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Two separate lawsuits seek ouster of embattled New Mexico Republican Party chairwoman

Three GOP candidates allege favoritism, rule violations by party leadersDan Boyd

$9 Pitched As ‘Affordable Luxury’ And Americans Aren’t Buying It

Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol is defending the company’s high-priced drinks, arguing that customers are willing to pay for what he calls a “luxury experience.” Speaking The Wall Street Journal’s What’s News AM podcast, Niccol said Starbucks is performing well across income levels, even as some drinks approach $9.“We’re doing really well with Gen Z and millennials, and then really had strong performance across all income cohorts,” Niccol said. “It can start with as little as $3 for a traditional cup of coffee. And then obviously you can build your way into all sorts of customized drinks that people love that move that ticket up.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wall Street Journal (@wsj)When asked whether concerns about a so-called K-shaped economy could impact sales, Niccol said Starbucks isn’t seeing signs of strain. “What we’re seeing is people, they want to have a special experience, and regardless of what your income level is,” he said. “In some cases, you know, a $9 experience does feel like you’re splurging. And then, what that means is we have to make it worthwhile, right?”In other cases, he added, customers view Starbucks as an affordable premium option.“They’re saying, ‘Well it’s less than $10 and I get a really premium experience,’” Niccol went on. “So, regardless of where you’re stationed in those income cohorts, we want to make that experience worth your while.”Niccol also described a visit to Starbucks as “a moment of escapism,” adding that customers value consistency across price points.“I think people actually really do appreciate knowing, “Hey, if this is a $3 cup of coffee or a $5 latte, I know I’m going to get a great experience for that $5 experience, I’m in,” he added.Many commenters called the exec out of touch.“This video just confirms how detached from reality those people are. [Starbucks] IS NOT a premium experience, nor is the coffee worth $9,” one person wrote. “I’ll pass on this premium experience,” another agreed.A third commenter quipped, “Friends don’t let friends drink Starbucks.”Amanda Harding

Ford Recalls Nearly 180,000 Broncos, Rangers, Says Front Seat Bolts Could Be Loose

As of April 10, Ford said it had received 60 warranty claims and one field report related to the issue, with no injuries or accidents reported.Rob Sabo

Local Business Spotlight: The Fitness Tech

A personal training gym for adults 40+. No contracts, no crowds, just real results and coaching that's built around your life and goals.Patch Spotlights

Eagle Creek Park ruled out for wastewater discharge from LEAP site

Lebanon Utilities announces Eagle Creek Park will no longer be considered for treated wastewater discharge, addressing environmental concerns.Gregg Montgomery