Ohio Legislature

It’s Episode 52, and that means Crooked River Cast is officially one year old. Who brought the cake? Crooked River Cast Show 52 🎙️ 🎂 

Episode 52 kicks off with something every Ohioan noticed this week — the wild winds that swept across the state. Robert even lost power for a bit, but thankfully it came back just in time to record the show.

It’s also a milestone episode. 🎂 Crooked River Cast turns one year old — 52 episodes in the books. Happy birthday to us 🥳 🎉🎈

But the guys quickly pivot to some sobering news. Six U.S. airmen were killed when a military refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq, including three from Ohio. It’s a tough reminder of the sacrifices still being made by service members around the world.

With that, Robert and Tom get into the details of the week’s news.

🇺🇸 Six U.S. Airmen Killed in Iraq Refueling Aircraft Crash

Robert and Tom opened the show on a somber note as news broke that six U.S. airmen were killed when a military refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq during a mission. Three of those lost had strong Ohio ties, making the tragedy especially close to home.

The airmen were identified as:

  • Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama
  • Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington
  • Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky
  • Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Indiana
  • Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio
  • Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio

Their deaths bring the number of U.S. troops killed in connection with the conflict involving Iran to 13.

It’s a heavy reminder that even as political debates dominate the headlines, there are still Americans serving — and sometimes paying the ultimate price — overseas.

✝️🕊️God bless these airmen and may they rest in peace.✝️

Source:
🔗: Ohio airmen among 6 dead in US military refueling crash in Iraq, DeWine says | 10tv.com

📰 Media Narratives & the News Cycle

Robert and Tom also talked about how the modern news cycle sometimes feels completely upside down — and how satire can highlight that better than the actual news.

To make the point, they referenced a couple of headlines from The Babylon Bee. The jokes land because they poke fun at how media coverage sometimes seems selective about what gets major attention and what quietly fades into the background.

The guys used the satire as a jumping-off point to discuss how stories involving terrorism, protests, or politically sensitive topics can end up being framed very differently depending on the outlet — and how audiences are left trying to sort out the real story underneath the narrative.

Sources:
🔗: CNN Reports On Japanese Teenagers Who Came To Hawaii For What Could’ve Been A Beautiful Day At Beach- The Babylon Bee
▶️ YouTube: News Media Successfully Avoids Reporting News – The Babylon Bee

🗳 Trump, Voting Laws & the SAVE Act

One of the bigger national stories this week involves former President Donald Trump signaling he won’t sign new legislation unless Congress addresses election integrity through the SAVE Act. The move reignited debate over voter ID laws and federal election oversight. Robert and Tom dug into the ongoing fight over the SAVE Act and election integrity legislation, especially after former President Donald Trump said he wouldn’t sign new legislation unless Congress takes action on election reforms.

Robert initially suggested Democrats were the reason the bill hasn’t moved forward. But Tom pushed back and asked the obvious follow-up: what about Republicans? If they believe the bill is critical, why hasn’t it passed?

That’s when Tom really let loose, arguing that if lawmakers are serious about getting things done, they should get rid of the filibuster and stop hiding behind procedural roadblocks. His point was simple — if Congress actually wanted to move legislation, they could.

Instead, the conversation circled back to the bigger frustration: Washington gridlock. As the guys put it, both parties spend plenty of time blaming each other while the public is left watching what increasingly feels like a political clown show.

Robert and Tom also discuss the ongoing argument about whether voter ID laws suppress turnout or simply standardize election security.

Sources:
🔗: President Trump Vows to Block All New Bills Until Senate Passes SAVE Act on Election Integrity
🔗: Trump says he won’t sign bills until Congress overhauls voting
▶️ YouTube: Ami Horowitz: Do Voter ID Laws Suppress the Black Vote?

🏛 DeWine’s Final State of the State

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine delivered what is expected to be his final State of the State address. The speech focused on economic growth, workforce development, and long-term infrastructure priorities across Ohio.

