Extended Smithervent -- 4/6/26

This extended episode of the Brian Thomas podcast features a deep dive into Cincinnati's political and civic challenges, anchored by a two-hour conversation with former city council member and vice mayor Christopher Smithman. The discussion centers on the controversial administrative leave and termination of Police Chief DG, questioning the fairness and transparency of the process, particularly the biased report by law firm Frost Brown & Todd and the lack of due process. Smithman argues the city leadership, particularly the city manager and mayor, engaged in political theater by demanding the arrest of white suspect Alex Trevinsky after a downtown brawl, despite insufficient evidence and a lack of full video context. He highlights the racial optics and potential civil rights violations, predicting a federal lawsuit. The episode also scrutinizes city budget priorities, criticizing the $8.1 million settlement to rioters while facing a $31 million shortfall, and the misallocation of funds to projects like the music venue and streetcar—despite their poor ridership—while core services like road maintenance and trash removal are neglected. Smithman emphasizes the importance of civic engagement, urging listeners to register to vote before the May primary deadline.