2026 Midterm Election Voter Guide for Akron and Summit County: Here are the candidates for state offices

Welcome to the 2026 Nov. 3 Midterm Election Voter Guide produced by the Akron Area League of Women Voters and Signal Akron. 

You’ll find information below about each of the candidates on your ballot in the statewide executive races, Ohio House and Ohio Senate races, along with information they provided to the League.

All of the responses to the questions are unedited and appear as they were submitted.

You’ll also find information about the tax issues, zoning and charter amendments on your ballot.

To see candidates for Summit County judge and Summit County Council, go here.

For information about the Akron City Charter amendments dealing with housing protections and police oversight, go here.

For more information about the U.S. Senate race, along with candidates for statewide office and Issue 3 (voter identification) on the state ballot, go to Signal Statewide’s election page.

U.S. Senate

Number to be elected: 1 |Term: Unexpired term ending 1-3-29

Responsibilities: Represents the people of Ohio and the U.S. in dealing with national and international matters in the U.S. Senate in Congress, where they:

• Propose and pass federal laws including those dealing with taxes, Medicaid/Medicare, parks and land use, food and drug standards, veteran services, Social Security, education, and more.
• Decide the U.S. Budget on Social Security, Medicaid/Medicare, military, veterans’ benefits, National Parks, science and technology research, education, veteran services and more.
• Approve nominees for the U.S. Supreme Court, federal judges and federal prosecutors who make choices about the constitutionality of federal laws about issues that include personal freedoms such as speech and religion, public safety and government power. 
• Confirm Executive Branch appointments including cabinet-level positions, directors of agencies and ambassadors.

Greg Levy

Party: Independent

Website: greg4senate.com

Twitter/X: GregLevy4Senate

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Our political system should belong to working people, not corporations and billionaires. I support outlawing corporate lobbying and corporate political donations, making Election Day a federal holiday, and banning racist gerrymandering and voter suppression. Further, I support measures which tie Congressional salaries  to workers’ wages. Beyond elections; we are in desperate need of democratic systemic reform: replacing the undemocratic Senate with a representative national legislature, abolishing the unelected Supreme Court and transferring its powers to democratic institutions, and expanding direct participation through worker councils, neighborhood assemblies, and community organizations.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

The rising cost of living demands emergency action for working people. I support an immediate nationwide price freeze on essential goods and services, raising the federal minimum wage to $30 an hour, and canceling student, medical, and utility debt. I will fight to ban evictions and foreclosures, prohibit rent increases, and guarantee free universal childcare so families aren’t forced to choose between working and caring for their children. We can pay for these measures by cutting the Pentagon budget by 90% and taxing the massive windfall profits corporations have made while working people struggle to afford basic necessities. For too long, our policies have been dictated by the tiny clique of billionaires who stand to profit from rising costs. 

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

We need a political system that gives working people a real voice while reducing the stranglehold of corporations and billionaires. Mentioned above, I support banning corporate political donations and lobbying, protecting voting rights, and expanding democratic participation. I will work with anyone when it advances the interests of working people, while refusing to compromise on racism, attacks on immigrants, or assaults on basic rights. Our politics must be grounded on providing dignified lives for working people—not avoiding necessary political disagreements.

State your position on foreign policy and national security

I support a foreign policy based on peace, sovereignty, and international cooperation—not endless war. I would cut the Pentagon budget by 90% and redirect those resources toward housing, healthcare, education, and other social needs. We should dismantle the vast network of over 800 U.S. military bases abroad, end military alliances used to enforce U.S. domination, and end military aid to Israel and support for occupation and genocide. I also support lifting sanctions that punish ordinary people in countries like Cuba and Iran, defending the independence of colonies and Indigenous nations, and cooperating internationally to confront the shared threats facing humanity and the planet; like climate change, pandemics, and poverty.

What changes would you make, if any, to immigration policy?

We must fundamentally change our immigration system to protect human dignity and workers’ rights. I support abolishing ICE, ending immigration raids and mass deportations, and closing immigration detention camps. We need a clear and immediate path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants already living and working in our communities. Immigrant workers should have full labor protections and the right to organize into unions without fear of retaliation or deportation. Immigration policy should never be used to divide workers, suppress wages, or pit people against one another. Additionally, we must address the war machine and an imperialist foreign policy which compels so many to flee their home countries in the first place. 

William B. Redpath

Party: Libertarian

Website: billredpath.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/BillRedpathForSenate

Twitter/X: @BillRedpath

Education: BA, Indiana University; MBA, The University of Chicago

Training and experience: Certified Public Accountant, Ohio and Illinois. Chartered Financial Analyst-Retired. Accredited Senior Appraiser, Business Valuation, American Society of Appraisers-Retired. Work Experience: Auditor or Accountant with Arthur Andersen and Co, Cincinnati; WISH-TV, Indianapolis; ABC and NBC, New York. Total: 5 years. Business Appraiser, specializing in Media and Telecommunications, with BIA Advisory Services, Washington, and Summit Ridge Group, New York and Chicago. Total: 38 years.

Volunteer/community service: Co-Editor, Ballot Access News and ballot-access.org. National Ballot Access Coordinator, Libertarian Party. Treasurer, Libertarian National Committee and Libertarian Party of Ohio. Former Chair, Libertarian National Committee.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

A two party system is unnatural and only occurs through political repression, which we have in Ohio and the US because of very high signature requirements for non-RandD candidates to get on the ballot. Our Single Member Plurality (single member legislative districts, person with the most votes wins) voting system props up the two old and unpopular parties, because it boxes too many people into feeling they have to vote for “the lesser of two evils.” I support Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for single winner elections. But, elections for federal, state and local legislatures should be changed to either a system of “self-districting,” whereby voters select the district they want to be in, or a system with multimember districts elected through RCV. This would allow non-RandD candidates to be elected.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

Reduce Federal government spending. If not, we might have a debt crisis, the easiest response to which might be tolerating higher inflation.

End the Federal Reserve’s “dual mandate”: maximum employment and stable prices. Focus on an inflation rate no higher than 2% every year.

Repeal not just Trump’s tariffs, but all tariffs. I support a policy of unilateral free trade, which is a pro-consumer trade policy. We’re all consumers. It will also promote international peace.

President Trump just suspended the Jones Act, which is a protectionist maritime policy, for 60 days due to high oil prices. It should be totally repealed.

End product price support programs, like the sugar support system, which causes sugar to cost double the world average.

Terminate all corporate welfare and farm subsidies.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

I think hyperpartisanship and a lack of civility are largely due to the combination of our two party system, in which too many people feel they have to side with one of the two old parties, and the advent of social media and our highly siloed media platforms. Honestly, when was the last time you heard a real debate on either Fox News or MS NOW? I don’t think much can be done re: the media situation. There is a First Amendment, and Walter Cronkite isn’t walking through that door again. But, making changes to our electoral systems that would allow new and more diverse voices to be heard and elected to public offices will help the public understand that there are more than two opposing views to policy issues, which will give people alternative means to be politically effective.

State your position on foreign policy and national security.

The United States now frequently behaves as a rogue nation, with its military attacks on several nations and threats to longtime allies, such as Canada and Denmark. This will make US citizens less safe over the long run.

I support a non-interventionist foreign policy, and only when the US homeland or territories are threatened, with very rare exceptions. That would allow us to cut the Defense budget.

We need to regain the moral high ground, with a renewed emphasis on human rights.

The Founders correctly made war declaration a committee decision. Congress must reassert its war powers.

The US should treat the Middle East with benign neglect. The “special relationship” with the government of Israel only leads the US into problems. We should treat Israel as we would any other allied nation.

What changes would you make, if any, to immigration policy?

I agree with Alex Nowrasteh of the Cato Institute:

“All immigration should be allowed except for a handful of people who fall into the categories of criminals, terrorists, the seriously ill, or others who would harm the life, liberty, and property of people here. Libertarian and classical liberal values, American Enlightenment values, our support of free market capitalism, and support for meritocracy all compel us to support free immigration.” 

Open immigration would be the greatest anti-poverty program in history. Economist Michael Clemens has estimated that free immigration would increase the amount of global economic production, Gross World Product, by 50-150% – that’s $50-$150 trillion of extra production a year. The United States will benefit from a more open immigration system.

Sherrod Brown

Party: Democratic

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Stephen Faris (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Anthony Holliman (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Jon Husted

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Timothy Telymonde (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Statewide offices

Ohio Auditor

No. to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Audits all financial records of public offices in Ohio. Maintains deed records of state.

They represent you as the Chief Accounting Officer of the State of Ohio, where they:

• Audit all Ohio public offices, including local governments, public schools, public libraries and state universities, state government departments, agencies and commissions.
• Serve as watchdog for public fraud by preventing, identifying and investigating fraud in public agencies.
• Serve on the Ohio Redistricting Commission to redraw Ohio’s state and congressional districts.
• Provide financial services and oversight to local governments, promote transparency in government and decide where to direct public financial reviews.

Annette Blackwell

Party: Democratic

Website: www.blackwellforohio.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/AnnetteForOhio/

Twitter/X: AnnetteForOhio

Education: Ursuline College, B.A., Public Relations and Corporate Communications; Cleveland State University, Certified Public Manager (OCPM); Indiana Wesleyan University, ASB;  St. Joseph High School, Cleveland, High School Diploma  

Training and experience: Mayor of Maple Heights, 2016-present;  Deloitte, Senior Property Tax Analyst, 1999-2016; University Hospitals Cleveland, Administrative Coordinator, 1987-1999 

Volunteer/community service: Black Women’s Political Action Committee; Cuyahoga County’s Citizens’ Advisory Council on Equity; Cuyahoga County’s Land Reutilization Corporation Board of Directors; Cuyahoga County Mayors and City Managers, Executive Board Member

What are the most important functions of the state auditor, and why?

The Auditor’s main function is to protect taxpayer dollars against fraud, misuse and corruption. I further believe that the auditor’s office should work to support government entities in improving financial practices to not just comply with regulations, but to stretch hard-earned taxpayer dollars. 

What are your goals for improving the function of the auditor’s office?

As Ohio’s Auditor, my top priority is to transform the office from a purely punitive watchdog into a proactive partner for Ohio’s communities. Too many local governments, school districts, and small public entities lack access to the financial expertise they need to manage their systems well. My office will close that resource gap. I will expand the Auditor’s role as a trusted consultant and coach to provide hands-on technical assistance, training and fiscal guidance so communities can build stronger financial systems before a crisis occurs. That said, accountability is non-negotiable. I will investigate all cases of corruption and fiscal mismanagement and hold bad actors accountable, regardless of political affiliation.

What will you do to ensure that public funds are not misused?

