Podcast appearances and mentions of amy acton

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2026 47:03 Transcription Available

Trump won Ohio three times with an 11 point win in 2024 so why is the GOP nominee for Governor Vivek Ramaswamy tied, in the polls, with the Democrat Dr. Amy Acton? The GOP super-majority in the Ohio legislature is worried too so they decided to manipulate their base to get them to the polls in November for Ramaswamy. Although controlling the state since 2011, the Ohio GOP is letting Trump and his goons focus on Medicaid fraud in the state. Meanwhile the Ohio GOP is putting up a constitutional amendment to require photo ID to vote even though that does nothing to secure an election system they tell us is a model for the country, and they also decided to hide a bill that would ban child marriage so as not to trigger their religious extremist friends totally ignoring the whole Trump Epstein files and other sex abuse scandals with the Catholic church and LifeWise Academy.Full Show Notes & Links UsedSend us Fan MailSupport the showSubscribe to our free newsletterCheck out our MerchFollow us on BlueskyFind us on Twitter(for now) Find us on InstagramFind us on Counter SocialFind us on Mastadon

donald trump ohio catholic id campaign gop manipulation medicaid last minute vivek ramaswamy ramaswamy voter id mastadon ohio gop lifewise academy amy acton

Brown or Husted, Acton or Ramaswamy: Where Does Ohio Stand Now?

The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2026 49:57

This week on Purple Political Breakdown Ohio Edition, Radell Lewis follows the money and the power across Ohio politics and keeps circling one question: who is Ohio's government actually working for? Radell opens with the biggest and newest story, the FBI search of the Cleveland offices of the Ohio Organizing Collaborative, a progressive group that registers voters, and why the timing and the target deserve a hard, skeptical look. He revisits the FirstEnergy corruption scandal as the real, provable Ohio fraud story, then breaks down a busy week at the Statehouse: the two voter ID measures (Senate Joint Resolution 10, the constitutional amendment headed for the November ballot, and House Bill 472, the absentee photo ID copy requirement now sitting on the governor's desk), the data center tax break that lawmakers promised to end and then quietly kept, the Medicaid anti-fraud bill, and the 3.7 billion dollar capital budget. Then it is the races. The Senate fight between Sherrod Brown and Jon Husted, including the dueling Epstein attack ads and what is actually true about the Wexner donations, Husted's vote on Trump's anti-weaponization fund, and the latest polling that pushed Cook Political Report to move the seat to toss-up. The governor's race between Amy Acton and Vivek Ramaswamy, where Radell digs into Ramaswamy's tax plan, the independent cost estimates, and his own financial disclosure. And a full District Watch on Ohio's 4th and 5th, where Radell lays out exactly what Jim Jordan and Bob Latta stand for and what their challengers, Joshua Kolasinski and Brian Shaver, are offering instead. County of the Week is Butler County. Radell shares who he is voting for and why, makes the case for showing up even in deep red districts, and keeps it where he always does: political solutions without political bias, building a better Ohio on the way to a better America. [CANONICAL RESOURCE BLOCK FOLLOWS. Append your standard block verbatim here. The verified tail is below. Please paste your exact top lines, the PODCAST NETWORK line and the HeadOn entry above the headon.ai link, since I do not have those two verbatim.] [PASTE: PODCAST NETWORK line and HeadOn entry here] [Confirm the rest of your standard block matches your last published description: CONVERSATION PLATFORMS, UNITY MOVEMENTS, BALANCED NEWS, VOTING REFORM, POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT including the PPB Substack subscribe link https://open.substack.com/pub/purplepoliticalbreakdown, DAILY NEWS text line, and the all-links Linktree at purplepoliticalbreakdown.com] We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias." Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics, where we find common ground in the middle. Also if you want to be a part of the community and the conversation, make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Full Episode - Ken Paxton's Victory Gives Dems An Opportunity In Texas - Tackling Trump's Rampant Corruption & Pay To Play Politics

Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2026 150:53 Transcription Available

Chuck Todd opens with Ken Paxton's runoff blowout over John Cornyn — a result that confirms Texas Republicans remain the base of what eventually grew into MAGA nationally, that the insurgent wing of the GOP consistently wins in the state, and that Paxton is somehow simultaneously the least electable nominee Republicans could have picked and still electable enough to make this a real fight. He argues Texas is slowly moving toward swing state status the way Georgia did over the past decade — the ingredients are there for a Democrat to finally break through, the question is whether James Talarico can move his 45% number higher and prove he's the political athlete this moment requires. The downstream consequences for Republicans are brutal: the GOP will have to drop a $500 million anvil on Talarico that can't be deployed in other races, and Democrats' path to a Senate majority just got measurably wider. But the more fascinating story Chuck unpacks is Pope Leo's stunning new document on AI, automated weapons, and concentrated power — a text Chuck argues is essentially an indictment of American military dominance dressed in the language of moral theology. The Pope explicitly compares AI-driven targeting systems to slavery, arguing both reduce human beings to data points and dehumanize their victims, and apologizes for the church's historic slowness on slavery while warning Catholics that they cannot afford the same slowness on artificial intelligence. He declares the centuries-old "just war" framework outdated, argues that no algorithm can ever make war morally acceptable, and pushes back forcefully on the entire concept of nuclear deterrence — drawing a direct line back to Pope Leo XIII's 1891 intervention on industrial capitalism. He argues the document, while never naming the United States, is speaking directly to American politicians: it's framed as a call for a moral framework around AI that can live above the political discourse, an explicit argument that technological capital must be regulated, and a warning that AI is not morally neutral no matter how much Silicon Valley wishes it were. The larger message is unmistakable — the Pope, who Chuck notes is now arguably the most formidable global moral voice that even secular Americans look to for clarity, has just put concentrated technological power on notice in a way no head of state has been willing to. Then, Virginia Kase Solomon — president of Common Cause, one of the country's oldest and most respected pro-democracy organizations — joins the Chuck Toddcast to deliver a clear-eyed assessment of just how broken American self-government has become, and what it might actually take to fix it. Kase Solomon argues that Trump's corruption has gone so far beyond anything in modern history that it makes Watergate look quaint by comparison — she points to Trump stealing roughly $1.8 billion from American taxpayers as a single staggering example — but warns that the most dangerous development isn't the corruption itself, it's that young voters are growing up normalized to it, with no living memory of an administration where this kind of behavior carried consequences. She makes a striking comparison to Hungary, where it took genuinely staggering levels of corruption before Orbán could be toppled, and where the opposition only succeeded once it tied that corruption directly to degrading quality of life for ordinary people — a lesson she says American Democrats badly need to learn. They note that there are real bipartisan calls to address money in politics, that a congressional stock trading ban enjoys overwhelming public support, that Amy Klobuchar's Disclose Act keeps getting reintroduced and ignored, and that forced disclosure of large-dollar donors alone would significantly reduce political giving — but the country is on a runaway train, with big tech money flowing to whoever holds power and Trump openly running the country like a corporation. The conversation broadens into Kase Solomon's structural diagnosis of why American democracy isn't working. She argues that the way the founders designed the country no longer functions in the modern era — but that the founders also gave us the tools to fix what's broken if we choose to use them. Congress is too small to genuinely represent the public, the Senate is horribly malapportioned, the Supreme Court has offered no real solution to the gerrymandering crisis, and we've completely lost the "statesmen" in Congress who once voted their conscience because there's no longer any incentive to compromise or work across the aisle. She is deeply concerned about the regulatory vacuum around AI — deepfakes have terrifying implications for elections and civil litigation is currently the only meaningful path to push back — and she warns that the election of judges has corrupted the rule of law in ways America needs a movement to address. Despite all of this, she is genuinely hopeful: Common Cause is litigating against the corruption, organizing a million conversations between activists and ordinary Americans, and operating from the conviction that the public isn't stupid and still loves this country. Her closing argument is the most American one possible: the United States has always emerged from its darkest periods better than it went in — but only because people refused to accept the broken system as permanent, and that work has to start now. Finally, Chuck reveals his ToddCast Top 5 list of Democrats who could be vaulted into 2028 contender status for the presidency if they perform well in the midterms. He highlights two midwestern gubernatorial candidates, two upstart senate bids and one name that stands above the rest… Jon Ossoff of Georgia. He also answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Predict the action all the way through the finals. Sign up now for your twenty-five dollar bonus on https://fanduel.com/predicts Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/chuck for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Thank you Wildgrain for sponsoring. Visit http://wildgrain.com/TODDCAST and use the code "TODDCAST" at checkout to receive $30 off your first box PLUS free Croissants for life! Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 03:30 Ken Paxton trounces John Cornyn in runoff election 05:00 Texas Republicans are the base for what grew into MAGA nationally 07:15 The insurgent wing of the GOP consistently wins in Texas 09:00 Paxton is the least electable nominee, but he’s still electable 10:30 Is 45% Talarico’s ceiling, or can he move that number higher? 11:30 Texas is slowly moving towards swing state status like Georgia did 13:00 Ingredients are there for a Democrat to finally break through in TX 15:30 Senate Republicans won’t be happy having to serve with Paxton 16:00 Texas is more winnable than other races for GOP, will have to spend in TX 16:30 Republicans will have to spend big to drop the anvil on Talarico 17:30 We’ll find out how talented of a political athlete Talarico is 19:30 This will be the magnet race that national reporters will focus on 21:30 Race will cost the GOP $500m that can’t be deployed elsewhere 23:15 Democrats now have a better chance of winning the senate 24:00 The Pope speaks to more than Catholics, seculars look to him for moral clarity 25:00 The Pope is formidable influencer in America 26:15 The Pope speaks out about AI, concentrated power & the “just war” theory 26:45 He compared automated weapons to slavery 28:00 The Pope spoke out similarly in 1891 during the Industrial Revolution 29:00 The Pope’s document says AI is not morally neutral 30:15 Document argues that technological capital needs to be regulated 30:45 The church has had a “just war” framework for hundreds of years 31:15 Pope Leo says “just war” framework is outdated 32:15 Document argues no algorithm can make war morally acceptable 33:15 Document argues against the concept of nuclear deterrence 33:45 Pope apologizes for church’s role in slavery 34:30 Document says AI systems reduce human beings into targeting data 35:00 Pope argues the dehumanization of AI targeting is similar to slavery 36:00 While not saying it directly, the document is speaking about the United States 37:00 The document is an indictment of American military dominance 38:30 Document does have a carve-out for self defence 40:15 The document was speaking directly to American politicians 41:30 A call for a moral framework for AI can live above the political discourse 42:30 Pope argues church was too slow on slavery, can’t be slow on AI 49:00 Virginia Kase Solomon (Common Cause) joins the Chuck ToddCast 50:30 Common Cause works to hold the government accountable to the people 51:30 Corporate lobbies have disproportionate power compared to people 52:15 Many people threw their hands up after Citizen’s United 53:30 States are working to change campaign finance rules 55:15 States can ban companies in their state from making political donations 57:00 Rules changes but money always seems to find a way around them 59:00 Parties stopped becoming the epicenter of political donations 1:00:30 There are bipartisan calls to do something about money in politics 1:02:00 More GOP support for reform at the state level than national level 1:02:45 We’re on a runaway train for money in politics 1:03:30 Big tech money goes to whoever is in power 1:04:00 The country is being run like a corporation 1:04:45 Jamie Raskin has started an anti-corruption task force 1:05:15 A congressional stock trading ban has massive public support 1:06:15 Trump is obviously corrupt, but people fear him too much to act 1:07:30 Forced disclosure of large dollar donors would reduce donations 1:08:30 Amy Klobuchar has put forward the Disclose Act in almost every congress 1:11:00 The Trump administration’s corruption is beyond egregious 1:11:45 Trump stealing $1.8 billion from taxpayers, makes Watergate look quaint 1:13:15 Young voters have grown up being normalized to this corruption 1:13:45 There will be a backlash to the corruption at some point 1:14:45 America’s long term global standing has been severely damaged 1:15:30 Common Cause is involved in litigation trying to prevent the corruption 1:17:30 Striving to have a million conversations between organizers & normal people 1:18:45 People are struggling and feeling fatigued 1:20:30 It took staggering levels of corruption in Hungary before Orban was toppled 1:21:30 Opposition in Hungary tied corruption to degrading quality of life 1:23:30 A fairness criteria was implemented in the California redistricting 1:24:30 CA and VA put redistricting before the voters, but still a race to the bottom 1:25:00 The Supreme Court hasn’t offered any solution to gerrymandering problem 1:26:00 Congress is too small to effectively represent the public 1:26:45 The senate is horribly malapportioned 1:28:30 The way the founders designed the country doesn’t work anymore 1:29:00 The founders gave us the tools to fix the democracy 1:31:15 There’s no incentive to work in a bipartisan manner or compromise 1:32:45 We’ve lost the “statesmen” in congress who vote their conscience 1:33:30 Politics has become a zero sum game 1:34:45 Politics has always been dirty, but we’ve hit an all-time low 1:36:00 Government seems completely unequipped to regulate AI 1:38:45 Deepfakes impact on elections are very concerning 1:40:00 Civil litigation is the only current path to push back on AI 1:41:30 Status of “sunshine laws” in the country? Could they be rolled back? 1:43:45 Need a movement against the election of the judiciary 1:46:45 The reason for optimism… is that people aren’t stupid and love the country 1:47:30 Our country has always emerged better after dark times 1:49:30 Chuck’s thoughts on interview with Virginia Kase Solomon 1:50:30 ToddCast Top 5 2028 contenders depending on their 2026 performance 1:54:00 #5 Amy Acton 1:56:15 #4 Rob Sand 1:57:45 #3 Graham Platner 2:01:15 #2 James Talarico 2:03:45 #1 Jon Ossoff 2:07:15 Ask Chuck 2:07:30 Why are people rounding up Trump’s 1.776B slush fund to $1.8b? 2:09:30 Supporting candidates you oppose just for judicial confirmations? 2:16:30 New Parallel AI model that prioritizes original writing and journalism? 2:20:15 How are candidates allowed to deploy financial resources during campaigns? 2:24:30 Pattern of Dems fixing the economy and GOP making it worse?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Most Important Ohio Election in our Generation! Every 2026 Ohio Race You Need to Know About!

