Police Officer Adam Banks leads Columbus’ highest-paid employees in 2024, earning $349K with $204K from overtime.
Columbus, OH – In 2024, the highest-paid employee in Columbus wasn’t a top administrator, but Officer Adam Banks from the Columbus Division of Police. Banks earned $349,699.44, with an impressive $204,143.15 coming from overtime. His overtime pay alone exceeded that of Police Chief Elaine Bryant, who earned $276,050.84 without any overtime.
Overtime Impact on City Payroll
Around 12% of the city’s near $1 billion payroll went to overtime, with over half of that going to the Department of Public Safety, which includes police and fire services.
Top-Paid Employees in Columbus:
Adam Banks, Police Officer: $349,699.44 (including $204,143.15 overtime)
Mysheika Roberts, City Health Commissioner: $294,025.39
Michael Exline, Police Officer: $277,436.27 (including $142,423.01 overtime)
Elaine Bryant, Police Chief: $276,050.84
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office: Top Earners
Deputies at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office also saw hefty overtime pay, with Deputy Michael Christie earning $390,493.45, including $183,516.75 in overtime.
These figures highlight a growing trend: overtime pay is a major factor in the earnings of many public safety workers in Columbus and Franklin County.
Medicaid: Essential Health Coverage for Millions in Ohio and Across the U.S.
Medicaid Cuts Cause Debate in Congress and Challenges for Ohio
Columbus, OH – This week, proposed Medicaid cuts sparked a fierce uproar in Congress during President Donald Trump’s speech, igniting intense debate and controversy. The situation escalated when U.S. Representative Al Green from Texas was kicked out of the chambers after shouting that the president didn’t have the right to cut Medicaid.
In Ohio, Medicaid is crucial. For every dollar Ohio spends on Medicaid, the state gets $0.65 in federal funding. Medicaid covers 3 million Ohioans, including pregnant women, children, seniors, and people with disabilities. It also pays for more than half of all births in the state.
Under the last administration, Medicaid was expanded to help people earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level. In Ohio, that means people making $21,000 or less per year. This expansion gave health coverage to 750,000 more Ohioans, with the federal government covering 90% of the cost.
With possible federal funding cuts on the horizon, Ohio is considering removing the “expansion group” from Medicaid in its state budget. Maureen Corcoran, Director of Ohio’s Medicaid Department, told lawmakers that even a small federal cut of 5% could cost the state $390 million each year.
Corcoran reassured lawmakers that, like in past financial crises, Ohio’s leaders would work together to find a solution to avoid financial hardship.
As the discussion around Medicaid cuts continues, Ohio residents are closely watching how these changes could affect their healthcare access.
U.S. Embassy in Somalia warns of imminent Al-Shabaab threats as militant attacks escalate near Mogadishu.
Al-Shabaab Attacks Escalate in Somalia, Prompting U.S. Embassy Warning
The U.S. Embassy in Somalia has issued a critical security alert, warning of imminent terrorist attacks targeting key locations, including Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. This follows a surge in Al-Shabaab attacks, with militants launching coordinated offensives, seizing strategic towns, and advancing toward the capital.
U.S. Embassy Suspends Movements Over Security Concerns
According to the U.S. Embassy Mogadishu, all personnel movements have been suspended indefinitely due to credible intelligence of potential terrorist activities. The U.S. Department of State has reinforced its Level Four Travel Advisory, urging American citizens to avoid travel to Somalia due to the high risks of terrorism, crime, and civil unrest.
The latest alert follows weeks of intensified Al-Shabaab activity, exposing security gaps in Somalia’s counterinsurgency efforts. Since February 20, the militant group has launched at least nine major attacks across Middle Shabelle and Hiraan regions, briefly capturing Balcad—just 30 kilometers from Mogadishu—before Somali forces repelled them.
Somali Government and AFRICOM Respond with Airstrikes
In response to the escalating threat, Somali security forces, backed by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) airstrikes, have killed over 130 Al-Shabaab militants in recent clashes. However, the terror group has released images of its fighters occupying government buildings, raising concerns about its ability to regroup and exploit security vulnerabilities.
