 Chairman’s Update
Good Evening, Ohio cities are experiencing what many others across the nation are facing. Through it all, Governor DeWine has been a reliable, unifying leader once again. The intended dialogue and peaceful message protestors initially tried to get out was unfortunately overshadowed by a minority of people wanting to cause destruction. I applaud the Governor’s swift reaction and actions taken to protect all Ohioans across the state. I am hopeful that these actions allow our city, state, and nation to move forward and heal together as a country united. Sincerely, Jane M. Timken
In Dayton, Portman Visits the National Aviation Heritage National Historic Park Area as the Senate Prepares to Act on Bipartisan Parks Legislation Last Friday, U.S. Senator Rob Portman visited Dayton’s Aviation Heritage National Historic Park to see firsthand the deferred maintenance needs and to discuss his bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act that the Senate will soon consider to address the nearly $12 billion backlog in long-delayed maintenance projects at the National Park Service. Portman applauded Majority Leader McConnell’s announcement that the Senate will consider S. 3422, the Great American Outdoors Act, landmark legislation to address the deferred maintenance backlog across the federal land management agencies and to provide permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund, in June. The Great American Outdoors Act includes Portman’s bipartisan Restore Our Parks Act, which will help tackle the more than $100 million in deferred maintenance needs at Ohio’s eight national park sites, including more than $3.5 million in unmet maintenance needs at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park including building, landscape, and exhibit improvements. Governor DeWine Deploys National Guard to Support Cleveland, Columbus This weekend, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine deployed Ohio National Guard resources to Columbus and Cleveland in order to “drive out hate and violence and help instill order.”
“We do this today so that love and kindness, compassion and peace can triumph over hate and violence,” Governor DeWinestated in his remarks.
Read more from Cleveland.com: https://www.cleveland.com/open/2020/05/gov-mike-dewine-deploys-national-guard-to-respond-to-columbus-protests.html
Husted Announces Re-Start of TechCred Upskilling Program Lt. Governor Jon Husted, who serves as the Director of the Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation, last week announced that the TechCred program has been retooled to help Ohioans get new skills and move their careers forward as the economy recovers during the coronavirus. TechCred works with Ohio employers to fund current and prospective employees’ training in technology-related fields in order to qualify them for positions in growing industries. The next round of TechCred applications begins on June 1st. Visit TechCred.Ohio.gov to learn more. Yost: BCI Handling Investigation of Critically Wounded Officer Attorney General Dave Yost’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation is leading the investigation into the shooting of a Columbus Police officer during a multi-jurisdictional drug task force raid last week. The raid was the result of a long-term investigation that determined a substantial amount of drugs and drug money had been trafficked from a house in Northeast Columbus. The officer was moved from critical to stable condition, and is reportedly doing well. The federal Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives will handle filing charges against the suspect. “Our prayers go out to this officer who was wounded in the line of duty,” Yost said. “We pray for a quick recovery. I want to express my gratitude to all the law enforcement officers that responded to this sting, both during the initial entry as well as the subsequent investigation.” LaRose Certifies 2020 Presidential Primary Election Results This week, Secretary of State Frank LaRose certified the official results of the 2020 Presidential Primary Election. Taking the lessons learned from this primary election, Secretary LaRose has proposed some small changes to election law that provide for a safe, secure, and accessible election this November. The improvements will protect Ohioans‘ access to in-person person voting on Election Day, in addition to absentee and early voting. Auditor of State Keith Faber Provides CARES Act Update for Ohio Townships This week Auditor of State Keith Faber hosted conference calls with township officials from across Ohio. Auditor Faber urged them to properly record and track all money they receive from the federal government, ensuring that they put it to good use for the taxpayers the monies are intended to assist.
Sprague Announces New STABLE Account Partnership On Thursday, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague announced that Lake County has become the first county in Ohio to provide its employees the option to set-up recurring direct deposits from their paychecks into STABLE Accounts either for themselves or a qualifying family member. STABLE accounts are specialized savings and investment accounts for people living with disabilities that allows them to save and invest money without losing eligibility for certain means-tested benefits. Last year, Treasurer Sprague‘s office entered a similar partnership with the Ohio Department of Administrative Services to allow state employees to utilize the direct deposit option.