America's Work Force Union Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2026 20:48

Every statewide executive office in Ohio is on the ballot in 2026, and not a single incumbent is defending a seat. Term limits cleared the building all at once. In this solo episode of Purple Political Breakdown Ohio Edition, Radell Lewis walks through the entire Ohio ballot, from the top of the ticket down to the competitive congressional districts, so you know exactly what you are voting on. Governor: Dr. Amy Acton vs. Vivek Ramaswamy. U.S. Senate: Sherrod Brown vs. Jon Husted. Plus Attorney General, Secretary of State, Auditor, Treasurer, two Ohio Supreme Court seats, and the U.S. House districts most likely to decide which party controls the chamber. Then we get into a week of Statehouse news that shows exactly what kind of fight this is going to be. Attorney General Dave Yost's surprise resignation to join the Alliance Defending Freedom, Gov. Mike DeWine's appointment of Andy Wilson as interim attorney general, and the open question of what happens to the FirstEnergy bribery prosecution. The Ohio GOP power struggle, as gubernatorial nominee Vivek Ramaswamy sets the agenda on a voter ID constitutional amendment and a Medicaid fraud plan while the sitting governor reacts. HB 698, which would tie public college funding to compliance with Senate Bill 1. A federal plan to open thousands of acres of the Wayne National Forest in southeast Ohio to fracking. And Ohio's data center sales tax break ballooning to roughly $1.6 billion, far beyond the state's own forecast, while the savings flow to Amazon, Meta, and Google. County of the Week is Cuyahoga, home to Cleveland and to a property tax foreclosure case now before the Ohio Supreme Court that could matter to homeowners across the state. Awareness is the first step. Look up your district, know your races, and vote. Political solutions without political bias. Standard Resource Links & Recommendations The following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORK Check Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.com ALIVE Podcast Network: Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMS HeadOn: A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/ Living Room Conversations: Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTS Us United: A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATION OtherWeb: An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACY Equal Vote Coalition & STAR Voting: Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/star Future is Now Coalition (FiNC): A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT Independent Center: Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWS Text 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) Check Out the Unfuck America Tour & National Ground Game: https://www.nationalgroundgame.com/ Check Out the CIVICS App to Know More About Your Politicians: https://www.civicpolitics.com SUBSCRIBE ON SUBSTACK Get the Purple Political Breakdown newsletter and episode breakdowns straight to your inbox: https://open.substack.com/pub/purplepoliticalbreakdown/p/welcome-to-the-purple-political-breakdown?r=3z2cmw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true ALL LINKS https://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdown The Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias." Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics, where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be a part of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Labor's New Strategy: Running for Office and Resisting the Federal Workforce Gutting

Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2026 48:40

The labor movement is done waiting for a seat at the table—workers are fighting for survival at the federal level and running for legislative seats locally. In this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, we examine the dual realities of modern union power: the defensive structural protections of our public infrastructure and the offensive strategy of electoral politics. Part 1: The Federal Worker Purge & The Privatization Playbook Jacqueline Simon, Policy Director of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), joins the show to deliver a sobering report on the state of the federal workforce. Since January 2025, a sweeping execution of executive orders has fundamentally altered public services. The 300,000 Job Elimination: Why abolishing permanent positions permanently reduces federal capacity and sets agencies up to fail. The National Security Loophole: How a million workers had their collective bargaining rights stripped in what the administration's own paperwork admits was a retaliatory strike against the union. Designed to Fail: The systematic gutting of Social Security field offices, 30,000 lost positions at VA healthcare, and the looming threat of TSA privatization. Part 2: From Endorsements to the Ballot Box Shifting to the offensive, Davida Russell, Secretary-Treasurer of the North Coast Area Labor Federation and Ohio CLUW State President, discusses her historic Democratic primary victory for the Ohio House, capturing nearly 75 percent of the vote. The Pivot to Power: Why working people are tired of empty campaign promises and are increasingly running their own members for office. Unstoppable Women Conference: A preview of the biennial gathering on June 5-6 in Independence, Ohio, featuring panels with Stacey Abrams, Amy Acton, Nina Turner, and trailblazing labor leaders. Real-World Realities: Addressing the financial and emotional exhaustion of the working class and channeling 60-year-high union favorability into direct legislative action. Resources & Links: Learn more about AFGE's legal challenges: afge.org AFL-CIO Website: aflcio.org Subscribe to the America's Work Force Union Podcast for daily insight into worker power: awf.labortools.com

The next Ohio governor will be new to elected office

Snollygoster

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 20:29

For the first time in eight years, Ohio will have a new governor. It will be someone from outside government: tech billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy, who briefly ran for president, or Amy Acton, who served in government for about a year.

office ohio elected vivek ramaswamy ohio governor amy acton

Can Democrats Flip Ohio's 7th District in 2026? Ft. The Angry Democrat Matt Diemer

All Sides with Ann Fisher Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2026 88:24

Ohio's 7th Congressional District is back on every Democratic flip list in the country, and on this episode of Purple Political Breakdown Ohio Edition, Radell Lewis sits down with two-time OH-7 Democratic congressional candidate Matt Diemer to break down why. Matt has run this district twice, in 2022 and 2024, and he knows exactly what it takes (and what it costs) to fight for a seat the national party has long written off. We dig into the new Democratic nominee Brian Poindexter, the messy reality of incumbent Max Miller's divorce and the domestic violence allegations now hanging over his reelection, the union method that worked for organized labor before the Democratic Party walked away from it, and why R+11 might really be purple plus eleven in 2026. We also break down the 2026 Ohio primary night that just shocked half the state: Allison Russo's commanding 68-32 win over Bryan Hambley in the Secretary of State Democratic primary, the Attorney General Democratic primary surprise, Vivek Ramaswamy versus Dr. Amy Acton in the governor race, Sherrod Brown's comeback campaign against Jon Husted in a Senate seat now tangled in the FirstEnergy bribery trial fallout, and what Maine's Graham Platner versus Janet Mills standoff tells us about how the national Democratic Party is picking its 2026 candidates. Plus the real conversation: vibes versus policy, why primaries make better candidates and better voters, and what an authentic working-class Ohio Democrat actually sounds like. If you live in OH-7 (Ashland, Medina, Wooster, exurban Cleveland, plus parts of Cuyahoga and Wayne), this is the breakdown of your race. If you don't, it's the case study for every flippable R+10-to-R+15 district in the country. Political solutions without political bias. Follow Matt Diemer: The Angry Democrat newsletter at theangrydem.com and The Angry Ohioan newsletter at theangryohioan.com. Standard Resource Links & Recommendations The following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORK Check Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.com ALIVE Podcast Network: Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMS HeadOn: A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/ Living Room Conversations: Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTS Us United: A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATION OtherWeb: An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACY Equal Vote Coalition & STAR Voting: Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/star Future is Now Coalition (FiNC): A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT Independent Center: Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWS Text 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) Check Out the Unfuck America Tour & National Ground Game: https://www.nationalgroundgame.com/ Check Out the CIVICS App to Know More About Your Politicians: https://www.civicpolitics.com Subscribe to the Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/purplepoliticalbreakdown/p/welcome-to-the-purple-political-breakdown?r=3z2cmw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true ALL LINKS https://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdown The Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias." Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics, where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Weekly Reporter Roundtable: Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton advance in Ohio governor's race