As Mayor of Maple Heights, I inherited a city in fiscal emergency and turned it around. I balanced budgets, restored honest accounting, and earned four consecutive Clean Audit Awards from the very office I’m now running to lead. As State Auditor, I’ll bring that same discipline statewide: proactive  audits that catch problems early, transparent public reporting so Ohioans can see exactly how their money is spent, and accountability that applies to all public entities. Every dollar protected is a dollar that stays in our schools, roads, and communities.

What is the auditor’s role in investigating non-public schools?

When a private institution accepts public dollars, it must accept all public accountability obligations. While state spending on private school tuition has increased, the oversight has not done so. We need mandatory regular audits of any schools receiving EdChoice and other voucher program dollars. We also must require regular, consistent financial, enrollment and attendance reports from these schools. And, we must hold all schools accountable for not complying with basic reporting requirements.

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

As a member of the Ohio Redistricting Commission, I’ll fight for fair representation. Ohioans have made clear, again and again, that they want districts drawn fairly, and I’ll hold that line, even when it’s politically inconvenient. Fair maps mean real competition, real accountability, and a legislature that actually reflects the people it represents.

Frank LaRose

Party: Republican

Website: www.franklarose.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/FrankLaRose

Twitter/X: franklarose

Education: Ohio State University

Training and experience: Ohio Secretary of State (2018-Present), Ohio Senator (2010-2018)

Volunteer/community service: Member of the U.S. Army in the Ohio National Guard

What are the most important functions of the state auditor, and why?

The most important functions of the Auditor of State are ensuring transparency, efficiency, and accountability in government; protecting taxpayers from fraud, waste, and abuse; and giving the public confidence that their tax dollars are being managed responsibly. The office plays a critical role by auditing state and local entities, identifying weaknesses in financial controls, investigating misuse of public money, and helping public agencies operate more effectively. Those responsibilities matter because taxpayers deserve honest government, and public officials should be held to the highest standards when they are entrusted with public resources. The office also performs performance audits aimed at improving economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in public operations.

What are your goals for improving the function of the auditor’s office?

My goal is to strengthen the Auditor’s office as an independent watchdog that is focused not only on finding problems, but also on helping government work better. That means continuing to prioritize transparency, efficiency, and accountability; using audits and performance reviews to identify ways agencies and local governments can improve operations; expanding efforts to detect fraud, waste, and abuse early; and making sure audit findings are clear, timely, and useful to the public and to the entities being audited. I also believe the Auditor’s office should be a constructive partner to local governments by helping them improve internal controls and deliver the services their constituents depend on, and strengthening trust in government.

What will you do to ensure that public funds are not misused?

I will insist on strong, independent oversight, aggressive investigation of fraud, waste, and abuse, and clear accountability when public funds are misused. That includes supporting thorough financial and compliance audits, strengthening internal controls, encouraging timely reporting of suspicious activity, and using the office’s investigative tools to pursue wrongdoing wherever it occurs. Just as importantly, I believe prevention matters: training, transparency, and strong financial practices can stop problems before they become scandals. Taxpayers deserve confidence that every public dollar is being handled responsibly and that anyone who abuses the public trust will be held accountable. I will also support practical safeguards that help deter misuse before it starts across government.

What is the auditor’s role in investigating non-public schools?

The Auditor’s role is to follow the public money. When non-public schools receive public funds or participate in publicly funded programs, the Auditor has a responsibility to ensure those dollars are used lawfully, properly, and in accordance with applicable requirements. The office’s role is not to interfere with the mission or beliefs of a non-public school, but to provide oversight wherever taxpayer funds are involved and to investigate credible allegations of misuse. That is the same standard that should apply across the board: if public dollars are being spent, the public has a right to expect accountability. The Auditor’s core authority is tied to public money and legal compliance, and to ensuring public funds are used for their intended purpose, with transparency and accountability.

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

I would approach redistricting with seriousness, transparency, and respect for both the Ohio Constitution and the people of our state. Ohioans may not always agree on the outcome, but they should be able to expect a process that is open, constitutional, and understandable to the public. The goal should be constitutional maps that provide clear representation, preserve communities where possible, and are drawn through a process the public can understand and trust. Because the Auditor serves on the seven-member Ohio Redistricting Commission, that responsibility requires independence, careful attention to legal standards, and a commitment to conducting the process openly and responsibly.

Ohio Attorney General

Number to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Represents the state in all legal cases in which the state is a party or has a significant interest.

They represent you as the chief legal officer of the State of Ohio, where they:

• Represent Ohio in all court cases where Ohio has a significant interest and provide legal counsel to all elected state officials, state departments, commissions and the General Assembly.
• Coordinate with local law enforcement at their request and provide criminal justice support services, approves summaries for proposed citizen ballot initiatives. 
• Lead Ohio enforcement authority for Ohio law, including Ohio’s laws in consumer protection, antitrust actions, human trafficking, organized crime and nursing home patient abuse and neglect.
• Decide which issues and cases to prioritize and pursue.

John J. Kulewicz

Party: Democratic

Website: www.john4ohioag.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6158027479

Twitter/X: JohnKulewicz

Education: B.A. History at Ohio State, J.D. at Yale Law School

Training and experience: Partner at at Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease, 1987-2024; Associate attorney, 1981-1987

Volunteer/community service: I have previously served as board president of the Columbus Zoo, Catholic Social Services, and Federal Bar Association (Columbus); and as a member of the Ohio Bicentennial Commission and Ohio Historical Society Board.

What are the most important functions of the attorney general, and why?

The Attorney General is the chief law officer of the State of Ohio. They are responsible for police officer training and certification, consumer protection, anti-trust enforcement, and rooting out corruption in our state and local governments.

What divisions (e.g. consumer protection, environment, civil rights, immigration, elections, etc) will you prioritize, and why?

Right now, times are tough. I would prioritize the section of the office that handle consumer protection, anti-trust, and anti-corruption efforts to ensure that Ohioans are being given a fair shake in the economy. These are not the most glamorous cases to bring, but they make a real difference for working people all across the state.

When is it appropriate to bring cases on behalf of Ohio to federal court?

It is appropriate only when the rights of Ohio and the rights of The People of Ohio are directly under attack.

How will you represent the diverse interests of all Ohioans?

Everyone is equal under the law. I am campaigning the same way I will govern. That means going everywhere across the state and listening to the needs of The People of Ohio. The Ohio Attorney General is The People’s Lawyer, meaning your job is only accountable to The People, not the political whims of the Governor or the General Assembly or anyone else.

What changes would you make, if any, regarding transparency in government?

I have already filed multiple complaints with the Ohio Inspector General looking into the resignation of former Ohio State President Ted Carter and JobsOhio’s involvement in that and the lobbying practice of the Chairman of their Board. I have called upon the General Assembly to significantly rollback the privacy shield afforded JobsOhio, as we all have a right to see how our public money is used.

Keith Faber

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Treasurer

Number to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Collect taxes in Ohio’s counties and their subdivisions, disburse expenditures and invest the county’s funds.

They represent you as the Chief Financial Officer of the State of Ohio, where they:

• Collect, invest, and protect state funds, including most state taxes and fees. 
• Track and maintain Ohio’s unclaimed property database.
• Act as state banker by issuing bonds for voter-authorized infrastructure improvement programs and school facilities construction.

Seth Walsh

Party: Democratic

Website: www.sethwalshforohio.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TeamWalshHQ/

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Xavier University

Training and experience: Seth is an accomplished nonprofit leader, securing $85 million in economic development funding as Executive Director of the College Hill Urban Redevelopment Corporation. First appointed to Cincinnati City Council in December 2022, he has championed millions of dollars in direct economic support to grow Cincinnati’s small businesses and neighborhoods. Seth is a member of the Cincinnati Retirement System Board of Trustees.  A native of St. Joseph, Michigan, Seth graduated from Xavier University, w

Volunteer/community service: Seth has served as President of the Friends of Taft Legacy Foundation, and was Chairman of the Cincinnati Elections Commission. He founded the Cincy Soccer League in 2017, and for years was a member of the WCPO-TV Community Advisory Board. 

What are the most important functions of the state treasurer, and why?

The Treasurer of Ohio has two top priorities: securing the state’s investments and stewarding our public pension funds. As Treasurer, I will ensure the state’s investments, pension funds, and revenue are managed with integrity and are used to strengthen our communities so all Ohioans thrive.

What are your goals for improving the function of the treasurer’s office?

As Treasurer of Ohio, I will ensure the office operates with integrity and our focus is on investing in all of our communities so Ohioans can succeed. Programs like the LinkedDeposits program, the 529 College Advantage and social impact bonding are the type of programs that the Treasurer’s office should continue to implement to maximize and optimize how Ohio reinvests its money in our people. 

How can the treasurer’s office influence state fiscal policy?

If the State of Ohio, and its $280 billion investment portfolio, were a person, it would be the second-wealthiest person on Earth. That means with the right strategy, we can use Ohio’s revenue and investment dollars to drive increased returns and reinvest those dollars back in our communities. 

How will you ensure transparency and accountability in state finances?

There is no greater or more solemn responsibility to Ohioans than to maintain transparency and accountability in the Office of Treasurer of Ohio. As Treasurer of Ohio, I will ensure the state’s investments, pension funds, and revenue are managed with integrity 

How will you use your position to improve fiscal literacy among Ohioans?

As Treasurer of Ohio, I will use my ability to convene and maximize the opportunity we have with banks, credit unions and other financial institutions who are providing fiscal literacy in our public schools and to adults throughout Ohio. 

Jay Edwards

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Secretary of State

No. to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Oversees the election process in each of Ohio’s 88 counties. Maintains records of corporations.

They represent you as the chief election officer of Ohio, where they:

• Oversee Ohio elections to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, appoint and train election officials in all 88 counties.
• Chair the Ohio Ballot Board, which writes and approves ballot language for statewide issues. 
• Serve on the Ohio Redistricting Commission to redraw Ohio’s state and congressional districts.
• Oversee the Ohio Election Integrity Commission, which investigates possible cases of voter suppression and election fraud.
• Serve as state record keeper, provide public access to state government records and registers businesses in Ohio.

Tom Pruss

Party: Libertarian

Website: www.votepruss.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6158822301

Education: University of Toledo (attended)

Training and experience: Owner, Northcoast Print Mail Marketing 

Volunteer/community service: Vice President-Northwest Ohio Polish Cultural Center Advisory Board

What will you do to promote voter participation?

First, eliminate unnecessary barriers to voting. I support same-day registration tied to routine interactions like driver’s license renewals, while keeping ballots clear, simple, and auditable.

Second, protect election integrity with common-sense voter ID—the same kind Ohioans already use for banking or travel—while ensuring free state IDs are available for anyone who needs one.

