officials said the aid entering Gaza remains woefully inadequate. Distributing goods is hampered by long delays at two border crossings, ongoing fighting, Israeli airstrikes, repeated cuts in internet and phone services and a breakdown of law and order that makes it difficult to secure aid convoys, they said.Nearly the entire population is fully dependent on outside humanitarian aid, said Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees. A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-12-21-2023-7d9718b32bf0d308c44c7c9e3c4e0deb">quarter of the population</a>&nbsp;is starving because too few trucks enter with food, medicine, fuel and other supplies — sometimes fewer than 100 trucks a day, according to U.N. daily reports.___

U.S. warship sinks 3 terrorist boats during attack in Red Sea

ATLANTA (AP) — A spate of false reports of shootings at the homes of public officials in recent days could be setting the stage for stricter penalties against so-called swatting in more states.

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Georgia U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marjorie-taylor-greene-swatting-georgia-christmas-2081fd3835512cc3180aa1171fc5913d">Marjorie Taylor Greene</a>&nbsp;and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost have been among the victims.

Several Georgia lawmakers targeted say they want increased penalties for swatting, like laws enacted this year in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-crime-ohio-opioids-criminal-punishment-af4610d86c1c4f70571ef1306c242e7b">Ohio</a>&nbsp;and Virginia. Similar bills are pending in other states and Congress.

Here's a look at the issue and what could be done about it:

Swatting is the act of making a prank call to emergency services to prompt a response at a particular address. The goal is to get authorities, particularly a SWAT team, to show up.

Calls in multiple states in recent days featured the voice of a man calling himself “Jamal,” claiming he had shot his wife because she was sleeping with another man and saying he was holding the boyfriend hostage, demanding $10,000.

Two Ohio lawmakers said they thought they were targeted recently for helping pass a law making swatting a felony in the state.

Georgia state Sen. Clint Dixon said the incident at his house in Buford on Christmas evening was “quite startling” for himself, his wife and three children.

“I was watching a little football and my wife was upstairs packing for a trip, and all of a sudden, I heard her, you know, start yelling, ‘There’s police running at the door.’ She saw on our Ring doorbell,” he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wabe.org/georgia-state-senator-target-of-a-christmas-day-swatting-call/">told WABE</a>.

A man in New York called the Georgia suicide hotline just before 11 a.m. Monday, claiming that he had shot his girlfriend at Greene’s home in Rome, Georgia, and was going to kill himself next, said Kelly Madden, the Rome police spokesperson. The call was quickly transferred to police when suicide hotline responders recognized the congresswoman’s address.

The department said it contacted Greene’s private security detail to confirm she was safe and that there was no emergency. The call was then determined to be a swatting attempt so the response was canceled while police were on the way. Greene has been the subject of multiple swatting attempts.

Scott&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/1740355797190934542">wrote on X</a>&nbsp;that police were sent to his home in Naples, Florida, while he and his wife were out at dinner on Wednesday night. Police said they met Scott’s private security service at the home, but didn’t find anything out of place.

“These criminals wasted the time &amp; resources of our law enforcement in a sick attempt to terrorize my family,” Scott wrote.

In Boston, a male caller claimed on Monday that he had shot his wife and had tied her and another man up at Wu’s home. The Democratic mayor said she was surprised to open the door and see flashing lights, but said her home has been targeted by multiple swatting calls since she took office in 2021.

“For better or worse, my family are a bit used to it by now, and we have a good system with the department,” Wu&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbur.org/news/2023/12/26/boston-police-swatting-mayor-wu">told WBUR</a>.

Also targeted have been a Republican congressman from New York, Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and a former state senator in Nebraska. Dixon was among four Georgia state senators who were recently swatted. In Ohio, a total of three current or former state lawmakers were affected.

Jones said his home in a small town south of Atlanta was swatted on Wednesday, only to have a bomb threat called in on Thursday.

“Thankfully everyone is safe, and I commend our local law enforcement officers for their professionalism,” Jones&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/burtjonesforga/status/1740457857655373887">wrote on X</a>. “Let me be clear — I will not be intimidated by those attempting to silence me," Jones&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/burtjonesforga/status/1740457857655373887">wrote on X</a>&nbsp;We will put an end to this madness.

Hundreds of cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. And those targeted extend far beyond public officials.

Police in Lincoln, Nebraska,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/former-nebraska-state-senator-victim-of-christmas-day-swatting-call/46229700">told KETV-TV</a>&nbsp;that they had handled three swatting calls in the same 48-hour period in which they went to the unoccupied home of former state Sen. Adam Morfeld.

The FBI said earlier this year that it had created a national database in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies to track swatting incidents nationwide. Police had for months reported a huge surge in fake claims about active shooters at schools and colleges. There have also been reports of hundreds of swatting incidents and bomb threats against synagogues and other Jewish institutions since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;began.

The Anti-Defamation League estimates that by 2019 there were more than 1,000 incidents of swatting nationwide each year. That group says each incident can costs taxpayers thousands of dollars in emergency response costs.

Such calls have proven dangerous and even outright deadly.

In 2017, a police officer in Wichita, Kansas, shot and killed a man while responding to a hoax emergency call.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8d48bc5c4db63afb97457d4080c02612">Earlier this year</a>, the city agreed to pay $5 million to settle a related lawsuit, with the money to go to the two children of 28-year-old Andrew Finch.

In 2015, police in Maryland shot a 20-year-old man in the face with rubber bullets after a&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/maryland-man-gets-2-years-after-swatting-victim-was-shot">fake hostage situation was reported</a>&nbsp;at his home.

In addition to putting innocent people at risk, police and officials say they worry about diverting resources from real emergencies.

Police are investigating the recent threats. No arrests have yet been reported.

Ohio earlier this year made it a felony offense to report a false emergency that prompts response by law enforcement. And Virginia increased the penalties for swatting to up to 12 months in jail.

Dixon, the Georgia state senator, said in a statement he planned to introduce a bill during the upcoming legislative session to strengthen penalties for false reporting and misuse of police forces.

"This issue goes beyond politics — it’s about public safety and preserving the integrity of our institutions," he said.

Jones, the Georgia lieutenant governor, promised “an end to this madness” after his home in a small town south of Atlanta was swatted on Wednesday, only to have a bomb threat called in to his office on Thursday.

