Rep. Bryant Bailey Condemns Effort to Admonish Judge Ted N. Berry of Cincinnati Municipal Court

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Ashley Bryant Bailey (D-Cincinnati) today issued the following statement in strong opposition to the reckless and politically motivated measure House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 26, following House General Committee’s first sponsor hearing:

“What took place today in the General Government Committee should alarm every Ohioan who believes in checks and balances. HCR 26 represents a dangerous overreach of legislative power. One that undermines judicial independence and threatens the integrity of our democratic system itself. 

This is about far more than one individual judge. It’s about the dangerous precedent being set when members of the legislature attempt to publicly censure or intimidate judges simply for decisions they disagree with. Such acts erode the very foundation of our government, when those in power choose retaliation over respect for the separation of powers. 

Instead of using our time and taxpayer dollars to address the pressing needs of Ohioans, families struggling through a government shutdown, underfunded schools, and critical infrastructure, we are wasting resources on a political spectacle that serves no one but those seeking retribution. 

I call on Speaker Huffman and Chair Sharon Ray to correct this serious breach between the legislative and judicial branches. Ohioans deserve a government that respects the separation of powers and focuses on delivering solutions, not political vendettas,” said Rep. Bryant Bailey.

Rep. Bryant Bailey emphasized that the appropriate process for any judicial concern lies within the Ohio Supreme Court’s established disciplinary procedures, not in legislative theatrics that erode public trust in fair governance.