Podcasts about firstenergy

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

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: New charges against FirstEnergy execs. (Cleveland.com) The court orders answers on why there are no tariff refunds. (NYT) Hormuz Crisis and global compliance. (WSJ) A Big Bang reversal of Brexit. (FT) To learn about the intersection of Sherlock Holmes and the modern compliance professional, check out Tom's latest book, The Game is Afoot-What Sherlock Holmes Teaches About Risk, Ethics and Investigations on Amazon.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sterling talks with Dr. Ian Ralby about the latest on the blockade in the Persian Gulf. The Ohio Legislature is debating whether to debate...child marriage. Sterling asks why? The First Energy scandal is rearing its head again. Sterling gets the details from Marty Schladen of the Ohio Capitol Journal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sterling talks with Dr. Ian Ralby about the latest on the blockade in the Persian Gulf. The Ohio Legislature is debating whether to debate...child marriage. Sterling asks why? The First Energy scandal is rearing its head again. Sterling gets the details from Marty Schladen of the Ohio Capitol Journal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sterling talks with Dr. Ian Ralby about the latest on the blockade in the Persian Gulf. The Ohio Legislature is debating whether to debate...child marriage. Sterling asks why? The First Energy scandal is rearing its head again. Sterling gets the details from Marty Schladen of the Ohio Capitol Journal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniel Turner, Power the Future, On America First Energy and Markets | 6-1-26See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ohio law already requires voters to show a valid photo ID.So why do Republican lawmakers think that language needs to be written into the state constitution by a voter-approved amendment this November?Speaking of voting, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose experienced first-hand what happens when absentee ballots don't arrive at the board of elections on time.A new prosecution team is tapped to retry two former First Energy executives after the first trial ended in a mistrial.Gov. Mike DeWine has more than 200 days left in his term and said at a recent press event that he's proudest of his efforts to help children.We're digging into all of these topics on a special Tuesday edition of the Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jeremy Pelzer, chief politics reporter, Cleveland.comSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal

Ohio law already requires voters to show a valid photo ID.So why do Republican lawmakers think that language needs to be written into the state constitution by a voter-approved amendment this November?Speaking of voting, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose experienced first-hand what happens when absentee ballots don't arrive at the board of elections on time.A new prosecution team is tapped to retry two former First Energy executives after the first trial ended in a mistrial.Gov. Mike DeWine has more than 200 days left in his term and said at a recent press event that he's proudest of his efforts to help children.We're digging into all of these topics on a special Tuesday edition of the Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jeremy Pelzer, chief politics reporter, Cleveland.comSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal

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

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

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

De Bar v. First Energy Corp

Willie talks about the new security policy at the Banks with Tracy Schwegman. Also Senator Jon Husted discussing judicial reform. Finally David Yost breaks down what went wrong in the first trial in the First Energy scandal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Willie talks about the new security policy at the Banks with Tracy Schwegman. Also Senator Jon Husted discussing judicial reform. Finally David Yost breaks down what went wrong in the first trial in the First Energy scandal.

Willie talks about the new security policy at the Banks with Tracy Schwegman. Also Senator Jon Husted discussing judicial reform. Finally David Yost breaks down what went wrong in the first trial in the First Energy scandal.

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

Rep. Riley Moore discusses Iran, the DHS shutdown and his bill to denaturalize. Dave & TJ discuss Gov. Morrisey endorsing candidates in the primary election. Chris Beam, with First Energy, talks about a new facility in Maidsville and Brad McElhinny stops by. 

