Ohio AG Dave Yost launches his campaign for governor, promising strong leadership and a brighter future for Ohio.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has officially declared his candidacy for governor, sharing his vision for the state and his continued commitment to the “America First” agenda. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Yost stated:
“I’m officially running to be Ohio’s next governor. I’m honored to serve as your America First Attorney General & support President Trump’s agenda. With your help, we’ll move Ohio forward to a brighter future.”
The announcement was accompanied by avideohighlighting Yost’s track record and plans for Ohio’s future. As Attorney General, Yost has been a devoted advocate for Ohio families, businesses, and taxpayers. His leadership has been defined by significant actions such as prosecuting corruption, defending Second Amendment rights, and standing up to large corporations through antitrust lawsuits.
Yost emphasized his deep connection to Ohio, calling it his “heart and home,” and his campaign promises to build on his dedication to the state by focusing on economic growth, family values, and strong leadership.
With this announcement, the race for Ohio’s governorship is heating up. Stay tuned as candidates like Dave Yost present their visions for the Buckeye State’s future.
Columbus shelters are facing a funding crisis as leaders advocate for financial support to prevent bed closures.
Leaders from Columbus’ homeless shelters warn that without significant improvements in funds beyond Mayor Andrew J. Ginther’s proposed 2025 budget, they may be forced to reduce capacity and close critical beds.
Shannon Isom, president and CEO of the Community Shelter Board, highlighted the urgent financial need during a Columbus City Council Housing, Homelessness, and Building Committee hearing on Tuesday night. Her appeal builds on previous requests made to the Franklin County Commissioners in December, emphasizing the growing homelessness crisis and the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds that shelters have heavily relied on.
The mayor’s current budget allocates around $5.4 million for shelters and homelessness services. However, Isom stated that at least $13.6 million is required to sustain current operations, with an additional $18.7 million needed to improve services and better meet the community’s needs. Altogether, local shelters are requesting over $40 million in combined contributions from the city, county, and private businesses.
With Columbus City Council facing one of its tightest budgets in over a decade, members have less than three weeks to finalize the 2025 general fund budget before voting on February 10.
City Council’s Commitment to Supporting Columbus Homeless Shelters Amid Winter Crisis
City Council President Shannon Hardin, who chairs the housing committee, expressed the council’s commitment to supporting shelters and maintaining Central Ohio’s current bed capacity. Hardin noted the urgency of the discussion, pointing to the harsh winter conditions as a reminder of the life-saving role shelters play.
“I think we would be missing the moment not to focus on how cold it is outside today and we’re having this hearing talking about the dignity and life-saving work the shelter system is providing right now keeping people housed,” he stated.
YWCA Columbus Faces Funding Shortfalls, Threatening Family Shelters
Elizabeth Brown, CEO of YWCA Columbus, which manages emergency shelters for homeless families, shared a grim projection during the hearing. On Tuesday, the shelter housed 55 families, accounting for 179 people. Without replacement funding from local governments to offset the loss of federal pandemic aid, Brown warned that the shelter’s budget could be slashed in half, limiting its capacity.
“We are at risk of not being able to serve the need in the community,” Brown said. “There’s no way we could operate the beds we do today without additional support.”
As Columbus faces increasing demand for homeless services, local leaders are left grappling with the financial strain of sustaining essential shelter operations in the years to come.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost advocates for policies to limit sanctuary cities in Ohio.
As federal immigration policies take center stage, under President Trump’s administration, Ohio Republicans are pushing to ban sanctuary cities within the state. These cities’ restrictions on cooperation with federal immigration officials such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have long been a source of contention in immigration enforcement issues.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is calling for legislation that would officially outlaw sanctuary cities in the state. In a recent letter to lawmakers, Yost argued that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, and local governments cannot choose to ignore federal laws.
“This is not an anti-immigrant proposal,” Yost emphasized. “It’s about ensuring that federal officials can carry out their duties regarding individuals not lawfully present in the country.”
What Are Sanctuary Cities?
The term “sanctuary ” has no official legal definition according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. It’s used to describe local policies that protect immigrants without legal status. These policies can include:
Declining ICE detainer requests to hold people in local jails beyond their release dates.
Refusing to share information about immigration status with federal authorities.
Providing legal services to immigrants or challenging federal immigration laws in court.
In Ohio, some cities have adopted sanctuary-style policies, even if they don’t officially label themselves as sanctuary cities. For example, Columbus police do not hold inmates beyond their release dates at ICE’s request.
