This voter’s guide is a joint venture of The Portager and the League of Women Voters of Kent and Northern Portage County.

The League of Women Voters of Kent and Northern Portage County are non-partisan political organizations that promote political responsibility through informed and active participation in government and act on selected governmental issues. The League of Women Voters does not support or oppose any candidate or political party. The League is fully committed to ensure compliance—in principle and in practice—with the LWVS’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy. Any person who subscribes to the purposes and policy of the League shall be eligible for membership.

Candidates
Candidates were invited to participate in the voter guide on VOTE411 by the League of Women Voters of Ohio Education Fund.

Issues
Issue 3 information is provided by the League of Women Voters of Ohio Education Fund. The other issues are listed with the language appearing on the ballot.

Visit www.vote411.org to view a side-by-side comparison of the candidates’ biographical information and all of the questions and answers.

The League of Women Voters of Kent and Northern Portage County thank The Portager for providing the print version of the Voter Guide and the libraries in Portage County for including this guide on the Libby app. We also thank Director Faith Lyon, Deputy Director Theresa Nielsen, and the staff at the Portage County Board of Elections for their valuable assistance in compiling this material. The information contained in this publication may not be reproduced without consent of the League of Women Voters of Kent.

League of Women Voters of Kent my.lwv.org/ohio/kent
President: Sherry Rose
Voter Guide Co-Chairs: Nena Hankins, (330)673-0128, and Barbara Hipsman Springer
Voter Guide Committee: Renee Ruchotzke, Barbara Hanniford, Barbara Drew, and Jennifer Mapes

League of Women Voters of Northern Portage County northernportagecountylwv.org
President: April Secura; Voter Service Co-Chairs: Raji Alladi and Janice Simmons-Mortimer

Key Dates

October 5, 2026 Voter Registration Deadline

October 6, 2026 Early Voting Begins

October 6, 2026 Absentee Ballots Mailed Out

October 27, 2026, 8:30 pm, Deadline to Request Absentee Ballots

November 3, 2026 Election Day, 6:30 am – 7:30 pm

November 3, 2026, 7:30 pm, Deadline for Receipt by the Board of Elections of Absentee Ballots Returned by US Mail or In Person by Voter or Near Relative

GOVERNOR/LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

The following questions were asked of the candidates for Governor. Go to VOTE411.org to view all of the questions/answers for the Governor and Lieutenant Governor.

Democratic
Amy Acton and David Pepper

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.

Libertarian
Donald C Kissick and James L. Mills

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

Republican
Vivek Ramaswamy and Robert A. McColley
The candidate has not yet responded.

GOVERNOR/LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

Write-in Candidates

Timothy Grady and Andrea Neutzling

The candidate has not yet responded.

Heather Hill and Patrick Manley

The candidate has not yet responded.

Renea Turner and Jalen Turner

Ron Ula and Michael C. Lehnerd

AUDITOR OF STATE

Democratic
Annette Blackwell

Facebook www.facebook.com/AnnetteForOhio/
Website www.blackwellforohio.com/
Twitter/X @AnnetteForOhio
Education Ursuline College, B.A., Public Relations & 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 & 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.

Republican
Frank LaRose
Facebook www.facebook.com/FrankLaRose
Website www.franklarose.com
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.

SECRETARY OF STATE

Libertarian
Tom Pruss

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

Democratic
Allison Russo

Facebook facebook.com/Russo4Ohio
Website allisonrusso.com
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.

Republican
Robert Sprague

Facebook www.facebook.com/RobertCSprague
Website spragueforohio.com
Twitter/X @RobertCSprague
Education B.S in Mechanical Engineering, Duke University; MBA, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Training and Experience Treasurer, City of Findlay (2004-2007); Auditor, City of Findlay (2008-2011); State Representative, 83rd House District (2011-2018); State Treasurer (2019-Present)

Questions: The candidate has not yet responded.

TREASURER OF STATE

Republican
Jay Edwards
The candidate has not yet responded.

Democratic
Seth Walsh

Facebook www.facebook.com/TeamWalshHQ/
Website www.sethwalshforohio.com
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.
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.

JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT

(Full term commencing 1-1-2027)

Republican
Daniel R Hawkins
The candidate has not yet responded.

