Ohio Politics Explained: Recent Episodes
Ohio Politics Explained
You give us 15 minutes a week, and we will give you all the Ohio politics news you need to sound smart and impress your friends.
Show Host: Anna Staver, Ohio politics reporter for USA TODAY GANNETT NETWORK
We discuss domestic abuse allegations against Ohio Rep. Max Miller, Vivek Ramaswamy's data center plan and the uncertainty facing Haitians in Springfield.
We discuss the latest in the race between Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton, who are running to replace Gov. Mike DeWine.
We discuss a child abuse case in Vinton County, an ethics complaint against JobsOhio, a new law that could change traffic stops and how two U.S. Supreme Court decisions reverberated in Ohio.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's call to end capital punishment in Ohio, plus legislation that would provide property tax relief to seniors and allow students to play sports at another school.
We discuss legislation to change Medicaid and mail-in voting, the photo ID amendment heading to the November ballot and why an effort to regulate data centers went off the rails.
We sat down with Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost to discuss his early resignation and some of the big issues he's leaving behind.
We discuss a lawsuit over school vouchers, a proposal to slash the gas tax and why Ohio is getting a new attorney general.
We discuss the key races on Ohio's May 5 primary ballot and what you need to know to vote.
We discuss the ongoing fight over abortion access, potential changes to Medicaid, a recent visit from former Vice President Mike Pence and the latest effort to rein in JobsOhio.
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.
We discuss the prevalence of drug smuggling in Ohio's prisons and what the state can do to stem the tide.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition, we talk about Ohio’s upcoming May primary election, JobsOhio, and how a new dangerous dog law takes effect on March 20. Finally, we discuss how Ohio is restricting THC drinks and hemp products.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's final State of the State, President Donald Trump's visit to southwest Ohio and why Sen. Jon Husted testified in a case tied to the House Bill 6 scandal.
We discuss the sudden resignation of former Ohio State University president Ted Carter and what comes next.
We discuss Ohio's cannabis referendum, sports teams that want to spend unclaimed funds, a request for voter information from the Department of Justice and why Sen. Jon Husted will likely testify in a corruption trial.
We discuss Ohio billionaire Les Wexner's ties to Jeffrey Epstein and his Feb. 18 testimony before a congressional panel.
Ohio lawmakers passed a major overhaul of the property tax system. Is it enough to help homeowners?
We discuss an effort to repeal the new marijuana and hemp law, what happened in Springfield this week and who's winning the money race for Ohio governor.
We discuss why Ohio is preparing for immigration enforcement in Springfield and a new trial starting in the House Bill 6 scandal.
We discuss Vice President JD Vance's visit to Toledo, a sharp drop in health care enrollment and legislation to ban 17-year-olds from getting married.
We discuss rumors about Columbus day cares, the U.S. attack on Venezuela and who Ohio's governor candidates chose as their running mates.
Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert to look back on big moments that happened in Ohio politics in 2025. During this episode, we also talk about what we’re looking ahead to in 2026.
We discuss why childcare is so expensive in Ohio and what state officials are trying to do about it.
We discuss bills before Gov. Mike DeWine that could slash property taxes and change Ohio's recreational marijuana law.
We discuss the end of the federal government shutdown, the latest in the Ohio governor's race and a bill dealing with religious alternatives to health care.
We discuss what the federal government shutdown means for SNAP, problems at Central State University and how Ohio's congressional map could change for 2026.
We discuss lawmakers' latest efforts to regulate marijuana and hemp and how the Ohio House wants to cut $2 billion in property taxes.
We discuss Ohio's pause on executions and what the future may hold when Gov. Mike DeWine leaves office.
We discuss the latest action on property taxes, an increase in out-of-state abortions, how abortion opponents want to change health class and why marijuana companies are suing Ohio.
We discuss the Legislature's plan to tackle high property taxes, Ohio's first redistricting meeting and how Republicans are touting unity for the 2026 election.
We discuss the fallout from Charlie Kirk's assassination, union endorsements in the 2026 election and the latest lawsuit involving Ohio's teacher pension system.
We discuss Sen. Bernie Moreno's first months in office, a new Trump directive on sexual education and what's on the agenda when Ohio lawmakers return to Columbus.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's decision to send Ohio National Guard members to Washington, D.C., and how Sherrod Brown's Senate campaign announcement is shaping the 2026 election.
We discuss the first year of adult-use marijuana sales in Ohio and what's in store for the program going forward.
We discuss a viral street fight in Cincinnati and how it became a talking point for Ohio politicians.
We discuss former Sen. Sherrod Brown's political future, fundraising in the Ohio governor's race and why Vice President JD Vance returned to Ohio.
We discuss why political outsiders, from JD Vance to Vivek Ramaswamy, are becoming more popular with Ohio voters.
We discuss why Ohio will draw a new congressional map, the latest with a lawsuit over school vouchers and how the Ohio House voted on Gov. Mike DeWine's budget vetoes.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's budget vetoes, a lawsuit over Browns stadium money, what President Trump's "big, beautiful bill" means for Ohio and how LGBTQ advocates are trying to change the state constitution.
We discuss the two-year state budget and what Gov. Mike DeWine may do when it reaches his desk.
We discuss the new leader of the Ohio Democratic Party, the latest with the budget process, a fight over abortion waiting periods and how the Make America Healthy Again agenda is trickling into Ohio.