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 49:58

Ohio's primary voters have had their say, and now we move on to November's general election.The governor's race between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton promises to be historic, expensive....and contentious.We'll have the rundown of statewide and congressional candidates squaring off in the fall. Bottom line: No big surprises.Attorney General Dave Yost calls it quits, setting up the potential for some musical chairs at the statehouse.And voters in Pickerington say no to a levy ask, leaving school leaders to grapple with stark financial realities.We're discussing all of these topics during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jessie Balmert, state government and politics reporter, The Columbus DispatchAndrew Tobias, state government and politics reporter, Signal OhioSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal(photo: Carolyn Kaster and Jay LaPrete / AP)

race ohio bottom advance vivek ramaswamy ohio governor pickerington amy acton reporter roundtable ohio capital journal

Weekly Reporter Roundtable: Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton advance in Ohio governor's race

All Sides with Ann Fisher

Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 49:58

Ohio's primary voters have had their say, and now we move on to November's general election.The governor's race between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton promises to be historic, expensive....and contentious.We'll have the rundown of statewide and congressional candidates squaring off in the fall. Bottom line: No big surprises.Attorney General Dave Yost calls it quits, setting up the potential for some musical chairs at the statehouse.And voters in Pickerington say no to a levy ask, leaving school leaders to grapple with stark financial realities.We're discussing all of these topics during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jessie Balmert, state government and politics reporter, The Columbus DispatchAndrew Tobias, state government and politics reporter, Signal OhioSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal(photo: Carolyn Kaster and Jay LaPrete / AP)

race ohio bottom advance vivek ramaswamy ohio governor pickerington amy acton reporter roundtable ohio capital journal

Life after Trump: Elections show political adjustments as Trump fades from relevance

Inside with Jen Psaki

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 41:38

Pete Buttigieg, former secretary of transportation and former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, talks with Jen Psaki about the burden of Donald Trump on Republican candidates, even in red states, and how politicians are recalibrating their approach to voters as Donald Trump loses both relevance and any popularity he once enjoyed. Dr. Amy Acton, Democratic candidate for governor of Ohio, talks with Jen about what she's hearing from voters in her state. Jen Psaki takes a closer look at how Donald Trump's vanity project ballroom, which no one asked for, has ballooned in cost and has now become a taxpayer burden. And Chedrick Greene, Democratic candidate for Michigan State Senate District 35, joins Jen to talk about his approach to campaigning and the stakes of his election. To listen to this show and other MS podcasts without ads, sign up for MS NOW Premium on Apple Podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

donald trump ms ohio elections congress indiana political republicans senate democratic relevance adjustments pete buttigieg south bend simplecast ballroom fades jen psaki amy acton

Ohio's Primary Election Reckoning & Navigating a Scrambled Job Market

America's Work Force Union Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 30:55

The landscape for working people in Ohio is shifting fast. In this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, we look at the immediate aftermath of the high-stakes Ohio primary elections and dive into the real-world economic pressures facing local job seekers—from the rapid rise of AI to the expansion of gig-style healthcare work. Segment 1: Ohio Primary Day Breakdown with Tim Burga Fresh off an intense election night, Ohio AFL-CIO President Tim Burga delivers a comprehensive, morning-after analysis of the state's primary results. With approximately three-quarters of labor's 160 endorsed candidates and issues winning their races—including a massive primary victory by union ironworker Brian Poindexter in Congressional District 7—organized labor has built a solid foundation for the fall. Burga outlines the historic, high-profile November matchups, including Amy Acton vs. Vivek Ramaswamy for Governor and Sherrod Brown vs. John Husted for U.S. Senate, and explains how labor's boots-on-the-ground network will combat big money and gerrymandered maps. Segment 2: Navigating a Scrambled Job Market with Dave Megenhardt Dave Megenhardt, Executive Director of the United Labor Agency (ULA), joins the show to discuss a massive new survey of 4,000 clients that yielded a staggering 96% approval rating for the agency's services. He pulls back the curtain on how his team builds trust with workers during stressful career transitions and breaks down a local job market that has been "scrambled" by artificial intelligence and an increase in unstable, part-time healthcare roles. Megenhardt also previews a major upcoming logistics shift: the relocation of the Ohio Means Jobs downtown Cleveland office to a new facility in Midtown. Key Takeaways From This Episode: The Trust Factor: How treating job seekers with dignity earned the United Labor Agency a 96% client favorability rating at scale. The Stealth Hiring Slowdown: Why companies are quietly holding back on headcount decisions as they evaluate how AI can reduce labor costs. The "Gigification" of Healthcare: The growing disconnect between open entry-level healthcare jobs and quality, full-time careers with benefits. Labor's Primary Momentum: A data breakdown of the primary election where labor-backed candidates won 75% of their races across Ohio. The Path to November: What Democrats need to flip just five seats to break the Republican legislative supermajority in the Ohio House. Ohio Means Jobs Relocation: Details on the July 1 move of the downtown Cleveland office to 61st and the Opportunity Corridor due to the Innerbelt Rebuild project. About the Guests: Tim Burga is the President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, representing hundreds of thousands of union members and leading the federation's political, legislative, and mobilization ground game. Dave Megenhardt is the Executive Director of the United Labor Agency, leading regional workforce development strategies and connecting job seekers with employers offering "good jobs" across Northeast Ohio. Connect with the Movement: Support workforce development or register for the annual ULA golf outing on June 25: ulagency.org View labor's full list of endorsements and election updates: ohioaflcio.org Subscribe & Review: Never miss an update on the fights that matter to working-class Americans. Hit the Follow button and leave us a review on Podbean!

Trump Pauses Project Freedom; Primary Results from Indiana and Ohio | NTD Good Morning (May 6)

NTD Good Morning

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 95:38

President Trump writing on Truth Social on Tuesday that great progress has been made toward a complete and final agreement with Iran. He says Project Freedom, the operation ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be paused for a short time to see if that agreement can be finalized and signed. The president adding the decision also follows requests from Pakistan and other countries, and what he described as significant U.S. military success in the region.Results are in for the latest primary elections in Indiana and Ohio for the 2026 midterms. President Trump backed seven GOP challengers to unseat incumbents in Indiana, and all seven defeated the incumbents. In Ohio, Vivek Ramaswamy, the former 2024 presidential candidate won the GOP primary for his state, and told voters his vision for Ohio is to return it back to its full potential. He will be facing Democratic nominee, Amy Acton in November. Democrat Sherrod Brown is also trying to make a comeback after losing his seat to Republican Senator Bernie Moreno.A rare and deadly virus outbreak on a cruise ship has left three people dead and four sick. 150 passengers including 17 Americans are on board the ship, which is now waiting off the coast of South Africa. Health officials are saying the cause of the outbreak is a rare strain of hantavirus, which can spread between people. Even so, officials say that human-to-human spread remains extremely rare and requires close contact, saying the outbreak does not pose a wider public health risk.

health donald trump americans ohio south africa iran indiana pakistan democratic results primary gop good morning strait hormuz truth social vivek ramaswamy pauses project freedom amy acton

Chuck's Commentary - Trump Staves Off Lame Duck Status In Indiana Primaries + America Has A “Congress Problem”

The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 89:03 Transcription Available

Chuck Todd opens with the morning-after analysis of Indiana's primary results, which he says show Trump still has plenty of juice with his own party — roughly $13 million was spent to influence about 100,000 voters, and the results have created new urgency for Republican-led states across the South to redistrict before the midterms. He notes that being on the wrong side of Trump remains a career-ending move in the GOP, that Thomas Massie's upcoming primary will be a critical test of Trump's intra-party strength, and that Trump has effectively postponed the perception that he's a lame duck — even as the Iran war continues to crater his standing with the broader public. He flags Ohio as setting up to look like a real swing state in 2026, with Vivek Ramaswamy's polarizing style creating an opening for highly-regarded former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton, and notes that Iowa and Ohio could both move back toward genuine battleground status. He then walks through his fascinating recent participation in a political crisis simulation premised on the idea that January 6th wasn't an anomaly — three teams (Institutionalists, Nationalists, and Capitalists) competed for power, and the entire exercise revolved around who could get the capitalists on their side, since their core interest was simply enrichment and instability. The most revealing detail: in the simulation, Congress barely existed and had no measurable impact on outcomes, which Chuck argues mirrors reality and exposes the deeper problem facing American democracy. His blunt verdict: America doesn't actually have a polarization problem — it has a Congress problem, because weak legislatures inevitably create strong executives, Trump simply filled the vacuum a broken Congress created, and the looming gerrymandering wars (with at least eight states set to redraw their maps before 2028) will make Congress even less functional and more purely partisan than it already is. Finally, Chuck presents his ToddCast Top 5 gubernatorial one-party droughts that are most likely to end in 2026, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Try ShipStation free for 60 days with full access to all features, No credit card needed! Go to https://ShipStation.com and use code TODDCAST for 60 days for free! Thank you Wildgrain for sponsoring. Visit http://wildgrain.com/TODDCAST and use the code "TODDCAST" at checkout to receive $30 off your first box PLUS free Croissants for life! Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 01:15 Indiana primaries show that Trump still has juice with his party 02:15 $13 million was spent to influence around 100k voters 04:15 Trump has created new urgency to redistrict in the south 05:30 Being on the wrong side of Trump will end your career in the GOP 06:15 Thomas Massie’s primary will be telling about Trump’s strength 08:15 Trump has postponed the perception that he’s a lame duck in his party 09:15 Iran is not going to get better for Trump, and the polling is brutal 11:30 Indiana showed that Trump hasn’t lost his fastball with the GOP 12:30 Ohio is setting up to look like a swing state in 2026 14:30 Vivek Ramaswamy is polarizing and has said some politically dumb things 16:30 Amy Acton is highly regarded for her leadership during Covid 18:30 It’s possible that Iowa and Ohio move back toward battleground status 19:00 Chuck participated in a political crisis simulation 21:15 Premise of simulation was January 6th wasn’t an anomaly 21:45 Three teams: Institutionalists, Nationalists and Capitalists 23:00 Entire simulation revolved around who could get capitalists on their side 24:30 Capitalists want enrichment & instability 25:15 In the simulation, congress barely existed, had no impact 26:15 Stress tests begin with the assumption congress is ineffective 26:45 Congress is supposed to be the strongest branch, but is now weakest 28:15 America doesn’t have a polarization problem, we have a congress problem 29:30 Weak legislatures create strong executives 30:45 We’ve suffered from a failure of imagination in the Trump era 31:30 Trump filled the vacuum that was created by a broken congress 33:30 The gerrymandering wars will make congress even less functional 34:00 At least 8 states will remap between now and 2028 36:00 Congress will be nothing but partisanship after all the gerrymandering 37:30 Don’t just assume that Democrats will pass a gerrymandering ban 39:00 Democracy feels vulnerable because congress doesn’t work 44:15 ToddCast Top 5 gubernatorial droughts likely to end in 2026 48:15 #5 Texas 51:15 #4 Alabama 54:45 #3 Georgia 57:15 #2 Ohio 1:01:30 #1 Iowa 1:02:15 Ask Chuck 1:02:30 With the national debt 100% of GDP, what are the risks if this continues? 1:11:00 Could a SCOTUS confirmation fight improve GOP chances in midterms? 1:16:15 Can the WHCD assailant plead insanity via Trump Derangement Syndrome? 1:19:45 Impact if Texas moved to closed primaries? 1:22:15 Is there any appetite in congress for uncapping the house?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Full Episode - Trump Staves Off Lame Duck Status In Indiana Primaries + How a Free Alt-Weekly Became Alabama's Best Investigative Paper