Democratic
Marilyn Zayas

Facebook www.facebook.com/Judge.MarilynZayas/
Website judgemarilynzayas.com
Twitter/X @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 & Gamble IT Manager
Volunteer/Community Service Creator & 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

What non-judicial legal experience qualifies you to be a judge?
My non-judicial experience is shaped by my personal journey & 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, & integrity. I earned a degree in computer science and worked as an IT manager at Procter & 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, & independence, deciding cases based on the Constitution, law, & 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, & 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, & 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 & 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 & 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, & carefully explained. I will remain faithful to the rule of law. Trust is earned through integrity, independence, & equal justice.

Democratic
Jennifer Brunner

Facebook www.facebook.com/jenniferbrunner
Website justicebrunner.com
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).

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.

Republican
Colleen O'Donnell
The candidate has not yet responded.

U.S. SENATOR

Democratic
Sherrod Brown
The candidate has not yet responded.

Republican
Jon Husted
The candidate has not yet responded.

Independent
Greg Levy

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.

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.

Libertarian
William B Redpath

Facebook www.facebook.com/BillRedpathForSenate
Website billredpath.com
Twitter/X @@BillRedpath
Education BA, Indiana University; MBA, The University of Chicago
Training and Experience Certified Public Accountant, Ohio & Illinois. Chartered Financial Analyst-Retired. Accredited Senior Appraiser, Business Valuation, American Society of Appraisers-Retired. Work Experience: Auditor or Accountant with Arthur Andersen & Co, Cincinnati; WISH-TV, Indianapolis; ABC & NBC, New York. Total: 5 years. Business Appraiser, specializing in Media & Telecommunications, with BIA Advisory Services, Washington, and Summit Ridge Group, New York & 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 & 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-R&D 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-R&D 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.

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.

Write-in Candidates

Stephen Faris
The candidate has not yet responded.

Anthony Holliman
The candidate has not yet responded.

Independent
Timothy Telymonde (Write-In)

Facebook facebook.com/cureeveryone/
Website Telymonde.com
Education Some college
Training and Experience Electronics, engineering, construction, carpentry, concrete, optics, software, geology, herbal, astrophysics
Volunteer/Community Service Past Otway covered bridge volunteer.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?
Paper ballots, paper recipes, with a website whereas every voter can verify that their vote was recorded correctly. I would require exit poling at every location with real time verification of exit poling to election

tallies, if the numbers are off by an any degree it should trigger a real time red audit flag. I would eleminate all central voting electronic storage servers. All local Results only called in by a living person while simultaneously confirmed in writing. All results auditable by public receipts and required exit poling.

Mail in ballots should require the sender send in a dated current news paper clipping with a signature block and a photo of they’re identification card or drivers license along with a photograph of they’re identification signature block.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
Audit the pentagon
Audit the federal reserve
Audit all charities especially international
Audit the complete circle of all foreign aid
Drastically reduced all foreign aid
Subsidize family farmers.
End all geo engineering subsidies
Invest in natural health education programs
Encourage local business to business investment

State your position on foreign policy and national security.
I would encourage independent sovereign nation state policy.
I would remove all super power veto rights
I would remove nuclear weapons
I would release zero point free energy to all
I would eliminate the need for fossil fuels

REPRESENTATIVE TO CONGRESS (13TH DISTRICT)

Republican
Carey Coleman
The candidate has not yet responded.

Independent
Sandeep Dixit

Facebook facebook.com/page.sandeepforcongress2026
Website sandeepdixit.com
Twitter/X @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.

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.

REPRESENTATIVE TO CONGRESS (13TH DISTRICT)

Democratic
Emilia Sykes

Facebook facebook.com/EmiliaSykes
Website emiliasykesforcongress.com
Twitter/X @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.

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.

REPRESENTATIVE TO CONGRESS (14TH DISTRICT)

Republican
Dave Joyce
The candidate has not yet responded.