Third, break the two-party stranglehold. I support fair ballot access, open primaries, and voting reforms like ranked-choice or approval voting so voters have real choices.

Finally, increase transparency. Election data should be open, systems secure, and the Secretary of State must act as a neutral referee—not a partisan tool.

More participation happens when voters have access, trust, and real choices.

What changes, if any, would you make to election security?

Election security should focus on transparency, verifiability, and public trust. Ohio already has strong safeguards, but we can improve confidence by expanding risk-limiting audits, ensuring every vote has a verifiable paper trail, and making election data more transparent to the public.

Security measures must protect the integrity of elections without making it harder for eligible voters to participate. That means clear procedures, secure voter ID with free state IDs available to anyone who needs one, and consistent statewide standards for equipment and auditing.

The goal is simple: secure elections that are easy to vote in and hard to cheat in.

What changes, if any, would you promote for the Ohio Ballot Board?

The Ohio Ballot Board should focus on clarity, fairness, and transparency. Ballot language must accurately reflect the proposal without confusing wording or partisan influence. I would push for clearer, plain-language summaries so voters can easily understand what they are voting on.

I also support greater transparency in how ballot language is drafted and approved, including public input and review. Ohio voters deserve summaries that explain issues honestly—not language designed to persuade or mislead.

What changes, if any, would you make to campaign finance policy?

Ohio’s campaign finance system should emphasize transparency and fairness. Voters deserve to know who is funding political campaigns, so I support stronger disclosure requirements and faster reporting of major contributions so the public can see who is trying to influence elections in real time.

At the same time, regulations should not be so complex that they discourage everyday citizens from running for office or participating in the political process. I support simplifying compliance rules for smaller campaigns while ensuring large donors and political action committees remain fully transparent.

How will you represent the diverse interests of all Ohio voters?

The Secretary of State’s role is not to represent one party or ideology—it’s to serve every voter in Ohio. I will run the office as a neutral referee, ensuring that election laws are applied fairly and consistently no matter who you vote for or where you live.

That means protecting equal access to the ballot, maintaining transparent and secure election systems, and making sure every eligible voter can participate without unnecessary barriers. I will also work with local election officials, community groups, and voters across the state to ensure their voices are heard.

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

Ohio voters have made it clear they want fair maps, not partisan gerrymandering. My approach is simple: the goal of redistricting should be to represent voters—not to protect politicians or political parties.

I support transparent map-drawing processes with public input and clear standards that prioritize compact districts, respect for communities, and competitiveness wherever possible. Ohioans should be able to see how maps are drawn and have meaningful opportunities to comment before they are finalized.

Most importantly, the rules must be applied fairly and consistently, regardless of which party benefits. Voters deserve districts where their voices actually matter and where elections are competitive, not predetermined.

Allison Russo

Party: Democratic

Website: allisonrusso.com

Facebook: facebook.com/Russo4Ohio

Twitter/X: Russo4Ohio

Education: Allison Russo holds a doctoral degree in health policy from The George Washington University and a master’s degree in public health epidemiology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. 

Training and experience: Allison spent more than 20 years working to solve problems in health care — advising federal agencies and health systems on how to improve care for seniors, veterans, military families, and vulnerable communities. She then entered the state legislature in 2019, where she was later elected House Minority Leader. In that time she helped build a coalition to defeat the August 2023 Issue 1 “60% power grab” and then enshrine reproductive rights into Ohio’s constitution.

What will you do to promote voter participation?

I believe increasing voter participation and voter education should be key duties of the office. Ensuring that Ohioans are informed about how, when, and where to vote is essential to a strong democracy. This work relies on building partnerships with key communities, including school districts, universities, nonpartisan organizations focused on voting, faith communities, and local governments. These partners play a critical role in helping reach voters in their communities and encouraging civic participation. In addition, we should focus on making voting information more accessible. That includes reimagining the technologies voters use to access election information and register to vote. By improving the platforms voters rely on, we can ensure accurate information is readily available. 

What changes, if any, would you make to election security?

One change I would make is increasing and stabilizing funding for our local Boards of Elections. Currently, funding for county Boards of Elections comes from a mix of state and county resources. As a result, some counties are well funded, while others only have enough resources to do the minimum required to carry out elections with limited staffing. When resources vary significantly by county, it can create gaps that make it harder for some jurisdictions to maintain the highest standards of security and efficiency. My knowledge and experience navigating the state budget process will be important in advocating for adequate funding for our Boards of Elections. Ensuring these offices have the staffing, technology, and training they need will help maintain secure, reliable elections. 

What changes, if any, would you promote for the Ohio Ballot Board?

While Section 1 of Article XVI of the Ohio Constitution dictates the composition of the Ohio Ballot Board, the Secretary of State serves as the Chair of the Ballot Board and can dictate the tone and tenor of the Board’s activities. I believe the Ohio Ballot Board should function as an unbiased Board that prescribes and certifies the ballot language for proposed Constitutional amendments, initiatives, and referenda and oversees efforts to inform voters of ballot issues. Personal and partisan perspectives on a specific issue should not dictate the work of the Board. Regarding ballot language specifically, the change I would promote would be to simplify the official ballot language so that it can be easily read and understood by the average voter, is fair, and is as unbiased as possible.

What changes, if any, would you make to campaign finance policy?

The Secretary of State carries out campaign finance laws, but does not have the power to set new policy without legislative action. However, the Secretary of State still has regulatory oversight into this process. Last year, the Ohio Legislature dissolved the Ohio Elections Commission and shifted the investigation for violations of campaign finance laws to the Secretary of State’s office. Appeal of decisions goes to the Ohio Elections Integrity Commission, whose chairperson is also appointed by the Secretary of State. The Ohio Secretary of State has enormous discretion to investigate campaigns for any potential campaign finance infractions. Because of this new and relatively unchecked power, it is more important than ever that Ohio elects a Secretary of State who is fair and transparent. 

How will you represent the diverse interests of all Ohio voters?

I believe that the best way to represent the diverse interests of all Ohio voters is to conduct the Office of Secretary of State in a fair and unbiased manner. It should not matter what issues or candidates a Secretary of State supports or opposes—the responsibility of the office is to ensure that every candidate the same fair opportunity to come before Ohio voters, and that every voter has their voice heard and counted.

To achieve this, the office must prioritize professionalism and transparency in every aspect of election administration. That includes hiring staff who represent the diversity of Ohio’s political perspectives and communities. By bringing together people with different viewpoints and experiences, the office can better understand and respond to challenges voters face. 

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

First, I believe Ohio’s redistricting process should NOT include any politician, including the Secretary of State. The current process is fundamentally broken because it relies on politicians to make unbiased decisions to fairly draw our gerrymandered districts, and it includes no enforcement power for the Ohio Supreme Court when bipartisan agreement cannot be reached. The Ohio Redistricting Commission will not meet to redraw district lines until after our next census in 2031, meaning that the Secretary of State that we elect this year will not sit on that commission unless reelected in 2030. However, I believe the role of the next Secretary of State is to give any future citizen-led ballot initiative that may reform our current  redistricting process a fair shot with unbiased language. 

Robert Sprague

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Governor

Editor’s note: The Governor and Lieutenant Governor run as a single ticket but appear separately here to allow for different questions.

No. to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Ensures that all state laws are executed, reports the condition of the state and presents a proposed budget to the legislature.

They represent you as the chief executive of the State of Ohio, where they:

• Set state policy by approving, vetoing, and giving feedback on proposed laws and overseeing their execution. 
• Propose and sign the state budget that decides funding for education, health and Medicaid services, state prisons, developmental services, state parks, state agencies and more.
• Appoint state department officials who lead agencies that carry out laws and create policies impacted by state budget. These departments include Transportation, Insurance, Veteran Services, Rehabilitation and Corrections, Taxation, Commerce.
• Serve on the Ohio Redistricting Commission to redraw Ohio’s state and congressional districts.
• Manage emergencies such as natural disasters and command the Ohio National Guard.

Amy Acton

Party: Democratic

Facebook: facebook.com/amyactonoh

Website: actonforgovernor.com

Twitter/X: amyactonoh

Education: Northeast Ohio Medical University BS/MD; The Ohio State University MPH

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Both Republican and Democratic officials attest to the security of Ohio elections; however, I oppose the recent and repeated efforts to cast doubt on the integrity of our elections, which erode public trust in the foundation of our democracy. I reject efforts by some to use unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud as justification for restrictive voting measures that make it harder for eligible Ohioans to participate in the electoral process under current law.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

Ohioans are working harder than ever, but they just can’t make ends meet. My ActOn Costs Agenda will lower costs, help Ohioans keep more of their money by cutting taxes, and put money back in people’s pockets.

My Working Families Tax Cut includes an Earned Income Credit that will support up to 775,000 working families and a child tax credit of $1,000 a year for children aged 0-6 and $500 for children aged 7-18 for families making up to $85,000 in annual income. As governor, I will expand the Homestead Exemption so more of Ohio’s seniors are eligible for property tax relief, introduce a property tax spike rebate, and crack down on predatory collection practices. I will also fully implement the Fair School Funding Plan, which will decrease the local property tax burden.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

As a doctor, I’ve seen how important it is that Ohioans can both access and afford the care they need – and right now, that simply isn’t the case for so many people in our state. As governor, I will fight to lower healthcare costs by protecting against attacks on Medicaid and Medicare, launch an online platform to leverage Ohio’s purchasing power on prescription drugs, and forgive medical debt. I will work to lower healthcare premiums through transparency, and crack down on surprise billing and predatory collection practices. 

Our energy bills are too high, and as governor, I will fight to lower your bills through an energy strategy that enhances production, incorporates the lowest-cost and cleanest sources of energy, and expands access to cost-saving programs. 

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

First, I will fully and constitutionally fund our public schools, allowing us to prioritize students, educators, and schools to reduce the pressure on local property taxes.

Second, Ohio’s private school voucher program is sending billions of hardworking Ohioans’ tax dollars to fund private schools with no accountability. I will tackle the out-of-control private school voucher system and push for desperately needed transparency regarding where those billions are being spent.

Third, I will use those savings to invest in best practices that will bring Ohio’s schools into the 21st century, with cutting-edge literacy and math programs that help kids prepare for the workforce. I will invest in new approaches to math and literacy programs to make sure they’re tied to real-world demands. 

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

Everywhere I go, Ohioans share their stories and exhaustion at the chaos, hate, and vitriol in our politics. People are longing for public servants who solve problems instead of creating them – leaders who address the issues that all of us want to be solved: costs, affordable childcare, lowering property taxes, providing dignity while aging in place, safety, and good-paying jobs that provide a high quality of life. I am not a politician; I am a doctor and a public servant who has worked with both Republicans and Democrats. Ohio needs a leader who will bring people to the table and work through the hard issues. As governor, I am committed to having leadership in my cabinet from both parties because my top priority is solving problems and delivering real results for Ohioans. 