ATLANTA (AP) — A spate of false reports of shootings at the homes of public officials in recent days could be setting the stage for stricter penalties against so-called swatting in more states.U.S. Sen. Rick Scott of Florida, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Georgia U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marjorie-taylor-greene-swatting-georgia-christmas-2081fd3835512cc3180aa1171fc5913d">Marjorie Taylor Greene</a>&nbsp;and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost have been among the victims.Several Georgia lawmakers targeted say they want increased penalties for swatting, like laws enacted this year in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-crime-ohio-opioids-criminal-punishment-af4610d86c1c4f70571ef1306c242e7b">Ohio</a>&nbsp;and Virginia. Similar bills are pending in other states and Congress.Here's a look at the issue and what could be done about it:WHAT IS ‘SWATTING’?Swatting is the act of making a prank call to emergency services to prompt a response at a particular address. The goal is to get authorities, particularly a SWAT team, to show up.Calls in multiple states in recent days featured the voice of a man calling himself “Jamal,” claiming he had shot his wife because she was sleeping with another man and saying he was holding the boyfriend hostage, demanding $10,000.Two Ohio lawmakers said they thought they were targeted recently for helping pass a law making swatting a felony in the state.Georgia state Sen. Clint Dixon said the incident at his house in Buford on Christmas evening was “quite startling” for himself, his wife and three children.“I was watching a little football and my wife was upstairs packing for a trip, and all of a sudden, I heard her, you know, start yelling, ‘There’s police running at the door.’ She saw on our Ring doorbell,” he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wabe.org/georgia-state-senator-target-of-a-christmas-day-swatting-call/">told WABE</a>.WHO'S BEEN TARGETED RECENTLY?A man in New York called the Georgia suicide hotline just before 11 a.m. Monday, claiming that he had shot his girlfriend at Greene’s home in Rome, Georgia, and was going to kill himself next, said Kelly Madden, the Rome police spokesperson. The call was quickly transferred to police when suicide hotline responders recognized the congresswoman’s address.The department said it contacted Greene’s private security detail to confirm she was safe and that there was no emergency. The call was then determined to be a swatting attempt so the response was canceled while police were on the way. Greene has been the subject of multiple swatting attempts.Scott&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenRickScott/status/1740355797190934542">wrote on X</a>&nbsp;that police were sent to his home in Naples, Florida, while he and his wife were out at dinner on Wednesday night. Police said they met Scott’s private security service at the home, but didn’t find anything out of place.“These criminals wasted the time &amp; resources of our law enforcement in a sick attempt to terrorize my family,” Scott wrote.In Boston, a male caller claimed on Monday that he had shot his wife and had tied her and another man up at Wu’s home. The Democratic mayor said she was surprised to open the door and see flashing lights, but said her home has been targeted by multiple swatting calls since she took office in 2021.“For better or worse, my family are a bit used to it by now, and we have a good system with the department,” Wu&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wbur.org/news/2023/12/26/boston-police-swatting-mayor-wu">told WBUR</a>.Also targeted have been a Republican congressman from New York, Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones and a former state senator in Nebraska. Dixon was among four Georgia state senators who were recently swatted. In Ohio, a total of three current or former state lawmakers were affected.Jones said his home in a small town south of Atlanta was swatted on Wednesday, only to have a bomb threat called in on Thursday.“Thankfully everyone is safe, and I commend our local law enforcement officers for their professionalism,” Jones&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/burtjonesforga/status/1740457857655373887">wrote on X</a>. “Let me be clear — I will not be intimidated by those attempting to silence me," Jones&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/burtjonesforga/status/1740457857655373887">wrote on X</a>&nbsp;We will put an end to this madness.HOW WIDESPREAD IS THE PROBLEM?Hundreds of cases of swatting occur annually, with some using caller ID spoofing to disguise their number. And those targeted extend far beyond public officials.Police in Lincoln, Nebraska,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ketv.com/article/former-nebraska-state-senator-victim-of-christmas-day-swatting-call/46229700">told KETV-TV</a>&nbsp;that they had handled three swatting calls in the same 48-hour period in which they went to the unoccupied home of former state Sen. Adam Morfeld.The FBI said earlier this year that it had created a national database in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies to track swatting incidents nationwide. Police had for months reported a huge surge in fake claims about active shooters at schools and colleges. There have also been reports of hundreds of swatting incidents and bomb threats against synagogues and other Jewish institutions since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;began.The Anti-Defamation League estimates that by 2019 there were more than 1,000 incidents of swatting nationwide each year. That group says each incident can costs taxpayers thousands of dollars in emergency response costs.DO FALSE THREATS POSE OTHER RISKS?Such calls have proven dangerous and even outright deadly.In 2017, a police officer in Wichita, Kansas, shot and killed a man while responding to a hoax emergency call.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/8d48bc5c4db63afb97457d4080c02612">Earlier this year</a>, the city agreed to pay $5 million to settle a related lawsuit, with the money to go to the two children of 28-year-old Andrew Finch.In 2015, police in Maryland shot a 20-year-old man in the face with rubber bullets after a&nbsp;<a href="https://wjla.com/news/local/maryland-man-gets-2-years-after-swatting-victim-was-shot">fake hostage situation was reported</a>&nbsp;at his home.In addition to putting innocent people at risk, police and officials say they worry about diverting resources from real emergencies.WHAT KIND OF RESPONSE COULD THIS PROMPT?Police are investigating the recent threats. No arrests have yet been reported.Ohio earlier this year made it a felony offense to report a false emergency that prompts response by law enforcement. And Virginia increased the penalties for swatting to up to 12 months in jail.Dixon, the Georgia state senator, said in a statement he planned to introduce a bill during the upcoming legislative session to strengthen penalties for false reporting and misuse of police forces."This issue goes beyond politics — it’s about public safety and preserving the integrity of our institutions," he said.Jones, the Georgia lieutenant governor, promised “an end to this madness” after his home in a small town south of Atlanta was swatted on Wednesday, only to have a bomb threat called in to his office on Thursday.

How recent 'swatting' calls targeting officials may prompt heavier penalties for hoax police calls

LINCOLN, NE - Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana (NMM), the ballot committee leading the effort to put the legalization of medical cannabis before voters in November 2024, is making one final push to collect signatures this calendar year.&nbsp;

The event taking place today, Saturday, December 30th, is focused on meeting end of the year signature goals and positioning the group to come into 2024 with strong momentum. Patients, families, caregivers, and volunteers will be collecting&nbsp;signatures at all five Wine, Beer, and Spirits locations during the store's open hours. Locations include both the Oakview and Downtown stores in Omaha, as well as the stores in Lincoln, Fremont and Grand Island.&nbsp;

Crista Eggers, NMM’s Statewide Campaign Manager, says that this attempt is different.

“We’ve made incredible progress since our launch and are much farther ahead than ever before. I can confidently say we have collected almost 60,000 total signatures and qualified close to 20 counties. Today’s last push will solidify those numbers. The overwhelming momentum we have speaks to the support of this issue by Nebraska voters and their desire to see it on the ballot,” Eggers said.

NMM volunteer Garrett Connely has been involved since the last ballot attempt in 2022 and says he feels that this time is different.

