Feb 12, 2025 - Politics
Charted: Ohio's game of political musical chairs
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Four top Ohio Republicans want each others' jobs — out of political necessity.
State of play: Treasurer Robert Sprague, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Auditor Keith Faber and Attorney General Dave Yost have each announced 2026 campaigns for other statewide positions.
- Term limits are to blame. Their offices allow a maximum of two consecutive four-year terms.
- The four took office together in 2019.
Between the lines: Some had a chance to be appointed to the open U.S. Senate seat, and most harbor visions of the governor's seat.
Yes, but: A bruising GOP primary was assured if all of them went for the top spot next year.
- Yost was first out of the gate with a gubernatorial bid, and MAGA outsider Vivek Ramaswamy is expected to enter the race soon.
- Sprague planned to join them, but like the others is pursuing a safer seat.
What we're watching: The opportunity to become governor could still follow.
- Gov. Mike DeWine didn't take office as governor until he was 72, while Faber is 59, Sprague is 51 and LaRose is 45.
The big picture: A growing list of other candidates are trying to break up this game of political musical chairs.
- Democratic former health director Amy Acton is also running for governor, while former GOP state lawmaker Niraj Antani is running for secretary of state.