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

Ohioans have spoken loud and clear that they want to end gerrymandering in Ohio. They’ve figured out that gerrymandering is a key reason Ohio has been going in the wrong direction for so long, and why extremists and special interests run Ohio. And they’re right. Despite the voters’ mandate and the clear requirements of Ohio’s constitution, politicians in Columbus have abused the process, broken the law, and defied multiple court rulings to continue to gerrymander Ohio’s districts. As governor, I will have a seat at the table in the 2030-31 map-drawing process. In that role, I will fight for fair and constitutional districts that put the people back in charge of their government. I will oppose any rigged map, and I will veto any bill that tries to gerrymander Ohio once again. 

Donald C. Kissick

Party: Libertarian

Campaign address: 990 Hampton Ct, Lebanon, Oh, 45036

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DonKissickLiberty/

Website: donkissick.com

Training and experience: Military Background

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Especially when it comes to the Save America Act; we’re finding that it’s incredibly problematic because it’s targeting people who are typically democratic voters so the overreach from an act like that is something we speak ardently against. 

Overall though, we’ve found that the current system has disenfranchised challenger parties like ours because it favors simplistic duopolistic voting. Rank Choice or STAR Voting, something more like a survey model where I can say- my first choice is X, my second choice is Y, and my third choice is Z is much more favorable to challenger parties because it sees more of the grey complexity that is how people view and think, 

Given the fact that 49% of Ohio identify themselves as politically homeless- it makes alot of sense to change the way we’re voting

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

As it pertains to abolishing property tax- we are in favor of it but you first have to address a few key strings: 

1. Investors in residential real estate

2. How we’re addressing education

It’s a case of a balance sheet- inflows, we can replace our property tax revenue with local consumption based taxes especially on luxury goods and you can also look at the sin taxes like marijuana, cigarettes, gambling (especially the lottery), and alcohol. 

In the case of outflows- we have a lot of money going to corporate subsidies, international donations, and the school system- in particular with the school system if you remove teaching towards the test and compliance based programs you can significantly reduce the budget because those systems are costly to manage. 

It’s about balancing the budget.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

This is a tough one because rising costs are being caused by a number of things outside of our control- the war and tariffs which both will cause supply chain issues. We’ve talked alot about deregulation for the small business because the amount of taxes and regulations impacting the small business owner has essentially been constricting them out of business. 

On top of that if we can create a more collaborative environment for resources in the given locales like opener and more collaborative coalitions for mental health nonprofits, housing, small business incubators- you can drive jobs back to the smaller communities which will in theory drive more business back to the mom and pop shops- especially if you eliminate the subsidies that have gone to mainly large scale corporations

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

As mentioned, we’d focus on ending compliance based testing programs which are costly to manage and create additional bureaucracy in administrators. 

Similar to business, where my boss trusts me to do the work-  and in theory my boss is supposed to be either more educated, more certified, or more experience than me- we should move towards a model where because this teacher has indicated they have a mastery over math or a mastery over English, I should trust them that they’re teaching their students mastery. We can use testing for diagnostic purposes, you could also have more portfolio based modeling for students; but at the end of the day, if that teacher is a master of the topic and the department head or admin over them has said they’re doing an adequate job- who am I to say otherwise?

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

The first step in loving thy neighbor is to step outside to meet them. We’ve become so engrained in our own echo chambers that if you’re left or right, that’s your sole identity. I want to have people recognize that we’re all people and the bulk of us are wanting what’s best for the community we’re just disagreeing about how to do that. The way to break echo chambers is to be curious, not judgmental. Ask questions first, clarify why someone believes something, and be open to dialogue. We win when we win together. 

We’ve already started doing this- we’ve hosted townhall events across the state where we’ve invited democrats, republicans, libertarians, and independents to just talk about the issues and how to solve them. And we do it in a way where we’re trying to listen more than we talk. 

How will you approach re-drawing legislative district lines?

I will make this clear- what’s gone on in Ohio with the constant redrawing of legislative district lines has shown just how toxic our institution is. It wasn’t perfect but something like what was proposed in 2024 with issue 1 where you have a nonpartisan committee that takes into account all recognized parties in the state is something I’d love to come back up on the ballot. Candidly it was short sighted when the GOP shot it down because they don’t recognize that when the Dems come into power, the power struggle to remove them will be just the same as the power struggle the dems are facing in unhousing the GOP. 

Make it equitable (which issue 1 was attempting to do) and give the people the chance to actually vote for what they want. Make politicians stand on their own merit. 

Vivek Ramaswamy

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Renea Turner (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ron Ula (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Timothy Grady (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Heather Hill (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Lieutenant Governor

Editor’s note: The Governor and Lieutenant Governor run as a single ticket but appear separately here to allow for different questions.

Number to be elected: 1 | Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: Succeeds governor in the event of death, conviction by impeachment or disability of the governor.

They represent you as the deputy chief executive of the State of Ohio, where they:

• Serve as a member of the governor’s cabinet and oversees meetings in the governor’s absence.
• Can be appointed as the leader of an administrative department.
• Serve as the governor’s representative on any board, agency, committee or commission on which the governor is a member. 
• Has appointment authority to any non-elective body in the executive department or other area the governor considers in the interest of the state.

James L. Mills

Party: Libertarian

Website: Donkissick.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/p/James-Mills-for-Lt-Gove

Education: MBA from Xavier, Econ and political science degree from UC

Training and experience: 10 years in finance with various professional designations like retirement planning counselor, and securities and insurance evaluations

Volunteer/community service: Run a clothing drive where we distribute coats to the homeless

What are the most important functions of the lieutenant governor, and why?

The ability to preside over the state senate. One of the most prominent facets of LT. Governor is to help implement the legislative agenda so when Don and I talk about bolstering an environment to overturn citizens united and get rid of money in politics, to focus on deregulating the small business owner, or even some of the influences we’ve seen with local law enforcement working with ICE- as a Lt. Governor having the ability to influence legislative agenda, these are all things I can imbue the state senate to start working on. 

What are your top two policy priorities for the next four years?

First rebuild Ohio’s economic engine by expanding access for small businesses and workers: cutting barriers, opening up capital and contracts, and creating real pathways to growth. Second, restore trust in government through transparency and accountability- making sure every dollar is trackable, every decision is open, and the system works for people, not insiders.”

Are you interested in leading a state agency? Which agency, and why?

I’d take an active role in strengthening ethics oversight and transparency across state agencies, while leading workforce and economic development efforts that actually connect Ohioans to real opportunity. That means cleaner government, open access to contracts, and building pathways for workers and small businesses to grow.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

The first step in loving thy neighbor is to step outside to meet them. We’ve become so engrained in our own echo chambers that if you’re left or right, that’s your sole identity. I want to have people recognize that we’re all people and the bulk of us are wanting what’s best for the community we’re just disagreeing about how to do that. The way to break echo chambers is to be curious, not judgmental. Ask questions first, clarify why someone believes something, and be open to dialogue. We win when we win together. We’ve already started doing this- we’ve hosted townhall events across the state where we’ve invited democrats, republicans, libertarians, and independents to just talk about the issues and how to solve them. And we do it in a way where we’re trying to listen more than we talk.

How will you represent the diverse interests of all Ohioans?

I grew up in a lower-middle-class Ohio family, worked across finance, construction, and nonprofit service, and I’m raising my kids here- so I’ve lived a lot of the realities Ohioans face. Representing diverse perspectives isn’t about checking boxes: it’s about building systems where everyone has a voice and a fair shot. I’ll stay grounded by being present in communities across the state, listening first, and making sure our policies actually reflect the people they impact- not just the people in the room.

Michael Lehnerd (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Patrick Manley (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Robert A. McColley

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Andrea Neutzling (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

David Pepper

Party: Democratic

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Jalen Turner (write-in)

Party: Independent

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Supreme Court Justice

Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court – Terms commencing 01/02/2027

No. to be elected: 2 | Term: 6 years

Responsibilities:

Interpret and apply Ohio laws, which must be in compliance with the Ohio and United States Constitutions. Justices represent the Ohio Supreme Court as a co-equal branch of government that provides a check and balance on Ohio’s legislative and executive branches  

They serve you as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio, where they:

• Interpret Ohio laws by reviewing and ruling on state laws for compliance with the Ohio and US Constitutions, impacting constitutional rights, healthcare, housing, criminal sentencing laws, drug policies, energy practices, election laws, corporate regulation, district maps for the Ohio Statehouse and U.S. Congress and more. 
• Decide appeals on cases tried in an Ohio lower court involving constitutional questions, death penalty sentences, and other cases of statewide importance.
• Oversee lower Ohio Courts and lawyers by setting policy and budgets.
• Establishes and oversees ethical guidelines for Ohio lawyers and judges.

Jennifer Brunner

Party: Democratic

Website: justicebrunner.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jenniferbrunner

Twitter/X: jenniferbrunner

Education: Miami University 1975-1978 B.S. Sociology-Gerontology, Cum Laude; Capital University Law School 1979-1982 J.D. Law (1983), Order of the Curia; University of York, UK, PhD, Sociology (remote study) expected 2027

Training and experience: Justice, Supreme Court of Ohio, elected 2020; Judge, Tenth District Court of Appeals, 2014 – 2021; Judge, Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, 2000 – 2005; Secretary of State of Ohio, January 2007 – 2011; private law practice, 3/1987 – 12/2000, 9/2005 – 1/2007, 1/2011 – 12/2014.

Volunteer/community service: Past Board Member, Center for Community Solutions, Cleveland (2013 to 2019); Past Board Chair/Member, Legacy Fund of Central Ohio (2012 to 2021); OxFam America, Ambassador (2014-2021); various local and state government boards (1991-2021).

List your judicial experience (courts and years).

Supreme Court of Ohio, Justice (2021-Present); Ohio Appellate Judge – 10th District Court of Appeals (2014-2020), Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Court (2000-2005), founder of Treatment is Essential to Success (TIES) felony drug court in 2004, still in operation; International Governance and Rule of Law Experience to National Center for State Courts for Serbian Ministry of Justice and misdemeanor judges (2012-2013); conducted training onsite for Sri Lanka Bar Association (2015); USAID observer of 3 elections in Egypt, working with judges who supervised elections (2014-2015); remote volunteer for American Bar Association (ABA) for NGOs in Kazakhstan, producing video training for civil society advocacy, and onsite consultant to Benin Human Rights Commission for ABA (2022).