This isn’t the first time Ohio lawmakers have tried to address sanctuary cities. State Representative Josh Williamsintroduced a bill in the previous legislative session aimed at requiring local police to cooperate with ICE fully. The bill, called House Bill 666, would have made cities ineligible for homeland security funding and reduced local government fund distributions by 10% if they failed to comply.
Although the bill didn’t pass before the session ended, Williams has promised to reintroduce similar legislation this year.
What’s Next for Ohio?
As debates over sanctuary cities and ICE enforcement continue, Ohio finds itself at the crossroads of local and federal immigration policy. For some, banning sanctuary cities is a step toward law and order. For others, it’s an overreach that undermines local governments’ ability to build trust with immigrant communities.
Regardless of the outcome, the ongoing debate will definitely change Ohio’s approach to immigration enforcement in the years ahead.
Be cautious when applying for remote jobs online, scammers are targeting job seekers with fake offers in Central Ohio.
Beware of Online Remote Job Scams: How to Protect Yourself in 2025
Mule scams are on the rise in Central Ohio, with scammers targeting online job seekers through fraudulent offers. As the new year inspires many to pursue fresh career opportunities, it’s crucial to approach online job applications with caution. The Better Business Bureau warns residents to stay vigilant, as scammers exploit remote work opportunities, leaving victims financially strained.
A Costly Lesson for a Single Mom in Ohio
Hattie Carey, a 30-year-old single mother from Toledo, Ohio, recently fell victim to a sophisticated scam that left her nearly $5,000 poorer. For Hattie, the promise of a remote job was a potential lifeline, a chance to save money and provide a better future for her child.
After tirelessly submitting applications online, she received an offer from a company called “Skyline Deliveries.” The position promised $4,200 a month to print shipping labels and manage package returns—a role that seemed straightforward and legitimate.
However, after providing sensitive personal information, including her ID and a completed W-4 form, and completing four weeks of work, payday came and went with no payment.
“I did not receive the $4,200 that was promised, plus the bonus,” Carey said, reflecting on the ordeal.
She later filed a report with the BBB, learning that she had unknowingly participated in a “mule scam.”
What Are Mule Scams?
Judy Dollison, President of the BBB of Central Ohio, explains:
“These scams involve recruiting unsuspecting individuals to transport stolen merchandise or money, often out of the country. Scammers avoid attaching their names to these illegal transactions, leaving the victim to unknowingly facilitate criminal activity.”
Common red flags in these scams include unclear job descriptions, promises of high pay for minimal effort, and requests for personal information early in the hiring process.
How to Stay Safe When Job Hunting Online
To protect yourself from employment scams, Dollison recommends the following precautions:
Research the Employer: Verify the legitimacy of the company by checking reviews, contacting them directly, or consulting the BBB.
Beware of Upfront Payments: Legitimate employers won’t ask you to pay fees or provide personal details before starting a role.
Scrutinize Job Offers: Be cautious of roles offering high pay for unclear responsibilities or requiring you to handle money or goods.
What to Do If You’re a Victim
If you’ve fallen victim to an employment scam, don’t hesitate to take action. File a report with the Better Business Bureau and consider notifying law enforcement. These steps can help prevent others from being targeted and may aid in recovering your losses.
As online job scams become increasingly common, staying informed is your best defense. Always approach remote job opportunities with caution, do your research, and trust your instincts.
Let’s make 2025 the year we empower job seekers with knowledge and protect them from becoming victims of deceit.
School buses remain parked as extreme cold leads to school closures.
Central Ohio Schools Close Due to Extreme Cold and Weather Advisory
Several school districts in Central Ohio announced closures for Tuesday, January 21, due to low temperatures and a National Weather Service cold weather alert. The extreme weather conditions, which included sub-zero temperatures and wind chills as low as -9 degrees, prompted immediate action from school administrators.
Initially, some districts planned two-hour delays on Tuesday, but eventually revised their plans, opting for full closures owing to the expected high cold.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a cold weather advisory for the whole region, forecasting wind chills of -9°F and flurries before midday. There is a minor risk of snow showers between noon and 4 p.m.
List of Schools Closed and Delayed for Tuesday, January 21:
Republican candidates Donald Trump and J.D. Vance emerge victorious in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, marking a historic win.