The Chuck ToddCast: Meet the Press

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2026 134:06 Transcription Available

Chuck Todd opens with the morning-after analysis of Indiana's primary results, which he says show Trump still has plenty of juice with his own party — roughly $13 million was spent to influence about 100,000 voters, and the results have created new urgency for Republican-led states across the South to redistrict before the midterms. He notes that being on the wrong side of Trump remains a career-ending move in the GOP, that Thomas Massie's upcoming primary will be a critical test of Trump's intra-party strength, and that Trump has effectively postponed the perception that he's a lame duck — even as the Iran war continues to crater his standing with the broader public. He flags Ohio as setting up to look like a real swing state in 2026, with Vivek Ramaswamy's polarizing style creating an opening for highly-regarded former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton, and notes that Iowa and Ohio could both move back toward genuine battleground status. Hethen walks through his fascinating recent participation in a political crisis simulation premised on the idea that January 6th wasn't an anomaly — three teams (Institutionalists, Nationalists, and Capitalists) competed for power, and the entire exercise revolved around who could get the capitalists on their side, since their core interest was simply enrichment and instability. The most revealing detail: in the simulation, Congress barely existed and had no measurable impact on outcomes, which Chuck argues mirrors reality and exposes the deeper problem facing American democracy. His blunt verdict: America doesn't actually have a polarization problem — it has a Congress problem, because weak legislatures inevitably create strong executives, Trump simply filled the vacuum a broken Congress created, and the looming gerrymandering wars (with at least eight states set to redraw their maps before 2028) will make Congress even less functional and more purely partisan than it already is. Then, Ashley Trice and Rob Holbert — co-publishers of Lagniappe, the alt-weekly turned investigative newspaper covering Mobile and Alabama's Gulf Coast — join the Chuck Toddcast to share the origin story of how their independent publication has grown into the region's premier investigative voice. They explain how Lagniappe started as a free paper and has now transitioned to a subscription model behind a paywall, why most newspapers won't even print these days unless they're certain it won't cost them money (and the surprising fact that there's a national shortage of available printers), and how the paper has built its reputation by covering everything from Mobile's local government to scandals in the wealthy parts of town and irresistible animal stories — both of which they say reliably grow audience faster than anything else. Trice and Holbert preview the upcoming Tuberville-Jones gubernatorial race, which they expect to be surprisingly close, and offer a withering assessment of outgoing Governor Kay Ivey's "very inactive" tenure. They walk through the political divide in Alabama where coastal Mobile often feels left out of the conversation, the surprising audience appeal of youth and high school sports coverage, and the looming threat of the Nexstar-Tegna merger gutting even more local newsrooms across the country. The conversation broadens into the practical realities of running a sustainable local newsroom in 2026. Trice and Holbert explain that the public has been trained to expect news for free, that reaching younger audiences now requires aggressive use of social media platforms and video content, and that live events have become an increasingly important revenue stream for papers like theirs. Trice and Holbert observe that small businesses are still reaching out about advertising — proof that print journalism continues to have a market — and close with a fascinating observation about how coastal Southern cities like Mobile tend to be less polarized than the rest of the South, with a genuine sense of community that gets lost in the national conversation about red-state politics. Finally, Chuck presents his ToddCast Top 5 gubernatorial one-party droughts that are most likely to end in 2026, and answers listeners’ questions in the “Ask Chuck” segment. Try ShipStation free for 60 days with full access to all features, No credit card needed! Go to https://ShipStation.com and use code TODDCAST for 60 days for free! Thank you Wildgrain for sponsoring. Visit http://wildgrain.com/TODDCAST and use the code "TODDCAST" at checkout to receive $30 off your first box PLUS free Croissants for life! Link in bio or go to https://getsoul.com & enter code TODDCAST for 30% off your first order. Timeline: (Timestamps may vary based on advertisements) 00:00 Chuck Todd’s introduction 01:15 Indiana primaries show that Trump still has juice with his party 02:15 $13 million was spent to influence around 100k voters 04:15 Trump has created new urgency to redistrict in the south 05:30 Being on the wrong side of Trump will end your career in the GOP 06:15 Thomas Massie’s primary will be telling about Trump’s strength 08:15 Trump has postponed the perception that he’s a lame duck in his party 09:15 Iran is not going to get better for Trump, and the polling is brutal 11:30 Indiana showed that Trump hasn’t lost his fastball with the GOP 12:30 Ohio is setting up to look like a swing state in 2026 14:30 Vivek Ramaswamy is polarizing and has said some politically dumb things 16:30 Amy Acton is highly regarded for her leadership during Covid 18:30 It’s possible that Iowa and Ohio move back toward battleground status 19:00 Chuck participated in a political crisis simulation 21:15 Premise of simulation was January 6th wasn’t an anomaly 21:45 Three teams: Institutionalists, Nationalists and Capitalists 23:00 Entire simulation revolved around who could get capitalists on their side 24:30 Capitalists want enrichment & instability 25:15 In the simulation, congress barely existed, had no impact 26:15 Stress tests begin with the assumption congress is ineffective 26:45 Congress is supposed to be the strongest branch, but is now weakest 28:15 America doesn’t have a polarization problem, we have a congress problem 29:30 Weak legislatures create strong executives 30:45 We’ve suffered from a failure of imagination in the Trump era 31:30 Trump filled the vacuum that was created by a broken congress 33:30 The gerrymandering wars will make congress even less functional 34:00 At least 8 states will remap between now and 2028 36:00 Congress will be nothing but partisanship after all the gerrymandering 37:30 Don’t just assume that Democrats will pass a gerrymandering ban 39:00 Democracy feels vulnerable because congress doesn’t work 45:00 Ashley Trice & Rob Holbert (Lagniappe) join the Chuck ToddCast 46:30 Origin story of Lagniappe 48:45 The paper started off free, now is a subscription model behind paywall 50:30 Most papers wait to print unless they know it won’t cost them money 52:00 There’s a shortage of printers available for publications 54:15 Striving to be Alabama’s best investigative newspaper 56:15 Governor’s race between Tuberville & Jones will be close 58:00 Kay Ivey has been a very inactive governor 59:30 When did local governments understand you were going to cover them? 1:03:00 There’s a big political divide in Alabama, and Mobile feels left out 1:04:00 Is youth & high school sports an audience builder? 1:05:00 Scandals in the rich part of town & animal stories really grow audience 1:06:00 Nexstar & Tegna merger will gut more local newsrooms 1:07:45 People have been trained that they don’t have to pay for news 1:08:15 Have to use social media platforms & video to reach younger audience 1:10:00 What do you do in the live event space and are those money makers? 1:12:30 It takes more reporters for coverage that creates dedicated subscribers 1:14:30 Airbus & shipbuilding have been big economic growth drivers in Mobile 1:16:00 The “commuter schools” have really grown in recent years in Alabama 1:18:30 Are there formalized local news networks regionally that could help you? 1:20:00 No time to create networks, in a constant state of “news triage” 1:20:30 Small businesses still reach out about advertising 1:22:30 Print journalism still has a market 1:25:00 Coastal southern cities tend to be less polarized 1:25:45 There’s a real sense of community in southern coastal cities 1:27:00 Where can people find your work? 1:28:00 Alternative weekly’s have been able to become local papers of note 1:29:15 ToddCast Top 5 gubernatorial droughts likely to end in 2026 1:33:15 #5 Texas 1:36:15 #4 Alabama 1:39:45 #3 Georgia 1:42:15 #2 Ohio 1:46:30 #1 Iowa 1:47:15 Ask Chuck 1:47:30 With the national debt 100% of GDP, what are the risks if this continues? 1:56:00 Could a SCOTUS confirmation fight improve GOP chances in midterms? 2:01:15 Can the WHCD assailant plead insanity via Trump Derangement Syndrome? 2:04:45 Impact if Texas moved to closed primaries? 2:07:15 Is there any appetite in congress for uncapping the house?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should Election Day Be a Federal Holiday? (My Live May 5 Ohio Primary Ballot Walkthrough)

Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2026 27:28

Host Radell Lewis takes you inside the May 5, 2026 Ohio primary election in this bonus episode of Purple Political Breakdown. Recorded in real time on primary day, this walkthrough covers everything from why Election Day should be a federal holiday to a live look at the Ohio sample ballot, the voter lookup process on the Ohio Secretary of State website, and the absentee ballot system most voters never use. Radell breaks down his ballot picks across the biggest 2026 Ohio primary races, including Amy Acton for governor, the Attorney General race between John Kulowicz and Elliot Foran, Annette Blackwell for State Auditor, the Secretary of State Democratic primary featuring Allison Russo and past PPB guest Dr. Bryan Hambley, Sherrod Brown for U.S. Senate, and a fresh on-air research dive into Ohio's 8th Congressional District race between Vanessa Enoch and Madaris Grant, including Enoch's healthcare platform on capping out of pocket costs, Medicare and Medicaid drug price negotiation, and preventative care funding. Along the way, Radell makes the case for expanded voter access: an Election Day federal holiday, all day voting windows, election weekends, paid poll workers, mail-in voting, and online voting infrastructure. He also calls out Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Ohio's gerrymandered 2026 maps, and the SAVE Act's voter ID misdirection. Keywords: Ohio primary election 2026, May 5 Ohio primary, Ohio voter guide, Ohio sample ballot, Election Day federal holiday, voter suppression, Vanessa Enoch, Madaris Grant, Bryan Hambley, Allison Russo, Sherrod Brown, Amy Acton, Frank LaRose, absentee ballot, SAVE Act, Ohio 8th Congressional District, primary ballot walkthrough.Standard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKCheck Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.comALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now)Check Out the Unfuck America Tour & National Ground Game: https://www.nationalgroundgame.com/Check Out the CIVICS App to Know More About Your Politicians: https://www.civicpolitics.com ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Season 5, Episode 9: David Pepper, Mr. Cincinnati

