ohio politics

Meteor Madness, Mega-Site Battles & Hormone Therapy Headlines — Ohio Politics Heats Up While Medina Looks to the Sky – Crooked River Cast Show 53

Meteor Madness, Mega-Site Battles & Hormone Therapy Headlines — Ohio Politics Heats Up While Medina Looks to the Sky 

The episode opened with Robert asking Tom how his week went — though, sorry listeners, you never quite get the answer, as Robert jumped into a story of his own. A flat tire on I-77 during a business trip could have been a nightmare, but it turned into a moment of appreciation thanks to an ODOT plow crew who pulled up behind him and shielded him from traffic while he swapped the tire. It was a reminder of the everyday heroes on Ohio’s roads before the conversation turned to the sad news of Chuck Norris’ passing and the many stories that followed — from local government showdowns to courtroom drama, and yes, an honest-to-goodness meteor lighting up northern Ohio.

They also dug into the latest developments in the FirstEnergy corruption trial, statehouse legislation that could impact healthcare access, and some eyebrow-raising national stories. As always, the guys kept it sharp, skeptical, and grounded in what matters to Ohioans.

🥋 10 Ways to Honor Chuck (Yes, That Chuck)

The show kicked off with a tongue-in-cheek tribute that only the Babylon Bee could deliver. It’s satire, sure — but it set the tone for a lively episode that balanced humor with heavier headlines. Sometimes a little levity is exactly what you need before diving into politics and policy.

Source:
🔗: 10 Ways To Honor Chuck Norris | Babylon Bee

🌍 Iran Update — Allies Draw a Line

Robert and Tom discussed the latest geopolitical tension involving Iran — and the reality check that comes when allies don’t automatically fall in line. The takeaway: international politics is rarely simple, and coalition-building is harder than press conferences make it sound.

Source:

▶️: YouTube: Watch Japanese PM’s Reaction

▶️: YouTube: BREAKING: European allies make MAJOR pivot on Strait of Hormuz

⚖️ Antifa Cell Convicted in Texas Terrorism Trial

A major federal terrorism case wrapped up in Texas, with members of an Antifa-linked group convicted in connection to an attack on an ICE facility. The hosts highlighted how rare terrorism convictions are in domestic protest-related cases — and what that could mean for future prosecutions.

Sources:

🔗: MAZE (@mazemoore)

🔗: All Members of Texas Antifa Cell Convicted in First Federal Terrorism Trial
▶️: YouTube: Verdict reached in high‐profile Prairieland ICE attack trial

☄️ Meteor In Medina!

If you heard a boom or saw a flash recently, you weren’t imagining things. A meteor streaked across Northeast Ohio, sparking excitement, curiosity, and — naturally — a wave of local pride. Leave it to Clevelanders to turn a cosmic event into merch within hours.

Sources:
🔗: Meteor explosion over Northeast Ohio sparks quest for fragments across Medina County
🔗: Cleveland meteor apparel is here to help you remember what you survived

🏛️ FirstEnergy Trial — Husted Testifies as Jury Takes the Case

One of the biggest corruption cases in Ohio history is now in the jury’s hands. Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted took the stand, adding another high-profile moment to a trial that has already reshaped the state’s political landscape. Robert and Tom emphasized just how consequential the verdict could be — not just legally, but politically.

Sources:
🔗: US Sen. Jon Husted takes stand the stand in FirstEnergy corruption trial
🔗: Closing Arguments In Trial Of Former FirstEnergy Execs | Newsradio WTAM 1100
🔗: Jurors receive case in FirstEnergy corruption trial

🗳️ Senate Race Tightens — Brown vs. Husted

Polling shows the Ohio U.S. Senate race is essentially a dead heat. Healthcare costs are emerging as a top voter concern, and both candidates are leaning into that issue. The hosts noted that this race could become one of the most closely watched contests in the country.

Source:
🔗: Poll Shows Ohio U.S. Senate Race Statistically Tied With Health Insurance a Big Concern Among Voters

🏗️ Communities Push Back on Mega Projects

Local governments are drawing lines in the sand. New Russia Township voted against a proposed mega development site, while Wellington took a proactive step by banning data centers altogether. It’s a reminder that small-town officials can still wield big influence when residents speak up. You have to respect communities that stand together and make their voices heard. That’s local government in action — just the way our founding fathers intended.

Sources:
🔗: New Russia Township trustees vote against Lorain County mega site
🔗: ‘We’re just being proactive’: This small Lorain County town is banning data centers

🐀 Critter Corner

🩺 Menopause & Pharmacy Bills Move Through the Statehouse

Two healthcare-related bills are gaining attention in Columbus. One would expand access to menopause hormone therapy, while another aims to broaden treatment options through pharmacies. The conversation highlighted a growing push to make routine care faster and more accessible — especially in underserved areas.

Sources:
🔗: Bill would make it easier for Ohio women to get access to menopause hormone therapy
🔗: Lawmakers consider bill to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Ohio communities

🗳️ Ballot Drop Boxes Debate Heats Up

Election policy is back in the spotlight, with lawmakers considering legislation tied to ballot drop boxes. As always, the debate centers on balancing voter access with election security — a topic that shows no signs of cooling down.

Sources:
🔗: EXCLUSIVE: Secretary of State candidate Robert Sprague criticizes Democratic pro-ballot drop box bill

🎭 Drag Performance Ban Faces Legal Challenge

Ohio’s proposed restrictions on drag performances continue to draw national attention. Testimony from performers and advocates has underscored the legal and cultural stakes, while lawmakers weigh how far government regulation should go. The issue has sparked strong opinions on both sides, with many parents and community members saying this is about setting reasonable boundaries and keeping adult-oriented entertainment away from children. We’ll see how the courts ultimately weigh in..

Source:
🔗: Drag queens testify against Ohio performance ban

🏈 Browns Unclaimed Funds Fight Moves Forward

A court ruling blocked part of Ohio’s plan to use unclaimed funds for stadium projects — but the legal battle isn’t over yet. Robert and Tom pointed out that taxpayer dollars and public trust are both on the line.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio Unclaimed Funds for Sports Stadiums Law Blocked by State Court but Not Federal

🌟 Good Things

🎤 Afroman Wins His Case

Sometimes the underdog wins — and this time it came with a beat. Rapper Afroman scored a legal victory in a civil case that drew national attention. The guys couldn’t resist celebrating the outcome with a little musical flair.

Sources:
🔗: ‘America won’ | Jury sides with rapper Afroman in Adams County civil trial
▶️: YouTube: Afroman – Will You Help Me Repair My Door (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

🌳 Get Outside — The Metroparks Are Calling

As winter loosens its grip, there’s no better time to reconnect with Northeast Ohio’s greatest natural asset: the Metroparks. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just clearing your head, fresh air remains one of the best free therapies around.

Source:
🔗: Outdoor Recreation | Cleveland Metroparks

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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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