Jury selection began this week in the corruption trial of former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones, renewing focus on how political influence can shape Ohio’s energy policy and affect customer costs. Prosecutors allege Jones and another former executive arranged a $4.3 million payment to former Public Utilities Commission of Ohio Chairman Sam Randazzo in exchange for regulatory favors tied to House Bill 6, the now-repealed nuclear subsidy law. The case is part of the broader scandal that sent former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder to prison and reshaped state energy policy, with potential implications for utility oversight and ratepayer protections.

“This case is a reminder that when politics and power mix behind closed doors, Ohioans end up paying the price on their electric bills,” said Lindsey Short, managing director of energy and advocacy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. 1/30/2026