We discuss the Ohio Senate's proposed budget, a plan that would transform the property tax system and what's next for House Minority Leader Allison Russo.
Ten years ago, Jim Obergefell's U.S. Supreme Court case made gay marriage the law of the land. What does he make of LGBTQ rights in Ohio today?
We discuss a new plan to change Ohio's marijuana law, a surprise pardon from President Donald Trump, why lawmakers want to limit immigrants' property rights and how Trump's budget bill could affect Ohio Medicaid patients.
We discuss a proposed amendment to abolish property taxes, a plan to expand gambling, sexual misconduct allegations against a state lawmaker and why Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis visited Ohio.
We discuss leadership changes at the Ohio Democratic Party, a bipartisan plan to relieve medical debt, the latest with Larry Householder and why lawmakers want to ban ranked choice voting.
We discuss the May 6 election, problems with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, a bill to revamp state energy policy and the latest with the Cleveland Browns stadium.
Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel joined Ohio Politics Explained to discuss his new job, higher education and whether he's thinking about a run for governor in 2026.
We discuss how Trump tariffs are affecting Ohio's pension systems, a new House Bill 6 documentary, a court ruling on Ohio's social media law for teens and why lawmakers don't want coroners to be elected.
We dissect Ohio's school voucher program and whether it's working as Republican lawmakers intended.
We discuss the two-year budget that passed the House, a key endorsement for Sen. Jon Husted and a proposal to ban China and Russia from buying property in Ohio.
We discuss a budget plan from House lawmakers, how Ohio Democrats are navigating Trump's second term and a new proposal to limit teens' social media use.
We discuss legislation to regulate hemp in Ohio, Sherrod Brown's next steps, the latest with Ohio's teacher pension system and how a Trump executive order could shape elections.
We discuss the latest on the higher ed bill, Sherrod Brown's next steps, whether Ohio could eliminate the state income tax and a lawsuit over Ohio's ban on gender-affirming care for minors.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's State of the State address, an Ohio Supreme Court case involving a former Columbus pastor and the latest directive to universities from the Trump administration.
Ohio fails to hold dog owners accountable when their dogs maim and even kill people, an investigation by USA TODAY Network Ohio found.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition, we recap how President Donald Trump called on Congress to eliminate the CHIPS Act, talk about how Ohio’s marijuana program is likely to see some changes, and mention what’s happening with DEI and Senate Bill 1. Finally, we discuss Ohio’s governor race and the endorsements that Vivek Ramaswamy recently received.
We discuss DEI programs at Ohio colleges, a new transgender bathroom law, Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign launch and a bill to change Ohio's marijuana program.
We discuss how the Trump administration could affect Ohio's universities and Medicaid program, possible changes to Ohio's marijuana law and the latest on Gov. Mike DeWine's return-to-work order.
We discuss Jim Tressel's appointment as lieutenant governor, a controversial higher ed bill passed by the Senate, the state of JobsOhio, and more.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's budget proposal, Larry Householder's appeal, a new bill to regulate underage drinking and the musical chairs of the 2026 election.
We discuss how President Donald Trump's immigration policies are affecting Ohio, proposed changes to the recreational marijuana law, a new plan to end the death penalty and why parents want the state to take action on child care.
We discuss Inauguration Day, the 2026 governor's race, new indictments in the House Bill 6 scandal and a bill that would eliminate DEI at universities.
We discuss the latest on Inauguration Day, potential changes to Ohio's Medicaid program and how the Ohio Republican Party chair made waves this week.
We discuss the latest with Ohio's Senate appointment, a new legislative session, which bills just became law and the first Democrat to join the 2026 race for governor.
We discuss the end of this year's lame duck session and what's ahead for Ohio politics in 2025.
We talk with one of Ohio's longest-serving lawmakers as he prepares to retire this month.
We discuss the latest on fracking, a bill that would ban the teaching of "gender ideology" in schools, whether lawmakers will pass a hemp ban and which Ohioans got pardoned by President Joe Biden.
We discuss depressed Democratic turnout in the Nov. 5 election, a controversial pension bill, another fight over Ohio's abortion laws and why an Amish order is suing the state.
We discuss the battle for Ohio House speaker, the outcome of the 9th Congressional District race, how Sen.-elect Bernie Moreno views Donald Trump's cabinet picks and what might be next for Sen. Sherrod Brown.
We discuss the campaign for Vice President-elect JD Vance's Senate seat and how Ohio lawmakers will spend the final weeks of their two-year legislative session.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we recap Tuesday’s general election and breakdown all the important race outcomes.
We discuss mass voter challenges, an Ohio Supreme Court ruling on animal abuse, why infant deaths are increasing and how Ohio officials accidentally charged a dead person with illegal voting.
We discuss new rules for who can use ballot drop boxes, the current state of our congressional map, how transgender issues are dominating the Ohio Senate race and why House Republicans owe $1.6 million.
We discuss a key Ohio congressional race, why the Senate candidates may not debate, the status of a law banning foreign campaign contributions and how lawmakers are spending money on private schools.
We talk with supporters and opponents of Issue 1 and explain everything you need to know about the November ballot measure.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we recap Tuesday's Vice Presidential debate. talk about how Ohio's voter registration deadline is quickly approaching, and discuss the recent abortion data that came out earlier this week.
We discuss the race between Sen. Sherrod Brown and businessman Bernie Moreno and how Ohio could tip the scales in the U.S. Senate.
