Supreme Court

Iran Deal Tested, DeWine Vetoes Mail Ballot Bill & What’s Next for the I-X Center — Crooked River Cast Show #67 🎙

Summer has officially arrived, and before diving into this week’s headlines, Robert and Tom shared some Crooked River Cast breaking news. After today’s episode, the show will be taking a three-week summer hiatus to recharge, regroup, and get ready for what promises to be a busy election season. The news never stops, but everyone deserves a little time to catch their breath. The guys will be back soon, refreshed and ready to tackle whatever Ohio and the rest of the world throw their way.

Now, on to this week’s stories.

🌍 Iran Deal Tested After Drone Attack

The United States struck Iranian military targets after accusing Tehran of attacking a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to target US positions in retaliation, escalating tensions and casting fresh doubt over a fragile ceasefire in West Asia.

Just days after hopes of easing tensions in the Middle East, a drone attack on commercial shipping has raised new questions about the future of President Trump’s proposed agreement with Iran. The incident highlights just how fragile the situation remains and whether diplomacy can survive another round of escalating conflict. When will this really end?

Source:

🔗: Iran deal tested by drone attack as Trump offers up US farm goods

⚖️ Supreme Court Immigration Rulings

The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday allowed President Donald Trump to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian immigrants, meaning they could be subject to deportation.

The U.S. Supreme Court handed down immigration rulings that could have significant consequences for thousands of Haitian immigrants, including many living here in Ohio. The decisions allow the Department of Homeland Security to end temporary protections for certain immigrants while legal battles continue, creating uncertainty for families and communities across the state. The ground has stopped shaking and the huts have been rebuilt, time to back home folks….and Yes! Save the dogs! Save the cats!

Sources:

🔗: Supreme Court: DHS can end protections for Haitian immigrants, thousands of whom live in Ohio

🔗: Ohio Cities Brace for Impact of Supreme Court Allowing Trump to Take Legal Status Away from Haitians

🔗: Kristina Knickerbocker (@KnickerbockerOH) on X

🗳️ DeWine Vetoes Ohio Mail-In Ballot ID Bill

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has vetoed legislation that would have required the vast majority of voters to provide their photo ID to cast a mail-in ballot. "H.B. 472 is all burden for so little benefit," DeWine said in his veto message Wednesday evening.

Governor Mike DeWine surprised many by vetoing legislation that would have required additional photo identification for Ohioans requesting mail-in ballots. Republicans in the Statehouse are already discussing whether they have enough votes to override the veto, setting up another debate over election security and voter access ahead of future elections.

Robert and Tom questioned the governor’s decision, arguing that as his time in office winds down, this veto is another example of what they see as leadership that has fallen short for Ohio. They also wondered whether the move is part of a broader political strategy heading into the next election cycle.

What do you think? Is this the right decision, or is there more to it? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Email us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com.

Sources:

🔗: Will Ohio Republicans override Gov. DeWine’s voter photo ID veto?

🔗: Gov. DeWine blocks stricter ID mandate for Ohio mail-in voting

🚓 Ohio Drivers May Soon Have to Identify Themselves During Traffic Stops

n Ohio bill that would explicitly criminalize refusing to provide basic identifying information during a traffic stop, clarifying what some law enforcement officials have called a gray area in state law, is awaiting Gov. Mike DeWine’s signature. House Bill 492, sponsored by Reps. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) and Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison), passed the Senate on June 10 after passing the House in November.

An Ohio bill awaiting Governor DeWine’s signature would require drivers to identify themselves during traffic stops. Supporters argue it provides clarity and improves officer safety, while critics question whether the proposal creates unnecessary legal complications. It’s another example of lawmakers trying to redefine the rules of interactions between drivers and law enforcement.

Source:

🔗: Ohio bill requiring drivers to identify selves at traffic stops awaits governor’s signature

🎓 One Year Later: Ohio’s Anti-“Woke” Higher Education Law

Brielle Shorter, a 20-year-old Ohio State University student, protests against Senate Bill 1 on Jan. 22, 2025. (Photo by Megan Henry, Ohio Capital Journal).