Robert and Tom break down what stood out — and what might define DeWine’s legacy as he nears the end of his time in office.

Source:
🔗: Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine delivers his final State of the State address

🐀 Critter Corner

Even in the middle of heavy policy debates, the Ohio legislature keeps moving forward with a wide range of bills.

This week’s Critter Corner covers several proposals making their way through Columbus — from bail reform to election procedures and even how Ohioans might be laid to rest.

One bill would overhaul Ohio’s bail system, placing stricter guidelines on how suspects are released before trial. Another measure would ban ranked-choice voting statewide. And yes, lawmakers are also debating whether Ohio should allow “natural organic reduction,” better known as human composting.

Meanwhile, a controversial proposal to remove fluoride from Ohio’s water supply is sparking strong reactions, and some groups are exploring whether the state’s H2Ohio water program could ultimately go directly to voters.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio bill would reform bail system, put restrictions on suspects
🔗: Ohio House Passes Amended Senate Bill 63 to Ban Ranked-Choice Voting
🔗: Dust to dust: Ohio Senate Bill 323 allows human composting after death
🔗: Debate over fluoride in water heats up at Ohio Statehouse
🔗: Could the H2Ohio clean water program get put on the ballot?

⚖️ HB 6 Case Developments

The long-running FirstEnergy bribery scandal took another turn as a federal judge dismissed certain money-laundering charges against former executives tied to the HB 6 case. Other charges remain in place, meaning the legal battle surrounding one of Ohio’s biggest political corruption cases isn’t over yet.

Robert and Tom discuss what the ruling could mean as the case continues to unfold.

Source:
🔗: Judge dismisses money laundering charges against former FirstEnergy executives in HB 6 bribery trial, leaves rest of indictment intact

🩺 Abortion Numbers Rise in Ohio

New data shows abortions in Ohio increased significantly in 2025, with many patients traveling from out of state. The shift reflects how changes in laws across the country continue to affect where people seek care.

At the same time, Planned Parenthood is expanding access by rolling out telehealth abortion services — something supporters say could make care easier to obtain, while critics argue it raises regulatory concerns. Planned Parenthood is expanding services by offering abortion care through telehealth.

That development sparked a pretty heated conversation on the show. The guys questioned how much easier the process should become, with Robert joking — somewhat sarcastically — that at this rate “are we going to have an app for this next?”

The broader point they discussed was how rapidly access to abortion services is evolving and how deeply divided people remain on the issue. For some, expanded access is about healthcare availability. For others, it raises serious moral concerns about how society views unborn life.

Sources:
🔗: Abortions in Ohio increased by over 15% in 2025, including many out-of-state patients
🔗: Major abortion provider in Ohio to expand services via telehealth

👶 Tackling Infant Mortality in Cleveland

Cleveland continues to confront one of the highest infant mortality rates in the country. A local nonprofit initiative is distributing $1.8 million to community groups focused on improving maternal health, prenatal care access, and education programs aimed at reducing infant deaths.

Robert and Tom highlight why the issue remains a major public health challenge in Northeast Ohio.

Source:
🔗: First Year Cleveland will share $1.8M with local groups to prevent infant deaths

💰 Akron Tightens the Budget

Akron’s mayor is proposing a $785 million operating budget that trims about $14 million from last year’s spending. City leaders say the plan focuses on fiscal discipline while maintaining core services — though budget reductions always come with tough decisions.

Source:
🔗: Akron Mayor Shammas Malik proposes $785 million operating budget that would cut $14 million from last year’s spending

🌟 Good Things

🇺🇸 Vietnam Traveling Memorial Coming to Ohio

A powerful traveling memorial honoring Vietnam veterans will make stops in Ohio this spring, giving communities across the state a chance to pay tribute to those who served.

Source:
🔗: Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to stop in Ohio this spring

🍻 Cleveland Breweries Get National Recognition

Cleveland’s craft beer scene continues to get national attention, with multiple local breweries landing on USA Today’s 2026 “10 Best” lists. It’s another sign the city’s brewing culture is thriving.

