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What 2025 Holds for Ohio Politics

It’s shaping up to be a transformative year in Ohio’s political landscape, even without major state-level elections. With a new General Assembly kicking off and significant developments in the pipeline, the year promises to be anything but quiet at the Statehouse.

Who Will Fill JD Vance’s Senate Seat?

Governor Mike DeWine faces a pivotal decision: appointing a replacement for JD Vance, who will step down to serve as vice president under President-elect Donald Trump. This appointment carries weight, not just for Ohio but for national politics.

DeWine has emphasized the need for a candidate capable of holding the seat through the 2026 and 2028 elections. Insiders point to Lt. Gov. Jon Husted as the frontrunner, with his long-standing rapport with DeWine bolstering his chances. Yet, speculation doesn’t stop there.

Other potential appointees include:

  • Jane Timken, Ohio Republican National Committee leader.
  • Robert Sprague, state treasurer with statewide recognition.
  • Frank LaRose, current Secretary of State, known for navigating high-profile election matters.
  • Lydia Mihalik, state’s Development Director and a rising political star.

The governor’s recent trip to Mar-a-Lago to meet with Trump and Vance only adds intrigue, but DeWine remains tight-lipped. Records requests for details on these discussions are still pending, leaving observers eager for clarity.

Ohio Statehouse chamber interior

Budget Battles: The 2026-2027 Operating Plan

Ohio’s biennial budget process is set to dominate the legislative agenda. This massive financial blueprint will determine funding for schools, public programs, tax policies, and more.

Incoming Finance Chair Rep. Jerry Cirino has acknowledged the stakes. “It’s a balancing act—addressing pressing needs while planning for future cycles,” he said, hinting at the challenges ahead.

For Democrats, the focus is on property tax relief. Minority Leader Allison Russo has voiced skepticism about bipartisan cooperation but remains hopeful. The GOP, holding majorities in both chambers, will likely steer the conversation, prioritizing their fiscal goals.

One question looms large: Will Medicaid funding, a recurring flashpoint, face cuts or expansion? With healthcare consistently a voter concern, this issue could set the tone for 2025.

The New General Assembly: Fresh Faces, Familiar Challenges

The incoming General Assembly features new and returning lawmakers, ready to address both statewide and district-specific concerns. Among the top priorities: infrastructure projects, education reform, and addressing Ohio’s opioid crisis.

Expect lively debates over education funding. The state’s controversial school funding formula has long been a sticking point, with rural and urban districts vying for fair shares.

Additionally, GOP leaders may revisit tax reforms aimed at reducing burdens on businesses, a hallmark of their economic platform. However, Democrats will likely counter with calls for more equitable tax policies.

A Glimpse Ahead

While this year lacks the fireworks of statewide elections, the decisions made in Columbus could ripple through Ohio politics for years. DeWine’s Senate pick, budget allocations, and policy shifts will not only shape 2025 but lay the groundwork for battles in 2026 and beyond.

Ohioans will be watching closely—because, as history has shown, what happens in the Buckeye State often sets the stage for national trends.

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