Terrorist Threats to Public Places and Westerners
The U.S. Embassy in Somalia has warned that Al-Shabaab continues to plot bombings, kidnappings, and armed assaults, often with little or no warning. The high-risk locations include:
Government buildings and security checkpoints
Military convoys and bases
Hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers
Airports and public transportation hubs
Limited U.S. Consular Support for Americans in Somalia
With no permanent consular presence, the U.S. government has limited capacity to provide emergency assistance to its citizens in Somalia. Americans currently in the country are strongly urged to:
Exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant
Avoid public gatherings and high-risk areas
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time security updates
Stay Updated on Somalia’s Security Situation
As tensions rise in Somalia, travelers, expatriates, and businesses must remain informed. Follow our updates for the latest security developments, U.S. Embassy warnings, and counterterrorism efforts in the region.
Vivek Ramaswamy leads the 2026 Ohio governor’s race with 61% GOP primary support, according to a Bowling Green State University (BGSU) and YouGov poll. Read the full report for voter insights.
Vivek Ramaswamy Leads Early in 2026 Ohio Governor’s Race, Poll Shows
Columbus, OH– A recent Ohio governor’s race poll highlights former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamyas the early frontrunner for the 2026 GOP primary, while former Senator Sherrod Brown emerges as the top Democratic contender.
The Bowling Green State University (BGSU) Democracy and Public Policy Research Network and YouGov conducted the poll in February 2025, surveying 800 registered Ohio voters. Results show Ramaswamy leading the Republican primary field with 61% support from prospective GOP voters, ahead of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost (24%) and Heather Hill (9%).
Pollsters suggest that Ramaswamy’s higher name recognition is a key factor in his early lead. Notably, the survey was conducted before President Trump’s endorsement, which could further impact the race.
Sherrod Brown Dominates Democratic Field
On the Democratic side, the poll assessed voter preferences for former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton, former Sen. Sherrod Brown, and ex-Rep. Tim Ryan. Brown, who lost his Senate seat in 2024, holds a commanding lead with 59% support, followed by Acton (20%) and Ryan (17%).
In a hypothetical two-way matchup, Acton and Ryan are nearly tied, with 46% and 45% support, respectively.
Key Takeaways from the Poll
Conducted Feb. 14-21, 2025, with a margin of error of ±4%
800 registered Ohio voters participated
Ramaswamy leads the GOP primary field with 61% support
Sherrod Brown holds 59% support among Democratic voters
As the 2026 Ohio governor’s race unfolds, these early poll results provide key insights into voter sentiment. Stay tuned for further updates and analysis.
Stay Alert: Protect Yourself from Ohio Toll Scam Text Messages – Tips to Avoid Fraud
Ohio Toll Scam Alert: How to Protect Yourself from Unpaid Toll Text Message Scams
Columbus, OH – A common scam targeting Ohio residents is making the rounds again, and many Ohioans are now receiving text messages claiming they have unpaid road tolls. These texts often threaten legal action or penalties if the tolls aren’t paid immediately, and some even contain links to fraudulent payment websites.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), scammers are trying to steal both payment and personal information from unsuspecting Ohioans.
Why Are These Toll Scams Happening?
In April 2024, the Ohio Turnpike introduced a new open road tolling system with E-ZPass, which allows drivers to pass through tolls without stopping. While this system has made travel more convenient, it has also led to an increase in scam messages targeting Ohio drivers.
In August 2024, the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission issued a warning about these toll-related scams. To help drivers adjust to the new toll system, a grace period was given, during which late fees, collections, and vehicle registration holds were suspended. However, that grace period ended in February 2025. As of February 3, the Ohio Turnpike began charging late fees for unpaid tolls, and starting February 10, unpaid tolls were forwarded to the Ohio Attorney General’s office for collection.
