Lima Reporter

State Representatives Angie King and Rodney Creech have reintroduced a bill that seeks to modify the protocol by which voters can challenge political candidates seeking party nominations. This legislation was initially presented during the 135th General Assembly and aims to broaden the ability of voters to protest a candidate's eligibility, irrespective of party allegiance.

Current regulations restrict a registered voter to contest nominations only within their own party. However, if the proposed law is enacted, it will enable all registered voters to question candidate nominations, without being limited by political affiliation.

Angie King articulated, “The ability to protest a primary candidate’s ineligibility to hold office shouldn’t be partisan.” She explained that "under HB 196, where declaration and petitions do not conform to the requirements specified by law, electors of either party can alert the Board of Elections to a possible defect in a candidate’s petition. It is disingenuous to both the candidate and voters to place a candidate on the ballot who is legally unable to serve. This simple, yet important legislation ensures voters have a meaningful choice of candidates.”

Rodney Creech added that, “This legislation will improve election integrity, ultimately strengthening voter confidence in Ohio’s election process.”

Outlined are the conditions under which voters may protest a candidate's eligibility for party nomination: if the individual is not a U.S. citizen, does not meet minimum age requirements, exceeds age or term limits, has a criminal conviction, or fails to include a former name on necessary candidacy documentation.

The bill is pending assignment to a House committee.