The following election speed read comes by way of Dentons 50 partner Andrew Minton.
For the first time in many election cycles, Ohio had no statewide ballot initiatives certified for the November ballot. There remains considerable conversation in the state capitol concerning the legalization of marijuana for non-medial purposes and an initiative that would cap the prices of pharmaceuticals. Those could be on the ballot for voter consideration in 2017 or 2018.
US Senate
Incumbent Senator Rob Portman ran one of the most impressive re-election campaigns in recent memory. With trouble on his right because of his position on marriage equality and early headwind because of the Trump candidacy, Senator Portman completed over 5 million voter contacts before October. He built a substantial lead in late summer over former Governor Ted Strickland. So much so that by September the Senate Democrats had pulled the money for Strickland’s advertising buy.
Ohio House – Cliff Rosenberger, Speaker
Prior to the election Republicans held a 65-34 majority. Post 2016 election Republicans hold a 66-33
Ohio Senate – Larry Obhof, President of the Senate
Prior to the election Republicans held a 23-10 majority Post 2016 election Republicans hold a 24-9