"People want to sign; they support this. When we're out collecting signatures, we hear how thankful people are that we haven’t given up. I urge people to get involved- collect signatures, donate, and have conversations with family and friends. This campaign is something life changing to be a part of; knowing that you're working to help alleviate pain and suffering for Nebraskans, it's rewarding like nothing I've ever done."&nbsp;

NMM will continue collecting signatures on each of their two initiatives until the July 3, 2024 turn in deadline.&nbsp;

For more information on today’s event, go&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs" target="_blank">nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs</a>

Crista EggersLINCOLN, NE - Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana (NMM), the ballot committee leading the effort to put the legalization of medical cannabis before voters in November 2024, is making one final push to collect signatures this calendar year.&nbsp;The event taking place today, Saturday, December 30th, is focused on meeting end of the year signature goals and positioning the group to come into 2024 with strong momentum. Patients, families, caregivers, and volunteers will be collecting&nbsp;signatures at all five Wine, Beer, and Spirits locations during the store's open hours. Locations include both the Oakview and Downtown stores in Omaha, as well as the stores in Lincoln, Fremont and Grand Island.&nbsp;Crista Eggers, NMM’s Statewide Campaign Manager, says that this attempt is different.“We’ve made incredible progress since our launch and are much farther ahead than ever before. I can confidently say we have collected almost 60,000 total signatures and qualified close to 20 counties. Today’s last push will solidify those numbers. The overwhelming momentum we have speaks to the support of this issue by Nebraska voters and their desire to see it on the ballot,” Eggers said.NMM volunteer Garrett Connely has been involved since the last ballot attempt in 2022 and says he feels that this time is different."People want to sign; they support this. When we're out collecting signatures, we hear how thankful people are that we haven’t given up. I urge people to get involved- collect signatures, donate, and have conversations with family and friends. This campaign is something life changing to be a part of; knowing that you're working to help alleviate pain and suffering for Nebraskans, it's rewarding like nothing I've ever done."&nbsp;NMM will continue collecting signatures on each of their two initiatives until the July 3, 2024 turn in deadline.&nbsp;For more information on today’s event, go&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs" target="_blank">nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs</a>

MEDICAL CANNABIS BALLOT INITIATIVE HOSTS “LAST CHANCE TO SIGN IN 2023” EVENT

WASHINGTON (AP) — For the second time this month the Biden administration is bypassing Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale to Israel as Israel continues to prosecute its war against Hamas in Gaza under increasing international criticism.

The State Department said Friday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had told Congress that he had made a second emergency determination covering a $147.5 million sale for equipment, including fuses, charges and primers, that is needed to make the 155 mm shells that Israel has already purchased function.

“Given the urgency of Israel’s defensive needs, the secretary notified Congress that he had exercised his delegated authority to determine an emergency existed necessitating the immediate approval of the transfer,” the department said.

“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to ensure Israel is able to defend itself against the threats it faces,” it said.

The emergency determination means the purchase will bypass the congressional review requirement for foreign military sales. Such determinations are rare, but not unprecedented, when administrations see an urgent need for weapons to be delivered without waiting for lawmakers’ approval.

Blinken made a similar decision on Dec. 9, to approve the sale to Israel of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth more than $106 million.

Both moves have come as President Joe Biden’s request for a nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">$106 billion aid package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other national security needs remains stalled in Congress, caught up in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security. Some Democratic lawmakers have spoken of making the proposed $14.3 billion in American assistance to its Mideast ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-israel-gaza-aid-sanders-a760c44986e5381b146d370cada95b52">contingent on concrete steps</a>&nbsp;by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza during the war with Hamas.

The State Department sought to counter potential criticism of the sale on human rights grounds by saying it was in constant touch with Israel to emphasize the importance of minimizing civilian casualties, which have soared since Israel began its response to the Hamas attacks in Israel on Oct. 7.

“We continue to strongly emphasize to the government of Israel that they must not only comply with international humanitarian law, but also take every feasible step to prevent harm to civilians,” it said.

“Hamas hides behind civilians and has embedded itself among the civilian population, but that does not lessen Israel’s responsibility and strategic imperative to distinguish between civilians and Hamas terrorists as it conducts its military operations,” the department said. “This type of campaign can only be won by protecting civilians.”

Bypassing Congress with emergency determinations for arms sales is an unusual step that has in the past met resistance from lawmakers, who normally have a period of time to weigh in on proposed weapons transfers and, in some cases, block them.

In May 2019, then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an emergency determination for an $8.1 billion sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan after it became clear that the Trump administration would have trouble overcoming lawmakers’ concerns about the Saudi and UAE-led war in Yemen.

Pompeo came under heavy criticism for the move, which some believed may have violated the law because many of the weapons involved had yet to be built and could not be delivered urgently. But he was cleared of any wrongdoing after an internal investigation.

At least four administrations have used the authority since 1979. President George H.W. Bush’s administration used it during the Gulf War to get arms quickly to Saudi Arabia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702300715756.png" alt="Blinken with Israel President&nbsp;Isaac Herzog earlier this month-file photo" />
 <figcaption>Blinken with Israel President&nbsp;Isaac Herzog earlier this month-file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — For the second time this month the Biden administration is bypassing Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale to Israel as Israel continues to prosecute its war against Hamas in Gaza under increasing international criticism.The State Department said Friday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had told Congress that he had made a second emergency determination covering a $147.5 million sale for equipment, including fuses, charges and primers, that is needed to make the 155 mm shells that Israel has already purchased function.“Given the urgency of Israel’s defensive needs, the secretary notified Congress that he had exercised his delegated authority to determine an emergency existed necessitating the immediate approval of the transfer,” the department said.“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to ensure Israel is able to defend itself against the threats it faces,” it said.The emergency determination means the purchase will bypass the congressional review requirement for foreign military sales. Such determinations are rare, but not unprecedented, when administrations see an urgent need for weapons to be delivered without waiting for lawmakers’ approval.Blinken made a similar decision on Dec. 9, to approve the sale to Israel of nearly 14,000 rounds of tank ammunition worth more than $106 million.Both moves have come as President Joe Biden’s request for a nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-ukraine-israel-budget-3762a0bdf00653e3c8a38175d3c3d3cb">$106 billion aid package</a>&nbsp;for Ukraine, Israel and other national security needs remains stalled in Congress, caught up in a debate over U.S. immigration policy and border security. Some Democratic lawmakers have spoken of making the proposed $14.3 billion in American assistance to its Mideast ally&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-israel-gaza-aid-sanders-a760c44986e5381b146d370cada95b52">contingent on concrete steps</a>&nbsp;by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to reduce civilian casualties in Gaza during the war with Hamas.The State Department sought to counter potential criticism of the sale on human rights grounds by saying it was in constant touch with Israel to emphasize the importance of minimizing civilian casualties, which have soared since Israel began its response to the Hamas attacks in Israel on Oct. 7.“We continue to strongly emphasize to the government of Israel that they must not only comply with international humanitarian law, but also take every feasible step to prevent harm to civilians,” it said.“Hamas hides behind civilians and has embedded itself among the civilian population, but that does not lessen Israel’s responsibility and strategic imperative to distinguish between civilians and Hamas terrorists as it conducts its military operations,” the department said. “This type of campaign can only be won by protecting civilians.”Bypassing Congress with emergency determinations for arms sales is an unusual step that has in the past met resistance from lawmakers, who normally have a period of time to weigh in on proposed weapons transfers and, in some cases, block them.In May 2019, then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made an emergency determination for an $8.1 billion sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan after it became clear that the Trump administration would have trouble overcoming lawmakers’ concerns about the Saudi and UAE-led war in Yemen.Pompeo came under heavy criticism for the move, which some believed may have violated the law because many of the weapons involved had yet to be built and could not be delivered urgently. But he was cleared of any wrongdoing after an internal investigation.At least four administrations have used the authority since 1979. President George H.W. Bush’s administration used it during the Gulf War to get arms quickly to Saudi Arabia.

