PUCO Chairman Resigns After FBI Raid At His Home

COLUMBUS, OH — Days after the FBI raided his home, Sam Randazzo has resigned as chairman of the Ohio Public Utilities Commission (PUCO).

In his letter of resignation, Randazzo said he did not want to be a distraction to Gov. Mike DeWine while the state battles the COVID-19 pandemic. He also said he wanted to avoid the impression of impropriety. One of Randazzo's companies was listed in bankruptcy documents filed by a FirstEnergy subsidiary, FirstEnergy Solutions.

Randazzo's connections to FirstEnergy and its subsidiaries come to light as the state investigates House Bill 6. The legislation provided a $1.3 billion bailout for two FirstEnergy nuclear plants (now Energy Harbor plants) in Ohio. The legislation is now at the heart of a racketeering investigation involving Ohio House Speaker Larry Householder and other political figures. Two people have already pleaded guilty to bribery accusations.

In his resignation letter, Randazzo advocated for rescinding the House Bill 6 bailout. He also defended his track record as PUCO chairman, arguing he turned the agency into a thoughtful, analytical group, rather than a rubberstamp factory.

"In any event, I believe my actions as Chair have done much to put the PUCO and OPSB on a better foundation to serve the public interest. In the days ahead, I hope the Commissioners and Board Members who remain or follow me can continue this important mission," Randazzo wrote.

With Randazzo gone, PUCO Vice Chairman M. Beth Trombold will become acting chairman. A nominating council will begin searching for permanent replacements for Randazzo.