Ohio House of Representatives and Senate Democrat Leaders Chosen for 131st General Assembly

House Democrats named Rep. Fred Strahorn (D-Dayton) House Democratic leader for the 131st General Assembly Tuesday, winning the support of his peers after Representative-elect David Leland (D-Columbus) pulled his name from consideration earlier in the day.

Leland told the Columbus Dispatch that he was withdrawing his name because he didn’t have the necessary votes. Strahorn, was first elected to the House in 2000 and returned in 2013. He previously served as House Democratic whip in the 127th General Assembly.

The Democratic Caucus also named Rep. Nicholas J. Celebrezze (D-Parma) assistant Democratic leader; Rep. Kevin Boyce (D-Columbus) Democratic whip; and Rep. Nickie Antonio (D-Lakewood) assistant Democratic whip.

“I am honored to have the support of my colleagues and constituents as we prepare for the challenges and opportunities our state faces,” Strahorn said in a statement. “In this time of rebuilding and growth, I look forward to working hard, hand in hand to improve the state of Ohio. Whether it’s the fight for good-paying jobs or investments in education, Ohioans need government that works for everyone, and we get that.”

Senate Democrats announced that they have re-elected their leadership team for the 131st General Assembly, which includes Senate Minority Leader Joe Schiavoni (Boardman); Assistant Minority Leader Charleta Tavares (Columbus); Minority Whip Edna Brown (Toledo); and Assistant Minority Whip Lou Gentile (Steubenville).