Bypassing Congress again: U.S. selling more weapons to Israel

LINDSBORG —Bethany College announce the appointment of Dr. Steve Eckman as the Interim President for the next 12-18 months, according to a media release from the school on Friday.

Currently serving as the Chancellor at York University in York, Nebraska, Dr. Eckman brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership in higher education.

Prior to his role as Chancellor at York University, Dr. Eckman served as the President of York College for eleven years. His extensive career in academia includes nineteen years at Lubbock Christian University, where he held various roles, such as assistant director of admissions, dean of students, associate professor of Bible, vice president for student services, and director of institutional effectiveness and planning.

Dr. Eckman's commitment to academic excellence extends beyond the classroom. He also served as the Executive Vice President, CFO, and Senior VP for Advancement at Ohio Valley University. He also spent time as a minister at Taylor Street Church of Christ in New Mexico and worked as a senior grant administrator for the JF Maddox Foundation.

"We are pleased to welcome someone with Dr. Eckman’s breadth of experience to Bethany College," said Dr. Cheryl Rasmussen, Board Chair. "His expertise in academics, advancement, and student services, coupled with his successful presidency at York University, will serve Bethany College and the Lindsborg community well in the coming months."

Dr. Eckman holds an associate of arts degree from York College, a Bachelor of Arts in Bible from Harding University, a master’s degree in Biblical and Related Studies from Abilene Christian University, a Master of Divinity from Abilene Christian University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Amridge University in Montgomery, Alabama.

Lindsborg and Bethany College are not unfamiliar to Dr. Eckman. During his tenure at York University, he frequented the campus for KCAC athletic events. As recently as this week, he drove through Lindsborg, anticipating the possibility of a call for the interim president position.

Dr. Eckman has expressed his commitment to maintaining a high level of visibility on campus and active involvement in campus events. He aims to establish open lines of communication with all campus stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students.

“Having served as executive vice president and CFO, I will bring operational expertise to my role as interim president,” said Dr. Eckman. “Since I am Swedish, I look forward to engaging with local culture! My grandfather immigrated from Sweden in the 1880’s.”

Dr. Eckman and his wife LaRee are parents of two married sons and grandparents to seven grandchildren. Steve plans to arrive in Lindsborg the first week of January to begin his service to Bethany College.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703887676564.png" alt="Bethany College Interim President, Steve Eckman -courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Bethany College Interim President, Steve Eckman -courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LINDSBORG —Bethany College announce the appointment of Dr. Steve Eckman as the Interim President for the next 12-18 months, according to a media release from the school on Friday.Currently serving as the Chancellor at York University in York, Nebraska, Dr. Eckman brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership in higher education.Prior to his role as Chancellor at York University, Dr. Eckman served as the President of York College for eleven years. His extensive career in academia includes nineteen years at Lubbock Christian University, where he held various roles, such as assistant director of admissions, dean of students, associate professor of Bible, vice president for student services, and director of institutional effectiveness and planning.Dr. Eckman's commitment to academic excellence extends beyond the classroom. He also served as the Executive Vice President, CFO, and Senior VP for Advancement at Ohio Valley University. He also spent time as a minister at Taylor Street Church of Christ in New Mexico and worked as a senior grant administrator for the JF Maddox Foundation."We are pleased to welcome someone with Dr. Eckman’s breadth of experience to Bethany College," said Dr. Cheryl Rasmussen, Board Chair. "His expertise in academics, advancement, and student services, coupled with his successful presidency at York University, will serve Bethany College and the Lindsborg community well in the coming months."Dr. Eckman holds an associate of arts degree from York College, a Bachelor of Arts in Bible from Harding University, a master’s degree in Biblical and Related Studies from Abilene Christian University, a Master of Divinity from Abilene Christian University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Amridge University in Montgomery, Alabama.Lindsborg and Bethany College are not unfamiliar to Dr. Eckman. During his tenure at York University, he frequented the campus for KCAC athletic events. As recently as this week, he drove through Lindsborg, anticipating the possibility of a call for the interim president position.Dr. Eckman has expressed his commitment to maintaining a high level of visibility on campus and active involvement in campus events. He aims to establish open lines of communication with all campus stakeholders, including faculty, staff, and students.“Having served as executive vice president and CFO, I will bring operational expertise to my role as interim president,” said Dr. Eckman. “Since I am Swedish, I look forward to engaging with local culture! My grandfather immigrated from Sweden in the 1880’s.”Dr. Eckman and his wife LaRee are parents of two married sons and grandparents to seven grandchildren. Steve plans to arrive in Lindsborg the first week of January to begin his service to Bethany College.

York University Chancellor named interim president at college in Kansas

The event is focused on meeting end of year signature goals and positioning the group to come into 2024 with strong momentum. Patients, families, caregivers, and volunteers will be collecting&nbsp;signatures at all five Wine, Beer, and Spirits locations during the store's open hours. Locations include both the Oakview and Downtown stores in Omaha, as well as the stores in Lincoln, Fremont and Grand Island. Individuals who have petitions in hand are encouraged to drop them off at these locations as well.&nbsp;

For more information on the event and the locations, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs" target="_blank">nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs</a>

NMMLINCOLN, NE - Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana (NMM), the ballot committee leading the effort to put the legalization of medical cannabis before voters in November 2024, is making one final push to collect signatures this calendar year.&nbsp;The event is focused on meeting end of year signature goals and positioning the group to come into 2024 with strong momentum. Patients, families, caregivers, and volunteers will be collecting&nbsp;signatures at all five Wine, Beer, and Spirits locations during the store's open hours. Locations include both the Oakview and Downtown stores in Omaha, as well as the stores in Lincoln, Fremont and Grand Island. Individuals who have petitions in hand are encouraged to drop them off at these locations as well.&nbsp;NMM will continue collecting signatures on each of their two initiatives until the July 3, 2024 turn in deadline.&nbsp;For more information on the event and the locations, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs" target="_blank">nebraskamarijuana.org/wbs</a>

MEDICAL CANNABIS BALLOT INITIATIVE HOSTS “LAST CHANCE TO SIGN” EVENT

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/28/minden-school-board-member-who-refused-to-wear-a-mask-is-ordered-reinstated-to-board-seat/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — A Minden School Board member who was removed from the board in 2021 after refusing to wear a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic has been reinstated to her position.