We Love Our Team

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2026 44:23

Send us Fan MailJack Greiner and Randy Freking welcome David Pepper, a lifelong Cincinnatian and former chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party. The conversation covers David's deep-rooted passion for the Cincinnati Reds, sharing nostalgic memories and discussing favorite players like Eric Davis and Ken Griffey Jr. David also talks about his political journey, his books on gerrymandering, and his candidacy for lieutenant governor alongside Amy Acton. The episode is filled with engaging anecdotes, baseball trivia, and a shared love for Cincinnati sports.Keywords:Cincinnati RedsDavid PepperEric DavisKen Griffey Jr.Ohio Democratic PartyGerrymanderingAmy ActonBaseball nostalgiaCincinnati sportsPolitical journeyChapters:Introduction and Guest Welcome (0:00 - 0:42)Hosts introduce David Pepper and his background.Reds Fandom and Early Memories (0:42 - 2:39)David shares his early experiences as a Reds fan.Favorite Players and Baseball Stories (2:39 - 5:40)Discussion about favorite players like Eric Davis and Ken Griffey Jr.Political Career and Writing (5:40 - 14:18)David talks about his political journey and his books.Running for Lieutenant Governor (14:18 - 17:09)Insights into David's candidacy with Amy Acton.Baseball and Politics (17:09 - 22:32)The intersection of sports fandom and political life.Fun Categories and Personal Stories (22:32 - 42:54)Engaging segments like "Marty McFly" and "Mount Rushmore" of Reds players.Conclusion and Optimism for the Season (42:54 - End)Closing thoughts and excitement for the upcoming baseball season. Jack thanks the listeners

politics running writing baseball hosts cincinnati engaging conclusion optimism mount rushmore reds personal stories cincinnati reds gerrymandering lieutenant governor marty mcfly ken griffey jr eric davis david pepper ohio democratic party early memories cincinnatians amy acton cincinnati sports randy freking

Can Two Libertarians Actually Break Ohio's GOP Stranglehold in 2026?

Countdown with Keith Olbermann

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2026 85:03

Host Radell Lewis sits down with two Ohio libertarian write-in candidates ahead of the May 5, 2026 primary in a double feature episode of Purple Political Breakdown. First up, Jason Stoops, an auto mechanic from Wilmington running in OH-1, who shares how he was politically retaliated against by his local administration, why he believes cash-pay healthcare beats the insurance bureaucracy, and how the FirstEnergy scandal exposed the rot in Ohio's GOP machine. Then drunk uncle Mike Beloff joins from Galleon to talk about his OH-5 campaign against eighteen-year incumbent Bob Latta, his focus on bail reform and ending the prison industrial pipeline, and why Mike DeWine's reversal of voter-approved cannabis policy proves the duopoly ignores the people. Both candidates dig into the non-aggression principle, gerrymandering, the collapse of civics education in Ohio schools, the Epstein files vote, the Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton governor's race, and what it means to give a middle finger to the political establishment. Whether you're a disenfranchised conservative, a frustrated independent, or just an Ohio voter who wants real accountability, this is a conversation about what the third party option actually looks like in the 2026 midterms. Keywords woven throughout: Ohio midterm elections 2026, libertarian candidates, OH-1, OH-5, Bob Latta, Jason Stoops, Mike Beloff, FirstEnergy corruption, bail reform, non-aggression principle, Mike DeWine cannabis, gerrymandering, Epstein files, single-payer Medicaid, third party candidates, Purple Political Breakdown, Radell Lewis.Standard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKCheck Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.comALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now)Check Out the Unfuck America Tour & National Ground Game: https://www.nationalgroundgame.com/Check Out the CIVICS App to Know More About Your Politicians: https://www.civicpolitics.com ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

366: Too Much Winning In 2026 with Dr. Amy Acton, David Pepper, & Bobby Pulido

2020 Politics War Room

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2026 99:15

James and Al discuss the redrawing of Congressional districts in Virginia in the wider context of the gerrymandering battle being waged for the House and share lesser-known issues plaguing our democracy. Then they are joined by Ohio's gubernatorial and lieutenant gubernatorial candidates, Amy Acton and David Pepper, and they dive into healthcare, corruption, and the need for political change. They also welcome Tejano star-turned-TX-15 candidate Bobby Pulido to game out how to win in Texas, bring back conservative-minded Latino voters, and craft a strong economic message, capped off with a short musical performance.Email your questions to James and Al at politicswarroom@gmail.com or tweet them to @politicon. Make sure to include your city– we love to hear where you're from! More from James and Al:Get text updates from Politics War Room and Politicon.Watch Politics War Room & James Carville Explains on YouTube.James Carville & Al Hunt have launched the Politics War Room SubstackGet updates and some great behind-the-scenes content from the documentary CARVILLE: WINNING IS EVERYTHING, STUPID by following James on X @jamescarville and his new TikTok @realjamescarvilleGet More From This Week's Guests: Dr. Amy Acton: Twitter | Acton For Governor | Instagram | FacebookDavid Pepper: Twitter | Acton For Governor | Website | Author Bobby Pulido: Campaign Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Please Support Our Sponsors:Miracle Made:Upgrade your sleep with Miracle Made! Go to TryMiracle.com/warroom and use the code WARROOM to claim your FREE 3-PIECE TOWEL SET and SAVE over 40% OFF.Boxie:For a limited time, get 30% off your order when you head to Boxiecat.com/WARROOM and use code WARROOMShopify:Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial today at shopify.com/warroomDeleteMe:Get 20% off your DeleteMe plan when you go to joindeleteme.com/warroom and usepromo code WARROOM at checkout.

texas house ohio winning tx latino congressional war room james carville pulido tejano david pepper politicon miracle made amy acton al hunt

EMPEROR TRUMP HAS NO CLOTHES - AND NO CLUE ON IRAN - 4.20.26

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 54:14 Transcription Available

SEASON 4 EPISODE 80: COUNTDOWN WITH KEITH OLBERMANN A-Block (3:00) SPECIAL COMMENT: Nobody is at the wheel of Trump's war in Iran. Is the Strait of Hormuz open or is it closed? Are there peace talks with Iran in Pakistan TOMORROW… or nah? Is Jayvee Vance going? Is Iran going? Has Trump scheduled peace talks where we’re the only ones there? Will it make any difference if we’re the only ones there? Doesn’t “blowing a hole in the engine room” of an Iranian cargo ship yesterday mean we aren’t honoring Trump’s own ceasefire he boasted about? Are we paying 20 billion dollars for the Iranian uranium and hostages? The same uranium and hostages Obama bought for 400 million and Trump called him a traitor? Or is that a no? Don’t ask Trump – he doesn’t know. But that won’t stop him from answering anyway. Yes. Then Nope. Then Yes again. Then: All of the Above. in 48 hours he went from 13 posts congratulating himself on winning, to insisting he would stop being “Mr. Nice Guy” and blow up all of Iran. By the way, eactly when was he “Mr. Nice Guy”? We are LOSING the war in Iran and as of today a total idiot is still president and commander-in-chief. He gets questions about the pointless war he started to divert attention from Epstein and the economy he crashed, so he orders the reporters out of the Oval Office, and sits there with hapless munchkin Little Joe Rogan standing behind him, the shine off his cueball noggin blinding cameras and journalists alike. Trump has set off a chain of events over which he no longer has any control – except to withdraw and flee – and to withdraw and flee is to acknowledge he screwed up. And this man would jump off the roof of the White House before admitting he screwed up. The Trump “Administration” has so UTTERLY jumped the shark, that the truthers are coming out from inside MAGA: Alex Jones now insists Trump has done all this DELIBERATELY, because he has made a “deal with the deep state to throw the election to the Democrats." Marjorie Taylor Greene has joined the Trump Assassination Truthers and Trump himself has floated a kind of conspiracy theory ABOUT himself… he wrote ‘Praise Be To Allah’ on Easter morning to “seem as unstable and insulting as possible.” He wanted to seem as unstable as possible? MISSION ACCOMPLISHED, Trump! You’ve finally done something you promised! B-Block (28:30) THE WORST PERSONS IN THE WORLD: Before the year is out, Major League Baseball will threaten to lock the players out and cancel the season in 2027 because the smaller market teams can't make enough money to compete. One of those teams just sold for $3.1 billion more than it did in 2012. New York's hockey teams support a) Trump putting his name on public buildings or b) legal funds for cops convicted of killing unarmed civilians. Vivek Ramaswamy dismisses his opponent talking about being raped as a child as her "complaining." And Lauren Boebert thinks Congress is too horny and she won't remain, uh, hands off. C-Block (45:00) THINGS I PROMISED NOT TO TELL: Netflix stock took a huge hit, supposedly after the co-founder Reed Hastings announced he was bowing out. But I think it might've been another announcement that did it. They are going into news podcasts with - Brian Williams? The story of how he imploded at NBC, while I was literally an eyewitness to his public self-destruction, and the advice I gave his bosses that could have saved him (and them) if they hadn't ignored it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

new york netflix donald trump sports politics olympic games news elections losing barack obama white house congress iran mlb nbc atlantic iraq democrats joe rogan countdown butler epstein january 6th iranians clothes san diego padres administration maga major league baseball msnbc patel alex jones nice guys bunker jd vance oval office new york islanders strait hormuz ceasefire marjorie taylor greene pete hegseth george carlin new york rangers lockout larry david mtg commander in chief dolan ballroom dick cheney vivek ramaswamy deliberately stephen miller mission accomplished ramaswamy brian williams swalwell reed hastings no clue boebert keith olbermann denis leary political commentary kenny mayne small market has trump jonathan banks ohio governor pulte stevie van zandt tony kornheiser olbermann in sports b block amy acton c block nancy faust special comment emperor trump

Ohio Republicans - A Legacy of Denial, Tokenism, and Faith-Washing

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2026 35:12 Transcription Available