Source:
🔗: Cleveland craft breweries represent on USA Today’s 10 best lists 2026

☘️ Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day Parade Returns

One of Cleveland’s most beloved traditions is back. The city’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade route is set, and thousands are expected to line the streets for the celebration.

Source:
🔗: Everything you need to know for the 2026 Cleveland St. Patrick’s Day parade

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Crooked River Cast Show 49

🎙️ Tariffs, Tax Talk, DEI Debates & Ohio Politics Getting Wild

Robert and Tom covered a packed slate this episode — from national headlines spilling into Ohio politics to local controversies that just keep getting louder. The guys broke down tariff drama, Democrats making strategic moves, political money questions, education fights, and plenty of Ohio-specific storylines — all with the sharp, no-nonsense commentary listeners expect from Crooked River Cast.

🇺🇸 Tariffs, Politics & The National Stage

Robert and Tom kicked off the show breaking down President Trump taking a temporary hit on tariffs — but they made it clear: this doesn’t look like a defeat, it looks like a pause. The expectation? These measures could come roaring back depending on what happens next.

Then came the part that really lit the fuse — the courts. The guys didn’t mince words, saying several left-leaning Supreme Court justices seriously dropped the ball on this one, and that decisions like this don’t just stay inside Washington — they hit Americans directly in jobs, prices, and long-term economic stability.

They also zeroed in on Democrats choosing to skip the State of the Union, arguing the move may have backfired by handing Trump even more attention and control of the narrative. Would anyone miss them?

Love it or hate it, this segment pulled no punches — and that’s exactly why people are talking.

Source:
🔗: ‘We have alternatives’: Trump vows to reimpose tariffs after SCOTUS ruling
🔗: Dozens of Democrats plan to skip Trump’s State of the Union as protests form

💰 Ohio Power Players Under the Microscope

Ohio’s richest man — Les Wexner — came up as Robert and Tom dug into questions about donations and renewed scrutiny surrounding old connections. The conversation stayed focused on transparency and accountability, asking who’s funding what and why it matters as political seasons heat up.

Source:
🔗: Who has Les Wexner donated to?
🔗: U.S. House Democrats accuse Les Wexner of lying about Epstein ties

🗳️ Ohio Governor’s Race: Big Money, Few Details

The race for governor is already shaping up to be one of the most expensive in state history. Robert and Tom pointed out how tax cuts are getting tossed around by candidates — but specifics are still thin. Plenty of messaging, not much difference yet, just a heavy price tag on campaign funding.

Source:
🔗: Leading candidates for Ohio governor talking about tax cuts, but few specifics so far
🔗: Ohio governor’s race set to become most expensive in state history

🎓 DEI Debates Continue at Ohio Universities

Despite state-level pushback, undercover videos suggest some universities are still pushing DEI-related initiatives. The guys broke down the broader culture war angle and asked whether policy changes are actually changing campus behavior — or just the wording around it. Jennifer Walton-Fisette, a professor and director of educator preparation at Kent State, is caught on camera discussing DEI and stating that getting rid of DEI is an attempt to “keep white men in power.” At the same time, Ohio State University (OSU) administrator Melissa Newhouse was discussing ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at the university today.

For critics, this isn’t speculation — it’s right there on camera. The reaction: if the law changed, why are schools talking about ways around it rather than following it? Full videos linked below.

Source:
🔗: Another Ohio university still pushes the pro-DEI, anti-white, anti-male rhetoric, undercover video shows
🔗: WATCH: OSU Administrator Caught on Hidden Camera Discussing Continued DEI Practices Despite State Ban
▶️ YouTube: Show Clip – University DEI discussion

▶️ YouTube: Ohio State University Administrator Admits School Still Pushes DEI — Then Claims the Video Is AI

🐀 Critter Corner

This week’s Critter Corner was loaded with Statehouse drama. Ohio GOP lawmakers are pushing to dismantle the federal Department of Education, while new bills target school lawsuits and parental rights issues. Robert and Tom unpacked how these moves could reshape education across the state — and why critics say legal fights are just getting started. The links below will keep you busy and shaking your head.