A district judge, in a ruling last week, agreed with arguments made by Katherine Sinsel that her fellow board members had exceeded their authority in voting to remove her from the elected board in April 2021.

Kearney County District Judge Morgan Farquhar, following a two-day trial in August, ordered that Sinsel be reinstated as a board member in January and that a replacement appointed by the board, Darcie Reed, be removed.

Sinsel’s attorney, J.L. Spray of Lincoln, said his client was “elated” and eager to get back to work on the board.

“It was just a horrible public lynching of an elected official for no reason,” Spray said.

James Widdifield, the superintendent of the Minden School District, did not respond immediately Thursday to a request for comment.

The judge, in an 18-page ruling, stated&nbsp;that the school board had wrongly attempted to expand a state statute that allows for the removal of a board member for missing more than “two consecutive regular meetings” of the board.

The board, at its meeting in March 2021, passed a resolution requiring masks and allowing the board to consider a refusal to comply as an “unexcused absence from a (board) meeting.”

Sinsel, who had voted against the mask mandate, was denied entrance at the board’s regular April meeting when she refused to wear a mask. She was arrested amid a disturbance and was charged with a felony, a charge that was later dropped.

At a special meeting later in April, the Minden School Board voted to remove Sinsel after deeming that she had missed three consecutive, regular meetings going back to March.

The judge ruled the board could not retroactively decide that Sinsel had violated the three-meeting rule by refusing to wear a mask at the March meeting, where she had been present and voting.

” … The retroactive decision of the Board to deem Sinsel absent from the (March) meeting was punitive and retaliatory,” Judge Farquhar ruled.

During the trial, Sinsel testified that she didn’t want to wear a mask because of her fear it could exacerbate a heart condition by restricting her breathing. She had also contested the board’s authority to issue a mask mandate.

The judge ruled that the school board did have the authority to issue a mask mandate but went too far when it declared, retroactively, that Sinsel had been “absent” from the board’s March meeting.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2023/12/28/minden-school-board-member-who-refused-to-wear-a-mask-is-ordered-reinstated-to-board-seat/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — A Minden School Board member who was removed from the board in 2021 after refusing to wear a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic has been reinstated to her position.A district judge, in a ruling last week, agreed with arguments made by Katherine Sinsel that her fellow board members had exceeded their authority in voting to remove her from the elected board in April 2021.Kearney County District Judge Morgan Farquhar, following a two-day trial in August, ordered that Sinsel be reinstated as a board member in January and that a replacement appointed by the board, Darcie Reed, be removed.<h2>Eager to return</h2>Sinsel’s attorney, J.L. Spray of Lincoln, said his client was “elated” and eager to get back to work on the board.“It was just a horrible public lynching of an elected official for no reason,” Spray said.James Widdifield, the superintendent of the Minden School District, did not respond immediately Thursday to a request for comment.The judge, in an 18-page ruling, stated&nbsp;that the school board had wrongly attempted to expand a state statute that allows for the removal of a board member for missing more than “two consecutive regular meetings” of the board.The board, at its meeting in March 2021, passed a resolution requiring masks and allowing the board to consider a refusal to comply as an “unexcused absence from a (board) meeting.”Sinsel, who had voted against the mask mandate, was denied entrance at the board’s regular April meeting when she refused to wear a mask. She was arrested amid a disturbance and was charged with a felony, a charge that was later dropped.At a special meeting later in April, the Minden School Board voted to remove Sinsel after deeming that she had missed three consecutive, regular meetings going back to March.<h2>‘Punitive and retaliatory’</h2>The judge ruled the board could not retroactively decide that Sinsel had violated the three-meeting rule by refusing to wear a mask at the March meeting, where she had been present and voting.” … The retroactive decision of the Board to deem Sinsel absent from the (March) meeting was punitive and retaliatory,” Judge Farquhar ruled.During the trial, Sinsel testified that she didn’t want to wear a mask because of her fear it could exacerbate a heart condition by restricting her breathing. She had also contested the board’s authority to issue a mask mandate.The judge ruled that the school board did have the authority to issue a mask mandate but went too far when it declared, retroactively, that Sinsel had been “absent” from the board’s March meeting.

Minden School Board member who refused to wear a mask is ordered reinstated to board seat

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — A hard-hit Israeli kibbutz on Thursday announced the death of Judith Weinstein — an American woman who had been thought to be held hostage in Gaza.

The news came six days after Weinstein's husband, Gad Haggai, was also pronounced dead.

Weinstein, 70, who also had -Canadian-Israeli citizenship, and Haggai, 73, were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hostages-portraits-hamas-captives-e7213e6262cdb9c51ab174326874538c">taking an early morning walk</a>&nbsp;near their home in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-hostages-0c14750240138853a70e38b0c09ef157">Kibbutz Nir Oz</a>&nbsp;on the morning of Oct. 7 when Hamas militants burst across the border into Israel, killing about 1,200 people and kidnapping 240 others.

In the early hours of the morning, Weinstein was able to call emergency services and let them know that both she and her husband had been shot and send a message to her family.

Weinstein and her husband had been thought to be among the hostages still held in captivity in Gaza. But six days ago, the kibbutz announced that Haggai was killed Oct. 7 and his body was taken to Gaza.

On Thursday, the kibbutz said it had learned that Weinstein was also killed on Oct. 7 and her body is also being held in Gaza.

It was not immediately clear how Israeli authorities determined their deaths.

The couple are survived by two sons and two daughters and seven grandchildren, the kibbutz said.

President Joe Biden said he was “devastated” to learn of Weinstein's death, especially after hearing about the couple during a meeting with their daughter.

The families "have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal,” he said in a statement.

Weinstein was born in New York and was an active member of Kibbutz Nir Oz, a small community near the Gaza border where she taught English to children with special needs. The kibbutz said she also taught meditation techniques to children and teenagers who suffered from anxiety as a result of rocket fire from Gaza. Haggai was a retired chef and jazz musician.

“Judy dedicated her life to serving others, spending years teaching English and using her passions for poetry, puppeteering, and mindfulness to empower children of all backgrounds,” her family said in a statement.

Al Haggai, one of the couple's sons, told Israel's Channel 13 that the family had originally hoped their mother's multiple citizenships would allow her to be released during the week-long ceasefire in late November, when 105 hostages were let go. Almost all were women and children.

He said that when his mother's name was not on any of the daily lists, he started to suspect that something happened to her.

According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, at least 23 of the approximately 129 hostages believed to be held in Gaza have either died or been killed in captivity.