Before Ohio holds its primary, the presumptuous GOP candidate for Governor Vivek Ramaswamy is running a negative ad against the presumptive Democrat candidate Dr. Amy Acton. Ramaswamy's ad attempts to gaslight voters about Acton's role as the Director of the Ohio Department of Health at the start of the COVID pandemic in 2020. The ad falsely claims Acton acted outside her authority to postpone the March 2020 primary election. Ohio Republicans have been wanting voters to forget the truth of their inaction during the pandemic and undermining the state's response for political reasons since 2020.We look at Ohio Representative Josh Williams who is the only black Republican in the Ohio House and he is running for Congress in Ohio's 9th District. He claims DEI and affirmative action keep the Black community stuck in poverty and he vocally supports anti-abortion stances, often echoing sentiments that appeal to a predominantly white anti-abortionist base like repeating the false and harmful narrative of abortion as a form of genocide within the Black community. Williams should be the last person holding negative views about policies and programs that give a hand up out of poverty since he himself needed and used that help when he was bed ridden for six years and had no high school diploma yet is now a lawyer and teaches law at a local college while serving as a state representative.Finally we look at the fight between President Trump and the Pope. It is particularly striking that figures like Trump and JD Vance, especially Vance's recent conversion to Catholicism, feel emboldened to critique religious authorities, including the Pope, on theological grounds that contradict their own political alignments. This speaks to a broader trend of politicization of religion where moral authority is wielded selectively. We see that politicization in every level of government from the local to the federal. It is a trend that needs to be stopped.Full Show Notes & Links UsedSend us Fan MailSupport the showSubscribe to our free newsletterCheck out our MerchFollow us on BlueskyFind us on Twitter(for now) Find us on InstagramFind us on Counter SocialFind us on Mastadon

LaRose vs. Blackwell: Who Should Actually Be Ohio's 2026 Auditor? Plus Nazi Salutes, Trump Wildlife Areas, and a DraftKings Super PAC

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2026 21:38

Host Radell Lewis breaks down Ohio's 2026 State Auditor race between Republican Frank LaRose, Democrat Annette Blackwell, and Libertarian write-in Aidan Jeffery, then runs through a wild week of Ohio political news on Purple Political Breakdown. This episode covers why the Auditor's office matters (hint: it's the only statewide office with the power to catch public officials misusing your tax dollars), how current Auditor Keith Faber's run for Attorney General is part of what reporters are calling a "musical chairs" pattern among term-limited Ohio Republicans, and whether LaRose's Secretary of State record (including the 2023 Issue 1 reversal, a Hatch Act complaint, and 1,200 alleged voter fraud cases referred to the DOJ in late 2025) matches the job description of Ohio's chief accountability officer. On the other side of the aisle, Maple Heights Mayor Annette Blackwell pitches 16 years of accounting experience and a documented fiscal turnaround that won the Auditor's own Clean Audit Award three years running. In the news roundup: Ohio quietly adds "Trump Wildlife Area" as an official name through administrative rule, podcaster Myron Gaines performs a Sieg Heil salute on the steps of Ohio University's Memorial Auditorium in the first real test of Senate Bill 1, Columbus restaurant La Chatelaine cancels a Casey Putsch fundraiser over his comments about Hitler and Nazis, Governor Mike DeWine honors his late father's role liberating Dachau, a 2019 Bexley police report resurfaces on Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton, Signal Ohio reporter Jake Zuckerman exposes Ohio nursing homes dumping medically fragile patients at homeless shelters, and a DraftKings-linked super PAC places over $1.1 million in ads backing Ohio Republican legislative primary candidates. Nonpartisan political analysis. Solutions-focused. No corporate spin. Keywords: Ohio auditor 2026, Frank LaRose, Annette Blackwell, Ohio primary May 5 2026, Amy Acton police report, Vivek Ramaswamy, Casey Putsch, Myron Gaines Ohio University, Trump Wildlife Area, DraftKings super PAC Ohio, Ohio nursing homes, Mike DeWine, Ohio 2026 election, Purple Political Breakdown, Radell Lewis.Standard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKCheck Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.comALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now)Check Out the Unfuck America Tour & National Ground Game: https://www.nationalgroundgame.com/ ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

american black ai donald trump state americans ohio political nazis discord adolf hitler columbus secretary democratic pac areas wildlife checkout attorney generals doj libertarians informed draftkings blackwell senate bills ohio university vivek ramaswamy auditor podcast websites dachau larose super pacs mike dewine salutes state auditor hatch act nonpartisan ohio republicans frank larose voting reform myron gaines sieg heil amy acton memorial auditorium

Jack Windsor -- 4/17/26

Brian Thomas

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 17:16 Transcription Available

Jack Windsor of of The Ohio Press Network talks on the news of Amy Acton plus Ohio threatening to legislate betting markets such as Kalshi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ohio windsor kalshi amy acton

Is Amy Acton capable of being Ohio's Governor?

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 9:33 Transcription Available

Mike and Campy debate whether or not Amy Acton can handle the stress of running the Buckeye State.

ohio governor capable campy buckeye state amy acton

In politics...your private life is no longer private

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 8:49 Transcription Available

GOP Strategist Bob Clegg reacts to the story involving Amy Acton and the domestic disturbance from 2019

politics longer private life amy acton

Should a private matter be made public when running for office?

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2026 5:50 Transcription Available

Mike and Campy discuss an incident involving Dr. Amy Acton and her husband from 2019. Is this the information that people need to know when voting for a public official?

public private running for office campy amy acton

Can 8 Democrats Take Down Max Miller in Ohio's 7th District?

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2026 17:48

Can eight Democrats really unseat Trump-backed Congressman Max Miller in Ohio's 7th Congressional District? On this episode of Purple Political Breakdown, host Radell Lewis dives deep into one of the most crowded and competitive congressional primaries in the 2026 midterms. From former FBI agent Ed FitzGerald's political comeback to union ironworker Brian Poindexter's surge of labor endorsements, Radell breaks down every candidate, follows the money, and gives his honest assessment of who actually has a shot.But that's not all. Vivek Ramaswamy's Ohio governor campaign just took another self-inflicted hit after proposing to close public universities during March Madness. The Cook Political Report downgraded his chances. Meanwhile, Dr. Amy Acton rolled out her affordability agenda on the Democratic side. Radell covers the contrast.Plus: the FirstEnergy bribery trial ended in a mistrial after eight weeks, a retrial is set for September, and former House Speaker Larry Householder's own lawyer is now testifying against him. Ohio's early voting period is open, the May 5 primary is approaching fast, and a push to ban mobile sports betting is gaining traction at the Statehouse.This is Ohio politics at its most chaotic, and Radell is here to make sense of it all.Topics covered: Ohio 7th Congressional District 2026, Max Miller, Ed FitzGerald, Brian Poindexter, Ann Marie Donegan, Laura Rodriguez-Carbone, DCCC target districts, Ohio 2026 midterm elections, Ohio primary May 5, Vivek Ramaswamy governor race, Dr. Amy Acton, FirstEnergy bribery trial mistrial, Larry Householder, Ohio early voting, Ohio redistricting 2026, Ohio sports betting banNew episodes every Saturday at 8 AM EST.Standard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKCheck Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.comALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Brian's chat with Jack Windsor 4/10/2026

Brian Thomas

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 14:57 Transcription Available

Brian is joined by Jack Windsor from the Ohio Press Network about the latest news and issues in Ohio politics. Jack shares his insights on the state's voter ID laws, pointing out a loophole that allows voters to submit absentee ballots without showing a photo ID. He also discusses the upcoming gubernatorial election, where Amy Acton is running against Vivek Ramaswamy. Jack weighs in on the controversy surrounding Acton's hiring of a high-profile law firm to defend against allegations of fake tweets. The conversation also touches on a bizarre bill proposed by a Democrat lawmaker that aims to protect children from indecent performances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ohio democrats id windsor vivek ramaswamy acton amy acton

Experts answer Ohio primary questions and how the SAVE Act may impact voting access

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 52:33

Early voting for the May primary and the SAVE Act The Ohio Primary will be decided May 5 when voters choose the party candidates for a number of races including Ohio governor where Vivek Ramaswamy is the leader on the Republican ticket and Amy Acton is running unopposed on the Democratic ticket, while Don Kissick is running on the Libertarian ticket. Other statewide offices as well as federal, statehouse and judicial races are on the ballot. And voters in some areas will also decide school and other issues. The voter registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Early voting, both in-person and by mail, begins on April 7. And now is the time for voters to check on their registration and decide how they plan to vote. Ohio Secretary of State web siteDirectory of Ohio county boards of electionsEarly voting calendar and hours During this primary cycle, there is also talk in Washington of hardening voter registration and voting rules, including adding a proof of citizenship requirement. The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act or SAVE Act is being discussed in the U.S. Senate. It's already passed the U.S. House. While we don't know if that legislation will pass or if lawmakers will hammer out changes to it, the media coverage may have confused some voters for this primary. On Wednesday's "Sound of Ideas," we will talk about registering and voting in the May primary and how the SAVE Act could impact access to voting if it passed. Guests:- Jen Miller, Executive Director, League of Women Voters of Ohio- Aaron Ockerman, Executive Director, Ohio Association of Election Officials

house washington state sound executive director ohio ideas league republicans senate voting democratic primary libertarians vivek ramaswamy women voters election officials ohio secretary ohio association amy acton

Why Does the Ohio Attorney General Race Matter? | Plus Mail Voting, Abortion, Hemp, SNAP Cuts, and Statehouse Chaos

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2026 39:14

What is going on in Ohio? In this episode of Purple Political Breakdown, host Radell Lewis breaks down the biggest stories coming out of the Ohio Statehouse heading into the 2026 midterm elections. President Trump is calling for an end to no-excuse mail-in voting nationwide, and Ohio officials from both parties are responding. The Ohio House is advancing new abortion restrictions under House Bill 347, testing the limits of the 2023 constitutional amendment that 57 percent of voters approved. Ohio's hemp and THC ban under Senate Bill 56 is now in effect after the referendum effort by Ohioans for Cannabis Choice fell short on signatures. The state is also facing potential SNAP cuts that could triple program costs if Ohio can't lower its federal error rate.Radell also dives deep into the 2026 Ohio Attorney General race, one of the most overlooked but consequential races on the ballot. With Dave Yost term-limited, Republican Keith Faber, Democrat John Kulewicz, and Democrat Elliot Forhan are all competing for the office. Radell explains what the Attorney General actually does, breaks down each candidate's platform, and covers the controversy surrounding Forhan's viral TikTok video and his history of disciplinary action in the Ohio House.Plus, rapid fire updates on the Ohio governor's race between Vivek Ramaswamy and Dr. Amy Acton, the ranked choice voting ban, Ohio's skyrocketing gas bills, the FirstEnergy bribery trial, AEP's push for nuclear power, a rejected $98 million solar farm, the drag show ban, vaccination opt-out legislation, and the property tax abolition movement.Ohio's May 5 primary is approaching fast. Stay informed with nonpartisan analysis that cuts through the noise.Purple Political Breakdown: Political Solutions Without Political Bias.Listen on Spotify: [link]Listen on Apple Podcasts: [link]#Ohio2026 #OhioMidterms #OhioPolitics #MailInVoting #OhioAbortion #HempBan #OhioAttorneyGeneral #KeithFaber #ElliotForhan #JohnKulewicz #SNAP #FoodStamps #Ramaswamy #AmyActon #RankedChoiceVoting #FirstEnergy #OhioStatehouse #PurplePoliticalBreakdown #NonpartisanPodcast #VotingRights #OhioElections #PoliticalPodcast #2026Midterms #OhioNewsStandard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKCheck Out the Podcast Website: www.purplepoliticalbreakdown.comALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

Does the SAVE Act have any hope of passing?

