Great Plains News Digest
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IOWA
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US–Immigration-Des-Moines-Superintendent
Former Iowa superintendent pleads guilty to falsely claiming US citizenship
SUMMARY: The former Des Moines superintendent has plead guilty in federal court to falsely claiming U.S. citizenship and illegally possessing firearms. Ian Roberts is originally from Guyana and initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. He plead guilty Thursday to both counts after entering into an agreement with prosecutors that was released Wednesday. The charges could lead to 20 years in prison. He also could be deported. Roberts was targeted by federal immigration agents and arrested in September. Authorities found a loaded handgun and cash in his vehicle. Roberts was an educator and administrator for two decades in districts across the U.S.
WORDS: 827 – MOVED: 01/21/2026 11:02 p.m. CST
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KANSAS
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US–Aviation Safety
FAA is making the rules imposed after an airliner collided with an Army helicopter permanent
SUMMARY: The federal government says temporary rules imposed after last year’s collision of an airliner and an Army helicopter to improve the safety of the crowded airspace around Washington, D.C., are being made permanent. The Federal Aviation Administration took steps to make sure that helicopters and airplanes would no longer share the same airspace around Reagan National Airport shortly after the investigation into the Jan. 29 crash began. The National Transportation Safety Board plans to detail everything that contributed to the crash at a hearing next Tuesday. The families of the 67 people who died in the crash hope the government will also quickly adopt the recommendations NTSB will likely make to help prevent future tragedies.
WORDS: 553 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 5:18 p.m. CST
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MINNESOTA
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VA–Immigrants-College Tuition
Virginia’s new AG Jones fights DOJ on in-state tuition for immigrant students
SUMMARY: Virginia’s new Attorney General Jay Jones is reversing his predecessor’s stance on in-state tuition for immigrants who are in the country illegally. On Wednesday, Jones filed a motion to withdraw from an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that sought to invalidate the Virginia Dream Act of 2020. The Virginia Dream Act provides in-state tuition to students meeting high school attendance requirements, regardless of immigration status. The Justice Department challenged the law in December, claiming it discriminates against out-of-state U.S. citizens. Several groups have filed motions to intervene, supporting the law and advocating for students who rely on it.
WORDS: 436 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 12:37 p.m. CST
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US–White House-Attorney Photo-Fact Focus
FACT FOCUS: White House shares altered image showing arrest of civil rights attorney in Minnesota
SUMMARY: The Trump administration is misrepresenting the arrest of civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong for her role in an anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at a Minnesota church. The White House on Thursday shared an image that made it appear like she was crying. The original image, posted on X by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, shows Levy Armstrong with a neutral expression. An attorney for Levy Armstrong said any videos or photos that show her crying were manipulated.
WORDS: 438 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 4:24 p.m. CST
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US–Federal Funding-Democratic States
Trump administration tells agencies to compile data on money sent to Democratic states
SUMMARY: President Donald Trump’s budget office is telling government agencies to compile data on federal money sent to a group of 14 mostly Democratic-controlled states and the District of Columbia. The administration says in a memo obtained by The Associated Press that the purpose is to “facilitate efforts to reduce the improper and fraudulent use of those funds.” The memo to the agencies does not explain why it’s focusing on those states. The order comes the week after Trump threatened to deny federal funding to states that are home to local governments that resist his immigration policies.
WORDS: 584 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 1:54 p.m. CST
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US–Vance
Vance’s message in Minneapolis: Local officials must cooperate with the immigration crackdown
SUMMARY: Vice President JD Vance says he came to Minneapolis to help “lower the temperature” in the city. But during his stop in Minnesota on Thursday, he blamed “far-left people” and state and local law enforcement officials for the chaos that’s convulsed the state during the White House’s aggressive deportation campaign. He also defended federal agents who detained a 5-year-old boy while making an immigration arrest. President Donald Trump has threatened to invoke the Insurrection Act and send in military forces to crack down on the unrest. Vance was asked about that option. He said, “Right now, we don’t think that we need that.”