Nir Oz was one of the hardest-hit Israeli communities on Oct. 7, with roughly one- quarter of its residents killed or kidnapped.

The families of missing hostages have drawn widespread support and sympathy in Israel as they press the government to reach a new cease-fire deal to bring home their loved-ones.

Netanyahu met Thursday in Tel Aviv with some of the families, where he told them there were behind-the-scene efforts to bring the hostages home, according to a statement from his office.

“I can’t elaborate on the details, we are working to return everyone,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703800478199.png" alt="Weinstein photo courtesy <a href="https://stories.bringthemhomenow.net/">Hostages and Missing Families Forum</a>" />
 <figcaption>Weinstein photo courtesy <a href="https://stories.bringthemhomenow.net/">Hostages and Missing Families Forum</a></figcaption>
 </figure>TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — A hard-hit Israeli kibbutz on Thursday announced the death of Judith Weinstein — an American woman who had been thought to be held hostage in Gaza.The news came six days after Weinstein's husband, Gad Haggai, was also pronounced dead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703271147260.png" alt="Gag Haggai photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.bringthemhomenow.net/">Hostages and Missing Families Forum</a>" />
 <figcaption>Gag Haggai photo courtesy&nbsp;<a href="https://stories.bringthemhomenow.net/">Hostages and Missing Families Forum</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Weinstein, 70, who also had -Canadian-Israeli citizenship, and Haggai, 73, were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hostages-portraits-hamas-captives-e7213e6262cdb9c51ab174326874538c">taking an early morning walk</a>&nbsp;near their home in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-hostages-0c14750240138853a70e38b0c09ef157">Kibbutz Nir Oz</a>&nbsp;on the morning of Oct. 7 when Hamas militants burst across the border into Israel, killing about 1,200 people and kidnapping 240 others.In the early hours of the morning, Weinstein was able to call emergency services and let them know that both she and her husband had been shot and send a message to her family.Weinstein and her husband had been thought to be among the hostages still held in captivity in Gaza. But six days ago, the kibbutz announced that Haggai was killed Oct. 7 and his body was taken to Gaza.On Thursday, the kibbutz said it had learned that Weinstein was also killed on Oct. 7 and her body is also being held in Gaza.It was not immediately clear how Israeli authorities determined their deaths.The couple are survived by two sons and two daughters and seven grandchildren, the kibbutz said.President Joe Biden said he was “devastated” to learn of Weinstein's death, especially after hearing about the couple during a meeting with their daughter.The families "have been living through hell for weeks. No family should have to endure such an ordeal,” he said in a statement.Weinstein was born in New York and was an active member of Kibbutz Nir Oz, a small community near the Gaza border where she taught English to children with special needs. The kibbutz said she also taught meditation techniques to children and teenagers who suffered from anxiety as a result of rocket fire from Gaza. Haggai was a retired chef and jazz musician.“Judy dedicated her life to serving others, spending years teaching English and using her passions for poetry, puppeteering, and mindfulness to empower children of all backgrounds,” her family said in a statement.Al Haggai, one of the couple's sons, told Israel's Channel 13 that the family had originally hoped their mother's multiple citizenships would allow her to be released during the week-long ceasefire in late November, when 105 hostages were let go. Almost all were women and children.He said that when his mother's name was not on any of the daily lists, he started to suspect that something happened to her.According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, at least 23 of the approximately 129 hostages believed to be held in Gaza have either died or been killed in captivity.Nir Oz was one of the hardest-hit Israeli communities on Oct. 7, with roughly one- quarter of its residents killed or kidnapped.The families of missing hostages have drawn widespread support and sympathy in Israel as they press the government to reach a new cease-fire deal to bring home their loved-ones.Netanyahu met Thursday in Tel Aviv with some of the families, where he told them there were behind-the-scene efforts to bring the hostages home, according to a statement from his office.“I can’t elaborate on the details, we are working to return everyone,” he said.

American woman believed held hostage in Gaza is dead

RENO COUNTY—A veterinary service in Reno County is reporting a case of rabies.

On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nvscares?__cft__[0]=AZW30lIKDqa6rfQCYG3NkIlWa441ZWleXtPybltiEf8z9ONna1ISzoEm5HcGJPMLdHfr8ru-6m662CoKS1IMe14G6eHOelYT67iGLjNVYOO-JpivlP1gvt_vbGMBZZJJZcmu1ZSvLzlbcTdacgqCQUYv&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Ninnescah Veterinary Service LLC</a>,&nbsp;13408 S. Mohawk Road, Hutchinson, shared on social media they. had just diagnosed a positive case of rabies in a farm cat.

"We treat every bite wound from a non vaccinated animal very serious as it may life or death situation."&nbsp; "We had a client pick up a farm cat and was severely bit on the arm."

"Under the advice of Dr Clay the farm cat was brought into the clinic and euthanized for testing. Dr Clay informed the client to go to the emergency room and start rabies vaccinations immediately and not to wait for the test to come back from the lab."

"The owner complied to this recommendation and received her rabies vaccine and immunoglobulins."

"Two days later we got the results that the cat was indeed positive for rabies.  This is the exact reason we push rabies vaccinations in pets so hard. We receive a lot of push back on rabies vaccine daily as if we are trying to up sale that vaccine to pet owners.  We are truly pushing rabies vaccine as a public safety service."

"Rabies is a deadly disease but fortunately the vaccine is very effective in preventing the disease. Please get you pets vaccinated for rabies. It could be a matter of life and death for not only your pet but also you."

RENO COUNTY—A veterinary service in Reno County is reporting a case of rabies.On Thursday afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nvscares?__cft__[0]=AZW30lIKDqa6rfQCYG3NkIlWa441ZWleXtPybltiEf8z9ONna1ISzoEm5HcGJPMLdHfr8ru-6m662CoKS1IMe14G6eHOelYT67iGLjNVYOO-JpivlP1gvt_vbGMBZZJJZcmu1ZSvLzlbcTdacgqCQUYv&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Ninnescah Veterinary Service LLC</a>,&nbsp;13408 S. Mohawk Road, Hutchinson, shared on social media they. had just diagnosed a positive case of rabies in a farm cat. "We treat every bite wound from a non vaccinated animal very serious as it may life or death situation."&nbsp; "We had a client pick up a farm cat and was severely bit on the arm." "Under the advice of Dr Clay the farm cat was brought into the clinic and euthanized for testing. Dr Clay informed the client to go to the emergency room and start rabies vaccinations immediately and not to wait for the test to come back from the lab.""The owner complied to this recommendation and received her rabies vaccine and immunoglobulins.""Two days later we got the results that the cat was indeed positive for rabies. This is the exact reason we push rabies vaccinations in pets so hard. We receive a lot of push back on rabies vaccine daily as if we are trying to up sale that vaccine to pet owners. We are truly pushing rabies vaccine as a public safety service.""Rabies is a deadly disease but fortunately the vaccine is very effective in preventing the disease. Please get you pets vaccinated for rabies. It could be a matter of life and death for not only your pet but also you."