Important to note: Unpaid toll notices are always sent by mail, not via text. However, Reliant Capital Solutions, LLC, a debt collector for the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, may send texts regarding unpaid tolls, making it harder for people to differentiate between legitimate messages and scams.
How to Avoid Falling for Toll Scams
If you receive a text about unpaid toll debt, follow these steps to protect yourself, as recommended by the FTC:
Do Not Click on Links or Respond to Unsolicited Texts: Scammers create a sense of urgency to prompt quick action. Take your time to verify the message.
Verify the Legitimacy of the Message: Use trusted contact information from official websites to confirm the message is real. The Ohio Turnpike website is www.ohioturnpike.org, and their E-ZPass site is www.ezpassoh.com. The Ohio Turnpike’s customer service number is (440) 971-2222.
Report and Delete Scam Messages: If you receive a fraudulent text, report it using your phone’s “report junk” feature or forward it to 7726 (SPAM). After reporting, delete the text.
What to Do if You’ve Fallen Victim to a Toll Scam: If you’ve clicked on a scam link or made a payment, contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Be sure to include the phone number and website listed in the fraudulent message. If personal or financial information has been compromised, secure your accounts immediately and dispute any unauthorized charges.
By staying vigilant and following these steps, you can protect yourself from toll-related scams and avoid financial losses.
Ohio Republicans push for extending the school year to 1,054 instructional hours, aiming to improve student performance and workforce readiness.
Ohio Republicans Push to Extending School Year to a Minimum of 1,054 Hours to Boost Student Performance
Columbus, OH – Ohio Republican Adam Bird and Josh Williams are introducing a bill to increase instructional time for grades 7-12 from 1,001 to 1,054 hours per school year. This 53-hour boost aims to enhance student learning, academic performance, and career readiness.
“Time in front of a teacher matters,” Bird stated, emphasizing that extended learning time improves academic success, social skills, and workforce preparedness. The bill allows school districts to decide how to implement the additional hours—whether by extending school days or lengthening the school year.
Currently, Ohio requires fewer instructional hours than several other states. Michigan mandates 1,098 hours, Texas requires 1,260, and South Korea enforces 1,300. Lawmakers argue that increasing classroom time is essential for keeping Ohio competitive on a global scale.
Another driving factor is the lingering impact of COVID-19 learning loss. “Students have not fully recovered,” Bird noted, citing concerns about academic regression and rising absenteeism. Ohio’s chronic absenteeism rate stood at 25.6% for the 2023-2024 school year, reinforcing the need for more structured learning time.
However, teacher unions have raised concerns about funding and effectiveness. Ohio Education Association President Scott DiMauro worries about adding an “unfunded mandate” on already struggling districts. Meanwhile, Melissa Cropper, president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, argues that increasing time alone won’t necessarily improve outcomes, calling instead for more effective teaching strategies.
With parents expected to support efforts to strengthen education, the debate over extended instructional time continues. Should Ohio schools require longer hours?
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre chairs a high-level security meeting to ensure the safety of Mogadishu’s residents during Ramadan.
Somali Prime Minister Leads Security Efforts to Safeguard the People of Mogadishu During Ramadan
On Sunday, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre chaired a key security meeting focused on boosting safety in Mogadishu and surrounding areas during Ramadan. Security agencies shared updates on their efforts to ensure stability and discussed strategies to improve coordination between law enforcement and the public.
Prime Minister Barre commended the security forces for their ongoing work and urged them to intensify operations. He acknowledged the decline of militant groups but stressed the importance of remaining vigilant to maintain peace.
Al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-linked militant group, has increased attacks in Middle Shabelle since Ramadan began, targeting key towns near Mogadishu. In response, Somali forces, supported by international partners, conducted airstrikes in the Biyo Cadde area, killing at least 44 militants, including senior commanders, and destroying three armed vehicles.
The Somali government remains committed to protecting citizens and ensuring security throughout Ramadan.
The National Independent Electoral Commission has set election dates to fill vacant parliamentary seats, ensuring full representation in the Lower House.