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 9:00 Transcription Available

GOP Strategist says...NO. Bob also relives the anniversary of Covid and why after so much was made of this, that Amy Acton is now running for governor

covid-19 passing amy acton

3-16-26 Bloomdaddy Show

WTAM 1100 Podcasts

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 115:51

Bloomdady talks to Mary Springowski about a local issue that has residents up in arms. Jim Renacci joins to talk recent polls and Amy Acton. Up to date reporting from ABC News with Don Mihalek and Alex Stone. PLUS Mark Klaus joins and the return of Ask Bloomdaddy.

abc news alex stone jim renacci amy acton

Fake Wars, Fake Claims: The GOP's November Panic Is Showing

Good Mornings Podcast Edition

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2026 50:45 Transcription Available

We dissect the Trump administration's claims that the U.S. has been at war with Iran since 1979. Contrary to the administration's narrative, that the real issues at play are deeper than mere historical grievances, extending to vital distractions from pressing domestic challenges, including the skyrocketing grocery prices, disappointing job numbers and the Trump-Epstein files. We explore how President Trump seems to be creating chaos as a diversion, notably with military actions that bolster his standing among certain GOP factions as they gear up for the imminent midterm elections.Transitioning from foreign to domestic matters, we scrutinize Trump's SAVE Act and the political landscape leading up to the midterm elections. The legislation poses significant changes to voting regulations, such as instituting stringent photo ID requirements while limiting mail-in voting. The act is an attempt at disenfranchisement, targeting marginalized communities and exacerbating the looming threat to democracy in hopes of securing a GOP majority in Congress.Finally we look at the upcoming Ohio gubernatorial race, framing it within the context of the national landscape. Dr. Amy Acton is being targeted as an emerging key figure in the gubernatorial narrative. The GOP's main attack line is her tenure as Ohio Health Director during the pandemic, where mischaracterizations of her leadership have emerged as the Republicans attempt to paint her in a negative light. We look at the baseless claims against her, noting how her ethical decisions during the pandemic's peak, such as refusing to yield to political pressure, not only saved lives but also set a standard for leadership that starkly contrasts with her critics.Full Show Notes & Links UsedSend a textSupport the showSubscribe to our free newsletterCheck out our MerchFollow us on BlueskyFind us on Twitter(for now) Find us on InstagramFind us on Counter SocialFind us on Mastadon

donald trump ohio fake congress iran republicans wars id panic transitioning claims gop misinformation contrary grocery prices mastadon amy acton voter disenfranchisement

S24 E157: A New Perspective on the Affordability Crisis

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 60:21

Flipping the narrative on the so-called 'Affordability Crisis'... We're likely to hear it during and after the President's State of the Union, but the real problem may not be what you think (at 15:19) --- Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton aren't the only choices for Ohio voters... Libertarians believe they can make noise in the race for Governor this year (at 25:04) --- What's Happening: Cabin fever is a real thing, and getting outdoors is the way to fight it... Details on March programs and activities from the Hancock Park District (at 50:10)

president crisis ohio governor state of the union flipping libertarians new perspectives affordability vivek ramaswamy amy acton

Leading Ohio governor candidates discuss health care, affordability ahead of May primary

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 50:16

Last November, there were a number of historic wins across the country in the general election, including two women elected governors in New Jersey and Virginia bringing the total of women leading states in the U.S. at the same time to 14, a record high. Other historic wins included the first Muslim woman elected to statewide office in the U.S. in Virginia, the first Muslim elected mayor in New York City, and the first woman elected mayor of Detroit. All of those were wins for the Democratic party. This year, Ohio has the chance to make history with the two major candidates running for Ohio governor from both parties. On the Republican side, the leading candidate who has already been endorsed by the Ohio Republican party and President Donald Trump, is entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, Vivek Ramaswamy. He would be the first governor of Indian descent and Hindu faith in Ohio if elected. On the Democratic side, the only candidate on the primary ballot is Dr. Amy Acton, a physician who served as the former state health director. She would be the first woman elected governor and person of Jewish faith in Ohio if she won. Late last year, we had conversations with both candidates, and we thought as the primary approaches, we would reshare those conversations on Tuesday's "Sound of Ideas." Military and overseas absentee voting begins on March 20, with early in person voting starting April 7. Guests: - Dr. Amy Acton, M.D., Democratic candidate for Ohio governor - Vivek Ramaswamy, Republican candidate for Ohio governor

Vivek Ramaswamy vs. Dr. Amy Acton: Breaking Down Ohio's 2026 Governor Race on Every Issue That Matters

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2026 73:30

Radell Lewis kicks off the Purple Political Breakdown's weekly Ohio midterm election series by diving deep into the 2026 Ohio governor race between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Dr. Amy Acton. With Governor Mike DeWine term-limited, this open seat race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in Ohio history and Radell breaks down exactly why.In this episode, Radell covers both candidates' backgrounds, character, and policy positions on the issues Ohioans care about most: cost of living, tax cuts, energy costs, job growth, education and the controversial EdChoice voucher program, healthcare and reproductive rights, public safety and crime, corruption and government reform, workers and labor rights, and elder care. He also shares his honest, unfiltered analysis on each issue from deregulation and data centers to why "tax cuts" might be a red herring.Plus, Radell covers critical Ohio news you need to know: the First Energy HB6 corruption trial, the threat facing Springfield's Haitian community under TPS termination, and what to watch as the 2026 primaries approach.Whether you're an Ohio voter looking to get informed or a political junkie following state-level races, this episode gives you the breakdown without the bias.New episodes every Saturday at 8 AM EST. Rate, share, and reach out at TheTrendGoldenFaith@gmail.com.#OhioPolitics #OhioGovernorRace2026 #VivekRamaswamy #AmyActon #OhioMidterms #EdChoice #FirstEnergyScandal #PurplePoliticalBreakdown #OhioElections #NonpartisanPolitics #SpringfieldOhio #MedicaidCuts #OhioVoters #DOGE #TrumpEndorsementStandard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

american black ai americans race ohio political discord governor breaking down springfield haitian informed vivek ramaswamy tps ohioans edchoice voting reform amy acton radell

Ohio 2026 Midterms: Complete Voter Guide to Governor, Senate & All Races | Purple Political Breakdown

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 14:14

Purple Political Breakdown with host Radell Lewis delivers your comprehensive guide to the 2026 Ohio midterm elections. This episode breaks down every position that mattersfrom the high-stakes Ohio governor race between Dr. Amy Acton and Vivek Ramaswamy to the crucial Ohio Senate seat featuring Sherrod Brown vs Jon Husted.Radell covers the key Ohio House races in the 1st and 9th congressional districts, plus the often-overlooked positions that directly impact your life: Ohio Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, Treasurer, and two Ohio Supreme Court seats. He also exposes a suspicious pattern in Republican strategywhy are so many incumbents switching positions instead of running for re-election?Whether you're in Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, or anywhere across the Buckeye State, this is your essential Ohio voter guide for 2026. These midterms will determine how Ohio responds to the Trump administration over the next three yearsmake your vote count.New episodes weekly. Subscribe and share with every Ohio voter you know. Contact: thetrendgoldenfaith@gmail.com#OhioElections2026 #OhioMidterms #OhioPolitics #VivekRamaswamy #AmyActon #SherrodBrown #OhioVoterGuide #PurplePoliticalBreakdownStandard Resource Links & RecommendationsThe following organizations and platforms represent valuable resources for balanced political discourse and democratic participation: PODCAST NETWORKALIVE Podcast Network - Check out the ALIVE Network where you can catch a lot of great podcasts like my own, led by amazing Black voices. Link: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/ CONVERSATION PLATFORMSHeadOn - A platform for contentious yet productive conversations. It's a place for hosted and unguided conversations where you can grow a following and enhance your conversations with AI features. Link: https://app.headon.ai/Living Room Conversations - Building bridges through meaningful dialogue across political divides. Link: https://livingroomconversations.org/ UNITY MOVEMENTSUs United - A movement for unity that challenges Americans to step out of their bubbles and connect across differences. Take the Unity Pledge, join monthly "30 For US" conversation calls, wear purple (the color of unity), and participate in National Unity Day every second Saturday in December. Their programs include the Sheriff Unity Network and Unity Seats at sports events, proving that shared values are stronger than our differences. Link: https://www.us-united.org/ BALANCED NEWS & INFORMATIONOtherWeb - An AI-based platform that filters news without paywalls, clickbait, or junk, helping you access diverse, unbiased content. Link: https://otherweb.com/ VOTING REFORM & DEMOCRACYEqual Vote Coalition & STAR Voting - Advocating for voting methods that ensure every vote counts equally, eliminating wasted votes and strategic voting. Link: https://www.equal.vote/starFuture is Now Coalition (FiNC) - A grassroots movement working to restore democracy through transparency, accountability, and innovative technology while empowering citizens and transforming American political discourse. Link: https://futureis.org/ POLITICAL ENGAGEMENTIndependent Center - Resources for independent political thinking and civic engagement. Link: https://www.independentcenter.org/ GET DAILY NEWSText 844-406-INFO (844-406-4636) with code "purple" to receive quick, unbiased, factual news delivered to your phone every morning via Informed (https://informed.now) ALL LINKShttps://linktr.ee/purplepoliticalbreakdownThe Purple Political Breakdown is committed to fostering productive political dialogue that transcends partisan divides. We believe in the power of conversation, balanced information, and democratic participation to build a stronger society. Our mission: "Political solutions without political bias."Subscribe, rate, and share if you believe in purple politics - where we find common ground in the middle! Also if you want to be apart of the community and the conversation make sure to Join the Discord: https://discord.gg/ptPAsZtHC9

How Many ICE Goons Beating On You Counts As Having Complied With Law Enforcement?