What's next in the state's largest corruption case, following a hung jury in the trial of two former FirstEnergy executives?Weeks of testimony and more than a week of deliberations yielded no verdict. Former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones and former FirstEnergy Senior Vice President Michael Dowling were charged with bribery and corruption. A hearing on Wednesday could determine the next steps in the case.While the case is in flux, so are customers' electric bills.From rising costs to accelerating demand, consumers are fighting back, perhaps at the ballot box.If you're not registered to vote in the May primary, today is the last day to do so.We're talking about all of these subjects on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Karen Kasler, bureau chief, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauLaura Hancock, politics and policy reporter, Cleveland.comSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal

What's next in the state's largest corruption case, following a hung jury in the trial of two former FirstEnergy executives?Weeks of testimony and more than a week of deliberations yielded no verdict. Former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones and former FirstEnergy Senior Vice President Michael Dowling were charged with bribery and corruption. A hearing on Wednesday could determine the next steps in the case.While the case is in flux, so are customers' electric bills.From rising costs to accelerating demand, consumers are fighting back, perhaps at the ballot box.If you're not registered to vote in the May primary, today is the last day to do so.We're talking about all of these subjects on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Karen Kasler, bureau chief, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauLaura Hancock, politics and policy reporter, Cleveland.comSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital Journal

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: Corruption in Croatian skiing. (SkiRacing) How a CSI uncovered SC police corruption. (WSJ) What's next for FirstEnergy execs? (Cleveland) Russian corruption is fueling massive troop losses. (PBS News Hour) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Radell Lewis breaks down one of Ohio's most important and overlooked races: the 2026 Secretary of State election. With Frank LaRose term-limited out and running for auditor, five candidates across three party primaries are competing to control how Ohioans vote, how businesses get registered, and how ballot language gets written. Radell goes candidate by candidate through Republican primary frontrunner Robert Sprague (Ohio's current treasurer who dropped out of the governor's race in under three weeks to endorse Vivek Ramaswamy), his challenger Marcell Strbich (a retired Air Force intelligence officer pushing one of the most aggressive election security platforms in the country), Democratic establishment pick Allison Russo (the former House Minority Leader facing scrutiny over her 2023 redistricting vote and an ongoing employment discrimination lawsuit), Democratic outsider Bryan Hambley (a cancer doctor from Warren County running on ending gerrymandering with zero corporate PAC money), and Libertarian candidate Tom Pruss (a Toledo small business owner campaigning for equal ballot access). Radell also covers Trump's executive order on mail voting and what it means for Ohio, the FirstEnergy bribery mistrial that stunned the state, Ohio officials opening thousands of acres of public land to fracking, and the broader 2026 statewide landscape where every executive office is turning over. Then Radell sits down with independent gubernatorial candidate Tim Grady for a deep conversation about what it takes to run outside the two-party system in Ohio, why independent voters are the largest voting bloc but have the least representation, the rise of populism on both sides, whether Democrats are capable of governing long term, and what a "radical centrist" vision for Ohio actually looks like. Whether you are tracking the Ohio primary election, researching Ohio 2026 candidates, or trying to understand Ohio election reform, voter registration deadlines, redistricting, gerrymandering, or the future of independent politics, this episode has you covered. Ohio voter registration for the May 5 primary closes April 6 and early voting starts April 7. Keywords embedded: Ohio Secretary of State 2026, Ohio primary election, Robert Sprague, Marcell Strbich, Allison Russo, Bryan Hambley, Tom Pruss, Frank LaRose, Ohio governor race, Tim Grady, independent candidate Ohio, Vivek Ramaswamy, Ohio redistricting, gerrymandering Ohio, Ohio election integrity, FirstEnergy bribery trial, Ohio voter registration, Ohio early voting, Trump mail voting executive order, Ohio fracking, musical chairs Ohio politics, Ohio 2026 midterms, nonpartisan political analysis, Purple Political Breakdown, Radell LewisStandard 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

On Cincinnati Edition's weekly news review, local journalists join us to talk about the big stories from recent days.