Participation in STABLE Account grew by 51% during Sprague‘s first year in office, and the program recently hit another milestone with the opening of its 16,000th account. Justice Kennedy Hits 20 Counties This Week
Justice Sharon L. Kennedy continued delivering her yard signs while taking meetings with Chairmen and County Coordinators for Kennedy for Ohio. Traveling to 20 counties, Sharon began her week in the southeastern part of the state, making her way down to Ohio’s most southern region, and rounded out her week up in Northeast Ohio.
“It is great to be back on the road, connecting with the local Republican Party leaders, our dedicated volunteers, and Ohioans,” said Sharon. “I am grateful for the volunteers across the state helping me blanket Ohio in Kennedy yard signs and literature, and telling voters who I am – a strong constitutionalist who will uphold the law as it is written, not to rewrite or legislate from the bench. Thank you to those who are spreading my message. I look forward to seeing you again as we walk, knock, and talk across Ohio!”
Justice French Instructs Lawyers on How to Prepare Virtual Arguments
With the pandemic, Ohio’s lawyers and judges are finding new ways to administer justice, often relying on remote hearings and arguments. Justice French has instructed hundreds of lawyers around the state on how to prepare and deliver an effective virtual argument. She’s also written an article on the topic available at www.attorneyatlawmagazine.com |
Month: May 2020
Statement from ORP Chairman Jane Timken Regarding Columbus Protests
Statement from ORP Chairman Jane Timken Regarding Columbus Protests
Columbus,OH – Ohio Republican Party Chairman Jane Timken released the following statement regarding the protests that took place in Columbus last night:
“Last night, Columbus experienced what is happening in cities across the country. Racism and bigotry should have no place in our country. I empathize with the protesters and understand that we need to have a real conversation on race relations. The dialogue that peaceful protestors were hoping to initiate last night, however, soon turned into chaotic riots. I am a firm believer that violence is never the answer. I believe in the First Amendment and am hopeful that any future protests will allow for a conversation to take place through conflict-free means. No one deserves to have their life cut short, and we need to use this time to heal and move forward as a country.”
Chairman’s Update 5/24/20
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Chairman’s Update
Good Evening, This weekend, we celebrate Memorial Day by remembering all the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country selflessly. We have those brave members of our military to thank for our freedoms in this great country. Memorial Day celebrations with friends and family may look different this year, but that allows us to reflect on the true meaning of what this day represents. As we slowly begin to make our way back to normal, our focus on November remains strong. Trump Victory continues hiring staff to deploy to battleground states across the country. Voter contact continues to be made and Trump Victory is working hard to make sure they don’t miss a beat. We will re-elect President Trump in just a few short months and continue to Keep America Great! Sincerely, Jane M. Timken
Portman Joins Fox Business to Highlight Efforts to Stop China’s Theft of Taxpayer-Funded Research In an interview with Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria, Senator Portman highlighted bipartisan legislation he will introduce soon to crack down on China’s theft of American taxpayer-funded research and intellectual property (IP). Portman, as Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), led a year-long investigation into China’s talent recruitment programs like the Thousand Talents Program, culminating in a bipartisan report in November 2019 that detailed how China has recruited U.S.-based scientists and researchers since the late 1990s and incentivized them to transfer U.S. taxpayer-funded research and IP to China for their own military and economic gain. In response to the report, the FBI and the Department of Justice have announced criminal charges and the arrests of several academics affiliated with American universities and research institutions for crimes related to their participation in China’s talent recruitment programs while accepting American taxpayer-funded grant funding. Watch the interview here. Governor DeWine Gives Virtual Commencement Address at Miami University Last weekend, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine gave a virtual commencement address for Miami University’s online graduation ceremonies. Governor DeWine was originally scheduled to be the speaker for the in-person ceremony in Oxford, which was canceled due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Governor DeWine is a 1969 alumnus of Miami University. To watch the remarks, please click here. Lt. Governor Husted Continues Leading on Ohio’s Economy Lt. Governor Jon Husted last week announced additional openings in the Ohio economy as the state continues its fight against the coronavirus. This week, the Lt. Governor