WORDS: 1145 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 10:44 a.m. CST
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US–Immigration Enforcement-Boy Detained
Federal officers detain a 5-year-old boy who a school official says was used as ‘bait’
SUMMARY: Federal agents have taken a 5-year-old boy and his father from Minnesota to a detention facility in Texas. School officials and the family’s lawyer say this is part of the immigration enforcement surge in the Twin Cities. The school superintendent in the Minneapolis suburb of Columbia Heights says federal agents took Liam Conejo Ramos from a running car in the family’s driveway. She says his father is pursuing asylum in the U.S. The Department of Homeland Security says the operation targeted the father, not the child. A department official says the father asked for the child to stay with him. Liam is the district’s fourth student who has been detained recently.
WORDS: 956 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 8:57 a.m. CST
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US–Immigration Enforcement
Anti-ICE protest at Minnesota church leads to arrests but no charges for journalist Don Lemon
SUMMARY: Attorney General Pam Bondi says a woman who led an anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at a Minnesota church has been arrested. Bondi announced online Thursday that Nekima Levy Armstrong has been arrested. Protesters entered a St. Paul church Sunday where an U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official serves as a pastor. The group interrupted services by chanting “ICE out” and “Justice for Renee Good,” referring to the 37-year-old who was fatally shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis this month. Levy Armstrong is a civil rights attorney and activist. She had called for the pastor affiliated with ICE to resign.
WORDS: 1272 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 8:41 a.m. CST
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US–Immigration Enforcement
Minnesota gears up for a mass anti-immigration enforcement protest despite the dangerous cold
SUMMARY: A vast network of labor unions, progressive organizations and clergy is asking Minnesotans to stay away from work, school and stores in protest at immigration enforcement operations in the state. Organizers say more than 700 businesses statewide have closed Friday. Minneapolis and St. Paul have seen daily protests since Renee Good was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer on Jan. 7. Federal law enforcement officers have surged in the cities for weeks, repeatedly squaring off with community members and activists. Organizers believe Friday’s mobilization will be the largest action to date, including a march in downtown Minneapolis despite dangerously cold temperatures.
WORDS: 633 – MOVED: 01/23/2026 12:03 a.m. CST
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US–Social Service Funds
Judge rules Trump administration must keep funding child care subsidies in 5 states for now
SUMMARY: A federal judge says the Trump administration must keep the money flowing for now for programs aimed at helping low-income families with children in five states. The ruling extends by two weeks an earlier one in which a judge ordered the money to continue to flow to California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York. Judge Vernon Broderick says he’ll decide later whether to order the money be kept moving as the challenge to the action is decided. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said on Jan. 6 that it was withholding money because it had “reason to believe” there was fraud in those states, although it didn’t present details or evidence.
WORDS: 619 – MOVED: 01/23/2026 12:06 a.m. CST
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MISSOURI
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US–Statehouse Harassment Missouri
Missouri lawmaker reprimanded for sexually vulgar text sent during redistricting protest
SUMMARY: A Missouri lawmaker has been formally reprimanded for sending a sexually vulgar text to a fellow House member. Democratic state Rep. Jeremy Dean was protesting a redistricting plan backed by President Donald Trump when he sent the message to a Republican lawmaker last September. On Thursday, colleagues barred him from serving on House committees and ordered him to stay at least 50 feet away from the targeted lawmaker. Dean acknowledged the text was inappropriate and apologized. He is among at least 157 state lawmakers across the U.S. who have been accused of sexual misconduct or harassment since 2017, according to an Associated Press tally.
WORDS: 609 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 11:14 a.m. CST
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NEBRASKA
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NE–Mayoral Pardons
Tale of two Nebraska cities: Use of mayoral pardons varies widely in Lincoln and Omaha
SUMMARY: Jasmine Harris faced job rejections due to a misdemeanor conviction. Despite a biology degree and determination to provide for her family, the conviction haunted her. In 2017, she received a mayoral pardon in Omaha, one of Nebraska’s two cities offering such clemency. From 2020 to 2025, Omaha granted over 60 pardons, while Lincoln approved just two. That’s according to records that the Flatwater Free Press obtained through public records requests. Pardons offer formal forgiveness but don’t erase convictions. They can help with employment and housing. Omaha’s process is more accessible than Lincoln’s, where response times have lagged. Harris now advocates for others facing similar struggles, highlighting the power of second chances.