It’s been about a year since Ohio’s higher education reform law took effect, and lawmakers are already looking ahead. Supporters believe the legislation is making Ohio colleges more attractive to students, while opponents continue debating its impact on academic freedom and campus culture.

Source:

🔗: Author of Ohio anti-’woke’ higher ed law celebrates college enrollments, lays out what’s next

🚓 North Canton Launches Public Speeding Database

The North Canton Police Department is making its speed data public. Residents can now see data collected by officers through a new website. Data on accidents and traffic stops is now available online. Residents can also see which streets police are monitoring for speeding.

The North Canton Police Department has rolled out a new online speed data website that allows residents to see where speeding problems are occurring throughout the city. The goal is greater transparency and helping residents understand where enforcement efforts are focused. You can check out the website here on this link.

Source:

🔗: North Canton Police Department launches new speed data website

👮 Sheriffs Push for an Elected Cuyahoga County Sheriff

Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel speaks to Cuyahoga County Council with sheriffs from Northeast Ohio behind him on June 23, 2026.

Sheriffs from across Ohio are encouraging Cuyahoga County leaders to return to electing their sheriff rather than appointing one. Supporters argue elected sheriffs provide greater accountability directly to voters, while others believe the current appointment system better serves the county’s needs. It also ties back to last week’s episode, where Robert and Tom discussed two different sheriff stories—highlighting why experienced, accountable leadership in Ohio’s sheriff’s offices matters to communities across the state.

Source:

🔗: Northeast Ohio sheriffs lobby Cuyahoga County Council for an elected sheriff

🏢 What Is the Future of the I-X Center?

Fed-up show producers are sharing details about behind-the-scenes efforts to keep events at Cleveland's I-X Center for the next few years — as complex real estate talks make compromise seem unlikely.

The future of one of Northeast Ohio’s most recognizable venues remains uncertain. Event organizers continue expressing frustration after a year of stalled negotiations and unanswered questions about the facility’s future. At the same time, Cleveland officials say a manufacturing project being considered for the property could bring hundreds of new jobs and millions in payroll, leaving many wondering what comes next for the iconic I-X Center.

Sources:

🔗: ‘End of our rope.’ I-X Center event producers speak up after year in limbo, stalled talks

🔗: Cleveland says a manufacturer eyeing the I-X Center could bring 700 jobs, $72M in payroll

🌟 Good Things

💰 Ohio’s Unclaimed Funds Continue to Grow

Photo by: News 5 News 5 interviewed a woman, who moved away from Ohio to avoid a domestic situation, and is waiting for nearly $500,000 in unclaimed funds to help her rebuild her life.

Ohio still has billions of dollars in unclaimed funds waiting to be returned to residents, including one woman owed nearly half a million dollars. While the funds are available, processing delays are frustrating people who are waiting to receive what is theirs. It’s another reminder to periodically check Ohio’s unclaimed funds database—you never know what might be waiting. What’s the holdup?

Source:

🔗: Woman owed nearly $500,000 in unclaimed funds waits 6+ months as backlog continues

🌊 Gordon Park Gets a Fresh Start

A major transformation is now underway at Gordon Park on Cleveland’s east side. Cleveland Metroparks has officially started a $10 million renovation project aimed at turning the southern section of the park into a new neighborhood gathering space along the lakefront. Cleveland Metroparks said this redesign is all about opening the lakefront back up to the community.

A major transformation is underway at Cleveland’s Gordon Park, where the Cleveland Metroparks has kicked off a $10 million renovation designed to turn the southern portion of the park into a vibrant neighborhood gathering place along the Lake Erie shoreline. The project will feature expanded green space shaded by mature trees, scenic lake views, and a new walking loop that park visitors have long enjoyed.

The renovation is being funded through an $8 million grant from the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, along with $2 million from Cleveland Metroparks. Construction is expected to continue through next spring, with the newly renovated park scheduled to reopen in summer 2027, giving Clevelanders an even better place to enjoy the lakefront for years to come.