Donald Trump emerged victorious in the recent U.S. Presidential Election held on November 5, 2024, marking a remarkable moment in American political history. The Republican candidate, known for his unconventional political style, won against Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. Trump’s running mate for the election was J.D. Vance, the former U.S. Senator from Ohio, who brought a strong appeal to conservative voters. Elon Musk, CEO of X (formerly Twitter), contributed significantly to Trump’s campaign by amplifying his message and rallying tech-savvy voters. His victory sparked reactions across the country and the world, igniting debates about the future of American leadership and political direction.
The Election Results: Donald Trump’s Road to Victory
Republican candidates Donald Trump and J.D. Vance emerge victorious in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, marking a historic win.Donald Trump and Elon Musk celebrate the Republican win in the 2024 election, with Musk’s support playing a pivotal role.
The recent U.S. Presidential Election was closely watched by citizens and political analysts. Trump, having already served as the 45th President from 2017 to 2021, won the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election with 312 electoral votes, surpassing Kamala Harris, who received 226 electoral votes, solidifying his place in history as the first president to secure two non-consecutive terms. His victory was celebrated by his supporters, who praised his leadership, economic policies, and commitment to national security.
Inauguration Day: A New Chapter in Leadership
Trump’s inauguration ceremony took place on a historic day, 20th January 2025, marked by speeches, and a renewed sense of purpose. Held at the U.S. Capitol, the event saw a large turnout of supporters and dignitaries, all eager to witness the commencement of his second term. Trump took the presidential oath of office once again, delivering an impassioned speech focused on unity, progress, and the promises of a brighter future for America.
In his inaugural address, Trump highlighted the need for continued economic growth, national strength, and the protection of American interests on the global stage. He vowed to prioritize policies that would benefit the American people, continuing his legacy of promoting job growth, strengthening the economy, and ensuring a secure nation.
As Trump embarks on his second term in office, all eyes will be on his administration’s policies and actions. His victory signals a continuation of his strong stance on trade, immigration, and foreign relations. His supporters are hopeful that his leadership will usher in another period of economic growth and international influence.
FirstEnergy executives face federal charges for alleged involvement in a multi-million-dollar bribery scheme.
The Scandal That Rocked Ohio’s Energy Sector
The former CEO, Chuck Jones and his ex-VP, Michael Dowling at FirstEnergy Corp. in Ohio have been implicated in a scheme to bribe government officials in an attempt to secure $1 billion in financial aid for the company’s nuclear plants. They have been incriminated in racketeering charges, according to a statement from federal officials.
Chuck Jones and Michael Dowling have now been hit with federal charges for conspiring in racketeering. The indictment, released earlier this week and made public on Friday, accuses them of bribery, money laundering, and obstruction. These actions allegedly manipulated the company’s stock value and lined their own pockets.
Racketeering and Bribery: Charges Facing FirstEnergy’s Former Executives
Despite denying these charges last year, the bribery scheme led to the imprisonment of a former House Speaker of Ohio. FirstEnergy had been lobbying state legislators to approve a financial rescue for two of its nuclear plants and to protect the legislation from repeal attempts.
The fallout from the controversy has been costly for FirstEnergy. Late last year, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fined the company $100 million for providing false information to investors. Additionally, FirstEnergy settled with state authorities, agreeing to pay $20 million to avoid criminal prosecution.
In a separate 2021 settlement with the Department of Justice, FirstEnergy acknowledged its role in the bribery plot and consented to pay $230 million in fines while implementing internal reforms to prevent future misconduct.
How FirstEnergy Manipulated Ohio’s Public Utilities Commission
Between 2017 and March 2020, FirstEnergy paid over $59 million to Generation Now, a 501(c)(4) organization run for the benefit of Larry Householder, a former Ohio House Speaker. Prosecutors allege that the payments were part of a plan to sway legislation and appointments within the state’s public utilities commission (PUCO).
The charges also claim FirstEnergy paid over $4.3 million to businesses owned by Randazzo, a PUCO chairman appointed with FirstEnergy’s influence, in exchange for favorable rulings.
What This Case Means for Ohio and Beyond
“This indictment marks another move toward achieving accountability,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker. The charges against FirstEnergy’s executives highlight the broader issue of corporate corruption and its impact on public trust.
As the legal proceedings continue, Ohioans and industry leaders alike are watching closely to see how this landmark case unfolds.
TikTok has been a game-changer for Ohio creators—what happens if it’s banned?
Millions of TikTok users in the United States experienced a blackout on Saturday, January 18th, after the Supreme Court upheld a law that effectively banned the app. TikTok, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance, had more than 170 million subscribers in the United States prior to this disruption. The prohibition was prompted by concerns over national security and the app’s ties to China. But all hope is not lost, President-elect Donald Trump has hinted that he may help bring TikTok back to US users.