Summit County Judge Susan Baker Ross declared a mistrial in the state bribery case against two former FirstEnergy executives after a jury failed to reach a verdict. The trial began in January with jury selection and included weeks of testimony and exhibits. The jury deliberated over the course of nine days before telling the judge they were hopelessly deadlocked. The judge declared a mistrial the next day. The state has already said it plans to retry the case. The story begins our discussion of the week's news on the “Sound of Ideas Reporters Roundtable.” The families of two innocent bystander women killed in separate high-speed pursuits by the former Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Downtown Safety Patrol have sued the county. According to a report from the American Civil Liberties Union of Ohio, by the end of last year, 14 of the state's 88 counties had agreements to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement efforts or the U.S. Marshalls Service. The crew of Artemis II is on its third full day of its 10-day mission, lifting off from Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday. The mission is another step toward an anticipated lunar landing in 2028 with a goal of establishing a permanent lunar base. Get ready, drivers. The official state flower of Ohio, the Orange Barrel Blossom, are blooming on roads everywhere. The Ohio Department of Transportation announced a slate of highway projects, including $3.4 billion in new ones and the continuation of several multi-year projects. Pothole season is well underway and it's busy. On April 2, a giant hole on Interstate 90 kept poaching tires. Off the highways, Cleveland's roads are more of a minefield than ever. Ideastream Public Media Reporter Abbey Marshall crunched numbers and found more than 1,500 pothole repair requests this year, up 50% from last year. A grassroots effort to ban data centers in Ohio cleared another procedural hurdle yesterday when the Ohio Ballot Board approved proposed amendment language. The group now needs to gather more than 400,000 valid signatures, drawn from at least half of Ohio's counties to make the November ballot. Guests: - Glenn Forbes, Deputy Editor of News, Ideastream Public Media - Gabriel Kramer, Reporter, Ideastream Public Media - Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV

We discuss Sen. Jon Husted's push for voter photo ID, Vivek Ramaswamy's plan to cut property taxes, the outcome of the FirstEnergy bribery trial, and an effort to reverse Ohio's ban on THC drinks.

The jury is still out in the corruption trial of two former FirstEnergy executives. The utility company's former CEO Chuck Jones and former lobbyist Michael Dowling are accused of bribing a top utility regulator.How many taxes can we propose getting rid of? Turns out, quite a few.Joining proposals to ditch property taxes and income taxes comes this one from an Ohio Republican: capital gains taxes.Reverse an abortion? A new bill would require providers to tell patients about an experimental process to “give your baby a second chance at life.” Two previous attempts to pass similar legislation failed.Drag shows aren't entertaining; they're obscene. That's according to a new House bill.One of the few monuments in the country honoring women is dedicated at the Ohio Statehouse.We're talking about all of it on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jo Ingles, senior reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauJessie Balmert, state government and politics reporter, Columbus DispatchJeremy Pelzer, chief politics reporter, Cleveland.comIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Mike Cardew/Akron Beacon Journal/NABJ)

The jury is still out in the corruption trial of two former FirstEnergy executives. The utility company's former CEO Chuck Jones and former lobbyist Michael Dowling are accused of bribing a top utility regulator.How many taxes can we propose getting rid of? Turns out, quite a few.Joining proposals to ditch property taxes and income taxes comes this one from an Ohio Republican: capital gains taxes.Reverse an abortion? A new bill would require providers to tell patients about an experimental process to “give your baby a second chance at life.” Two previous attempts to pass similar legislation failed.Drag shows aren't entertaining; they're obscene. That's according to a new House bill.One of the few monuments in the country honoring women is dedicated at the Ohio Statehouse.We're talking about all of it on this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Jo Ingles, senior reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauJessie Balmert, state government and politics reporter, Columbus DispatchJeremy Pelzer, chief politics reporter, Cleveland.comIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.(Photo: Mike Cardew/Akron Beacon Journal/NABJ)

