Ohio Politicians Defend Blogger DJ Byrnes “The Rooster” After Arrest
Several Ohio political leaders from both Republicans and Democrats are speaking out against the arrest of Columbus political blogger D.J. Byrnes, despite many having previously been targets of his criticism and controversial reporting.
The arrest of Byrnes, who operates the political blog “The Rooster,” has sparked a bipartisan debate over free speech and government overreach. Byrnes faces a misdemeanor telecommunications harassment charge after allegedly sending graphic cartoon images via text message to State Sen. Jerry Cirino, a Republican from Kirtland. Court documents reportedly identify the recipient only by the initials “J.C.”
Cirino has not publicly commented on the case.
The arrest has drawn criticism from politicians and public figures who say the action sets a troubling precedent for political speech.
Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin, a Democrat who has frequently been criticized by Byrnes, questioned the arrest in a June 3 post on X .
“Didn’t realize having the Rooster thrown in jail for annoying me was an option this whole time??? Seems like censorship to me — unacceptable,” Hardin wrote.
Republican attorney and lobbyist Scott Pullins, who represents former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder, also condemned the arrest. While noting that he disagrees with much of Byrnes’ political commentary, Pullins argued that the blogger’s treatment was unjustified.
“I don’t agree with 90% of his politics, but what happened to him yesterday is reprehensible,” Pullins posted.
Pullins further warned against using criminal charges to silence political opponents, asking whether elected officials should be “locking up political critics” and cautioning that political power can shift over time.
Support for Byrnes also came from Brian Steel, president of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge 9. Steel acknowledged policy differences with the blogger but praised his willingness to challenge elected officials from both political parties.
“D.J. questions elected officials on both sides of the aisle, and that’s rare,” Steel said. “He is an asset to the community, fights for transparency, and demonstrates significant courage.”
Former Ohio State Senator Niraj Antani, a Republican who has also been a frequent target of Byrnes’ criticism, echoed concerns about the implications for free speech. Antani shared a quote commonly attributed to French philosopher Voltaire: “I may not agree with what you have to say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”
Antani added, “No one has been attacked by the Rooster more than me. But this is wrong. Freedom of speech in Ohio. Rest in peace. 1803-2026.”
As the case moves forward, it continues to generate discussion across Ohio’s political landscape, with critics arguing that the arrest raises important questions about the limits of political expression and First Amendment protections.