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

As Ohio’s first woman Secretary of State (2007-2011), I served as the state’s chief election officer  and supervised the state’s 88 bipartisan county boards of elections; promulgated rules and issued directives and instructions for  the fair conduct of elections in Ohio.  I oversaw a staff of 200 and was personally involved in settling litigation issues on election administration regarding the 2008 Obama election. I received the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, the nation’s most prestigious award for elected public  servants, for what Caroline Kennedy called, “dauntless commitment to the enfranchisement of every Ohio voter.”

Why are you running for this specific court seat?

Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s 2016 book, In My Own Words, inspired me to understand just how focused she was on improving the lives  of women and on equality, even before she was an attorney, judge or U.S. Supreme Court Justice. She also understood that collegiality among her colleagues was essential to forging a path to accomplish her goals. As the only Democrat on the Ohio Supreme Court, I understand that and have worked to develop relationships that help me to contribute to Ohio law so that rule of law  may stay strong and justice for all be more than an idea.

What major challenges do courts face today? How would you address them?

My judicial philosophy is based in fairness, equality and respect. The rule of law exists to provide fairness in human endeavors, which allows individuals to live peaceably among one another with predictability, safety and a springboard for their individual pursuit of happiness. In a democracy bound to the rule of law, it is inherently recognized by members of such a society that there is something greater than themselves in the law to help all people govern their own affairs. When the keepers of the rule of law of that society remember that they work in service to the people, the law works to the good of the people and their freedoms.

What do you perceive as the greatest obstacle to justice, if any?

I believe that we must continue to improve access to justice through legal reform initiatives. That is why I have  advocated for the use of technology to improve court efficiency and accessibility. 

Commitment to diversity and inclusion within the judiciary also requires vigilance in making sure our courts reflect the diversity in our state. 

Finally, I believe that public confidence in the independence of our courts is imperative. Justice requires fairness, access and rule of law in decision making. It is neither red nor blue. It is and should be above the fray of politics. 

Colleen O’Donnell

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Justice of the Ohio Supreme Court — terms commencing 01/01/2027

 No. to be elected: 2 | Term: 6 years

Marilyn Zayas

Party: Democratic

Website: judgemarilynzayas.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Judge.MarilynZayas/

Twitter/X: x.com/vote4JudgeZayas

Education: J.D. University of Cincinnati College of Law ● CCNY Bachelor’s in Computer Science

Training and experience: Served several times at the Ohio Supreme Court to replace a recused justice by selection of the Ohio Chief Justice ● Ohio Court of Appeals Judge since 2016; Decided over 2000 appeal cases across Ohio ● Attorney nearly 20 years ● Provided legal education and training to attorneys, including prosecutors, criminal defense attorneys, and civil litigators ● Alum of the FBI Citizens Academy ● Procter and Gamble IT Manager 

Volunteer/community service: Creator and program director of the Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders student program ● U.C. College of Law Dean’s Advisory Board ● Past Board member Beech Acres Parenting Center ● Partnered with law enforcement for years helping crime victims

List your judicial experience (courts and years)

Ohio First District Court of Appeals Judge, 2016–present; decided 2,000+ appeal cases across Ohio. Last year, selected three times in 40 days by the Chief Justice (associated with a different political party) to replace a recused justice on our Ohio Supreme Court, an unprecedented honor. Additionally, previously appointed to the Supreme Court and the Second, Sixth, Eighth, and Tenth District Courts of Appeals.

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

My non-judicial experience is shaped by my personal journey and nearly 20 years as an attorney. I grew up in a neighborhood devastated by drugs and crime and was raised by a mother with a seventh-grade education who worked as a factory seamstress. She taught me hard work, perseverance, and integrity. I earned a degree in computer science and worked as an IT manager at Procter and Gamble, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills. I used my savings to attend law school, then represented individuals, families, and businesses in complex legal matters. My police officer brother was nearly killed by a drunk driver in the line of duty. These experiences showed me how the law affects real people and strengthened my commitment to fair, independent courts, rule of law and safe communities.

Why are you running for this specific court seat?

I am running because Ohio’s highest court must be a beacon of integrity, impartiality, and independence, deciding cases based on the Constitution, law, and facts. People are losing faith in our courts because of politics. Our Ohio Supreme Court will decide cases involving data centers, what energy companies can charge us, and government overreach. I have accepted $0 from corporate interests: energy, banking, and insurance companies. After nearly a decade and 2,000+ appeals, plus multiple selections by the Chief Justice (she’s from a different political party) to sit on the Supreme Court, I have built a record of fair, principled decisions, earning trust across the political spectrum. Ohio ranks 9th in overdose deaths. I will expand Veterans, Mental Health, and Drug Courts to improve public safety.

What major challenges do courts face today? How would you address them?

The greatest challenges facing Ohio courts are restoring public trust in an independent judiciary and maintaining stability in the law. Yet our Ohio Supreme Court has increasingly departed from well-established precedent. In April 2026, its decision in Disciplinary Counsel v. Rudduck departed from federal precedent and allowed judges to endorse politicians, raising concerns about the integrity of our courts. I will never endorse a political candidate because everyone deserves confidence that the courtroom is a place of impartial justice. In July 2026, the Court reversed its own 1987 precedent in State v. King. Changes to settled law should be rare, principled, and carefully explained. I will remain faithful to the rule of law. Trust is earned through integrity, independence, and equal justice.

What do you perceive as the greatest obstacle to justice, if any?

The greatest obstacle to justice is unequal resources: wealth provides advantages that hard-working Americans often lack. This can affect cases from the outset. Public defenders face heavy caseloads with limited support. In civil matters, such as custody and family disputes, many cannot afford attorneys, preventing them from pursuing cases or forcing them to represent themselves at a major disadvantage. Even small fines or fees can lead to escalating barriers. This challenges our ideal of equal treatment under the law. I believe that practical, bipartisan initiatives, such as better funding for legal aid, greater access to information about court proceedings, and streamlined processes, can level the playing field while maintaining public safety and accountability for all.

Daniel R Hawkins

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Court of Appeals Judge

Judge of Court of Appeals – 9th District – full term commencing 2/9/2027

No. to be elected: 4-12 from 12 districts | Term: 6 years

They serve you as a judge of the Court of Appeals for the State of Ohio, where they:

• Review decisions made by lower courts and rule on how the law was applied and if the case was decided fairly.
• Decisions made by a Court of Appeals are final except in cases involving constitutional questions, death penalty sentences and other select exceptions.

Cynthia Curtin

Party: Republican

Website: curtin4judge.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Judge-Cynthia-Curtin/61577

Education: J.D. Cleveland State University 1988; B.S. Indiana University 1983

Training and Experience: Current Magistrate, Summit County Domestic Relations Court; former Judge Stow Municipal Court; Prior to being a judge, I was a litigation attorney for over 35 years handling jury trials, appellate arguments, mediations and arbitrations.  Represented individuals, small businesses, national retailers, large corporations, and insurance companies, in a wide range of legal matters.  Also owned and managed a certified woman owned law firm. Worked in banking.

Volunteer/Community Service: Hudson Planning Commission, served as chairman and vice -chairman.  Co-chaired Western Reserve Antiques Festival. School volunteer and fundraiser at Seton Catholic School.  First Congregational Church of Hudson.

List your judicial experience (courts and years).

Judge of the Stow Municipal Court, June -December 2025; Magistrate, Summit County Domestic Relations Court, April 2026-present

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

I was a litigation attorney for over 35 years. I did jury trials, appellate arguments, mediations and arbitrations in all courts throughout Ohio and federal court. I represented individuals, small businesses, national retailers, large corporations and insurance companies, handling cases involving motor vehicle liability, premises liability, product liability, property damage, worker’s comp, employment, SIU, coverage, contracts, estate and probate.  I owned and managed a small business, a certified woman owned law firm.  I assisted national coordinating counsel where I worked with attorneys around the country in various state and federal courts defending premises liability cases.  I also worked in the banking industry before going into law.  

Why are you running for this specific court seat?

Becoming a judge is a career goal, not a political stepping stone.  Last year, I was fortunate to achieve my dream when Gov. DeWine appointed me to fulfill an unexpired term at the Stow Municipal Court.  I enjoyed the experience, handled the responsibility well, and have years of service to offer. So, when the opportunity became available to run for the Court of Appeals, I decided to go for it.  I believe my professional background, extensive legal experience and perspective would be a good addition to the Court of Appeals.  

What major challenges do courts face today? How would you address them?

High case volume affecting timely resolution and outdated technology are a couple things that burden our current court system.  I believe the answer is to add more judges and increase funding for technology.  By adding more judges, you create more access to justice and increase resolution time. Rather than put an additional strain on the taxpayer for more funding, I would like to see grants made to the courts by non-profits and corporations.  

What do you perceive as the greatest obstacle to justice, if any?

I believe there is a growing tendency for judges to make law from the bench rather than faithfully apply the law as written.  Judges have defined and limited powers.   They should remain within the proper scope of their judicial role.  When courts begin creating new law rather than interpreting and applying it, the separation of powers becomes blurred and the constitutional roles of the legislative, executive and judicial branches become improperly intertwined. 

Betty Sutton

Party: Democratic

Website: www.bettysuttonforjudge.com/

Facebook: bettysuttonforjudge.com

Education: Juris Doctor, University of Akron School of Law, 1990; Recognized for outstanding performance in Constitutional Law; B.A., Kent State University, 1985

Training and experience: Judge, Ninth District Court of Appeals, 2021-present; Attorney, since 1991; Administrator (Presidential Appointee), Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway, 2013-2016; U.S. Representative 2007-2013; Ohio State Representative, 1993-2000; Summit County Council 1991-1993; Barberton City Council, 1990-1991;  I have experience as an attorney in civil, criminal, and administrative law matters.

Volunteer/community service: Active member of Johnson United Methodist Church; Involved in feeding the hungry through the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank and Barberton Area Christian MInistries; Member of Kiawanis; Supporter of Humane Society and Habitat for HumanityList your judicial experience (courts and years).

List your judicial experience (courts and years)

Judge, Ninth District Court of Appeals, 2021-Present. My legal experience is comprehensive and deep. I’ve served as Judge on the Court of Appeals, as an executive, as a lawmaker at the city, county, and state levels, and as a member Congress.  As your judge for more than five and a half years, I’ve decided over a thousand cases involving a multitude of issues and written hundreds of opinions. I believe that everyone must receive fairness, justice, and accountability under the law. I believe in the fierce independence of the judiciary. I know our courts have profound real-life impacts on people.  I understand how important it is for our courts to be fair and impartial and my experience, integrity, and commitment to justice for all will ensure they get it.