Kansas veterinarian reports a person bit by cat with rabies

JERUSALEM —The USS MASON (DDG 87) shot down one drone and one anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea that were fired by the Houthis between 5:45 - 6: 10 p.m. (Sanaa time) on Thursday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

There was no damage to any of the 18 ships in the area or reported injuries. This is the 22nd attempted attack by Houthis on international shipping since Oct. 19.

Meanwhile, a Hamas official said Thursday that a “partial or temporary cessation of aggression” wouldn’t be enough to free the more than 100 hostages who Israel says remain in captivity in Gaza.

The Israeli-Hamas war has already driven around 85% of Gaza's 2.3 million people from their homes, leveling the northern part of the territory and heightening fears about a similar fate for the south as Israel's air and ground offensive widens.

Dozens were killed Thursday during Israel's bombardment of cities, towns and refugee camps across Gaza. More than 20,000 Palestinians, two-thirds of them women and children, have been killed since the start of the war, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza</a>, which doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants among the dead.

Hamas has put up steep resistance despite Israel's vow to dismantle the militant group.

About 1,200 people were killed after Hamas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-attack-military-war-a8f63b07641212f0de61861844e5e71e">raided southern Israel</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 7, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hostages-gaza-b6ffc286ca7d4b48caaada43e9c6e411">around 240 people taken hostage</a>.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke Thursday with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about the next steps in the war, with Austin stressing “the importance of protecting Gaza’s civilians and accelerating humanitarian assistance.”

The talks came as a hard-hit Israeli kibbutz announced the death of an American-Canadian-Israeli woman who was believed to have been held hostage and whose husband was recently declared dead.

JERUSALEM —The USS MASON (DDG 87) shot down one drone and one anti-ship ballistic missile in the Southern Red Sea that were fired by the Houthis between 5:45 - 6: 10 p.m. (Sanaa time) on Thursday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.There was no damage to any of the 18 ships in the area or reported injuries. This is the 22nd attempted attack by Houthis on international shipping since Oct. 19.Meanwhile, a Hamas official said Thursday that a “partial or temporary cessation of aggression” wouldn’t be enough to free the more than 100 hostages who Israel says remain in captivity in Gaza.The Israeli-Hamas war has already driven around 85% of Gaza's 2.3 million people from their homes, leveling the northern part of the territory and heightening fears about a similar fate for the south as Israel's air and ground offensive widens.Dozens were killed Thursday during Israel's bombardment of cities, towns and refugee camps across Gaza. More than 20,000 Palestinians, two-thirds of them women and children, have been killed since the start of the war, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry in Hamas-run Gaza</a>, which doesn’t differentiate between civilians and combatants among the dead.Hamas has put up steep resistance despite Israel's vow to dismantle the militant group.About 1,200 people were killed after Hamas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-attack-military-war-a8f63b07641212f0de61861844e5e71e">raided southern Israel</a>&nbsp;on Oct. 7, with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hostages-gaza-b6ffc286ca7d4b48caaada43e9c6e411">around 240 people taken hostage</a>.Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant spoke Thursday with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin about the next steps in the war, with Austin stressing “the importance of protecting Gaza’s civilians and accelerating humanitarian assistance.”The talks came as a hard-hit Israeli kibbutz announced the death of an American-Canadian-Israeli woman who was believed to have been held hostage and whose husband was recently declared dead.

U.S. warship shot down another ballistic missile in Red Sea

TUPELO, Miss. (AP) — Donald Wildmon, the founder of the American Family Association, a conservative Christian advocacy group, has died, the organization announced Thursday.

The 85-year-old Mississippi native died on Thursday from complications related to Lewy body dementia, an obituary published by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wtva.com/donald-wildmon-obituary/pdf_2ef075aa-a5bc-11ee-bb6c-b796ddf3dbe1.html">WTVA-TV</a>&nbsp;said. Wildmon died in Tupelo, Mississippi, the city where the American Family Association is based. The obituary referred to Wildmon as “one of the legendary leaders of American conservatism.”

“His impressive legacy of Christian ministry will live on for many years to come,” Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Wildmon founded the AFA, first known as the National Federation for Decency, in 1977 after working as a pastor for the United Methodist Church.

Since its inception, the conservative advocacy group has launched campaigns and boycotts to pressure corporations to avoid supporting causes the group opposed, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-2bb49cfbc4c14c208269d24267b5b943">LGBT anti-discrimination measures</a>.

In 1991, Wildmon launched American Family Radio, which set up radio stations across the U.S. to spread the AFA's message. Wildmon led the AFA for 33 years, the obituary said. He stepped down in 2010, and his son, Tim Wildmon, now leads the organization.

TUPELO, Miss. (AP) — Donald Wildmon, the founder of the American Family Association, a conservative Christian advocacy group, has died, the organization announced Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Brother Don Wildmon, founder of the American Family Association, has been called home. Today, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey marked by unwavering faith, profound dedication, and an unyielding commitment to the values he held dear. <a href="https://t.co/k9ijMdT2sO">pic.twitter.com/k9ijMdT2sO</a>&mdash; American Family Assc (@AmericanFamAssc) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmericanFamAssc/status/1740467203797893260?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The 85-year-old Mississippi native died on Thursday from complications related to Lewy body dementia, an obituary published by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wtva.com/donald-wildmon-obituary/pdf_2ef075aa-a5bc-11ee-bb6c-b796ddf3dbe1.html">WTVA-TV</a>&nbsp;said. Wildmon died in Tupelo, Mississippi, the city where the American Family Association is based. The obituary referred to Wildmon as “one of the legendary leaders of American conservatism.”“His impressive legacy of Christian ministry will live on for many years to come,” Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, said on X, formerly known as Twitter.Wildmon founded the AFA, first known as the National Federation for Decency, in 1977 after working as a pastor for the United Methodist Church.Since its inception, the conservative advocacy group has launched campaigns and boycotts to pressure corporations to avoid supporting causes the group opposed, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-2bb49cfbc4c14c208269d24267b5b943">LGBT anti-discrimination measures</a>.In 1991, Wildmon launched American Family Radio, which set up radio stations across the U.S. to spread the AFA's message. Wildmon led the AFA for 33 years, the obituary said. He stepped down in 2010, and his son, Tim Wildmon, now leads the organization.

Founder of the American Family Association has died

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s Democratic secretary of state on Thursday removed former President Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot under the Constitution’s insurrection clause, becoming the first election official to take action unilaterally in a decision that has potential Electoral College consequences.

While Maine has just four electoral votes, it’s one of two states to split them. Trump won one of Maine’s electors in 2020, so having him off the ballot there should he emerge as the Republican general election candidate could have outsized implications in a race that is expected to be narrowly decided.