WORDS: 2132 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 12:33 p.m. CST
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OKLAHOMA
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VA–Immigrants-College Tuition
Virginia’s new AG Jones fights DOJ on in-state tuition for immigrant students
SUMMARY: Virginia’s new Attorney General Jay Jones is reversing his predecessor’s stance on in-state tuition for immigrants who are in the country illegally. On Wednesday, Jones filed a motion to withdraw from an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice that sought to invalidate the Virginia Dream Act of 2020. The Virginia Dream Act provides in-state tuition to students meeting high school attendance requirements, regardless of immigration status. The Justice Department challenged the law in December, claiming it discriminates against out-of-state U.S. citizens. Several groups have filed motions to intervene, supporting the law and advocating for students who rely on it.
WORDS: 436 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 12:37 p.m. CST
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US–Winter Weather-By The Numbers
Millions of Americans prepare for potentially catastrophic ice storm. Here’s what the numbers show
SUMMARY: Millions of Americans are bracing for a potentially catastrophic ice storm from New Mexico to the Carolinas. Forecasters say the storm could crush trees, power lines, and knock out power for days. Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston could see enough snow to make travel nearly impossible. The National Weather Service said Friday that more than 170 million people are in the path of heavy snow and crippling ice. The storm began early Friday and continues through the weekend. It’s projected to bring heavy snow and wintry precipitation, including freezing rain and sleet.
WORDS: 901 – MOVED: 01/21/2026 11:03 p.m. CST
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US–Winter Weather
More than half the US threatened with ice, snow and cold in massive winter storm
SUMMARY: Forecasters say over half the U.S. population could be affected by snow, ice or bitter cold as a winter storm sweeps across the county. On Friday, schools in Chicago and other cities canceled classes due to extreme cold. Then the storm is forecast to bring snow, sleet, and ice from Texas to New England. Forecasters warn the damage could rival a hurricane, especially in areas hit by ice. More than 1,000 flights were delayed or canceled Friday, with more expected Saturday. People are stocking up on water, food and generators as they prepare for the storm.
WORDS: 908 – MOVED: 01/23/2026 12:00 a.m. CST
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SPORTS
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IOWA
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BKW–T25-Iowa-Maryland
No. 10 Iowa blows a 17-point lead in the last 3:00, then outlasts No. 15 Maryland 85-78 in overtime
SUMMARY: Ava Heiden scored 20 points, and No. 10 Iowa recovered in overtime to beat No. 15 Maryland 85-78 after the Hawkeyes blew a 17-point lead in the final three minutes of regulation. Iowa remained unbeaten in Big Ten play, but not without a scare. The Terrapins trailed 66-49 in the fourth quarter before coming all the way back and tying the game at 73 on Oluchi Okananwa’s 3-pointer with 9.3 seconds remaining. Maryland briefly led in overtime, but its offense dried up late and the Hawkeyes pulled away again.
WORDS: 420 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 7:32 p.m. CST
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KANSAS
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BKC–T25-Kansas-Self
Kansas coach Bill Self plans to return vs. Kansas State, and Peterson is questionable for the game
SUMMARY: Kansas coach Bill Self plans to be on the sideline when the Jayhawks face Kansas State. He recently had a brief hospital visit for “abnormal” chest pain but feels good now. Self missed the team’s trip to Colorado, where they won 75-69 under former Kansas star Jacque Vaughn. Self has had heart issues before, including stents for blocked arteries. He watched the Colorado game on TV and joked about being an “armchair quarterback.” Freshman guard Darryn Peterson, a potential top NBA draft pick, sprained his ankle in the win over the Buffaloes and it’s unclear whether he will play against the Wildcats.
WORDS: 469 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 2:44 p.m. CST
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MINNESOTA
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HKN–Wild-Brodin
Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin has surgery on lower body injury that will keep him out of Olympics
SUMMARY: Minnesota Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin underwent surgery for a lingering lower body injury that will prevent him from playing for Sweden in the Olympics next month. Coach John Hynes had no timetable for Brodin’s return but said he will be back on the ice this season. The 14th-year veteran was out for the fifth straight game when the Wild hosted the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday. He also missed four games in December. The Wild will still have Eriksson Ek and goalies Filip Gustavsson and Jesper Wallstedt representing Sweden next month at the Winter Games in Italy.
