The federal bribery trial of two former FirstEnergy executives opened this week in Akron, with prosecutors alleging the men authorized a $4.3 million payment to influence political and regulatory decisions tied to House Bill 6, Ohio’s now-repealed nuclear bailout law. Defense attorneys for former CEO Chuck Jones and former senior vice president Michael Dowling said the payment was legitimate consulting compensation and argued the money was taken by a former state official who later became a top utility regulator. The case is part of the broader corruption scandal that led to the 2023 conviction of former Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder.

“This is what happens when energy policy rewards political connections instead of economic reality,” said Lindsey Short, managing director of energy and advocacy services for the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. “When influence replaces evidence, customers are left paying the price. Ohio’s energy system should be built on transparency and verified need, not insider arrangements that leave manufacturers and families holding the bag.” 2/4/2026