The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has announced the official dates for upcoming by-elections to fill two vacant seats in Somalia’s Lower House of Parliament.
Why Are These Parliamentary Seats Vacant?
The vacancies arose following key government appointments:
Saadaq Omar Hassan (Saadaq Joon) was appointed as Deputy Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).
Mustaf Sheikh Ali Dhuxulow was named Director of the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency.
Key By-Election Dates
March 6, 2025 – Election for seat HOP#248, previously held by Saadaq Joon.
March 8, 2025 – Election for seat HOP#049, vacated by Dhuxulow.
Additional Vacant Seats in Parliament
Beyond these two seats, three more positions in the House of the People remain unfilled:
Abdullahi Sanbaloolshe’s seat – Left vacant after his appointment as Director of the Somali National Security Agency.
Khadija Mohamed Diiriye’s seat – Left vacant following her passing.
Seeseey’s seat – Also unfilled due to the MP’s passing.
Call for Swift Electoral Action
On January 25, 2025, House Speaker Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur Madoobe urged the Electoral Commission to expedite the by-election process to restore full parliamentary representation.
Why This By-Election Matters for Somalia
These Somalia by-elections are crucial in strengthening the legislative body, ensuring effective governance, and addressing the country’s political and security challenges.
Governor Mike DeWine advocates for reinstating Medicaid work requirements to encourage employment, education, and financial independence for Ohioans.
Governor Mike DeWine Pushes for Major Medicaid Reform
Columbus, OH – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, in collaboration with Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) Director Maureen Corcoran, has proposed a plan to reinstate work requirements for Medicaid recipients. This initiative, currently under review by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), could significantly reshape Medicaid eligibility in the state.
If approved, the proposal would require Medicaid expansion beneficiaries to meet specific criteria to maintain coverage. Eligible individuals must be over 55, employed, enrolled in school or a job training program, participating in a recovery program, or have a serious health condition. This move revives a 2019 effort that initially received federal approval but was later reversed.
Promoting Self-Sufficiency and Economic Growth
Governor DeWine emphasizes that reinstating work requirements will encourage financial independence among Ohioans. “Reinstating our work requirement will promote self-sufficiency, give more people the purpose and pride that comes with a job, and improve the well-being of Ohio’s workforce,” DeWine stated.
The administration underscores the strong link between employment and overall health benefits. With over 150,000 job opportunities offering salaries above $50,000 listed on OhioMeansJobs.com, the state sees this as a prime chance to connect Medicaid recipients with sustainable careers.
ODM Director Maureen Corcoran supports this vision, stating, “By encouraging individuals to seek employment, we not only enhance their quality of life but also contribute to healthier communities and a thriving Ohio economy.”
A Strategic Move for Economic and Healthcare Stability
This initiative is a direct response to House Bill 33, enacted by the 135th General Assembly and signed into law by Governor DeWine in July 2023. The bill mandates the implementation of work requirements for Medicaid recipients, aiming to reduce long-term dependency while optimizing Medicaid resources.
By encouraging employment and education, Ohio aims to strengthen its workforce, improve public health, and gradually lower Medicaid expenditures. Research consistently highlights the positive impact of employment on both mental and physical well-being, reinforcing the administration’s belief that work requirements can create a healthier, more self-sufficient population.
For more details on the waiver proposal, visit theOhio Governor’s official website, where ODM has made all related documents accessible.
Mohamed Hussein Roble addresses claims of diplomatic passport denial as Somali officials refute allegations.
Mohamed Hussein Roble Passport Denial: Somali Minister Rejects Claims
Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar Balcad, has denied former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble’s claims that the government blocked his diplomatic passport.
Balcad stated that South Africa confirmed Roble’s invitation, contradicting accusations of obstruction. However, MP Abdullahi Arab alleged that Balcad personally blocked the clearance letter, forcing some delegates to miss the trip.
Despite the delays, Roble traveled using his Swedish passport, accompanied by several officials, some using European passports.