Democratic
Maria Jukic

Facebook www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6158747577
WEBSITE mariajukicforcongress.com
EDUCATION BA, University of Notre Dame; MA, John Carroll University; JD, Cleveland State University College of Law
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE Director of Arts and Medicine at Cleveland Clinic, 2008-2025. Councilwoman, City of Euclid, 2020-2023.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?
Although I am running for Congress and many voting and elections policies are at the state and local levels, I am listing things I think would be good to do, even if I would not necessarily have direct impact on them.
• Make it easier to register to vote: same-day registration, automatic registration, extend deadlines for registrations prior to elections.
• Make it easier to vote: increase voting locations, times, and drop boxes.
• Fund voter education efforts - especially for young/new voters - for both registering to vote and the importance of voting.
• Increase funding to boards of elections so they can serve the public better.
• Pass legislation for campaign finance reform.
• Overturn Citizens United.
• Pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
There are immediate, short-term, and long-term things that can be done to address the rising cost of living.
Immediate actions that can be taken are to end the war in Iran, prevent the president from continuing the illogical and illegal tariff policies, stop arresting hard-working immigrants, and rein in health insurance and pharmaceutical companies – all things that are contributing to the current rise in prices. Further, I would restore and expand SNAP and Medicaid benefits that were recently cut.
Short-term actions that could be taken are to pass federal legislation to do things like:
• Increase the minimum wage.
• Invest in America again, similar to the bipartisan infrastructure bill passed during the Biden administration, as well as investments in environment and sustainability.

State your position on foreign policy and national security.
I believe in diplomacy, soft power, foreign and humanitarian aid, international institutions, multilateralism, and economic cooperation. The use of military force should only be as a last resort. The United States should participate in international organizations, commit to our alliances and partnerships, and work to promote peace and human rights.
We should be helping Ukraine defend itself against Russia. We should be pursuing a just peace in Palestine. We should not be engaged militarily in Iran. We should be working closely with our allies to mitigate threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.
I believe in vigorously protecting our country from all threats, including foreign, domestic, cyber-attacks, terrorism, and natural disasters.

STATE SENATOR (27TH DISTRICT)

Republican
Steve Demetriou

Facebook facebook.com/SteveforOhioSenate
Website steveforohiosenate.com
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.

Democratic
Mike Roberto

Facebook www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578343061200
Website Roberto4Ohio.com
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, & Environmental Science Teacher & the remainder as a high school principal, district Curriculum Director, and Superintendent
Volunteer/Community Service: Currently serving on the Portage Foundation Grant & 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.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE (35TH DISTRICT)

Democratic
Samantha Salamon

Facebook www.facebook.com/salamonforohio
Website Salamonforohio.com
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.

Republican
Vik Sandhu

Facebook www.facebook.com/SandhuForOhio/
Website www.sandhuforohio.com/
Twitter/X @https://x.com/Sandhuforohio

Education: Master in Nautical Science
Training and Experience: A former Merchant Navy Officer, small-business owner, served as the Fiscal Officer for Richfield Township
Volunteer/Community Service: Every year, I help provide free meals to more than 200 people at a Cleveland men’s shelter—because serving our neighbors and giving back to the community have always been important to me.

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?
I support election policies that make voting secure, accessible, transparent, and easy to understand. Ohio should maintain accurate voter rolls, reasonable voter-identification requirements, dependable paper records, and strong bipartisan oversight of election administration. At the same time, eligible voters including seniors, military personnel, people with disabilities, and those working long hours should have practical opportunities to cast their ballots.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?
Whether Republican, Independent, or Democrat, we can all agree that Ohio needs major property-tax reform. As a former township fiscal officer, I increased transparency and managed taxpayers’ money responsibly. We need that same balanced approach delivering meaningful relief to hardworking families while protecting our townships, schools, and essential local services.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
The rising cost of living is placing real pressure on hardworking Ohio families. I would focus on meaningful property-tax relief, controlling utility costs, and expanding affordable housing opportunities for young families and first-time homebuyers. I also support preventing large institutional corporations from buying up single-family homes in our neighborhoods and pricing local families out of the market. As a business owner and former township fiscal officer, I will bring a practical, numbers-driven approach to making Ohio more affordable.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE (72ND DISTRICT)

Democratic
Jeff Clapper

Facebook www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6156190168
Website Clapper4Ohio.com
Training and Experience Seven years as a member of Kent's Planning Commission and starting my third year on Kent City Council where I am currently President Pro Tem
Volunteer/Community Service Countless years of volunteering in Kent with various organizations such as Main St Kent, Kent Parks and Rec and others

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?
I would listen to the will of the voters and work to put an end to the outrageous amount of gerrymandering that is present in Ohio.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?
First and foremost would be working to put an end to the nearly $12 billion in yearly tax breaks that go mostly to corporations and wealthy individuals.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
I will fight to ensure wages keep up with the exploding cost of basic living expenses. We cannot continue to let billionaires fleece what is left of the middle class to line their pockets rather than pay workers a fair living wage. It is completely inexcusable that anyone working 40 hours a week should need to worry about affording housing, putting food on the table and having access to quality healthcare.