We discuss why Bernie Moreno is facing criticism for his abortion comments, the latest infighting in Ohio's teacher pension system, a key endorsement for the anti-Issue 1 campaign and why Larry Householder is still spending campaign money.
We discuss the candidates running for Ohio Supreme Court in November and which issues are dominating those races.
We discuss the latest news out of Springfield, threats against Secretary of State Frank LaRose's office, what happened with the Issue 1 lawsuit and the state of Ohio's youth prisons.
We break down how Springfield found itself in the middle of a national immigration debate - and what is and is not happening in the community.
We discuss Sen. JD Vance's record on addiction recovery, the status of Larry Householder's appeal, an effort by Republicans to recruit poll watchers for Ohio and how lawmakers want to change the rules around name, image and likeness.
We discuss the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and who showed up from Ohio -- and didn't.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Erin Glynn on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we preview next week’s Democratic National Convention in Chicago, how JD Vance and Tim Walz will face off in an official debate, and recap everything that happened in Ohio’s first week of recreational marijuana sales. Finally, we talk about how Ohio Secretary of state Frank LaRose announced election violation allegations, and how the Ohio Supreme Court will decide a frozen embryo case between a devoiced couple.
A decade ago, Ohio's former deputy state treasurer Amer Ahmad fled the country to avoid sentencing in federal court in a bribery and kickback scheme − traveling to San Diego, walking into Mexico and flying to Pakistan with a suitcase full of cash. Retired FBI agent Jeff Williams joined Ohio Politics Explained podcast to dust off the details on this nearly forgotten public corruption case. Williams served as team leader of a Columbus-based public corruption team that investigated the case.
Campaigns to rein in payday lending led to the downfall of two Democrats serving in the Ohio House: Carlton Weddington and Clayton Luckie. Retired FBI agent Jeff Williams joined the Ohio Politics Explained podcast recently to talk about how one case led to the next and what lessons can be learned.
We discuss the launch of recreational marijuana sales, how Sen. Sherrod Brown is snubbing his party, the latest in a fight for transgender health care for minors and why Ohio leaders are talking about redistricting in Iowa.
We discuss Gov. Mike DeWine's take on the redistricting proposal on the November ballot, how Ohio is modernizing state IDs, what Donald Trump said about JD Vance this week and why the state is removing people from the voter rolls.
We discuss the latest in the presidential race, a proposal to change how Ohio draws district maps, why a federal judge blocked a state election law and how lawmakers want to help workers with disabilities.
We recap the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee and how Ohio grabbed the spotlight.
We discuss the fallout in Ohio from the first debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, how a campaign to raise the minimum wage unraveled and why some lawmakers want to make it easier for students to get religious instruction.
We discuss the Legislature's final session of the summer, Attorney General Dave Yost's political future and what the veepstakes mean for Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance.
We discuss a 2018 donation from FirstEnergy to help Gov. Mike DeWine, a bill that aims to help people with developmental disabilities, what's happening with Ohio's Senate race how a federal court ruling could affect LGBTQ Ohioans.
We discuss a fight over hospital price transparency, the results of Ohio's 6th Congressional District special election, why lawmakers want to ban ticket quotas and how much the state could spend on local projects.
We discuss the status of recreational marijuana in Ohio, how lawmakers want to tackle high property taxes, what Republicans are saying about Trump's conviction and the status of a controversial higher education bill.
A USA TODAY Network Ohio investigation found at least 219 people died in county jails over four years. Where is the system falling short?
We discuss President Joe Biden's ballot status, a new plan to tweak the recreational marijuana law, why Republicans want to crack down on foreign campaign money and how some lawmakers want to change private school standards.
This week, we discuss chaos in Ohio's teacher pension system, a new challenge to Ohio abortion restrictions, why J.D. Vance ended up on Donald Trump's VP shortlist and how an obscure law could penalize student protesters.
We discuss President Joe Biden's status on the November ballot, a bill to limit cell phone use in schools, how one lawmaker wants to combat antisemitism and why Ohio doesn't require dark money disclosures.
We discuss the politics of campus protests, a new proposal to raise the minimum wage, what marijuana rescheduling means for Ohio and how lawmakers changed a controversial parents' rights bill.
We discuss the latest in the Biden ballot debacle, a key ruling in the lawsuit over Ohio's ban on gender-affirming care for minors, how Gov. Mike DeWine wants to solve the child care crisis and why marijuana sales could start sooner than expected.
This week we discuss how former PUCO chairman Sam Randazzo has died by suspected suicide, how FirstEnergy gave $1 M in donations through dark money groups to back Jon Husted, and how Ohio House GOP votes to take control of House campaign funds. Finally, we talk about how President Joe Biden won’t make it on the November Ohio ballot unless state law is changed and recap the key takeaways from Gov. Mike DeWine’s State of the State address.
We discuss the latest lawsuit over abortion access, a new bill to deal with parking payments, why marijuana users can't smoke in public and how Sam Randazzo's Christmas costume ended up in court filings.
We discuss new charges against former House Speaker Larry Householder, shoot houses for armed school employees, double-dipping in the Medicaid program and a lawsuit over Ohio's ban on gender-affirming care for transgender minors.
We dissect the results from Ohio's 2024 primary and what lies ahead for the November general election.
