Kasich sings praises of 'Idol' contestants

COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio’s governor has given a rave review to this season’s contestants on “American Idol,” though not one of the judges.

Republican Gov. John Kasich got chatty about the Fox singing competition on today while signing a regulatory bill in Columbus. He asked people in the room if they’ve been watching the program and proclaimed the finalists “really, really, really good.”

“Idol” on Thursday narrowed the field to 13 contestants, none from Ohio. The governor says he wishes the show could “just keep everybody.”

But he also said he’s “not so sure” about the rock star clothing worn by judge Steven Tyler, of Aerosmith.

Kasich’s interest in pop music apparently goes beyond “American Idol.” He mentioned that he and his wife are going to a Lady Gaga concert next week.