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

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: FirstEnergy bribery jury deadlocked. (Ohio Capital Journal) Trades bet over $500MM on oil immediately before the Trump announcement. (FT) EU nearing decision on Google and EU competition law violation. (WSJ) Lawmakers move to ban sports betting in prediction markets. (WSJ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: Why did the lead investigator not testify in the FirstEnergy trial? (Cleveland.com) The Nigerian ABC commission pays money back to NNPC. (Business Insider Africa) Flight corridors and risk management. (NYT) COI, corruption, and more in the Paramount deal. (WSJ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: Closing statements in FirstEnergy corruption trial. (Ohio Capital Journal) US banks are entangled with private credit. (WSJ) Crispin Odey is accused of falsifying meeting minutes and lying to the FCA. (FT) AZ files criminal charges against Kalshi. (NYT) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ohio State University has a new president, just a few days after the previous one resigned.President Trump visited Ohio to talk about drug prices and the war with Iran.Senator Jon Husted testified in the FirstEnergy trial, where he said he didn't recall details from a key meeting.Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has delivered his final State of the State address.We're talking about all of these major topics during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Mark Ferenchik, news director, WOSU Public MediaKaren Kasler, bureau chief, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauShane Stegmiller, reporter, Hannah News ServiceSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Ohio State University has a new president, just a few days after the previous one resigned.President Trump visited Ohio to talk about drug prices and the war with Iran.Senator Jon Husted testified in the FirstEnergy trial, where he said he didn't recall details from a key meeting.Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has delivered his final State of the State address.We're talking about all of these major topics during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:Mark Ferenchik, news director, WOSU Public MediaKaren Kasler, bureau chief, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauShane Stegmiller, reporter, Hannah News ServiceSusan Tebben, reporter, Ohio Capital JournalIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Councilman Sam Melden calls in to respond to comments about First Energy response to power outages. Fred believes the councilman is overstepping his responsibilities in asking for compensation and suggesting that First Energy get the work done sooner than they have predicted. 

Who will represent Cincinnati in Congress? In this episode of Purple Political Breakdown, host Radell Lewis breaks down every candidate running in Ohio's 1st Congressional District, one of the most closely watched toss-up House races in the country heading into the May 5, 2026 primary. After Ohio's October 2025 redistricting pushed the district further into conservative territory, incumbent Democrat Greg Landsman now faces a tougher path to reelection. Radell covers Landsman's bipartisan record, his $1.83 million war chest, and what makes him competitive in a district Trump won in 2024. On the progressive side, challenger Damon Lynch is running a people-powered campaign with zero corporate PAC money, zero AIPAC money, and zero FEC dollars reported. On the Republican side, Radell breaks down the real two-horse race between Eric Conroy (endorsed by Senator Bernie Moreno, former CIA officer, standard MAGA platform) and Steven Erbeck (the policy-specific dentist with libertarian leanings and more cash on hand). Plus, Holly Adams and her Turning Point USA Faith ties, and Rosemary Oglesby-Henry, the community-centered long shot with the most detailed platform in the field. Beyond the primary, Radell covers critical Ohio news you need to know: the FirstEnergy bribery trial (the biggest corruption case in Ohio history, with Senator Jon Husted now on the witness stand), the Cleveland Browns stadium funding battle after a court blocked over $1 billion in unclaimed funds, Governor DeWine's final State of the State address focused on children's safety, Ohio's hemp ban repeal effort running out of time before the March 19 signature deadline, and fresh Ohio Democratic Party endorsements for attorney general, Supreme Court, and state auditor. Whether you live in Ohio or just want to understand why local politics shapes everything, this episode gives you the facts, the candidates, and the context to make your own informed decision. Political solutions without political bias. Listen, subscribe, and get involved. Voter registration deadline: April 6. Early voting: April 7 through May 3.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

Residents are mounting opposition to projects big and small in communities across Northeast Ohio, from a data center to a service garage. Will the developments happen anyway? An overtime surge in the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office led to a legal battle over control of the sheriff's budget. This week, it was ballooning overtime in the Cleveland Division of Police that prompted City Council scrutiny. Ohio Sen. John Husted testified for the defense in the corruption trial of two FirstEnergy executives, and the prosecution's final question to him incensed the defense, which accused prosecutors of misconduct. A former Cleveland City Council member who earlier served as an advocate for lead-safe homes is now the city's lead safety chief. And keep your eyes peeled for Bigfoot in Portage County. There have been a number of purported sightings this week. Guests: - Taylor Wizner, Health Reporter, Ideastream Public Media - Anna Huntsman, Akron/Canton Reporter, Ideastream Public Media - Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV

Welcome to the Daily Compliance News. Each day, Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, brings you compliance-related stories to start your day. Sit back, enjoy a cup of morning coffee, and listen in to the Daily Compliance News. All, from the Compliance Podcast Network. Each day, we consider four stories from the business world, compliance, ethics, risk management, leadership, or general interest for the compliance professional. Top stories include: Top 10 most corrupt states in the US. (How Stuff Works) Ohio Senator testifies for defense in FirstEnergy trial. (Yahoo!News) Former South African minister jailed for state capture. (FT) Binance is under renewed federal scrutiny. (WSJ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cleveland mother of two young girls whose bodies were found in suitcases now charged with murder; southwest Ohio county records first flu death in more than 15 years; a reward is now being offered in the case of a road construction worker killed in a Columbus crash; Senator Jon Husted may testify soon in the First Energy trial.

Host Radell Lewis breaks down everything you need to know about Ohio's 9th Congressional District heading into the 2026 midterms. After the Ohio Redistricting Commission redrew the map to lean Republican by over 10 points, longtime incumbent Marcy Kaptur the longest-serving woman in congressional history faces her toughest reelection yet. Radell goes candidate by candidate through the crowded GOP primary field: Derek Merrin (Trump-endorsed, 2024 rematch candidate), Madison Sheehan (former ICE deputy director), Anthony Campbell (healthcare executive with the most detailed policy platform), Aaliyah Nadeem (Air Force veteran), and Josh Williams (MAGA-aligned state rep). Who has the best shot at winning the Republican primary? And can any of them actually beat Kaptur in the general election? Plus, Radell covers critical Ohio political news: the Ohio House voting to ban ranked choice voting statewide, the campaign to repeal Ohio's intoxicating hemp ban before the March deadline, Republican efforts to tie college funding to compliance with higher education overhaul legislation, and the latest from the First Energy bribery trial the biggest corruption case in Ohio history involving former CEO Chuck Jones and the HB-6 scandal that sent former House Speaker Larry Householder to federal prison. Whether you live in Ohio or want to understand how local politics shapes the national landscape, this episode delivers the research so you don't have to. Website: PurplePoliticalBreakdown.com Live shows every Saturday at 6 PM EST on YouTube Rate 5 stars on your podcast app Keywords: Ohio 2026 midterms, Ohio 9th Congressional District, Marcy Kaptur, Derek Merrin, GOP primary Ohio, Ohio redistricting, ranked choice voting Ohio, First Energy bribery trial, Larry Householder, Ohio cannabis repeal, Ohio local politics, MAGA, Ohio gerrymandering, congressional race 2026, STAR voting, Ohio political newsStandard 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

The arrogance of FirstEnergy's former CEO becomes more apparent with every witness in his corruption trial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ohio State University is fielding hundreds of calls to remove Les Wexner's name from campus buildings, amid growing anger over his ties to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.A new term, WEXIT, has been coined by groups pushing for removal. Meanwhile, Gov. Mike DeWine defends keeping Wexner's name.Meanwhile, Democratic members of Congress who traveled to New Albany last week to depose Wexner said they found Wexner's denial of knowing about Epstein's criminal conduct hard to believe.In other news, a judge has removed the chairman of the state's second-largest pension for violating his fiduciary duties.We'll talk about what we're learning from the First Energy trial.It's all coming up during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:George Shillcock, reporter, WOSU Public MediaJo Ingles, senior reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauLaura Bischoff, politics and state government reporter, The Columbus DispatchJake Zuckerman, reporter, Signal OhioIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

Ohio State University is fielding hundreds of calls to remove Les Wexner's name from campus buildings, amid growing anger over his ties to convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.A new term, WEXIT, has been coined by groups pushing for removal. Meanwhile, Gov. Mike DeWine defends keeping Wexner's name.Meanwhile, Democratic members of Congress who traveled to New Albany last week to depose Wexner said they found Wexner's denial of knowing about Epstein's criminal conduct hard to believe.In other news, a judge has removed the chairman of the state's second-largest pension for violating his fiduciary duties.We'll talk about what we're learning from the First Energy trial.It's all coming up during this week's Reporter Roundtable.Guests:George Shillcock, reporter, WOSU Public MediaJo Ingles, senior reporter, Ohio Public Radio Statehouse News BureauLaura Bischoff, politics and state government reporter, The Columbus DispatchJake Zuckerman, reporter, Signal OhioIf you have a disability and would like a transcript or other accommodation you can request an alternative format.