WORDS: 224 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 3:23 p.m. CST
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BKN–Bulls-Timberwolves
Bulls rally to beat Timberwolves 120-115, extend winning streak to 3 games
SUMMARY: Coby White scored 22 points, Josh Giddey added 21 off the bench, and Jalen Smith converted two clutch free throws late to lift the Chicago Bulls to a 120-115 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Chicago overcame a 14-point, first-half deficit and also withstood a 13-0 run from Minnesota in the fourth quarter. Julius Randle, who was on the injury report with left foot soreness, had a team-high 30 points for Minnesota, but also committed a late turnover. Anthony Edwards and Naz Reid each added 20 points, and McDaniels scored 16 in the loss.
WORDS: 332 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 9:45 p.m. CST
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HKN–Red Wings-Wild
Kaprizov scores second goal of game in OT to lift Wild past Red Wings, 4-3
SUMMARY: Kirill Kaprizov scored his second goal of the game 45 seconds into overtime to give the Minnesota Wild a 4-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday night. Kaprizov came down the middle and beat goalie Cam Talbot with a wrist shot from between the circles. Mats Zuccarello also scored twice, and Filip Gustavsson made 31 saves. Quinn Hughes had three assists, giving him 43 on the season, tied for the most among NHL defensemen. Lucas Raymond had two goals and James van Riemsdyk also scored for Detroit. Talbot made 35 saves. The point for getting past regulation moved the Red Wings into tie with Carolina atop the Eastern Conference with 67 points.
WORDS: 275 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 11:36 p.m. CST
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MISSOURI
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US–Sports Betting Missouri
Missouri rejects a ban on college athlete prop bets after NCAA gambling scandals
SUMMARY: Missouri gambling regulators have rejected an NCAA request to ban bets on college athletes’ performance. The move by the Missouri Gaming Commission comes one week after the NCAA urged state gambling boards to ban college athlete prop bets because of recent scandals. Prop bets focus on individual player performances, like points scored in basketball or passing yards in football. The NCAA argues these bets are vulnerable to manipulation. Last week, over two dozen people were indicted for allegedly trying to rig college basketball games. Missouri already prohibits prop bets on athletes playing in games involving Missouri colleges, but it allows them for all other games.
WORDS: 703 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 9:06 a.m. CST
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OKLAHOMA
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BKW–T25-South Carolina-Oklahoma
Chavez scores 15 of her 26 points in overtime as No. 16 Oklahoma stuns No. 2 South Carolina 94-82
SUMMARY: Aaliyah Chavez scored 15 of her 26 points in overtime as No. 16 Oklahoma stunned No. 2 South Carolina 94-82 on Thursday night. The freshman made all five of her shots in overtime after struggling in regulation. Payton Verhulst and Raegan Beers also contributed significantly for the Sooners, who had lost three straight to ranked opponents. The victory matches the highest-ranked opponent Oklahoma has ever beaten. South Carolina’s 12-game win streak ended despite strong performances from Tessa Johnson and Raven Johnson. Oklahoma forced overtime with a late putback by Beers and a defensive stop.
WORDS: 358 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 9:02 p.m. CST
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BKC–T25-Oklahoma-Chavez
Oklahoma’s Chavez earns Dawn Staley’s respect with 15 points in OT to stun No. 2 South Carolina
SUMMARY: Aaliyah Chavez shined in overtime, leading Oklahoma to a stunning 94-82 victory over No. 2 South Carolina on Thursday night. The freshman point guard scored 15 of her 26 points in the extra period. She had struggled in regulation, making only 4 of 14 shots. Encouraged by teammates Raegan Beers and Sahara Williams, Chavez found her rhythm, hitting all five shots in overtime, including four 3-pointers. Oklahoma coach Jennie Baranczyk praised Chavez’s performance, emphasizing the importance of staying focused for future games. South Carolina coach Dawn Staley also acknowledged Chavez’s impressive play.
WORDS: 461 – MOVED: 01/22/2026 10:29 p.m. CST
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