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

As an attorney for 35 years, I’ve worked in civil, criminal, and administrative law. I’ve represented workers and others who were not always treated fairly. I’ve also been involved in service beyond the practice of law. Called by faith, I’ve worked with local food pantries, the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and Humane Society. My voluntary and public service has given me valuable experience and wisdom to bring to the Court. As an attorney, the first person in Ohio to serve as a lawmaker at every level of government, presidential appointee, and judge, I’ve seen the law from every angle. My exceptional experience has given me unique insight into the law, how it should be interpreted, and a deep commitment to fairness and justice for all who come before the Court. 

Why are you running for this specific court seat?

I believe in the fierce independence of our judiciary. I know that the Ninth District Court of Appeals has profound, real-life impacts on people and our communities. I understand how important it is that our court is fair and impartial – and I have the unrivaled experience to make sure that everyone who comes before the court is treated fairly, with dignity, and respect. My experience as a judge, attorney for 35 years, lawmaker at every level of government, and executive has given me unique insight into the law, how it should be interpreted, and a deep commitment to fairness and justice for everyone who comes before the court.  It matters.

What major challenges do courts face today? How would you address them?

Our Courts face many challenges, including an increasing lack of trust in our judiciary and criminal justice system, concerns about individual and systemic bias within our criminal justice system, and the inability of many to access justice.  Each of these issues are important.  As a judge, I am mindful and committed to continuing my work to improve the public’s understanding of their rights and access to justice.  To that end, I have and will continue to promote transparency, engage with citizens about our democracy, and work to implement solutions.

What do you perceive as the greatest obstacle to justice, if any?

One of the greatest obstacles to justice is access.  Too often, people who need and would benefit from legal assistance to pursue an appeal sometimes go without due to economic constraints.  As a judge on the Ninth District Court of Appeals, I am a proponent of making it easier for people to pursue an appeal when they think mistakes have been made in their cases at the trial court level.  In addition, I am ever mindful of judicial bias within our criminal justice system and will continue to raise awareness and work with diligence, understanding, and humanity to increase transparency and overcome systemic and individual bias within our criminal justice system.

Judge of Court of Appeals – 9th District – unexpired term ends 2/9/2029

Number to be elected: 4-12 from 12 districts | Term: 6 years

They serve you as a judge of the Court of Appeals for the State of Ohio, where they:

• Review decisions made by lower courts and rule on where the law was applied and whether the case was decided fairly.
• Decisions made by a Court of Appeals are final except in cases involving constitutional questions, death penalty sentences and other select exceptions. 

Tavia Galonski

Party: Democratic

Website: www.taviagalonski.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/taviagalonski

Twitter/X: x.com/Taviagalonski

Education: Emory University, Atlanta GA Bachelor of Science in Psychology, May 1987; University of Akron, Juris Doctorate, May 1995 – Dean’s Club Scholar; University of Phoenix, Online Master of Business Administration, July 2011

Training and experience: Intern, The Carter Center Atlanta, May 1985-August 1985; Flight Attendant, Delta, Atlanta, ​​​​​​​October 1988- September 2001; Intern, LexisNexis Akron, October 1993 – June 1994; Staff Attorney, Community Legal Aid, Akron, January 1996– January 2001; Judicial Attorney, Summit County Court of Common Pleas, Akron, ​​​​​​​​January 2001- January 2002; Magistrate, Summit County Court of Common Pleas – Domestic Relations, Akron;

Volunteer/community service: 1991, A Feather in Your Cap – Awarded by Delta Airlines for participating in Military Charters during Desert Storm; 2005, Leadership Akron; 2007, Life Skills Award – Awarded by the Life Skills Centers of Akron and Summit County

List your judicial experience (courts and years).

Judicial Attorney, Summit County Court of Common Pleas, Akron, OH ​​​​​​​​January 2001- January 2002; Magistrate, Summit County Court of Common Pleas – Domestic Relations, Akron, OH, January 2002- December 2002; Magistrate, Summit County Court of Common Pleas – Juvenile Court, Akron, OH, January 2003- May 2017; State Representative for District 33, Ohio House of Representatives, Columbus, OH ​​​​​​​May 2017- January 2024; Summit County Clerk of Courts, Akron, OH ​​​​​​​​January 2024- Present

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?

Intern, The Carter Center, Atlanta, GA, ​​​​​​​​May 1985-August 1985; Flight Attendant, Delta, Atlanta, GA ,​​​​​​​October 1988- September 2001; Intern, LexisNexis, Akron, OH​​​​​​​, October 1993- June 1994; Staff Attorney, Community Legal Aid, Akron, OH ​​​​​​​​January 1996– January 2001.

Why are you running for this specific court seat?

I am running to be the change necessary on the 9th District Court of Appeals. We need balance and we need to remind the people of Ohio and the American people that we stand by our Oath of Office and we believe in the rule of law while also remembering that our fellow citizens deserve dignity, respect, impartiality and administrative diligence each and every time they come before us and we shall administer justice without fear or favor.

What major challenges do courts face today? How would you address them?

The Court’s face a lack of transparency as well as a lack of full analysis of the merits coupled with the need to determine if technicalities should win over the rights of the people to be fully heard.

What do you perceive as the greatest obstacle to justice, if any?

The greatest threat to justice is the failure of the jurist to understand their on biases and to interrogate those biases to determine that they shall hand out equal and fair justice for all without fear or favor.

Nathan H. Manning

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio Senate District 27

Number to be elected statewide: 17 | Salary: $72,373 |Term: 4 years

Responsibilities: To represent the people of their district and the state of Ohio in dealing with matters not allocated to the federal government.

They propose and pass Ohio laws on taxes, education funding and curriculum, election rules, healthcare, corporate and environmental regulation, district maps for the Ohio Statehouse and U.S. Congress, public utilities and energy, and more.

They decide the state budget, which impacts taxes for citizens, local communities and corporations, and funding for public education, public health, transit, drinking water, prisons, libraries, higher education, childcare programs, state employee wages and benefits, natural resources and more.

Steve Demetriou

Party: Republican

Website: steveforohiosenate.com

Facebook: facebook.com/SteveforOhioSenate

Twitter/X: @steve4ohsenate

Education: Bachelor of Science. United States Military Academy at West Point

Training and experience: U.S. Army Infantry Officer (2011-2016), Small Business Owner, State Representative (2022-present)

Volunteer/Community Service: Church Parish Council (2022-2025)

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

I support making Ohio elections secure, accessible, and transparent. Ohio has already implemented voter ID requirements and maintains multiple options for early and absentee voting. 

I also support the passage of issue 3, which will enshrine voter photo ID requirements into our state constitution. Although voter photo ID is already state law in Ohio, adding this amendment to the constitution will help safeguard elections for future generations.

I would focus on strengthening election integrity by maintaining accurate voter rolls, ensuring ballots are properly verified, and enforcing clear deadlines for absentee ballots. At the same time, we should make sure eligible Ohioans can easily understand the rules and exercise their right to vote. 

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

Ohio should continue moving toward a simpler, more competitive tax system that rewards hard work, investment, and entrepreneurship. We should prioritize reducing the tax burden on working Ohioans and small businesses while avoiding tax increases that make it harder for families and employers to stay and grow here.

While serving as State Representative, I worked with my colleagues to pass historic property tax relief for Ohioans. As state senator, I look forward to continuing that work to further reduce the property tax burden on citizens, especially those who are living on a fixed income.

Any tax reductions should be paired with responsible budgeting and a commitment to keeping government spending sustainable. Ohio should compete with other states for businesses, workers, and investment.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

The best long-term answer is to make Ohio a place where people can earn more and keep more of what they earn. That means reducing unnecessary taxes and regulations, expanding housing supply, supporting small businesses, and continuing to invest in infrastructure and workforce development.

In the short-term, we should look for ways to provide as much immediate relief as possible. Through measures like temporarily suspending the state gas tax, we can help Ohio families by instantly lowering the everyday costs of living.

We also need to address specific cost pressures facing families, particularly housing, energy, and childcare. Government should look for ways to reduce barriers that drive up costs rather than responding to every problem with another government program.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

For K-12 education, my priorities would be strong literacy and math fundamentals, school accountability, and career preparation, all while keeping parents at the forefront of their child’s education. Ohio is already emphasizing literacy, accelerated learning, student wellness, and workforce readiness, while expanding access to career-technical education. 

We should continue expanding career-tech, apprenticeships, industry credentials, and work-based learning so students have multiple pathways to success— not just a traditional four-year college degree. Ohio has added more than 10,000 career-tech seats through recent investments, and demand continues to exceed availability in some programs. 

For higher education, we must focus on affordability, workforce alignment, and outcomes.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

I believe elected officials should work together whenever possible while remaining willing to stand firmly on principle when necessary. Disagreement is healthy in government; personal attacks and refusing to work with someone simply because they belong to another political party are not.

I hope to continue building relationships with legislators from both parties, listening to constituents who don’t always agree with me, and finding areas where we can all work together. At the end of the day, it’s my responsibility to deliver results for the people of my district. 

Mike Roberto

Party: Democratic

Website: Roberto4Ohio.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578343061200

Twitter/X: x.com/Roberto4Ohio

Education: Education Specialist (Ed.S.); Masters in Administration (MA): Secondary Education; Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Comprehensive Science

Training and experience: 34 years in education: 15 years as a Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Science Teacher and the remainder as a high school principal, district Curriculum Director, and Superintendent

Volunteer/community service: Currently serving on the Portage Foundation Grant and Scholarship Committees, Past member of Aurora Rotary, Kent State Trustees Board (Twinsburg), and Portage Foundation Moore Scholarship Committee, 

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Elections in Ohio over the years have shown to be secure, efficient, and accurate so I do not believe there needs to be radical changes to the election process or policies.  As a representative we must work to limit barriers to participation in the democratic process.  I support ending gerrymandering, expanding mail-in voting grace periods, and lifting other restrictions that interfere with people’s right to vote.    Bills such as SB293 which eliminates the ability to count absentee ballots that are postmarked before the election but arrive after the election and SB153 which is Ohio’s version of the SAVE Act that, in many ways acts as a poll tax and can potentially undermine women who changed their name after marriage ability to vote must be eliminated. 