WVU Director of Transportation, Parking, and Mail Jeremy Evans on the federally funded repairs to the PRT Republican candidate for the Eastern District of Monongalia County Ron LytleWill Boye from FirstEnergy on their plans to build a natural gas fired power plant at the Fort Martin Pwer Station. 

Welcome back to Purple Political Breakdown, hosted by Radell Lewis your source for political solutions without political bias. In this episode, we dive deep into the 2026 Ohio Senate race between challenger Sherrod Brown and incumbent Jon Husted. This Ohio special election could reshape the balance of power in the U.S. Senate, and every Ohio voter needs to understand what's at stake.Radell breaks down where Brown and Husted stand on the issues that matter most to Ohioans: tariffs and their devastating impact on Ohio farmers and manufacturers, the economy, jobs, and taxes, healthcare and Medicaid work requirements, abortion and reproductive rights following Ohio's constitutional amendment, gun policy, immigration and the Springfield Haitian community's fight for Temporary Protected Status, foreign policy, voting rights, and campaign finance reform.This episode also covers the FirstEnergy corruption trial happening right now in Akron the largest corruption scandal in Ohio state history and Husted's connections to the key players involved. Plus, critical Ohio statehouse news including proposed sanctuary city crackdowns, ICE enforcement pushback from cities like Akron and Columbus, the Baby Olivia bill, mifepristone legislation, the intra-Republican power struggle over the state treasurer race, and questions about Ohio's manufacturing future amid tariffs and the incomplete Intel CHIPS Act facility.With the latest polling showing Husted leading Brown by just one point, this race is anyone's game. Radell gives you the facts, the context, and his honest take so you can make an informed decision at the ballot box.Whether you're a union worker weighing your endorsement, an independent voter looking for real analysis, or just an Ohioan who wants to understand how state and local politics shape your daily life this episode is for you. Share it with your friends, family, and coworkers. Your vote matters.Rate us five stars and follow Purple Political Breakdown wherever you listen to podcasts.Standard 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

Sen. Bernie Moreno looks desperate as he tries to defend ICE abuse in Minnesota Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Springfield, near Dayton, is on edge after a federal judge in Washington, D.C., this week blocked the Trump administration's attempt to end temporary protected status for about 15,000 Haitian immigrants in the area. The ruling is expected to be appealed. How long will the reprieve last? And will a surge in federal immigration enforcement follow? We will begin Friday's “Sound of Ideas Reporters Roundtable” with a discussion in how officials are responding to reports of a potential immigration enforcement surge, and what residents are doing to prepare for the worse. Former Cuyahoga County Domestic Relations Court Judge Leslie Ann Celebrezze pleaded guilty to a felony count of tampering with records, acknowledging she steered a divorce case to her own docket and made it appear the assignment was random. She then appointed a close friend as a receiver, a role that had earned the friend hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years. The bribery trial of two top FirstEnergy executives began in Akron. In opening statements, defense attorneys argued that payments made to the state's top utilities regulator were legitimate business expenses and portrayed the regulator — who later died by suicide — as a corrupt official who stole the money. Cleveland will take a new approach to responding to mental health crises, one that does not involve police, after City Council passed Tanisha's Law. And the Cavaliers shaved three players in recent trades and added a new beard. Guests: - Josh Boose, Supervising Producer - Newscasts, Ideastream Public Media - Abbey Marshall, Reporter/Producer, Ideastream Public Media - Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV

FirstEnergy is seeking approval from the Power Utility Commission of Ohio to allow for longer and more frequent power outages, but some lawmakers are voicing their opposition.