Libertarian
Michael Fricke

Education Chemistry Ph.D.
Volunteer/Community Service Sensible Kent

What changes would you make, if any, to voting and elections policy?
End gerrymandering in Ohio. Reverse the recent ban on ranked choice voting. Impose term limits on all elected offices.

What type of tax reform, if any, would best serve Ohio?
Eliminate property taxes.

How would you address concerns about the rising cost of living?
Stop spending $1 billion a day in Iran.

Republican
Heidi Workman
The candidate has not yet responded.

PORTAGE COUNTY COURT OF COMMON PLEAS - GENERAL DIVISION

Becky L. Doherty

EDUCATION B.A. University of Akron, Law Degree University of Akron

WORK EXPERIENCE Assistant Summit County Prosecutor, Chief Criminal Prosecutor Mahoning County, Common Pleas Judge since 2015

Why are you running for this particular court seat?
I am seeking re-election to the Common Pleas bench. I have served the county as effectively and efficiently as possible during the past 12 years, and hope to continue doing so. I established HOPE Drug Court in 2017 and it has been awarded and recognized as a leader in specialized dockets throughout the state of Ohio.

PORTAGE COUNTY COMMISSIONER TERM COMM. 1-1-2027

Go to VOTE411.org to view all questions/answers.

Democratic
Jenny D. Adams

WEBSITE www.adamsforcommissioner.com/
FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579320976854
EDUCATION Crestwood Schools, Kent State graduate
TRAINING & EXPERIENCE Daycare center director, Kindercare Hudson; Regional Director of Expansion, Kindercare; Inside Sales Manager, Aironet; Product Manager, Cisco Systems; Business owner, Looking Glass Learning Centers
VOLUNTEER & COMMUNITY SERVICE CASA of Portage County Associate Board member. Volunteer, Shepherds House, Ravenna Ohio. Board member, Celebrate Portage.

What should be the county’s position on data centers and what regulations are needed, if any?
I personally am not in favor of data centers. It is not cutting edge, nor drives any significant job creation which would benefit Portage County. Server technology is old and while American data should be located on American soil, it can be housed anywhere in this country. As I travel across the county, talking to many people, I have heard over and over: we do not want a data center. I believe this needs to be respected. Without any longitudinal studies, we don't know the degree to which hyper scale centers will affect the environment- and that is the main concern from all the residents to whom I speak. I believe we should put in place zoning regulations which would prohibit this type of land use.

What challenges do counties have that citizens might not realize are your responsibility and how do you address them?
Just like residents are experiencing in their own houses, the commissioners have to decide what expenses need to be cut, as spending has outpaced income. Priorities will need to be decided, and budgets adjusted accordingly. I believe closer scrutiny of budgets and conversations are needed with all county stakeholders, from elected officials to those appointed, and hard decisions will need to be made. We have to live within our means personally; we should ask no different of those employed by the county.

What are the most significant opportunities and constraints facing Portage County in the next four years?
A strategy and forecast for County needs and wants needs to be established. We have aging infrastructure that is on life support. We have a judge who has sued the county for a new courtroom. We have a coroner with no place to examine. There are areas where there is no local place to buy food or medical attention, and no public transportation. There is a homelessness and mental health crisis facing our county. Despite all of this, our county is resilient and neighbors help each other. I like to talk about imagining things differently if we spend our money differently. I feel these challenges can be met with careful planning, working with local partners and establishing our priorities, and adjusting our spending to reflect as such.

Republican
Mike Tinlin
The candidate has not yet responded.

Issues

Issue 3

Title: To Require Voters to Present Photo Identification in Order to Vote

Explanation:

A "yes" vote supports amending the Ohio Constitution to:

Enshrine into the Ohio Constitution the state’s current voter ID law for those voting in person at the Early Voting Location or on Election Day.

Constitutionally require specific documents to count as voter ID including: a driver’s license or state ID card issued by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles or its successor agency or a temporary document issued by that agency for an applicant to use while waiting to receive the license or card that contains all the same information; a U.S. passport or passport card; a U.S. military ID card; an Ohio National Guard ID card; or an ID card issued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or its successor agency.

Allow the Ohio General Assembly to continue to choose whether to require photo ID to vote by mail. 

