On this episode of Common Sense Ohio, hosts Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock take listeners on a lively ride through both history and hot-button issues facing Ohio and the nation.

The show kicks off with some fascinating "this day in history" moments, from Elvis Presley's $1,000 down payment on Graceland to George Washington’s strategic triumph over the British in Boston. Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock reflect on simpler times, the complexity of historic figures, and draw surprising connections to today's world.

The conversation shifts to the rapidly changing international climate, with in-depth analysis of current tensions in the Middle East, debates over national defense funding, and the political fallout from controversial decisions in Congress. The hosts don’t shy away from tough questions—whether it’s the justification behind conflict with Iran, national security concerns at the border, or the demands placed on the Department of Homeland Security.

Closer to home, the episode covers the political quagmire around voter ID laws and election reform, pulls back the curtain on Ohio’s JobsOhio controversy, and celebrates a small-town legal victory where civil liberties prevailed in a comedic case involving rapper Afro Man.

Throughout, Steve Palmer and Norm Murdock bring a sharp mix of historical perspective, constitutional insight, and relatable local stories—reminding us all why common sense still matters most in the Buckeye State.

Harper CPA Plus

Moments

00:00 Washington Forces British From Boston

08:24 Straits of Hormuz Tensions

13:44 "Joe Kent's Resignation Fallout"

16:23 "Iran's Hostility Toward America"

26:15 ID Rules and Constitutional Debate

30:03 EPA Climate Rollback Sparks Lawsuit

35:09 "Iran: War, Oppression, and Resistance"

39:48 "Afro Man's Lemon Pound Cake Lawsuit"

46:19 "Probable Cause and Search Warrants"

52:58 "Good Intentions Sustain Governance"

54:14 "Controversy Over JobsOhio Corporation"

59:06 Contract Secrecy Sparks Ohio Backlash

01:05:07 "Tyranny of Moral Busybodies"

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

info@commonsenseohioshow.com

Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio

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.