"Backpacks make it easier for students to hide weapons, which can be disassembled and harder to identify or hidden in pockets, inside books or under other items.”

Oregon Secretary of State Shemia Fagan, regarding her resignation from the position after criticism from Republicans and Democrats for having moonlighted as a highly paid consultant for a marijuana business. Fagan’s consulting position paid $10,000 per month with additional bonuses if she helped the company get licensed in other states. (Associated Press — May 2, 2023)

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, warning lawmakers of what the impacts might be if the federal government runs out of money to pay its bills, which, she predicts, could be as soon as June 1 if the debt ceiling is not raised soon. (NPR — May 1, 2023)

Barbara Jordan, a 53-year-old resident of Hutchinson, Kan., regarding the diminishing trust in the media’s ability to report the news fairly and accurately. A new poll found that nearly 75 percent of U.S. adults blame the media for increasing political polarization across the nation. (Associated Press — May 1, 2023)

Andy Nelson, the Democratic Party chair in Missoula County, Mont., regarding the protests in the gallery of the Montana state House who chanted “Let her speak,” regarding the silence of state Rep. Zooey Zephyr on Monday, April 24. Seven people were arrested for trespassing on Monday, though the demonstration was free of violence or damage. Republican lawmakers have made comparisons to the April 24 protest with the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. (Associated Press — April 28, 2023)