A "no" vote opposes amending the Ohio Constitution to enshrine Ohio’s existing photo ID requirements. If this does not pass, Ohio’s current photo ID law remains in effect, and the General Assembly would continue to have the authority to pass voter ID legislation. 

PROS: Argument for voting YES

Enshrining Ohio’s current voter ID law into the state Constitution may strengthen election integrity.

By embedding the current voter ID requirements into the Ohio Constitution, this measure would prevent the Ohio General Assembly from changing those requirements unless voters approve a future constitutional amendment.

Though Ohio is widely regarded as a national leader for its election security, this amendment may improve public trust in elections.

Currently, Ohio residents 17 and older can get a free State ID from Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, if they do not have a valid Ohio driver’s license.

This proposal grants the Ohio General Assembly the power to approve additional types of photo ID beyond those listed, maintaining election security as technological standards evolve.

CONS: Argument for voting NO

The amendment is redundant and wasteful, because Ohio election law already requires this exact list of photo IDs.

Ohio’s Constitution ought to be reserved for foundational rights and principles, rather than policies that can be enacted and modified through regular Ohio legislation. Details of election law are better updated through the legislative process as technology and security needs change. 

By calling for physical documents and cards when the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs only offers digital ID, the language of this proposed Constitutional Amendment is already outdated. 

Obtaining the prescribed forms of acceptable ID and underlying documents required to get the prescribed IDs can be costly, may not be readily available, and could be ruled to be a form of poll tax. While Ohio currently offers free state IDs from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, that law could be revoked at any time. The proposed amendment would disproportionately affect seniors, people with disabilities, students, married women, and rural Ohioans.

By only covering ID requirements for in-person voting and not including voting by mail, this proposed Constitutional Amendment doesn’t treat all forms of voting equally.

4 Proposed Bond Issue Aurora City School District (Portage and Summit Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the Aurora City School District be authorized to do the following: Issue bonds for the purpose of constructing, furnishing and equipping a new elementary school and transportation facility, and otherwise renovating, remodeling, furnishing, equipping and otherwise improving school district buildings and facilities, and clearing, improving and equipping their sites in the principal amount of $96,200,000, to be repaid annually over a maximum period of 37 years, and levy a property tax outside the ten mill limitation, estimated by the county auditor to average over the bond repayment period 4.26 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $149 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, to pay the annual debt charges on the bonds, and to pay debt charges on any notes issued in anticipation of those bonds?
FOR THE BOND ISSUE  AGAINST THE BOND ISSUE

5 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Ravenna City School District
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Ravenna City School District for the purpose of general permanent improvements that the county auditor estimates will collect $947,150 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.9 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $60 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

6 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Stow-Munroe Falls City School District (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall a fixed-sum levy renewing an existing levy be imposed by the Stow-Munroe Falls City School District for the purpose of paying the current operating expenses of the district in the sum of $4,631,284 and a levy of taxes to be made outside of the ten-mill limitation estimated by the county fiscal officer to average 3.17 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $97 for each $100,000 of the county fiscal officer's market value, for a period of 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027?
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

7 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Streetsboro City School District
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Streetsboro City School District for the purpose of current expenses (3.6 mills) and general permanent improvements (1.5 mills), that the county auditor estimates will collect $2,547,075 annually, at a rate not exceeding 5.1 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $96 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028. The county auditor has certified that the amount by which the carry over balance in the district's general operating budget from the preceding fiscal year exceeds the district's general fund expenditures made in the preceding fiscal year is $0, which is 0% of those expenditures.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

8 Proposed Income Tax Tallmadge City School District (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall an annual income tax of one percent (1.00%) on the earned income of individuals residing in the school district be imposed by the Tallmadge City School District, for a continuing period of time, beginning January 1, 2027, for the purpose of current expenses?
FOR THE TAX  AGAINST THE TAX

9 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Crestwood Local School District
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Crestwood Local School District for the purpose of general permanent improvements that the county auditor estimates will collect $501,820 annually, at a rate not exceeding 3.5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $26 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

10 Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) West Branch Local School District (Mahoning, Columbiana and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
An additional tax for the benefit of West Branch Local School District for the purpose of general permanent improvements that the county auditor estimates will collect $441,471 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $35 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