Source:

🔗: Gordon Park renovation aims to bring community back to the lakefront

📢 Subscribe & Share

If you enjoy staying informed about what’s happening across Ohio without all the noise, be sure to subscribe to Crooked River Cast so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with your friends and family, follow CRC Ohio News on X , and join the conversation. We’ll be taking a short summer break, but we’ll be back soon with more Ohio news, more discussion, and plenty more to talk about.

🎙️ Before we sign off for our summer break, we want to wish everyone a safe and Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸 As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary of freedom, we hope you take time to enjoy family, friends, and everything that makes this country special. 🎆 Have an amazing summer, and we’ll be back in a few weeks with more Ohio news and conversation.

Political Violence Debate, Supreme Court Fallout & Local Government Decisions — Crooked River Cast Show 59 🎙

Robert and Tom kicked things off with their usual weekly updates. Robert opened with a cheerful “May the 4th be with you”—since this episode drops on Monday, May 4, 2026—though Tom, predictably, wasn’t having it. Not much new on the personal front, except Robert’s back acting up… possibly due to the overwhelming power of his new 5G fiber internet 😅. From there, they dove straight into the big story of the week: the third assassination attempt on former President Trump, and the broader conversation about political violence in America. Let’s roll—because the news sure did this week.

🔪 Suspect’s Photo Raises Alarms Before Attack

Credit: AP This image contained in a court filing shows suspect Cole Tomas. An enhanced version of the image. (Department of Justice via AP)

Investigators revealed that a suspect involved in the attack had taken a photo posing with knives inside a hotel room before the incident. Robert and Tom pointed to the lack of real reaction to yet another attempt, questioning whether people are becoming numb to it happening at all—and whether security protocols are actually keeping up with modern threats.

Source:
🔗: Suspect took photo with knives in hotel room before correspondents’ dinner attack, investigators say

📞 Who Did Trump Call After the Shooting?

President Trump made an extremely unexpected phone call after the White House Correspondents' Association dinner shooting last night — and ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl went public with it on national television.

The aftermath of the shooting sparked intense speculation, including questions about who the former president contacted immediately afterward. The discussion centered on leadership response, communication, and how quickly information spreads in high-stakes moments.

As it turns out, President Trump personally called ABC News reporter Jonathan Karl to check on his safety after the incident—an unexpected move that raised some eyebrows. Trump also said he felt a sense of unity with the media before and after the shooting and made it clear the event should still go on.

He’s talking unity with the same media he calls fake news—maybe they’ll finally see it. Not holding our breath.

Source:
▶️ YouTube: Wait — Trump Called WHO After the Shooting?

⚖️ “It’s Not Both Sides” — The Political Violence Debate

Andy Ngo @MrAndyNgo Whenever I had rare opportunity to go on liberal media to discuss violent extremism by Antifa & the far-left, liberals would cite fatally flawed research that says right-wing violence is the real problem. @bungarsargon explains the flaws in that research.

Robert and Tom pushed back hard on the idea that political violence is evenly distributed across the political spectrum. They highlighted commentary challenging mainstream narratives and questioned how data and media framing shape public perception. The takeaway: accountability matters, and pretending all threats are equal may ignore real patterns.

And at some point, you have to ask—when is Geraldo Rivera going to step away from the camera for good?

Sources:
🔗: ‘This Is A Both Sides Issue- From Babylon Bee
🔗: Andy Ngo on X discussing research on political violence

🏛️ Supreme Court Ruling Could Reshape Congressional Representation

J. Scott Applewhite / AP Democratic Rep. Cleo Fields is seen with members of the Congressional Black Caucus on Wednesday at the Capitol. Fields represents the Louisiana congressional district at the heart of the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling on Wednesday to severely weaken the Voting Rights Act.

A recent Supreme Court decision could significantly reduce minority representation in Congress, depending on how district lines are redrawn. Robert and Tom discussed the long-term political consequences and why court rulings on voting laws often have ripple effects far beyond a single election cycle.

