U.S. Senator Jon Husted is scheduled to testify remotely today, March 11, 2026, in the ongoing state corruption trial of former FirstEnergy executives in Akron, Ohio. The testimony comes amid revelations of his close ties to the company during the massive $60 million bribery scandal that previously convicted ex-House Speaker Larry Householder.
Trial Background
The trial targets former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones and ex-Senior VP Michael Dowling, accused of orchestrating a $4.3 million bribe to utility regulator Sam Randazzo in 2019 to secure favorable rulings and support for House Bill 6, a $1 billion nuclear bailout. Both defendants plead not guilty, claiming the payment was for legitimate consulting, as the trial—now in its eighth week—nears its end. Householder was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison in 2023 for his role in the broader racketeering scheme funded by FirstEnergy dark money.
Husted’s Role and Controversy
Husted, formerly Ohio’s lieutenant governor, has been referenced over 100 times in the trial through texts, calls, and secret meetings with FirstEnergy execs like Jones, whom he dined with post-2018 election. Defense attorneys sought his in-person testimony, but a judge allowed remote due to cited D.C. duties amid the “Iran war,” despite Husted attending an Ohio fundraiser recently. Critics, including Ohio Democrats, highlight FirstEnergy’s $1 million dark money support for Husted in 2017 and his advocacy for HB 6, which raised Ohioans’ electric bills by $663 yearly.
Broader Scandal Impact
FirstEnergy paid $230 million in a 2021 federal deferred prosecution and $100 million to the SEC in 2024 for fraud related to the scheme. The PUCO ordered $186 million in customer refunds last year, underscoring ongoing fallout from HB 6’s passage and repeal defeat. Husted’s testimony could clarify his interactions, potentially influencing the jury’s view as closing arguments loom.