11 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Garrettsville Freedom Nelson Joint Fire District
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of the Garrettsville Freedom Nelson Joint Fire District for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, underwater rescue and recovery equipment, or other fire equipment and appliances, buildings and sites therefore, or sources of water supply and materials therefore, for the establishment and maintenance of lines of fire alarm communications, for the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical service, administrative, or communications personnel to operate the same, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under Section 145.48 or 742.34 of the Revised Code, for the purchase of ambulance equipment, for the provision of ambulance, paramedic, or other emergency medical services operated by a fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs, that the county auditor estimates will collect $682,570 annually, at a rate not exceeding 3.2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $85 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

12 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal and Increase) Stark County Library District (Stark, Carroll, Portage and Summit Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of 2 mills and an increase of 0.3 mill for each $1 of taxable value to constitute a tax for the benefit of the Stark County Library District for the purpose of current expenses that the county auditor estimates will collect $14,949,218 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.3 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $55 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 8 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

13 Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) Portage County Job and Family Services
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage. An additional tax for the benefit of Portage County and the Portage County Department of Job and Family Services for the purpose of public assistance, human or social services, including children and adult services, and relief, that the county auditor estimates will collect $2,451,896 annually, at a rate not exceeding 0.4 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $14 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

14 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Portage County Mental Health and Recovery Board
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Portage County for the purpose of meeting the necessary requirements of the county's mental health and recovery services district and for funding current expenses of the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Portage County, such as expenses including the operation of alcohol and drug addiction programs and mental health programs supported by the Mental Health and Recovery Board, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,157,027 annually, at a rate not exceeding 0.3 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $6 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 10 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX

15 Proposed Municipal Income Tax Ravenna City
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the Ordinance providing for a 0.25% levy on income for 30 years, commencing January 1, 2027, for planning and constructing, furnishing, equipping, and improving building facilities for a fire station, police station, and city hall, including all necessary appurtenances thereto be passed?
FOR THE INCOME TAX  AGAINST THE INCOME TAX

16 Proposed Income Tax (Amendment) Kent City
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the Ordinance (Ordinance No. 2026-054) amending Sections 187.01, 187.03, 187.04, and 187.27 of the Codified Ordinances of Kent City to repurpose and extend the 0.25% income tax approved by the electors of the City in 2013 for the purpose of constructing a police facility, which current income tax expires on December 31, 2038, in order to provide funds, starting on January 1, 2027, for the purpose of municipal operations of the City, including police, fire, and service department staffing needs and quality of life projects and programs as determined by Council of the City, and pay debt service charges on securities related to that purpose, for a continuing period of time, be approved?
FOR THE TAX  AGAINST THE TAX

17 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Aurora City
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Aurora City for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing and repair of streets, roads, and bridges, that the county auditor estimates will collect $603,599 annually, at a rate not exceeding 0.9 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $16 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

18 Local Liquor Option For Particular Location (By Petition) (Sunday Sales) Garrettsville Village A
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the sale of wine/mixed beverages and spirituous liquor be permitted for sale on Sunday by StanLeigh Corp. dba Silver Crik Saloon a D-6 permit who is engaged in the business of a bar at 8124 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231 in this precinct?
YES  NO

19 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Hiram Village
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Renewal of a tax for the benefit of Hiram Village for the purpose of current expenses, that the county auditor estimates will collect $38,938 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.4 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $99 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

20 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal and Increase) Village of Mogadore (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of 3.5 mills and an increase of 1.23 mills for each $1 of taxable value to constitute a tax for the benefit of the Village of Mogadore for the purpose of the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part-time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical service, administrative, or communications personnel, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under Section 145.48 or 742.34 of the Ohio Revised Code, or other emergency medical services operated by the fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs of the Village of Mogadore pursuant to Section 5705.19(I) of the Ohio Revised Code that the county fiscal officer estimates will collect $500,686 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.73 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $135 for each $100,000 of the county fiscal officer's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

21 Proposed Charter Amendment Village of Mogadore (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall Article III Section 3.12 of the Charter of the Village of Mogadore, Ohio be changed and amended to require that every ordinance or resolution adopted by the Village Council be published by posting a copy of the same on the Village's website, which shall be accessible to the general public, within five (5) days of the effective date of the same, and remain on the Village's website for no less than five (5) years thereafter?
YES  NO

22 Proposed Charter Amendment Village of Mogadore (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall Article IV Section 4.03 of the Charter of the Village of Mogadore, Ohio be changed and amended to clarify the circumstances where the incapacity or absence of the Mayor, or vacancy in the Office of Mayor, require the Council President or other member of Council to serve as the Acting Mayor and/or to preside over Council meetings?
YES  NO