Source:
🔗: Ohio GOP lawmakers to formally pledge support for dismantling of U.S. Department of Education
🔗: Republicans plan to dismantle the Department of Education, saying it will give Ohio more control
🔗: State lawmakers rework bill against schools challenging EdChoice program
🔗: Rep. Jamie Callender criticizes school districts for using tax dollars to fund lawsuit against state
🔗: ‘It’s obviously unconstitutional.’ Vouchers Hurt Ohio speaks out against new Republican bill
🔗: New bill protects Ohio parents who reject their kid’s gender identity

🚔 Cuyahoga County: Not Personal… Apparently

Local politics got a spotlight as Harold Pretel defended a lawsuit involving county leadership, insisting it wasn’t personal. Robert and Tom weren’t fully convinced — and the conversation leaned into how these public disputes shape trust at the local level.

Source:
🔗: ‘This is not personal’: Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel defends lawsuit against County Executive Chris Ronayne

🎙️ Ask Cuyahoga & The Internet Being… The Internet

The return of the Ask Cuyahoga podcast sparked commentary from the guys, who joked that while there are no dumb questions… some come pretty close. It was a lighter segment, but still tied back into how local governments communicate with residents. Take a listen to Myesha Watkins, administrator of the County Office of Violence Prevention, discussing the office’s mission, priorities, and community safety.

Source:
🔗: Cuyahoga County on X – Ask Cuyahoga podcast returns

⛽ When Should You Buy Gas?

A practical segment listeners can actually use — a recent study says Ohio’s “price cycling” means Mondays tend to be the best day to fill up. Robert and Tom compared notes on whether this lines up with real-life experience at the pump. Tom thinks in his area the cost is better on a Tuesday or Wednesday. What do you guys think in your area? Write us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com and let us know.

Source:
🔗: Study: Ohio ‘price cycling’ makes Mondays the best day for gas savings

⚖️ Free Legal Clinics for Immigrants

The city says these clinics are for “immigrants,” a term that covers a wide range of legal statuses. Critics argue the wording avoids a harder question — exactly who the programs are designed to help, and who ends up paying for it. Robert and Tom dug into the bigger question: why the language matters.

The city and local groups keep using the term “immigrants,” which covers a wide range of people — from legal residents to those without status. Critics argue that’s intentional, saying it avoids a tougher conversation about who these services are really meant for and where taxpayer dollars should go.

Source:
🔗: Cleveland Heights immigrants will soon get free legal clinics

🌟 Good Things

🏡 St. Jude Dream Home Success

A little good news to end on — the St. Jude Dream Home raffle sold out, showing just how strong community support can be when it comes to helping kids and families. Did you buy a ticket?

Source:
🔗: 2026 St. Jude Dream Home tickets are sold out

🐟 Lent Fish Fry Season Is Here

That time of year again — fish fry season across Northeast Ohio. Robert and Tom wrapped things up on a lighter note, talking traditions, favorite spots, and just how seriously people take their Friday plans.

Got a go-to fish fry? Send us your favorite spot — we’d love to share it with everyone since we’ve still got plenty of Lent left to go. Email us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com and let us know.

Source:
🔗: Fish Fry Guide | Cleveland, Ohio

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Crooked River Cast Show 47

🎙️ Groundhog Games, Courtroom Chaos, & Ohio at a Crossroads

Robert and Tom kick off Show #47 the only way Ohio knows how — arguing about the weather. Is it a longer winter or an early spring? This year, Groundhog Day predictions come courtesy of two groundhogs and a cat called Casmir, and frankly… we’re all just hoping one of them is right. For the record, Casimir and Phil agree about this year’s weather, while Buckeye Chuck predicts an early spring. From there, the show barrels straight into hard news, judicial corruption, Ohio education shakeups, and legislative madness — with a much-needed dose of Good Things to close it out. Buckle up.