This week, we discuss the last days of Ohio's Senate primary, a proposed ballot issue to raise the minimum wage, why Gov. Mike DeWine wants to limit cell phones in schools and what state officials are saying about the solar eclipse.
This week, we discuss the latest Republican U.S. Senate debate, what the governor’s adviser knew about a payment to Sam Randazzo, why a Republican dropped out of an Ohio congressional race and how a state Supreme Court decision could affect college students.
Ohio is no longer the presidential battleground it once was. What does that mean for 2024?
We break down the key races on the March 19 primary ballot, from the Republican U.S. Senate race to contentious Ohio House primaries.
This week, we discuss Larry Householder's appeal, which companies get to frack under Ohio parks, why Donald Trump Jr. visited Butler County and how Republicans want to change campaign finance laws.
This week, we discuss the big issues in Ohio's U.S. Senate race, who's running in the Ohio Supreme Court primary and why closed-door deals are a problem in the House Bill 6 case.
USA Today Network Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker speaks with politics reporter Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we discuss new charges in Ohio’s largest public corruption case HB 6, how Ohioans who worked from home during COVID are not eligible for a tax refund, discuss how a social media law was put on hold, and what state parks have planned for the upcoming April eclipse.
This week, we discuss $350 million in state spending, why fracking bids are kept secret, how lawmakers are dealing with property tax woes and the latest in a fight over the teachers' pension board.
We discuss a new death penalty proposal, how Ohio wants to make school buses safer, why liberal groups are funding redistricting reform and what's holding up rail safety a year after the East Palestine derailment.
This week, we break down Ohio's first Republican Senate debate, a proposed plan to get rid of state income taxes and two veto overrides that set new laws on tobacco and transgender health care.
This week, we discuss the latest with Sam Randazzo, which Ohio Senate candidate got sued for overtime, how lawmakers want to improve school attendance and why Gov. Mike DeWine is going after delta-8 THC.
This week, we discuss the latest with House Bill 68, what's happening with Ohio's new social media law and more.
We discuss who has momentum in Ohio's U.S. Senate race, whether lawmakers will override Gov. Mike DeWine's veto of House Bill 68, why the attorney general is touting a study on permit-less carry, and how some school districts are pushing back against sex ed requirements.
We dissect everything that happened in Ohio politics this year and what's in store for 2024.
This week, we break down new developments in Ohio's abortion lawsuit and what lawmakers did -- and didn't do -- to close out 2023.
During this Ohio Politics Explained episode we talk about how Ohio’s recreational marijuana law goes into effect on today, next we discuss how former PUCO chairman Sam Randazzo was indicted on bribery and fraud charges in federal court, and how Ohio lawmakers are one step closer to making daylight saving time permanent. Finally, we talk about how an attorney was suspended for pooping into a Pringles can.
This week, we discuss a new development in the House Bill 6 scandal, what happened with Ohio’s new statehouse maps, how one Republican wants to change the marijuana law, and why a controversial higher education bill may not pass.
We explain the latest with fracking in state parks, how young voters could shape 2024, when the new marijuana law might change, and why some Republicans want to take power from the judicial branch.
A USA TODAY Network Ohio investigation found Ohio’s youth prison system is plagued by violence, staffing shortages and a failure to rehabilitate kids. We break down the project’s findings and what needs to change.
We break down the Nov. 7 election results and what comes next for abortion access and the state's new recreational marijuana program.
We explain everything Ohioans need to know about Issue 1 and Issue 2 ahead of Election Day on Nov. 7.
We explain which former state lawmaker is in trouble, why Michigan may not like Issue 2, what you need to know about voter ID rules, and how the Supreme Court ruled on a property theft sentence.
We explain a lawsuit over reading, who will benefit if Issue 2 passes, efforts to get rid of Ohio’s same-sex marriage ban, and how much money the U.S. Senate candidates raised.
We explain what's up with the Ohio House, how LGBTQ advocates got a win this week, where the 2024 U.S. Senate candidates stand on abortion, and what comes next for redistricting reform.
We're explaining the fight over who controls education in Ohio, whether Jim Jordan will be the new speaker, who had an abortion in 2022, and why staffers keep leaving Frank LaRose.
We're explaining why Democrats voted for maps they didn't like, what Ohio might do to lower property taxes, and the future of Ohio's abortion ban.
We’re explaining what new statehouse maps might look like, whether voters might be swayed by ballot language, and when Ohio might lease state parks for drilling.
We’re explaining why the next round of redistricting got off to a rocky start, how universal vouchers might cost more than expected, and when you will start seeing abortion ads on television.
We explain what started a 2023 prison riot and why it took nearly a year for the answer, how the fight over our Congressional map ended, and whether a Senate candidate is living up to his promise.
This week we're explaining your property taxes, whether Bob Young will lose his chairmanship, how JD Vance navigates his first year and why parental consent is a hot topic.
We're explaining how Ramaswamy fared in his first presidential debate, which schools are arming staff, why the Cleveland Browns are getting into politics, and the reasons a redistricting amendment got rejected.
We're explaining how Householder's guilty verdict might be a window in the charges Trump faces in Georgia, what Marijuana making the November ballot means for abortion and what legal changes will impact your kids this school year.
This week we're explaining the special election results, what the reaction has been, and how Issue 1 might impact the abortion vote in November.
We're explaining Ohio's reaction to Trump's indictment, why libertarians are upset with Frank LaRose and whether schools might start hiring chaplains.