Source:
🔗: Supreme Court paves the way for largest-ever drop in Black representation in Congress

🗳️ Election Day Is May 5 — Show Up and Vote

Photo by: WEWS News 5 Election Guide

With Election Day arriving May 5th, the guys reminded listeners that local elections carry real consequences—sometimes more than national races. School boards, levies, and judicial seats can shape communities for years. Their message was simple: don’t sit this one out.

And really, not much has changed here in Ohio. The state recognizes two major parties—Democrats and Republicans—and one minor party, the Libertarians. Unaffiliated voters can still weigh in on nonpartisan issues and ballot questions.

As for voting rules, you now need to bring a valid photo ID when voting in person. That means an Ohio driver’s license, U.S. passport, or military ID—no more using bank statements or utility bills.

Bottom line: the rules are pretty straightforward. Show up prepared and make your vote count.

Source:
🔗: Everything you need to know about Ohio’s May primary

👨‍👩‍👧 State-Run Family Leave Bill Gains Momentum

Karen Kasler / Statehouse News Bureau Madison Greenspan (center) shares her family's experience as she advocates for paid family leave as Sen. Beth Liston (D-Dublin, right) and Sen. Bill Blessing (R-Colerain Twp.) look on at a press conference on April 23, 2026.

Senate Bill 396 proposes a state-run paid family and medical leave program for Ohio workers. Supporters argue it provides stability during life’s toughest moments, while critics worry about costs and long-term sustainability. Either way, it’s a policy debate that’s heating up.

Source:
🔗: Bipartisan bill would offer state-run paid family, medical leave to Ohio workers

🩺 Assisted Suicide Proposal Sparks Serious Debate

Photo by: Morgan Trau Family members holding up photos of their deceased loved ones. A group of Ohio Democrats has introduced a bill that would legalize medically assisted death for terminally ill patients.

Another controversial bill would allow medically assisted death in Ohio. Robert and Tom acknowledged the deeply personal nature of the issue, noting that lawmakers are balancing compassion, ethics, and legal safeguards in a conversation that touches nearly every family at some point.

Source:
🔗: Ohio lawmakers introduce bill to allow for medically assisted death

🥃 A 158-Year-Old Distilling Ban May Head to the Supreme Court

Pictured left to right Andrew M. Grossman, John Ream, and Robert Alt. (Photo courtesy of The Buckeye Institute). The U.S. Supreme Court could be the next step for a case challenging a 158-year-old federal ban on home distilling involving Licking County resident John Ream.

Believe it or not, federal law still bans home distilling—something dating back more than a century. A case involving an Ohio resident could push the issue to the Supreme Court, raising questions about outdated regulations and personal freedom.

Source:
🔗: U.S. Supreme Court could hear challenge to home distilling ban involving Licking County resident

🏚️ Elderly Residents Being Left at Shelters

Eastland Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, in Columbus. Credit: Google Maps.CMS has faulted Eastland Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and six others in the past few years related to efforts to discharge patients to homeless shelters, most of which were ultimately carried out.

One of the most troubling stories this week involved nursing homes reportedly discharging elderly patients directly to homeless shelters. Robert and Tom didn’t mince words—calling it a failure of both oversight and compassion.

Source:
🔗: Ohio’s nursing homes are dumping patients at homeless shelters

🚛 Fraudulent IDs Case Sparks Trucking Safety Concerns

Investigators with the Ohio State Highway Patrol are releasing a detailed timeline surrounding 50-year-old Modou Ngom’s history. Ngom is accused of killing a family of three earlier this month, after not stopping in an Interstate 71 construction zone in Delaware County. He was indicted on April 16 on three counts of aggravated vehicular homicide and four counts of vehicular assault, all felonies. Prosecutors, however, now say Ngom made no attempt to brake. His indictment shows he also uses the name Lamine Gaye.
Three people, including a 1-year-old, died after a semi-truck plowed into stopped traffic in a work zone on Interstate 71, triggering a pileup involving nine vehicles, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The crash happened along I-71 in Delaware County and killed a family of three: Lynnea Soposki, Luke Soposki, and their 1-year-old son, Logan. The Ohio State Highway Patrol was among the first to arrive at the scene. Modou F. Ngom, 50, of Columbus, was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide following the collision. He was booked into the Delaware County Jail.