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

Property taxes need to be revisited beyond the “shell game” of moving local money around being played by the State House.  High property taxes are a symptom of a bigger problem which is a lack of support from the State over the years and particularly from the current Majority Party.  Property taxes have shifted from 46% being generated by local residents and agriculture to nearly 70% today. This trend needs to be reversed.  Also, a flat 2.75% state income tax that is projected to bring in $1 Billion LESS without lowering taxes for the working class who are making less than $100,000 per year needs to change.   I would support  smaller increases in sales or income tax with targeted lowering of property tax, such as increasing the homestead exemption to provide relief to seniors and veterans.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

A strong economy is tied to a strong working and middle class, so it is important that State laws reflect protections and opportunities for working families.  Strong workers rights help to maintain a balance between workers and administrators that keep a system healthy and strong. I am an advocate of policies that strengthen the middle class such as raising the minimum wage, oppose “right to work” policies,  and promote strong collective bargaining rights which lead to a strong workforce. I also support work force development programs, especially tax credit programs and state investment to help alleviate the cost and burden of childcare. Too many parents are removed from the labor force because the cost of daycare is too high, which is something I want to address as a State Senator.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

I would work to reverse the erosion of support for public schools.  This is because education is important, it is the “tide that raises all boats” no matter your social-economic status.  Specifically, I would prioritize revisiting how Ohio funds public schools as it currently does not meet its constitutional obligation to fund a “thorough and efficient” education system.  This means working to fully fund the bipartisan fair school funding plan and reduce or eliminate universal school vouchers which will siphon off $2 billion of K-12 public funds for private schools over the next two years.  I would also work to reduce or eliminate the effects of SB1 which has caused as much economic damage to local economies of college towns as erosion of the educational integrity within each campus.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

As a former school Superintendent, I learned to be a voice for students, parents and all of the community through listening, empathy, and advocacy. Specifically, I found ways to bring people together on common ground over the years by leading with a focus on serving others.  It is a leadership style that I believe can be effective across State Senate District 27 as well as down in Columbus.   We need that same approach applied in the State House, where collaboration, compromise, and my experience will ensure I’m representing the people of State Senate District 27 without the hyper-partisanship that is prevalent throughout our current political landscape.

Ohio House District 31

Number to be elected: 99 | Term: 2 years

They represent you in the Ohio House of Representatives, where they:Propose and pass Ohio laws on taxes, education funding and curriculum, election rules, healthcare, corporate and environmental regulation, district maps for the Ohio Statehouse and U.S. Congress, public utilities and energy, healthcare, and more.Decide Ohio state budget, which impacts taxes for citizens, local communities, and corporations and funding for public education, public health, transit, drinking water, prisons, libraries, higher education, childcare programs, state employee wages and benefits, natural resources, and more.

J. Noah Spinner

Party: Democratic

Website: Spinnerforohio.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6158730182

Education: The University of Akron School of Law, JD (’23), The University of Akron, MAP (’23), The University of Akron, BS Political Science (’21), Cuyahoga Falls High School

Training and experience: Ohio Attorney and Eagle Scout

Volunteer/community service: Cuyahoga Falls Library Board of Trustees, Scouting BSA, and Pelotonia/Cancer Research Advocate

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

We need fair and free elections in Ohio. This starts with promoting access to voting, removing discriminatory barriers, and creating fair election maps that end gerrymandering in Ohio.  It also requires strengthening accountability in the electoral process so that every voter has confidence their voice matters and their vote counts.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

Ohio needs a tax system that is fair, just, and equitable, not one that continues to shift the burden onto working families and local communities. We need to confront the disparities in how we fund public schools, infrastructure, and essential services and demand a system that is transparent and consistent.

That means putting funding for education back on the state’s tab, restoring community and municipal funds to support our fire, EMS, and police departments at the state level, and reducing our reliance on property tax levies every May and November. It also means greater transparency in our legislative process and ensuring communities have the resources they need to support strong public schools, modern infrastructure, and long-term economic growth.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

After my late wife, Shelby (25), was diagnosed with cancer, we could not imagine how we would afford her treatment, let alone rent, utilities, groceries, and car payments. I know what it is like to struggle and work hard just to get by. Living through that experience gave me a deep understanding of the harsh realities many working Ohioans face, especially when the unforeseen happens.

We need to restore affordability for working families by putting people first in Ohio. That means investing in childcare, lowering the cost of utilities, groceries, and prescription medications, and expanding access to affordable healthcare. It also means pursuing policies that ease the everyday financial pressures families face and create real economic stability across our communities.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

I am a proud graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and an even prouder brother of public educators. Too often, the success of our public schools, teachers, and students depends on shifting the state’s responsibility onto local communities. Our children’s futures should not depend on May and November ballots. 

Ohio must put the bill for education back on the state’s tab, ensuring every child has access to a quality education and the opportunity to succeed. That means fully supporting our educators, providing universal school meals so no child learns hungry, and rejecting efforts to consolidate our public schools and universities. 

I am proud to be supported by the Ohio Education Association and Ohio Federation of Teachers, and I will be a fighter for Ohio’s schools, students, and future.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

Civility starts by listening to our neighbors, learning from their viewpoints, and creating dialogue that builds community and inspires activism. Ohio is at its best when we listen to one another and appreciate our differences, diversity, and lived experiences. I am committed to being a representative for all people across District 31, ensuring every voice is heard and respected. 

I’ve learned that cancer doesn’t care about your politics, nor do children who go to school hungry, or hardworking families trying to make ends meet. We need to prioritize everyday Ohioans in Columbus, and that starts by listening, putting everyday Ohioans first, and working together.

As my late wife Shelby and I would say, “Together, we can accomplish anything.”  Together, we can build a better Ohio.

Mike Kahoe

Party: Republican

Website: MikeKahoe.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/MikeKahoeOhio/

Twitter/X: x.com/Kahoe_Mike

Education: Revere High School, University of Maryland Global Campus

Training and experience: Revere Board of Education Member, Cuyahoga Valley Career Center Board Member, Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation

Volunteer/community service: Non-profit board member – Brain Enrichment Initiative

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

I support making our elections secure, transparent, and accessible to every eligible voter. I support voter ID and citizenship verification, accurate voter rolls, bipartisan oversight, strong absentee-ballot security, and meaningful post-election audits. At the same time, we should maintain reasonable early and absentee voting options while ensuring every legal vote is counted accurately.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

I support continuing to reduce Ohio’s overall tax burden while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Ohio should prioritize a simpler, more competitive tax code and provide greater property tax relief to homeowners. We should make Ohio a place where families and businesses want to stay, move, and invest.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

Many Ohioans in my generation feel the American dream of home ownership is out of reach. I will implement policies that lower the cost of housing, utility bills, property taxes, and other costs that have risen in recent years. That means reducing property taxes, expanding housing supply, and increasing energy generation to lower utility bills.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

I would prioritize strong academic fundamentals, school accountability, and expanding career-technical education and workforce readiness, while fighting to bring more state funding to our school districts. In higher education I will expand financial assistance for students pursuing in-demand jobs and create more internship opportunities so students stay in Ohio after graduation. Ohio should prepare all students for their future, whether that is college, a career, or enlistment in the US Military.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

I will lead by example by treating people with respect even when we strongly disagree. We should focus on solving problems rather than attacking opponents, encourage bipartisan cooperation on issues where common ground exists, and prioritize the interests of Ohioans over partisan politics. We can disagree on policy without treating each other as enemies. Ohio has a strong history of legislators from both parties working together, and we should bring more of that spirit back to the Statehouse.

Ohio House Districts

No. to be elected: 99 | Term: 2 years

Represent district residents in the Ohio House of Representatives, where they:

• Propose and pass Ohio laws on taxes, education funding and curriculum, election rules, healthcare, corporate and environmental regulation, district maps for the Ohio Statehouse and U.S. Congress, public utilities and energy, healthcare and more.
• Decide Ohio’s budget, which impacts taxes for citizens, local communities and corporations, funding for public education, public health, transit, drinking water, prisons, libraries, higher education, childcare programs, state employee wages and benefits, natural resources and more.

House District 32

Jack K. Daniels

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Djordjije Popovic

Party: Democratic

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

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Ohio House District 33

Napoleon Rodgers

Party: Republican
Education: B.A. Howard University

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Summit County Board Of Elections has an excellent bipartisan voting system that guarantees a no bias approach. There is nothing to change.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

I would like to eliminate property taxes or have a set percentage applied universally.
How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
The best way to make more money is to spend less money. Try to live below your means, save/invest 10% of your money, and help out others when you can. I have no power as a state rep to bring down the cost of living, so there is no reason to gaslight you into thinking that I can.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

Mandatory school uniforms to ease the pressure on parents to buy their children the latest fashions. And the return of corporal punishment. Without consequences, students will do whatever they want both in and out of school without fear of punishment. I got swats at Rankin Elementary, Chapel Hill Christian School, Perkins Middle School, and even Buchtel High School. Some wasn’t deserved, but most of it was, and I came out just fine as an upstanding citizen.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

The only way is if you wake up and realize that you are being lied to. From both sides of the aisle. Believe nothing, question everything, and match up what anybody says, including myself, with Facts and Common Sense. If it doesn’t match up, DON’T BELIEVE IT! I will never vote for or against anything that goes against the wishes of the people of my district and the state of Ohio.

Veronica Sims

Party: Democratic
Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio House District 35

Samantha Salamon

Party: Democratic

Website: Salamonforohio.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/salamonforohio

Education: Bachelors from Cleveland State University in Social Work and Middle Eastern Studies, Juris Doctorate from Cleveland State University College of Law

Training and experience: Samantha started her career in Dubai, as a corporate attorney. In 2017, she moved back to Ohio and now is the Chief Counsel of a nonprofit. Specializing in victimization, Samantha focuses on solving systematic issues statewide. Working on legislation, policies, and initiatives with leaders throughout Ohio, Samantha’s strengths are understanding legislation, talking with local experts about their opinions on the legislation/issues, and utilizing that expertise on developing effective legislation.