23 Proposed Charter Amendment Village of Mogadore (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall Article V of the Charter of the Village of Mogadore, Ohio be changed and amended to eliminate the appointed office of Clerk-Treasurer and to create the appointed offices of Fiscal Officer to perform the fiscal functions of the Village and Clerk to perform the municipal clerk functions of the Village?
YES  NO

24 Proposed Charter Amendment Village of Mogadore (Summit and Portage Counties)
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall Article X of the Charter of the Village of Mogadore, Ohio be changed and amended to reduce the number of members of the Village of Mogadore's Board of Zoning Appeals from seven (7) to five (5) members?
YES  NO

25 Local Liquor Option For Particular Location (By Petition) Atwater Township B
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the sale of wine and mixed beverages be permitted by K.J.'s Watering Hole, L.L.C., dba The Watering Hole, an applicant for a C-2 liquor permit, who is engaged in the business of operating a carryout/grocery store at 6790 Waterloo Road, Atwater (Atwater Township), Ohio 44201 in this precinct? YES  NO

26 Local Liquor Option For Particular Location (By Petition) (Sunday Sales) Atwater Township B
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
Shall the sale of wine and mixed beverages be permitted for sale on Sunday by K.J.'s Watering Hole, L.L.C., dba The Watering Hole an applicant for a D-6 liquor permit who is engaged in the business of operating a carryout/grocery store at 6790 Waterloo Road, Atwater (Atwater Township), Ohio 44201 in this precinct?
YES  NO

27 Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) Brimfield Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
An additional tax for the benefit of Brimfield Township for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, underwater rescue and recovery equipment, or other fire equipment and appliances, buildings and sites therefore, or sources of water supply and materials therefore, for the establishment and maintenances of lines of fire alarm communications, for the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical service, administrative, or communications personnel to operate the same, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under Section 145.48 or 742.34 of the Revised Code, for the purchase of ambulance equipment, for the provision of ambulance, paramedic, or other emergency medical services operated by a fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs that the county auditor estimates will collect $930,323 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1.95 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $68 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

28 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal and Increase) Deerfield Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of 1.75 mills and an increase of 1 mill for each $1 of taxable value to constitute a tax for the benefit of Deerfield Township for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, underwater rescue and recovery equipment, or other fire equipment and appliances, buildings and sites therefore, or sources of water supply and materials therefore, for the establishment and maintenance of lines of fire alarm communications, for the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical services, administrative, or communications personnel to operate the same, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under Section 145.48 or 742.34 of the Revised Code, for the purchase of ambulance equipment, for the provision of ambulance, paramedic, or other emergency medical services operated by a fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs, that the county auditor estimates will collect $225,584 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2.75 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $66 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

29 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Franklin Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Franklin Township for the purpose of general construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and repair of streets, roads, and bridges that the county auditor estimates will collect $177,418 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $17 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

30 Proposed Tax Levy (Renewal) Paris Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
A renewal of a tax for the benefit of Paris Township for the purpose of providing and maintaining fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, underwater rescue and recovery equipment, or other fire equipment and appliances, buildings and sites therefore, or sources of water supply and materials therefore, for the establishment and maintenance of lines of fire alarm communications, for the payment of firefighting companies or permanent, part time, or volunteer firefighting, emergency medical service, administrative, or communications personnel to operate the same, including the payment of any employer contributions required for such personnel under Section 145.48 or 742.34 of the Revised Code, for the purchase of ambulance equipment, for the provision of ambulance, paramedic, or other emergency medical services operated by a fire department or firefighting company, or for the payment of other related costs that the county auditor estimates will collect $46,535 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $22 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY

31 Proposed Repeal of Zoning Plan (By Petition) Paris Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
The zoning plan for the unincorporated area of Paris Township be repealed?
YES  NO

32 Proposed Tax Levy (Additional) Ravenna Township
A majority affirmative vote is necessary for passage.
An additional tax for the benefit of Ravenna Township for the purpose of ambulance service, emergency medical service, or both, that the county auditor estimates will collect $1,040,382 annually, at a rate not exceeding 4.5 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $158 for each $100,000 of the county auditor's market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2027, first due in calendar year 2028.
FOR THE TAX LEVY  AGAINST THE TAX LEVY