A semi driver accused of using fraudulent identification has reignited debate about safety standards and certification requirements in commercial trucking. The hosts pointed out that when regulations break down, the risks extend far beyond the driver. More information regarding this semi driver’s citizen status is here: Ohio truck driver charged in pileup that killed 3, including infant

Source:
🔗: Semi driver accused of using fraudulent IDs sparks push for English requirement in driver certification

🎓 Senate Bill 1 — Progress Report With Caveats

The architect of Ohio’s Senate Bill 1 said he’s pleased with compliance with the measure’s mandates so far, but said there is more work to do on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion front, which the bill prohibits. In an exclusive interview with Ohio.News, state Sen. Jerry Cirino, R-Kirtland, touted the bill’s success but acknowledged some provisions still have some holdouts.

Senator Jerry Cirino says he’s pleased with the progress of Senate Bill 1, but questions remain about how effectively the reforms will address concerns in higher education. Robert and Tom pointed out that despite legislative efforts, some schools may still be continuing DEI-related programming—raising questions about enforcement and what these reforms actually change on campus.

Sources:
🔗: Sen. Jerry Cirino says he’s ‘pleased’ with progress of Senate Bill 1 so far
🔗: Undercover video shows that Bowling Green State still has DEI, while some law schools still require DEI courses to graduate

🚓 Sheriff Raids 911 Call Center in Corruption Investigation

Public Corruption Unit executes search warrants at administration building and 911 center The Lorain County Sheriff's Office executed search warrants at the County Administration Building and 911 Center amid an ongoing investigation.

Things escalated quickly in Lorain County when the sheriff’s office executed search warrants at a government building and 911 center. The story raised serious questions about transparency, accountability, and trust in local institutions.

Source:
🔗: Lorain County Sheriff’s Office Public Corruption Unit executes search warrants at administration building and 911 center

🏗️ Cuyahoga County Moves Ahead With New Jail Project

Photo by: HOK; Cuyahoga County A rendering shows the sheriff's administration building near the main entrance to Cuyahoga County's planned corrections campus in Garfield Heights.

County officials cleared a major hurdle in plans to build a new jail, despite ongoing debate over cost and location. Robert and Tom discussed whether taxpayers are getting the full picture—and whether the project will solve the problems it’s meant to address.

Source:
🔗: Efforts to build new Cuyahoga County jail clear major hurdle

🏈 Browns Break Ground — Super Bowl Dreams in Cleveland?

Cleveland Browns groundbreaking ceremony at the construction site of their new stadium, April 30, 2026

The Browns officially broke ground on their new stadium project, fueling speculation about major events down the road—including the possibility of hosting a Super Bowl. Exciting news for fans, but as the guys pointed out, big projects always come with big price tags.

Source:
🔗: Super Bowl in Cleveland? What we learned at Browns stadium groundbreaking event

🌟 Good Things

🌤️ More Daylight Is Finally Here

James Parish @JamesParishWX ☀️⏰ Longer, brighter days ahead - Cleveland will gain 57 minutes of daylight this May‼️ #ohwx #cleveland #daylight #may

Spring is doing its thing, and Cleveland is gaining nearly an hour of daylight this month. After a long winter, that extra sunshine feels like a small but meaningful win.

Source:
🔗: Cleveland will gain 57 minutes of daylight this May

🎪 Festival Season Is Around the Corner

All America 250-Ohio Events Join communities across Ohio in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with events that honor the past and ignite the future. From festivals and historical reenactments to art exhibitions and civic conversations, the Events Calendar is your guide to statewide moments of inspiration and celebration. Explore upcoming events and be part of history in the making.

If you’re looking for something to do, Ohio’s festival calendar is starting to fill up fast. From community fairs to statewide celebrations, there’s plenty to look forward to as warmer weather settles in.

Source:
🔗: Festivals and Events – Ohio Festivals and Events Association Events Calendar

📢 Subscribe & Share

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