Today's West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy Podcast for our especially special daily special, Tarrytown Chowder Tuesday is now available on the Spreaker Player!Starting off in the Bistro Cafe, Beauty Queen MAGA Lindsey Halligan is hit with a new Bar complaint.Then, on the rest of the menu, the DHS “smeared” the two Venezuelans they shot in a Portland, Oregon hospital parking lot by claiming they were involved in “gang activity,” records show they had no criminal records, but were instead, victims of gang violence; the trial of ex-FirstEnergy executives charged in a $60M Ohio bribery scheme that involved prominent GOP leaders is set to begin; and, the Trump administration cut the number of sites for testing the 2030 census from six to two.After the break, we move to the Chef's Table where French prosecutors raided the offices of Musk's social media platform to investigate a range of offenses, including the spread of child sexual abuse images and deepfakes; and, an Irish activist operating from the Netherlands, is utilizing the same technology ICE uses against Americans to expose thousands of federal agents, and the MAGA Congress can't do a damn thing about it.All that and more, on West Coast Cookbook & Speakeasy with Chef de Cuisine Justice Putnam.Bon Appétit!The Netroots Radio Live Player​Keep Your Resistance Radio Beaming 24/7/365!“As I ate the oysters with their strong taste of the sea and their faint metallic taste that the cold white wine washed away, leaving only the sea taste and the succulent texture, and as I drank their cold liquid from each shell and washed it down with the crisp taste of the wine, I lost the empty feeling and began to be happy and to make plans.” -- Ernest Hemingway "A Moveable Feast"Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/west-coast-cookbook-speakeasy--2802999/support.

On Cincinnati Edition's weekly news review, local journalists join us to talk about the big stories from recent days.

For weeks, the nation's flashpoint over immigration and enforcement has been Minneapolis where two protesters have now been shot dead by federal immigration officers. Concern is now ramping up in Ohio, where there's concern that a surge of immigration enforcement is coming to Springfield, near Dayton. The temporary protected status of thousands of Haitian refugees living there is set to expire on Feb. 3. We will begin Friday's “Sound of Ideas Reporters Roundtable” with a discussion in how leaders are preparing for a possible enforcement in Ohio. Jury selection began this week in the trial of two former FirstEnergy executives accused of being the architects of the House Bill 6 bribery scandal in which they bribed politicians and got legislation passed that bailed out their financially struggling nuclear power plants. The trial is expected to last for two months and opening statements could happen as soon as Jan. 30. The deep freeze over the last week will stay around, without an invitation, as we flip to February. It's the longest stretch of arctic temperatures we've seen here in years. The deep cold also made it tough to dig out from last weekend's heavy snowstorm and complicated plowing roads. A combination of the numbing cold and icy roads led to schools closing for several days. Will students have to make up those days? During this cold weather, owners have been warned in several Ohio counties -- including Summit and Cuyahoga -- to bring animals indoors. Cuyahoga County's prosecutor has formed a specialized unit to deal with that, and other kinds, of animal cruelty. Northeast Ohio cities are starting to see the boon promised by the sale of recreational marijuana, legalized by voters in 2023. Sales began the next year, and cities are now seeing the first proceeds from the first year-plus of sales. Dr. Tom Mihaljevic, president and chief executive officer of the Cleveland Clinic, said the Clinic made money last year and did better financially than forecasted, and said he believes there is capacity in the community for the Clinic to build a Level 1 trauma center, though there are already two in Cleveland. Guests: -Andrew Meyer, Deputy Editor for News, Ideastream Public Media -Zaria Johnson, Reporter, Ideastream Public Media -Karen Kasler, Statehouse News Bureau Chief, Ohio Public Radio/TV

Steve welcomes Matthew Gonzales, Southwest Executive Director of the Consumer Energy Alliance, for an important conversation on keeping energy affordable and reliable this winter, especially for hardworking families and small businesses like farmers who feed our country. Matthew breaks down two key reports that highlight the real world choices many Americans face between heat or eat, and the challenges small businesses face when energy costs bite into their bottom lines. They also dig into America's energy future, discussing solar, wind, natural gas, and why dependence on foreign-made panels and turbines, plus heavy regulations, can make it harder to use our own abundant American energy resources.