Volunteer/community service: Samantha is on her township’s zoning commission, on Nordonia School’s Finance committee, the Board of Family Promise – Summit, the Chair of the Summit County Collaborative Against Human Trafficking, and Founder of the OH Victim Services Bar Assoc.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

The first issue is the egregious gerrymandering that has occurred in our state. When the lines are so skewed in one direction or the next, it is the citizens that are impacted and their voices are continuously being redirected. This is expanding the gap between the voters and legislators causing a distrust from constituents. Legislators have continuously failed to address the gerrymandering within Ohio; therefore, I will advocate to have citizens districting commission back on the ballot. Next, people can only vote for issues they actually understand, which is why we need to have comprehensible language on the ballots themselves. Lastly, there shouldn’t be any additional barriers for any individual eligible to vote, so I will stand strong in making voting accessible for everyone.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

The largest tax burden on Ohioans is property taxes. But we cannot speak on the issue of property taxes without identifying the use of those property taxes, and that is towards public education. In order to reduce the overdependence local communities, have on property taxes, we need to make sure public education is fully funded using the formula developed in the Fair School Funding Program. Once the schools are fully funded in accordance with the Fair School Funding formula, schools will not be heavily reliant on such taxes. Secondly, I feel there are other forms of taxation that can be implemented to help offset the need for schools to rely on its community’s property tax, including a potential sales tax implemented through the county and the funds go directly to the schools.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

First priority would be to determine the underlying cause of Ohioans struggles with costs. Inflation and general rising costs of products have impacted everyone, but there are also considerable debt issues Ohioans are dealing with, especially for educational loans, medical expenses, and an individual’s average wage not increasing at the rate of inflation. Higher housing costs due to lack of housing options are encouraging increases in selling prices. I would help develop options to incentive contractors to continue building homes to bring down the demand. We also need to develop homeowner assistant programs, in addition to what already exists, to help people purchase and maintain the housing prices.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

My first priority would be to utilize the constitutional formula developed in the Fair School Funding Act and fully fund it. This was a well-coordinated effort to develop a mechanism to fund public schools by balancing the responsibilities of the state and the local community. I would then address the voucher program and fight its reevaluation and reallocation of funds to, at the least, be equivalent to public schooling allocation. I would also encourage more schooling on the trades and making such training available to all high schoolers. Lastly, I would review the mandated requirements for public school teachers and advocate for such mandates to be required for non-public schools. Also, I would look at offering incentives for students in Ohio to attend higher education at Ohio’s schools.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

My professional career has been focused around negotiations with contentious individuals. I have proven through my experience that I have and will continue to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle to negotiate a fair and equitable resolution. The key to bipartisanship is to find common ground and start there. While there is such hyperpartisanship in our legislator, we have to elect individuals that have shown they have the skill set and capacity to work with everyone and get things done. Once we stop focusing on appeasing a party and focus on making a difference to our constituents, we will be able to communicate more effectively and understand our perspective.

Vik Sandhu

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

Ohio House District 34

Derrick Hall

Party: Democratic

Website: DerrickHallForOhio.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/repderrickhall

Twitter/X: x.com/repderrickhall

Education: Juris Doctor/Master of Business Administration (JD/MBA), The Ohio State University; Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), The Ohio State University; Master’s in Clinical Service Operations, Harvard Medical School; BS Chemistry, University of Akron

Training and experience: Vice President, Accountable Care and Payment Innovation, Integra Connect 2022-Present, System Director, Bundled and Episode Based Payment Summa Health System 2017-2022, U.S. Reserve Army Reserve JAG (Judge Advocate General’s) 2017-Present

Volunteer/Community Service: U.S. Army Reserve JAG Major (Judge Advocate General’s Corps),Scouting America Board of Directors, PPG Community Action Panel Committee, Boys and Girls Club of Northeast Ohio Board of Advisors, Better Kenmore CDC Board of Directors

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

Election integrity is of the utmost importance. We must make sure that the residents of Ohio have full faith and confidence in our elections process. Voter ID requirements are a key component to ensuring and enhancing the public’s faith in our election outcomes. It is also critical that we ensure that everyone has an opportunity to cast their ballots. Early voting is crucial to ensuring that every Ohioan that wants to vote, can indeed vote. I would advocate for an expansion of early voting opportunities for registered voters. Finally, on the topic of voting by mail, we must continue to allow our residents every opportunity to vote in this way. Many of our seniors, and folks living in rural areas, rely upon this option to ensure their voices are heard.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?

Ohio must reduce Property Tax on Owner-Occupied property. We must move away from Property Tax as the foundational funding source for seemingly everything in Ohio. We must diversify the funding sources for our schools, libraries, police, fire etc. This starts with a more balanced approach of blending a combination of property tax, various sale taxes, and state and local income taxes to pay for the foundational services so critical to maintaining our community well-being. I have introduced one bill to reduce the burden of Property Taxes and have been working with state and local leaders on a second bill that would more drastically reduce Owner-Occupied home property taxes, while giving communities additional tools to backfill the funding gaps.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

Simply put, the state must do more. Multi-faceted legislative and community based solutions are essential. We must put the money back into the Local Government Fund and we have to pass legislation that addresses the rising costs of child care, utility and energy costs, housing costs, and increased property taxes. We also have to work with small businesses that are heavily burdened with rising employee healthcare costs. These are all issues that we can and must address legislatively through a combination of refundable tax credits, subsidies, energy relief dividends, state-backed reinsurance programs, and through evolution and expanded funding of existing state and community program/services.

What are your priorities for K-12 and higher education?

K-12: The state has to do more and the state must pay its fair share of education funding. We must start by returning to the faithful implementation of the overwhelmingly bipartisan Fair School Funding Formula that was abandoned by the current General Assembly. Additionally, we must let our teachers teach again. I spent 4 years on the school board, and teachers universally believed that we do too many assessments and excessively test our kids.

Higher education: the state needs to partner more effectively with our higher education institutions to align better with our employers and high schools to create a pipeline that produces graduates that our employers desperately need to fill jobs. We want Ohioans to fill Ohio jobs as opposed to employers having to recruit outside of Ohio.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

I have been an outspoken advocate of the need to work in a bipartisan way. I believe strongly that we should govern from the middle, bringing people together with practical solutions to our state and community problems. I have a recent video we shared just last week that talks about my approach to bipartisanship and why it is so important. As former Supreme Court Justice Ginsberg once advised, “Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” Additionally, I avoid inflammatory language and always seek to understand the opposing point of view in the hope of finding a point of commonality from which to move forward.

Craig A. Shubert

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.

U.S. Representative

House District 13

No. to be elected: 15 | Term: 2 years

Responsibilities: To represent the people of Ohio, their district and the U.S. in dealing with national and international matters in the U.S. House of Representatives in Congress.

They represent you in the U.S. House, where they:

• Propose and pass federal laws, including those dealing with on Social Security, Medicaid/Medicare, taxes, parks and land use, food and drug standards, agriculture, veteran services, national and international interests.
• Decide the U.S. budget for Social Security, Medicaid/Medicare, military, veterans’ benefits, National Parks, science and technology research, education, veteran services and more.

Sandeep Dixit

Party: Independent

Website: sandeepdixit.com

Facebook: facebook.com/page.sandeepforcongress2026

Twitter/X: x.com/sandeepforoh13

Education: BS Mechanical Engineering, MS, MBA

Training and experience: 32 years of engineering and business leadership

Volunteer/community service: President of a national community organization of 60+ chapters serving 500,000 members

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

I will vote for eliminating PAC influence in elections.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

I will work for a significant investment in Vocational and Jobs Training for higher wages and better jobs. I will work on providing a Basic Healthcare Guarantee and upfront cost and coverage transparency. I will vote to Protect Retirement Savings.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

My campaign is firmly rooted in No Party Extremes. The reason I’m running as an independent.

State your position on foreign policy and national security.

My vote will be based on these core values: 1) Everyone has a right to live a dignified life. 2) Any organization rooted in oppressing women, persecuting different beliefs, and destroying other cultures must be dismantled. A society must be rooted in liberty and justice for all to prosper.

What changes would you make, if any, to immigration policy?

I believe in a just rule of law.

Protecting borders is important. Protecting civil rights is equally important. As an independent in congress, I will be a crucial factor in enforcing a truly independent oversight on immigration enforcement – ensuring it is conducted in a just manner.

Emilia Sykes

Party: Democratic

Website: emiliasykesforcongress.com

Facebook: facebook.com/EmiliaSykes

Twitter/X: x.com/EmiliaSykesOH

Education: B.A. in Psychology from Kent State University, 2007; Juris Doctor from University of Florida, 2011; Master of Public Health from University of Florida, 2011

Training and experience: Prior to being elected to Congress, for 8 years Emilia served as State Representative for Ohio House District 34, otherwise known as the “Birthplace of Champions.” During that time, she served for four years in Democratic leadership, including three years as House Minority Leader. In her first year as the leader of the House Democratic caucus, despite serving in the minority, the percentage of bipartisan bills passed in the Ohio House was nearly double each of the previous four years combined.

Volunteer/community service: Outside of elected office, Rep. Sykes engages her community as a lifelong member of her church, a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a life member of the NAACP.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?

As a member of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus, I’m committed to ensuring every American, no matter where they live, has the freedom to vote in free, fair and secure elections. That’s why I co-sponsored the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act.

It’s a sad reality that some politicians use incarcerated populations in political gerrymandering. That’s why I introduced the End Prison Gerrymandering Act to ensure equal representation for all Americans by requiring the U.S. Census Bureau to count incarcerated individuals at their last place of residence rather than the prison where they are held at the time of the Census. This legislation will allow fair and accurate representation for all communities to create a stronger, more representative democracy.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?

I know Northeast Ohioans are feeling the impact of high prices, especially for healthcare. So I voted against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, which will kick millions off healthcare. I cosponsored the Health Care Affordability Act, which would make ACA tax credits permanent, and reintroduced the Lower Your Taxes Act which would raise taxes on corporations and expand the EITC and the Child Tax Credit. I was proud to introduce the Junk Fee Prevention Act and the Airline Passenger Compensation Act to protect consumers from greedy corporations and help you keep your hard-earned money. And I joined the New Democrats Coalition to unveil an Affordability Agenda to address our cost of living crisis and lay out a strategy to lower the costs that are stressing working people from housing to gas to food.

How would you reduce hyperpartisanship and promote civility?

I will work with anyone from either party to lower costs and keep our families healthy and safe, because the best interests of my community come first. That’s why as co-chair of the Bipartisan Women’s Caucus, I’ve joined with members of both parties to prioritize real change for women and girls by improving women’s health care, expanding opportunities for women and girls in STEAM, improving access to healthy and safe food for children, and raising awareness around violence against women. And it’s why I’ve worked with members of the Problem Solvers Caucus and its Tariffs, Trade, and Strategic Competition Working Group to lower costs, strengthen supply chains, and protect jobs in Northeast Ohio.

State your position on foreign policy and national security.

I voted to support a War Powers Resolution directing President Trump to withdraw our armed forces from the war in Iran, which he started without Congressional authorization, which has killed or wounded hundreds of American servicemembers and spiked gas prices for Ohio families already struggling with high costs. The U.S. must continue to use its soft power to influence foreign policy through proven policies like PEPFAR and global health security programs that kept Americans safe from infectious disease threats like Ebola. Further, ensuring the United States has a trained, talented, competent workforce to take on the challenges in technology, innovation, and scientific integrity remains a top priority for ensuring our national security and our ability to remain the world’s super power.

What changes would you make, if any, to immigration policy?

I support policies that ensure that there is a consistent, reliable and safe way for people to immigrate to this country. Further, I believe that any enforcement practice must come with accountability that honors civil rights and human dignity. I am a cosponsor of the Dignity Act which would address border security and infrastructure, create legal status for undocumented immigrants already living in the United States with the possibility of earning citizenship, establish new pathways for asylum seekers, and create new legal pathways for economic migrants and unaccompanied minors.

Carey Coleman

Party: Republican

Editor’s note: The candidate did not respond in time for publication. For the most up-to-date candidate responses, visit vote411.org.