Political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert speak with Jeff Williams, former FBI agent on the latest special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we discuss the news splash that the Householder arrest made and the role that super lobbyist Neil Clark played in the largest public correct case in Ohio history.
Political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert speak with Jeff Williams, former FBI agent on the latest special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we discuss Tyler Fehrman, the secret recordings with Matt Borges, and how Juan Cespedes and political consultant Jeff Longstreth were critical to helping the federal case.
Political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert speak with Jeff Williams, former FBI agent on the latest special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we discuss his career with BCI and the FBI, talk about what it is like investigating public corruption cases, and provide details from the day Larry Householder was arrested at his Perry County farmhouse.
Political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert speak with Jeff Williams, former FBI agent on the latest special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we discuss public corruption, dark money, how Larry Householder was sentenced to 20 years in prison and why young FBI agent Blane Wetzel was so important in Ohio’s largest public corruption case.
This week we're explaining when Ohioans will vote on abortion and marijuana. What the governor said about the K-9 incident in Circleville, and where people come down on gun control laws.
This week we're explaining what a new poll means for supporters of Issue 1, why Ohio's attorney general is interested in medical records, what restrictions Republicans want on drag shows, and the new name in the U.S. Senate race.
This week we're explaining how early voting is going, what comes after universal vouchers, why Democrats want to protect Black hairstyles, and Larry Householder's appeal.
During this episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast we spoke with Jenn Miller from the League of Women voters about why she thinks the effort to change how constitutional amendments work is anti-democratic.
Ohio voters might be deciding whether to protect abortion access and legalize recreational marijuana this November.
During this episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast we spoke with Republican Rep. Brian Stewart about why he thinks it should be harder to amend Ohio’s state constitution.
We're explaining what the former speaker's conviction means for Ohio, the takeaways from 2 Supreme Court decisions, and where budget negotiations stand.
We explain how abortion works in Ohio one year after Roe, why Nazis keep protesting drag events, and why Democrats backed a medical freedom bill.
This week we're explaining what's inside the Senate's budget, what two bills would mean for transgender minors, and the new language for Issue 1.
This week we explain how universal vouchers got in the state budget, why LGBTQ groups oppose a parent's bill of rights, what Frank LaRose said about the August election, and the secret recordings of Larry Householder.
This week we’re explaining the ATF rules for gun owners, how a issue group might benefit Frank LaRose, and who wants to speak at Larry Householder’s sentencing.
This week we’re explaining whether a bathroom ban could become law, why Republicans want to change how we teach history, and the legal changes craft brewers want to see.
This week we explain what's next for the controversial higher education bill, what we might see from the Senate's state budget, and why an opioid nonprofit has to share its records.
We're explaining why Republicans are calling a special election, how some late-night text messages cost the lottery director his job, and what's in the rewrite of a higher ed bill.
We explain why Ohio's Supreme Court heard a case about a stolen leaf blower, how tracking someone electronically isn't illegal yet, and what our new election integrity division has been doing.
We break down what made it into the state budget, which politician has the most speeding tickets, the death of Jerry Springer, and what topic united Ohio's former governors.
This week we're breaking down how the House budget would impact you, the latest on abortion and the U.S. Senate race, and the Republican push to make it hard to change the constitution.
One this special episode of OPE, Alan Shaw talks about his company's long-term promises to the people impacted by the Feb. 3 train derailment.
We’re explaining whether medication abortions are still legal, when oil companies could start drilling under state parks and if an effort to raise Ohio’s minimum wage will make the 2024 ballot.
This week we’re diving into Ohio’s reaction the former president's arrest. What the State Supreme Court said about changes to transgender birth certificates, and the election law changes you need to know before May's election.
We're explaining whether Ohioans will be voting this August, why some lawmakers want to ban TikTok, what was in the transportation budget, and why folks are fighting for control of the teacher's pension system.
We're explaining why some lawmakers want to lower the age to be a police officer, what's inside an $11 billion transportation budget, and whether we might have a special election in August.
Signature gather got underway for an abortion amendment this week while Republicans proposed sweeping changes for higher education. Ohio sued Norfolk Southern, and state pension plans lost millions in a bank collapse.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we explain how former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and former Ohio Republican Party Chairman Matt Borges face up to 20 years in federal prison after a jury found them guilty of racketeering conspiracy on Thursday. Finally, we explain when they might be sentenced, and if anyone else might be charged.
Whistleblower Tyler Ferhman sits down with us to explain how he came to wear a wire for the FBI and record conversations with his former mentor that ultimately led to a federal racketeering conviction.
This week, we're explaining the conviction of Former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, whether a tax plan would save you mean, what universal vouchers might cost and how two Republicans want to revamp child custody laws.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the sixth week of the Larry Householder public corruption trail and look ahead to what we know is coming up next.
We're explaining how Larry Householder defended himself in court, why the governor went back to East Palestine, whether you might be money from 2020, and when the governor might gain control of public education.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the fifth week of the Larry Householder public corruption trail and look ahead to what we know is coming up next.
We're explaining a proposal to protection abortion access, who visited East Palestine, why conservatives are backing a bill to restrict transgender medical care and how a settlement from the Boy Scouts requires a legal change here in Ohio.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the fourth week of the Larry Householder trail and look ahead to what we know is coming up next.