The decision by Secretary of State Shenna Bellows follows a December ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court that booted Trump from the ballot there under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. Colorado is a Democratic-leaning state that is not expected to be competitive for Republicans in November.

Bellows found that Trump could no longer run for his prior job because his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol violated Section 3, which bans from office those who “engaged in insurrection.” Bellows made the ruling after some state residents, including a bipartisan group of former lawmakers, challenged Trump’s position on the ballot.

Her decision came one day after Trump’s lawyers asked her to disqualify herself over tweets that they said showed bias. She called the U.S. Capitol attack an “insurrection” and bemoaned that Trump wasn’t convicted by the U.S. Senate after being impeached by the U.S. House.

Bellows won’t have the final word on Trump’s political career. Her decision can be appealed to Maine’s courts. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to make a final decision on whether Trump can still run for president early next year.

Activists have asked state election officials across the country to remove Trump from their states’ primary ballots under Section 3. Until Bellows’ ruling, all of them rejected the request, often saying they were waiting for courts to give direction on how to interpret the clause, which has been used only a handful of times since the years following the Civil War.

Maine law mandated that Bellows hold a public hearing over the issue, which she did in December. A lawyer and former executive director of the Maine chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, Bellows allowed each side to submit additional arguments after the Colorado Supreme Court’s historic Dec. 19 decision that Section 3 barred Trump from the ballot.

Trump’s campaign has said it will appeal that court’s 4-3 ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, which has never ruled on Section 3. Whatever the high court decides will apply to every state, including Maine.

The Maine decision shows the potential perils to Trump if the issue is decided on a state-by-state basis. He lost Colorado by 13 percentage points in 2020 and does not need it to win the presidency. But Maine divides its electoral votes by congressional districts, and Trump has twice won the state’s second congressional district.

If he’s not on the ballot there, he would start his 2024 campaign down one Electoral College vote.

The secretary of state’s office said it’s not aware of the office previously striking a presidential candidate from the ballot, but other candidates for lower offices have been removed that way.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703030684419.png" alt="Trump’s campaign has said it will appeal that court’s 4-3 ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Trump’s campaign has said it will appeal that court’s 4-3 ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Maine’s Democratic secretary of state on Thursday removed former President Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot under the Constitution’s insurrection clause, becoming the first election official to take action unilaterally in a decision that has potential Electoral College consequences.While Maine has just four electoral votes, it’s one of two states to split them. Trump won one of Maine’s electors in 2020, so having him off the ballot there should he emerge as the Republican general election candidate could have outsized implications in a race that is expected to be narrowly decided.The decision by Secretary of State Shenna Bellows follows a December ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court that booted Trump from the ballot there under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. Colorado is a Democratic-leaning state that is not expected to be competitive for Republicans in November.Bellows found that Trump could no longer run for his prior job because his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol violated Section 3, which bans from office those who “engaged in insurrection.” Bellows made the ruling after some state residents, including a bipartisan group of former lawmakers, challenged Trump’s position on the ballot.Her decision came one day after Trump’s lawyers asked her to disqualify herself over tweets that they said showed bias. She called the U.S. Capitol attack an “insurrection” and bemoaned that Trump wasn’t convicted by the U.S. Senate after being impeached by the U.S. House.Bellows won’t have the final word on Trump’s political career. Her decision can be appealed to Maine’s courts. The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to make a final decision on whether Trump can still run for president early next year.Activists have asked state election officials across the country to remove Trump from their states’ primary ballots under Section 3. Until Bellows’ ruling, all of them rejected the request, often saying they were waiting for courts to give direction on how to interpret the clause, which has been used only a handful of times since the years following the Civil War.Maine law mandated that Bellows hold a public hearing over the issue, which she did in December. A lawyer and former executive director of the Maine chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union, Bellows allowed each side to submit additional arguments after the Colorado Supreme Court’s historic Dec. 19 decision that Section 3 barred Trump from the ballot.Trump’s campaign has said it will appeal that court’s 4-3 ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, which has never ruled on Section 3. Whatever the high court decides will apply to every state, including Maine.The Maine decision shows the potential perils to Trump if the issue is decided on a state-by-state basis. He lost Colorado by 13 percentage points in 2020 and does not need it to win the presidency. But Maine divides its electoral votes by congressional districts, and Trump has twice won the state’s second congressional district.If he’s not on the ballot there, he would start his 2024 campaign down one Electoral College vote.The secretary of state’s office said it’s not aware of the office previously striking a presidential candidate from the ballot, but other candidates for lower offices have been removed that way.

Another state bars Trump from presidential primary ballot 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska state prosecutors are vowing to try a man for a fourth time following a third mistrial on charges accusing him of killing two people in an Omaha home in 2019.

Last week, a judge declared a mistrial in the case against 24-year-old Nyir Kuek after jurors reported they were hopelessly deadlocked, 6-6, on whether to convict him.

Kuek stands&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-357c6c4f12da46f3910f02401270e210">charged</a>&nbsp;with two counts of first-degree murder and other felony counts in the June 2019 shooting deaths of 50-year-old Tracy Atkins and 57-year-old Michael Sykora in their home. Investigators have said witnesses reported that Kuek and Sykora argued in the basement of the home before Kuek shot Sykora. Police believe Kuek then shot Atkins in Atkins' bedroom.

Prosecutors have relied on circumstantial evidence, including the eyewitnesses, to try Kuek.

Kuek’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b6af592fae40be893aab07d09a55b7b9">first trial</a>&nbsp;ended in mistrial in 2020 when someone in the courtroom tested positive for COVID-19. His&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-omaha-6b0540a0daa96d0edc5f07d1e2c81823">second trial</a>&nbsp;also ended in mistrial when one person on the jury declined to find him guilty.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska state prosecutors are vowing to try a man for a fourth time following a third mistrial on charges accusing him of killing two people in an Omaha home in 2019.Last week, a judge declared a mistrial in the case against 24-year-old Nyir Kuek after jurors reported they were hopelessly deadlocked, 6-6, on whether to convict him.Kuek stands&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-357c6c4f12da46f3910f02401270e210">charged</a>&nbsp;with two counts of first-degree murder and other felony counts in the June 2019 shooting deaths of 50-year-old Tracy Atkins and 57-year-old Michael Sykora in their home. Investigators have said witnesses reported that Kuek and Sykora argued in the basement of the home before Kuek shot Sykora. Police believe Kuek then shot Atkins in Atkins' bedroom.Prosecutors have relied on circumstantial evidence, including the eyewitnesses, to try Kuek.Kuek’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-b6af592fae40be893aab07d09a55b7b9">first trial</a>&nbsp;ended in mistrial in 2020 when someone in the courtroom tested positive for COVID-19. His&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-omaha-6b0540a0daa96d0edc5f07d1e2c81823">second trial</a>&nbsp;also ended in mistrial when one person on the jury declined to find him guilty.