The Ohio Statehouse Scoop

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 53:29 Transcription Available

In this episode, we start by looking at the political landscape in Ohio as we approach the 2026 gubernatorial election. With Mike DeWine term-limited, the race is heating up between Democrat Amy Acton and the wealthy tech entrepreneur, Vivek Ramaswamy. Ramaswamy, who boasts credentials as a Yale graduate and a venture capitalist in the biotech sector, finds himself showing his lack of understanding of pressing local issues, particularly the closure of coal plants in Ohio which has greatly impacted the energy landscape.His assertions that he would simply ramp up coal production without acknowledging the broader regulatory and economic context reveal a fundamental misunderstanding of energy economics. Ramaswamy's campaign is characterized by flashy rallies where he promotes himself as an anti-woke candidate, yet his connections to conservative elites like J.D. Vance and Elon Musk raise questions about his grassroots appeal.Next we look at the recent government intimidation of journalists trying to cover the growing fascist regimes' illegitimate actions in Minnesota and elsewhere. We point out that journalists were arrested for covering a protest at a church while just two months prior a Republican religious extremist interrupted a church service in Texas and was never arrested or charged. We also talk about the FACE Act, that is used to protect access to abortion clinics and how churches were added to the law to appease Christian Nationalists in Congress.Finally we discuss the troubling trend of ICE-related violence. The recent murder of Alex Pretti while he tried to intervene during a confrontation with ICE agents adds a chilling layer to the narrative. We need to consider the wider implications of policing practices and to critically engage with the language and narratives used by advocates of increased law enforcement. The escalating violence tied to ICE's actions raises a critical question: how much violence must occur before we start questioning the legitimacy of these federal agents' operations?Full show notes & links usedSend us a textSupport the showSubscribe to our free newsletterCheck out our MerchFollow us on BlueskyFind us on Twitter(for now) Find us on InstagramFind us on Counter SocialFind us on Mastadon

texas ohio elon musk minnesota congress republicans ice journalism yale beating law enforcement counts coal vivek ramaswamy ramaswamy goons 1st amendment mastadon face act complied amy acton

Dr. Amy Acton and David Pepper Discuss Defeating GOP in Ohio Gov Race

The MeidasTouch Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 21:44

MeidasTouch host Ben Meiselas reports on how Donald Trump's terrible performance in office has led to Ohio quickly turning against him and Meiselas speaks with Democratic Governor candidate Dr. Amy Acton and her running mate David Pepper. Visit https://meidasplus.com for more! Remember to subscribe to ALL the MeidasTouch Network Podcasts: MeidasTouch: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/meidastouch-podcast⁠ Legal AF: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/legal-af⁠ MissTrial: ⁠https://meidasnews.com/tag/miss-trial⁠ The PoliticsGirl Podcast: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-politicsgirl-podcast⁠ Cult Conversations: The Influence Continuum with Dr. Steve Hassan: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-influence-continuum-with-dr-steven-hassan⁠ Mea Culpa with Michael Cohen: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/mea-culpa-with-michael-cohen⁠ The Weekend Show: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/the-weekend-show⁠ Burn the Boats: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/burn-the-boats⁠ Majority 54: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/majority-54⁠ Political Beatdown: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/political-beatdown⁠ On Democracy with FP Wellman: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/on-democracy-with-fpwellman⁠ Uncovered: ⁠https://www.meidastouch.com/tag/maga-uncovered⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

donald trump race ohio boats burn majority defeating uncovered michael cohen mea culpa weekend show democratic governor david pepper meidastouch amy acton on democracy legal af

Ohio's major candidates for governor celebrate the new year by naming their running mates

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 24:27

Happy 2026! The Ohio Statehouse Scoop is back after a holiday hiatus. Ohio's Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and Democratic candidate Dr. Amy Acton named their choices for lieutenant governor last week. Ohio Statehouse Scoop Host Jo Ingles reports on why GOP Senate President Rob McColley and former Ohio Democratic Party Chair David Pepper were chosen to be on the ticket. Later, Ohio Public Media Statehouse News Bureau Chief Karen Kasler and Reporter Sarah Donaldson discuss the dynamics behind those decisions. We will also have the scoop on what Ohio will be doing this year to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday, and you'll hear a little bit of the song written and performed by 90-year-old retired teacher, Sylvia Miller, to celebrate the kickoff.

new year running ohio celebrate republicans governor democratic candidates naming mates vivek ramaswamy amy acton

2026 Ohio governor's race snaps into focus | Reporters Roundtable

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2026 49:42

It's a midterm election year and the Ohio governor's seat is up for grabs as there is no incumbent. The presumptive nominees for the two major parties finalized their tickets this week. Presumptive Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy, the businessman and former presidential candidate and Department of Government Efficiency partner, selected Senate President Rob McColley of Northwest Ohio as his running mate. Dr. Amy Acton chose the former leader of the Ohio Democratic Party -- and an active fly in the Republican ointment on social media, David Pepper. Get ready for the Doctor....Pepper campaign. State and local health experts urge us to get a flu shot, even though the shot doesn't seem to be matched up well with the current strain of virus. Flu cases are on the rise statewide and in Northeast Ohio, flu-related hospitalizations doubled this week, according to an Ideastream report. Year-over-year cases are higher as well and we are still several weeks away from peak flu season. And we've got measles to worry about, too. Three kids in Cuyahoga County have them. The East Cleveland City School District is riding high after being released last month from state oversight, which had been in place for more than seven years. Gov. Mike DeWine spent much of the week refuting what he called disinformation spread on social media alleging fraud in the state's day care system. The online videos specifically target day cares run by Somali immigrants. Ohio has the second largest population of Somalis in the nation. Police in Akron bring their own long guns to work, but Akron's mayor says they should use only department-issued weapons. He inserted that new rule in the capital budget he submitted to city council this week. The issue of personal long guns has become a concern for community members after 15-year-old Jazmir Tucker was shot dead by an officer using his own gun in 2024. Swearing in for Cleveland's smaller sized city council happened this week, and grumbling about leadership followed not long after. The council, slimmed down to 15 from 17 due to population declined, features 3-new members -- and one returning member who cast a no vote on a perfunctory approval of council's rules, saying leadership does not seek broad input from its members. Guests: -Anna Huntsman, Akron-Canton Reporter, Ideastream Public Media -Conor Morris, Education Reporter, Ideastream Public Media -Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV

state doctors race ohio police cleveland republicans roundtable pepper gov flu akron reporters swearing somali snaps vivek ramaswamy northeast ohio mike dewine somalis northwest ohio ohio governor cuyahoga county david pepper ohio democratic party amy acton

ONN Daily: Thursday, January 8, 2026

Ohio News Network Daily

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2026 5:04

Health officials in northeast Ohio are monitoring a measles outbreak involving young children; Columbus billionaire Les Wexner subpoenaed in congressional investigation into Jeffrey Epstein; Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton chooses her running mate; some Fulton County first responders assisted with an unexpected delivery.

health ohio columbus democratic jeffrey epstein fulton county amy acton

Property owners placed pressure on lawmakers to reform taxes in 2025 | Reporters Roundtable

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2026 51:31

Property owners are howling as their property values, and their taxes keep going up. And the howls are loud enough for legislators to hear. They passed a number of measures aimed at providing property tax relief. But a grassroots effort to eliminate property taxes persists with the goal of qualifying a constitutional amendment for the 2026 ballot. Local governments and schools say that would be devastating. We will begin our lookback on the Statehouse and statewide news of 2025 with the push to reform property taxes and why any reforms from lawmakers may not be enough to stall a driver to abolish the taxes. Senate Bill 1, a higher education overhaul that targets what supporters call “liberal bias” on college campuses, went into effect in June. The bill, whose main architect is Sen. Jerry Cirino of Kirtland, targets most diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives on campuses and bans faculty strikes, among other measures. Legal marijuana will be more tightly regulated, and intoxicating hemp like the kind sold in corner stores and gas stations, will be banned after the legislature late in 2025 addressed those issues. Voters approved recreational marijuana in 2023 in a statute, not a constitutional amendment, allowing lawmakers to make changes. The Ohio Redistricting Commission redrew the state's congressional district maps in 2025 because the map adopted in 2022 did not have bipartisan support, meaning it had to be redrawn instead of being in place for a decade. The new map gives Republicans an edge in 12 of Ohio's 15 districts. The current map delivered 10 seats to Republicans. But this one did get bipartisan support on the commission because Democrats said they feared if they opposed it, and it went to the full legislature, the map would be even more lopsided in favor of Republicans. The months-long negotiations over Ohio's new two-year operating budget dominated the work of lawmakers for the first half of 2025. In the end, lawmakers handed off to the governor a $60 billion spending plan that flattens the state income tax, restricts the kinds of levies schools can ask voters to approve and changes the funding formula for libraries, eliminating the set percentage they received each year. Can Ohio produce enough power to keep up with demands from both consumers and data centers? That was a big issue in 2025, as the governor signed House Bill 15 in May, addressing power generation and grid reliability. Ohio voters approved an amendment to the state constitution, in place since 2023, protecting abortion rights and reproductive health. That doesn't mean lawmakers opposed to abortion were going to halt their efforts to limit it. Last year, they continued to introduce legislation opponents say conflicts with the voter-approved amendment. It's 2026 and that means big races in Ohio -- from the governor's seat with no incumbent to the Senate seat that will likely break fundraising records again -- are on the clock. Midterms will be a huge story for 2026, and races started taking shape in 2025 with the emergence of Vivek Ramaswamy on the Republican side and Dr. Amy Acton as the apparent Democratic candidate. Guests: -Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV -Jo Ingles, Reporter, Ohio Public Radio/TV Statehouse News Bureau -Sarah Donaldson, Reporter, Ohio Public Radio/TV Statehouse News Bureau -Clare Roth, Managing Editor, The Ohio Newsroom

ohio local pressure legal republicans democrats senate roundtable taxes democratic property reform reporter voters midterms managing editors lawmakers reporters senate bills vivek ramaswamy state house house bill property owners kirtland amy acton ohio redistricting commission

Sharing select suggestions from NPR's "Books We Love" list for 2025