We explain why residents are questioning whether their town is safe after a train derailed, who is the Ohio man who might run for president, what kids are learning in sex ed, and how big of a tax cut House Republicans want.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the third week of the Larry Householder trail and look ahead to what we know is coming up next.
We explain when Ohio might vote on abortion, how Amtrak might expand, why House Republicans just can’t get along, and when pandemic benefits will end.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the second week of the Larry Householder trail and look ahead to what we know is coming up next.
This week we're explaining where the governor wants to spend your tax dollars, how a pro-Nazi couple flew under the radar, why we might redo redistricting again, and what happened in the Householder trial.
Host Anna Staver speaks with political reporters Laura Bischoff and Jessie Balmert on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we provide an update of everything that happened in the first week of the Larry Householder trail and look ahead to what we know is coming next week.
We're explaining what happened in Larry Householder's trial, how a rules fight got so contentious, whether Ohio's new vote law is the strictest, and why Ohio might change marijuana OVI laws.
Larry Householder was one of the most powerful politicians in Ohio before a public corruption scandal brought him down. In this special episode of Ohio Politics Explained, we’re explaining Householder’s downfall.
Larry Householder was one of the most powerful politicians in Ohio before a public corruption scandal brought him down. In this special episode of Ohio Politics Explained, we’re explaining Householder’s rise.
This week's podcast explains when Ohio might approve cannabis for people with autism, why a GOP rift in the state House still remains and how 2024's U.S. Senate race has already begun.
State political reporters Jessie Balmert and Laura Bischoff speak with defense attorney David Axelrod on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we address how long it takes for a bribery case to go to trial, Axelrod shares advice on what his clients should do if an FBI agent knocks on their doors, and we discuss why so few cases go to trial.
We're explaining the rift between House Republicans, why the attorney general is already collecting a public pension, what's in a plan to change how we amend the constitution and the big priority bill for Ohio's Senate.
State political reporter Laura Bischoff speaks with guest Todd Snitchler on this special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we provide insight into energy policy, discuss what exactly House Bill 6 is, and explain what FirstEnergy and Energy Harbor are and how the two fit together.
State political reporters Jessie Balmert and Laura Bischoff speak with guest Todd Wickerham on this special edition of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. On this episode we explain what exactly public corruption is, what is needed to open a public corruption investigation, and why the FBI investigates these cases instead of local law enforcement. Finally, we address how widespread public corruption is and how this case alleges a conspiracy to take $61 million in bribe money, pumped through dark money political groups by FirstEnergy, and then pushing through a $1 billion bailout law for the utility.
State political reporter Jessie Balmert speaks with guest Catherine Turcer on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we explain what dark money is, how it was used in the House Bill 6 scandal, and how much transparency we’re seeing with money in Ohio politics.
Gannett politics reporters Jessie Balmert and Laura Bischoff speak with former U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio David DeVillers on this special episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this edition we asked DeVillers to explain topics such as bribery, racketeering and the impact of dark money.
The race to become Speaker of the House took surprising turns in both Ohio and Washington, D.C. this week. Gov. Mike DeWine let cities ban flavored tobacco and took a swipe at sports betting companies.
We break down what it all means in this week's episode of Ohio Politics Explained.
A podcast from the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau that catches you up on the state's political news in 15 minutes or less. This week, host Anna Staver was joined by reporter Jessie Balmert.
From redistricting to a super contentious race for U.S. Senate and pandemic learning losses, these are the stories that made the most waves in 2022.
These four stories stood out because of their impact, their humor and the way they challenged us as writers.
We explain what bills passed, which ones failed, and why you probably won't be able to use a utility bill as identification the next time you go vote.
We explain how natural gas got labeled green energy, why Republicans want to change who oversees education, how ballot initiative became the new battleground, and whether transgender girls can play on female teams.
Further restrictions on abortion and transgender medical for minors are unlikely to pass this year. But criminal justice reform and a plan to make it harder to amend Ohio's constitution are moving forward.
Ohio's state lawmakers are back to legislating in Columbus, and hundreds of people flooded the capitol in opposition to a bill to restrict the kinds of care transgender children can receive.
The House approved new rules for using cell phones will driving, and Senate Republicans unveiled a plan to restructure how the Ohio Department of Education works.
We break down what it all means In this week's episode of Ohio Politics Explained. A podcast created by the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau to catch you up on the state's political news in 15 minutes or less.
This week, host Anna Staver was joined by reporter Laura Bischoff.
We're dissecting how JD Vance won the U.S. Senate race, why Republicans swept the statewide offices, the new supermajorities in the statehouse, and what's on the table for lame duck.
This week we dissect the closing messages in the U.S. Senate race, what early voting can tell us, how Ohioans are feeling as they go to the polls and new numbers on abortion.
This week our entire dream team is in studio to walk you through all the races on your November ballot. From U.S. Senate to who's running for state treasurer, we've got you covered.
We explain how Ohio's youth prisons are struggling with violence, why Republicans are outraising Democrats, how lawmakers plan to spend our COVID cash, and whether abortion will be banned at conception this year.
We explain how Honda gave Gov. DeWine a fantastic October surprise. What the Senates said during their first debate. How the state board of education feels about Title IX changes, and why Josh Mandel's divorce records might soon be unsealed.
This week we detail what ideas Ohio's governor has to make the state more friendly for expectant parents. Why all eyes are on Toledo. How far those at the March for Life rally want to go on abortion, and when is the last day to register to vote.
