We’re back with a fresh episode packed with real Ohio news, sharp perspectives, and—of course—the common sense you count on. Here’s your quick rundown of what Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock brought to the table this week:

On the Show This WeekSmart Money Moves & A Dose of Realism

• Steve Palmer opened with lessons in good accounting: don’t settle for a “transactional” tax preparer—get a pro who helps you plan and save.
• Norm Murdock echoed, stressing how DIY tax moves or advice from social media can be risky.
• Harper CPA Plus

History Corner

• The sinking of the Bismarck in 1941 and thoughts on World War II’s impact, including Norm Murdock's stories about the fierce chase and battle.
• A look back at Benedict Arnold: capable general and legendary traitor—plus a reflection on the human flaws that can lead to historic downfalls.

Politics: Election Shake-Ups & Redistricting Drama

• The defeat of John Cornyn in the Texas Senate runoff sends shockwaves through the GOP establishment.
• South Carolina Republicans rejected Trump’s push for more aggressive redistricting, with Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock discussing the importance of fair representation and how unchecked power can breed corruption—even here in Ohio.

Ohio Spotlight

• Dave Yost, Attorney General, is resigning and moving to the Alliance Defending Freedom. Both hosts praised Yost’s integrity and independence—even when it meant clashing with his own party over transparency in JobsOhio.
• Vivek Ramaswamy’s struggles with rural Ohio voters, especially over AI data center expansion, show the tension between high-tech growth and local quality-of-life concerns.

Culture & Welfare: Tough Questions

• Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock dig deep into how America’s high trust system is vulnerable to fraud—and how our growing “dependency culture” could be eroding American work ethic and pride.
• Covid relief, welfare, and disability programs: What are the unintended consequences when help turns into dependency?

Racing Through Ohio

• Celebration for Meyer Shank Racing’s second Indy 500 win—proving once again Ohio’s role as an automotive and racing powerhouse.
• Why do Ohioans love cars and football so much? It’s in our blood, say the hosts.

Around the World

• Norm Murdock critiques President Trump’s handling of Iran, stressing the limits of deal-based diplomacy and the urgency of decisive action.

Winners & Losers

• Winner: Remembering NASCAR great Kyle Busch for his racing—not his personality.
• Loser: The DNC and MN Gov. Tim Walz, for politicizing Memorial Day and overshadowing the sacrifice of military service members.

Listener Takeaway

This episode is a reminder:

• Good government is transparent—no matter whose party is in charge.
• Real solutions require more than slogans, whether it’s taxes, redistricting, welfare, or foreign policy.
• And above all, Ohioans don’t shy away from a tough conversation or two.

What’s on your mind, Ohio?

Send us your questions and comments at commonsenseohioshow.com, and we may feature your thoughts on a future episode!

See you next week with more news, humor, and honest debate, from the heart of the Midwest.

— The Common Sense Ohio Team

Chock full of common sense since… well, since always.

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

[email protected]

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