🚨 Life in Prison for Man Who Tried to Kill President Trump

This one hits hard. The man convicted of attempting to assassinate President Trump in 2024 has been sentenced to life in prison. Robert and Tom react to the ruling, the media framing, and what it says about political violence in America today.

Source:
🔗: Man convicted of trying to kill Trump in 2024 sentenced to life in prison

⚖️ Judge Blocks Trump From Ending Haitian TPS

A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians — delaying what could have been a massive displacement. Robert and Tom discuss the legal reasoning, political implications, and how this decision directly affects communities right here in Ohio and a few fireworks between Robert and Tom start off early in the show.

Sources:
🔗: Judge blocks Trump administration from ending protections for Haitians
▶️ YouTube: Crisis Delayed: Judge Blocks Imminent Haitian Exodus in Springfield

🏛️ How Corrupt Is Ohio’s Judiciary?

This segment raises eyebrows. Explosive footage claims judges can be bought with bribes in Ohio immigration courts. Robert and Tom dig into what this means for trust in the legal system — and why Ohio keeps finding itself in these headlines.

Source:
🔗: Exclusive: Bombshell Footage Claims Judges Can Be Bought With Bribes in Ohio Immigration Courts

👩‍⚖️ Judge Celebrezze Pleads Guilty

Former Cuyahoga County Judge Leslie Ann Celebrezze has pleaded guilty to record tampering. Another blow to public confidence — and another example fueling concerns about accountability in Ohio’s courts.

Source:
🔗: Former Cuyahoga County Judge Leslie Ann Celebrezze pleads guilty to record tampering charge

🎓 Ohio Schools: A New Direction?

Ohio schools are weighing a major shift — moving away from property taxes and toward income taxes for funding. Meanwhile, Canton schools have approved $18 million in cuts, with layoffs likely.

Robert and Tom unpack what this means for parents, taxpayers, and the future of public education. As expected, fireworks fly when their perspectives diverge — a reminder that honest disagreement is part of the conversation.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio schools consider switching from property taxes to income taxes
🔗: Canton school board approves plan to cut $18M from budget, layoffs are likely

🪓 AxeTheTax.org

The conversation turns to tax reform and the push behind AxeTheTax.org. Robert and Tom discuss who’s behind it, what it would change, and why it keeps resurfacing in Ohio politics. Will it get on the ballot? Ohioans who want to take action can go directly to the site to sign the petition.

Source:
🔗: Official Committee to Abolish Ohio’s Property Taxes – AxOHTax!

🐀 Critter Corner

Because Ohio legislation is always… something.

📜SB 341 – Would stop underage marriage in Ohio

Source:

🔗: Ohio would block all underage marriage under new legislation

📜HB 79 – Would “protect” Ohio referees from assault

Source:

🔗: Ohio lawmakers continue to push for bill protecting sports officials after recent altercation

📜HB 304 – Would extend school recess time

Source:

🔗: Ohio bill would extend recess for kids

Speed Cameras – Who’s actually getting paid?

Sources:

▶️ YouTube: 3News Investigates: Cashing in on speed camera fines
🔗: 3News Investigates: Who profits from speed cameras?

Public Service Reminder: Don’t eat yellow or white snow

Source:

🔗: Snow may look clean, but it can contain pollutants

🌟 Good Things

Let’s end on a high note — because Ohio delivers.

🏅 Ohio Will Host Olympic Events in 2028
For the first time ever, Ohio will host events tied to the 2028 Olympics. Yes, really.

Source:

🔗: Ohio to host 2028 Olympic tournament for the first time in state’s history

🐕 Dog Rescue That Feels Like Winter
A heartwarming rescue as tri-state crews save a dog from a partially frozen pond. First responders raced against time to rescue a dog that had fallen into a partially frozen pond. Quick action, teamwork, and cold-water training made the difference — and the dog made it out alive.

Source:

🔗: Tri-State crews save dog from partially frozen pond

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