What more students missing class means for Ohio's children. Why the overhaul of unemployment is going to take even longer, and when we will finally see the U.S. Senate candidates debate.
This week's podcast tackles the opposition to Title IX changes, state Issues 1 and 2, the latest changes to abortion access in Ohio, and the new candidate ordered to be on November's ballot.
An Ohio judge pressed pause on the state's abortion law. Polling puts Gov. Mike DeWine way ahead of Democrat Nan Whaley. Most people don't know the name Larry Householder, but they do want to see debates.
Donald Trump is coming to Ohio to support JD Vance. Abortion clinics shift their cites on a county court judge, and Ohio's GOP gets into a fight over who's in charge.
Dayton's only abortion clinic is closing, but newly registered female voters could change that in the future. Did Democratic candidates flip-flop on student loan forgiveness? And why is Ohio searching for thousands of abandoned oil wells?
This week President Joe Biden announced plans to cut student loan debt for up to 45 million borrowers, Ohio lawmakers announced plans for added protections of the thin blue line flag, USA TODAY launched a national voting rights guide and Ohio's annual liquor lottery is about to wrap up.
Join Ohio Bureau Chief Anthony Shoemaker and political reporter Laura Bischoff as we break down what it all means on this week's episode of Ohio Politics Explained.
Read More: Ohio Politics Explained: Student loan debt, Ohio may protect thin blue line flag
One Ohio Republican takes another chance on finding gun reforms his party will accept. President Joe Biden announced a visit and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted reacted to text messages about his efforts to pass a nuclear bailout.
We break down what it all means on this week's episode of Ohio Politics Explained.
It's a podcast from the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau where we catch you up on the state's political news in 15 minutes or less. This week, host Anna Staver was joined by reporter Jessie Balmert.
New text messages confirm how hard the DeWine administration lobbied for a nuclear bailout. A new study shows a spike in youth anxiety. Ohio lawmakers react to the FBI on Trump's home, and Tim Ryan's pitch down the middle.
We explain how low turnout impacted Ohio's second primary, what the Kansas abortion vote means, where gun laws stand three years after Dayton, and how a bill to help veterans stalled in Congress.
Ohio's governor says he won't ban contraception. A billionaire bets on JD Vance. Cannabis is floated as a treatment for opioid addiction, and Intel's plans for Ohio get a boost from Congress.
Sen. Rob Portman will co-sponsor a bill protecting gay marriage. Democrats call on the attorney general to resign. Ohio's Court rejected another Congressional map, and what's happening two years after Larry Householder's arrest?
This week we explain the evidence in the rape case of 10-year-old girl who recently had an abortion and the political reaction to his arraignment. Why a Republican wants to make sure you can pay in cash, and how inaction on redistricting might impact public education.
Will the latest police shooting finally move a bill on police reform. How a 10-year-old's abortion became national news. Republicans joke about impeaching Ohio's chief justice. And the confusion over who is running where in the August primary.
We're explaining four ways the overturning of federal abortion protections impact Ohioans from the current six week ban to the legality of abortion by mail and whether Ohio could amend its own state constitution.
This week we explain the wait for a decision on abortion. Why the governor won't suspend gas taxes, how to renew your license online and why one Republican state senator still believes in post-Trump politics.
We explain how Ohio's new conceal carry law works. Whether federal gun control legislation will pass. How Columbus might try to work around the state's gun laws, and what the Biden Administration's executive orders mean for LGBTQ Ohioans.
Ohio's new chief of education is out. Doctors question proposed exams to play sports. How Ohio's U.S. representatives voted on gun control, and why some candidates sued over the August primary.
We explain how the rules might change for teachers who want to keep guns in their classrooms. Why Ohio is giving Intel $1 billion. The results of our very own statewide poll. And why transgender girls might be banned from playing on female sports teams.
This week we're giving a brief history of Ohio's gun laws, explaining why we retain third-graders, what constitutional changes might be on your ballot in November and redistricting, again.
This week we explain who is Matt Huffman, how an abortion ban got delayed, whether non-citizens vote, and why you might see fewer traffic cameras.
This week we explain why one Ohio Republican wants to take a page from California's playbook. Why food stamps benefits are being cut. How a vote in Congress to protect abortion access failed, and the influence Donald Trump had in our May primary.
This week we explain the primary race results. What a leaked Supreme Court ruling on abortion means for Ohio, and why some nursing homes are charging $800 to install a camera.
We explain how misinformation might be shaping renewable energy policy in Ohio. Why one former lawmakers suggesting hunting feral cat. How Frank LaRose balances Ohio's election integrity against claims of voter fraud, and why a comment about rape and abortions is making national headlines.
In this special election edition, we explain who is on the ballot for governor and U.S. Senate. Why the statehouse primaries aren’t happening until August, and why you should pay attention to those local levies at the bottom of your ballot.
We explain why redistricitng might finally be done. The chances for recreational marijuana. Why 400,000 Ohioans might lose their healthcare, and a lawsuit over the conscience clause.
Former President Donald Trump looks ready to endorse in Ohio's Senate race. Democrats keep pushing on education. The Ohio Supreme Court tossed another set of legislative maps, and a pension finds itself in the middle of a surprisingly contentious election.