Why Was TikTok Banned?
TikTok’s ban came after growing concerns about the app’s potential to influence U.S. public opinion and gather sensitive data on American users, given its ties to China. Last year, the Supreme Court passed a bill requiring TikTok to divest its U.S. operations to continue operating in the country. The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the ban exhausted the company’s legal options, leaving many wondering what would happen next.
Trump’s Impact on Restoring TikTok in the U.S.
With Trump set to take office,he has suggested a possible 90-day hold on the ban, offering hope for TikTok’s future in the U.S. Trump’s administration may explore a workaround or push for a sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to a different entity. In fact, there has been speculation that major figures like Elon Musk could step in as potential investors or even take control of TikTok’s U.S. operations, which could pave the way for Americans to regain access to the app.
Can TikTok Be Restored?
While the situation remains fluid, TikTok expressed hope on its website, suggesting that President Trump is willing to find a solution that will allow the app to be reinstalled once he takes office. A resolution might entail the sale of TikTok’s US operations, as required by the bill passed last year. Investors and entrepreneurs including Elon Musk, Kevin O’Leary, and Frank McCourt have been cited as potential buyers of TikTok’s U.S. operations.
TikTok Alternatives and What’s Next
With TikTok temporarily out of reach, many users are exploring alternatives. YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and Facebook Reels offer short-form video platforms that allow users to create and share videos, though each has limitations compared to TikTok. Other alternatives, like RedNote and Clapper, have gained traction in recent days as users search for new platforms to fill the TikTok-sized hole.
As the debate over TikTok’s future in the U.S. continues, President-elect Donald Trump’s potential intervention may provide a pathway for millions of American users to regain access. Whether through a sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations or a different solution, the app’s fate rests in the hands of policymakers and investors. In the meantime, TikTok users are looking to alternatives to fill the void, but many hope that TikTok’s return is just around the corner.
Shafi Shafat: Making history as the first Somali Republican candidate in the United States.
History has been made! Shafi Shafat, a visionary leader with an inspiring story, is the first Somali Republican to run for office in the United States. This milestone is a beacon of hope for immigrants, showcasing that the American Dream is truly achievable for all.
Who Is Shafi Shafat?
Shafi Shafatwas born in Somalia and moved to the United States in pursuit of better opportunities. After settling in Ohio, Shafi became deeply committed to improving his community. He is the CEO of Dalmar TV, a leading media company that has allowed him to use his platform to inform, empower, and bring about change.
As a Republican, Shafi advocated for principles such as economic empowerment, individual responsibility, and strong family values. His candidacy was driven by a commitment to create opportunities for all Ohioans while addressing the challenges faced by communities across the state.
Shafi Shafat: The first Somali Republican candidate in the United States.
Advocating for Strong Conservative Values
During his campaign, Shafi focused on addressing critical issues that resonated with Ohioans, including:
Economic Development: Advocating for policies that supported small businesses and job creation.
Lower Taxes: Highlighting the importance of reducing the financial burden on families and individuals.
Community Safety and Unity: Emphasizing the need for secure, thriving neighborhoods.
Through his platform, Shafi demonstrated his dedication to improving the lives of all residents in Ohio, regardless of their background or beliefs.
Shafi Shafat’s Legacy in Politics
Although Shafi’s campaign did not result in an electoral win, his historic run left a lasting mark on American politics. By stepping forward as the first Somali Republican to run for office, Shafi paved the way for future generations of immigrants to participate in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
His candidacy highlighted the power of representation and the importance of diverse voices in leadership. Today, Shafi’s story continues to inspire individuals who dream of making a difference in their communities.
Governor Mike DeWine issues a directive for Ohio flags to be raised for Trump’s inauguration and lowered to honor Jimmy Carter’s legacy.
Governor Mike DeWine has directed that Ohio state flags be raised in honor of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance’sinauguration on Monday, January 20th. The flags will be lowered the next day to honor former President Jimmy Carter, who died recently.
This move aligns with a national custom of lowering flags to half-staff to honor significant figures. JD Vance, a Middletown native who just resigned as a United States senator from Ohio to prepare for his role as vice president.
To commemorate President Carter’s legacy, the flags will be flown at half-staff until January 28th.
Ohio flags will be lowered to honor the legacy of former President Jimmy Carter, following a directive by Governor DeWine.