We're tackling a controversial education bill nicknamed "Don't Say Gay," one Democrat's personal fight to change sexual assault laws, what's up with redistricting and the mountain of bills lawmakers passed before leaving Columbus.
This week we breakdown the muddled mess that is redistricting, what happened at the Senate and gubernatorial debates, how Republicans want to change cash bail and why disabled parents are unhappy with Ohio's family court system.
This week we explain the governor's wish list of ideas for Ohio, how the Holocaust might derail an education bill, the in your face primary moments and how to participate in the next primary debate.
This week we explain how a political group chat became public, when the new conceal carry law will take effect, what's up with the May primary and how Larry Householder tried to kill a bill from his living room.
This week our podcast explains why DeWine turned down a primary debate, what's happening with the May primary, the ongoing fight over home rule and how Jane Timken is trying balance all sides of the GOP.
We breakdown the latest sets of maps from the redistricting. Why you might not need a permit to carry a concealed weapon. Ohio's reaction to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. And the latest lawsuits and legislation on abortion.
This week we break all the redistricting news. The new rules Republicans want for short-term rentals. Ohio's reaction to Russia invading Ukraine, and when Trump actually endorsed a candidate for governor.
This week we explain how redistricting might impact your kid's education. Whether a proposed law is anti protest or anti riot. Who did and didn't get endorsed this week, and how Larry Householder is still opining on legislation.
Anna Staver speaks with Laura Bischoff on the latest episode of the Ohio Politics Explained podcast. During this episode we discuss how the Ohio Supreme Court rejects another set of maps. Republicans punt on recreational marijuana, and chronic absenteeism rose during the pandemic.
This week we explain how the medical freedom movement found its footing during COVID, which U.S. Senate candidates are self-funding their campaigns, who is and out of state races and what's inside an 1,800 page criminal justice reform bill.
Read More: Vaccine opposition, campaign cash and the 2022 election
This week we explain why we still don't know what Ohio promised Intel. Why the fight over redistricting is headed back to court. What it will mean if Larry Householder goes on trial during the 2022 election, and what a series of Republican retirements says about the Ohio GOP.
Gannett politics reporters Laura Bischoff and Haley BeMiller discuss the latest in politics around the state of Ohio on the newest podcast episode of Ohio Politics Explained. During this edition we discuss how Emilia Sykes is running for Congress, talk about why the name Jim Obergefell sounds familiar, and how a big deal for a semiconductor plants approval is for New Albany. Finally, we mention how some nursing homes have halted admissions due to COVID-19 and the surge of the newest Omicron variant.
This week we explain what Ohio's Supreme Court did to our legislative maps, why Jim Jordan won't testify about Jan. 6, who is Ohio's newest Democrat leader and why a public school district suing over busing.
This week we look back on the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, explain why 100 public schools are suing the state, reveal the Democratic picks for lieutenant governor and what Sen. Rob Portman testing positive says about the rise in COVID-19 cases.
As 2021 comes to a close, our statehouse bureau recaps some of our biggest and most popular stories of the year. The continued fall of former Speaker Larry Householder. The rewriting of public education; And the rise of women running for office.
This week, we explain why Gov. DeWine deployed the national guard, whether marijuana will be on the 2022 ballot, what's happening to abortion clinics in Southwest Ohio and the state's new liquor laws.
This week, we explain the strange scandal surrounding CAIR Ohio's former director, whether concealed carry permits are going away, how CRT found its way into the U.S. Senate race and what an announcement for the 2022 election says about Ohio's Democratic Party.
This week we break down how sports betting is going to work in Ohio, what happened when the state Supreme Court heard arguments on redistricting, the new rules for abortion providers and a not-so-surprising shakeup in Democratic leadership.
This week we discuss Republican Jim Renacci's new running mate, the rules for Venmo-ing donations to political campaigns, a strange proposal for STRS and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted's response to questions about House Bill 6.
Read more: Ohio Politics Explained podcast | Venmo donation rules and a $65 billion idea
This week we breakdown the latest redistricting lawsuit, how Lake County found itself tangled up in the 2020 election conspiracy, a $2.5 million settlement over jail photographs and the latest development in the House Bill 6 scandal.
This week we explain how redistricting got tangled up in the debate over vaccine mandates, the push to expand medical cannabis and where we stand on arming teachers in schools.
On this week's episode, we discuss potential protest laws, a Medicaid lawsuit, the infrastructure bill and the Democratic divide on debates.
This week's episode dives deep into redistricting. Not only do we break down the proposed Congressional maps, but we riff on what new animal shapes come to mind. We also recap what happened on Election Day. And explain how one Republican wants to make buying a gun just a little bit cheaper.
On this week's episode we break down what to expect from Ohio's off-year election next Tuesday, how a letter to Joe Biden broke up a partnership, what exactly the Senate did on abortion and what the state auditor had to say about our unemployment system.
In this episode we talk about whether money can buy Ohio herd immunity, the backwards plane on our new license plate, when Jim Jordan spoke to Trump on Jan. 6 and why defining the stream is actually a controversial topic.
Hello, welcome to Ohio Politics Explained, a new podcast by the USA TODAY NETWORK Ohio Bureau. You give us 15 minutes a week, and we will give you all the Ohio politics news you need to sound smart and impress your friends.
In this week's episode we talk about what's up with vaccine mandates, marijuana legalization, that anti-racist resolution from the state board of education and how Ohio still has spousal exemptions to its rape laws.