highlighted the Ohio BMV’s, event centers, and non-contact sports that will all soon have the ability to reopen. During Thursday’s press conference, the Lt. Governor also recognized this weekend’s observation of Memorial Day and the women and men who have given their lives for the values that we all hold close in our nation. Yost Leads Coalition Supporting Dismissal of Case Against Gen. Flynn Attorney General Dave Yost led a coalition of 15 attorneys general from around the country in filing an amicus brief in support of the federal government’s motion to dismiss the case against Gen. Michael Flynn. After the federal government decided not to pursue criminal charges against Gen. Flynn, the U.S. District Court for D.C. implied it may order the prosecution to continue through a court-appointed prosecutor. Such overreach goes against the separation of powers. “This extraordinary example of judicial activism is the antithesis of our Constitution and the separation of powers,” Yost said. “Our founding fathers designed a system of government precisely to stop a branch of government from undertaking this type of overreach. Ohio Entrepreneurs Remain Resilient This week, Secretary of State Frank LaRose today announced 11,447 new businesses filed in April, above the monthly filing average in 2019. “Ohio entrepreneurs, workers, and business owners have shown that even during an economic and public health emergency we find innovative ways to create value for our families, our communities, and our state,” said LaRose. “Despite our challenges, Ohioans continue to put faith in their dreams and their work ethic, so let’s reward them by supporting our local businesses.” During this time when Ohioans are working to #ResponsibleRestartOhio, LaRose is recommending that those looking to start a new business take advantage of quick-and-easy online filing through Ohio Business Central by clicking here onOhioBusinessCentral.gov. Auditor of State Keith Faber Fights for Greater Transparency This week Auditor of State Keith Faber testified before the Ohio Senate in favor of a bill that would provide citizens an affordable remedy to resolve alleged public meetings violations. Currently, under Ohio law, citizens that believe their lawmakers have violated open meetings law are responsible for covering all costs related to the litigation, unless the court sided with them. Under this new law for $25 citizens will have the opportunity to have their allegation mediated. This legislation will provide citizens with a tool they need to hold their officials accountable.
Treasurer Sprague Talks Recovery and Current Challenges In recent weeks, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague has continued engaging community leaders and business owners to provide updates on his office’s work and to discuss the current challenges facing Ohio. Treasurer Sprague has served as the keynote speaker during recent virtual meetings of the St. Marys, Findlay, and Flag City Morning Rotary clubs, as well conversations with several local chambers of commerce. During these discussions, he has offered details and insight about the various programs in the Treasurer’s office that can be helpful to communities and job creators during this time.
Kennedy Sweeps Southwest and Northwest Ohio
This week, Justice Sharon L. Kennedy blanketed Ohio in yard signs and literature, while taking time to meet with Chairmen to discuss the upcoming election. Included in the week of travel were Zoom meetings with the Lucas, Wood, and Licking Women’s Republican Clubs. Traveling the state, Sharon made twelve stops which began in Preble and ended in Ottawa with visits to Darke, Warren, Shelby, Auglaize, Van Wert, Paulding, Putnam, Henry, Wood, and Lucas in between. At each stop the conversation turned to November. When asked what do you think voters care about, she said, “Liberty, freedom, and the endurance of the Republic.” “The people care about the Republic – its life, longevity and endurance. They want to know that the person they cast their vote for to serve as a judge will protect and defend the Constitution and be a guardian of the people’s rights. While the legislature may make policy by enacting laws, and the executive branch may give life to that policy by carrying out its commandments, it is the role of judges to protect fundamental liberties and declare laws and actions unconstitutional when the other branches of government go too far and transgress the Constitution. My message to the voters is clear – I am a constitutionalist. I believe in judicial restraint . And this is the message I am taking to the streets over the remaining days of the campaign as we knock doors across Ohio” said Sharon. Justice French Spends Time with College Republicans
Despite the shutdown, Justice French has remained active. In a week of virtual meetings with lawyers, law students, Republican groups, and business leaders, Justice French spent some time with College Republicans from around Ohio. She thanked them for their willingness to take a leadership role in the political process and invited them to help her get elected in November. |
Chairman’s Update 5/17/20
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Chairman’s Update
Good Evening, Yesterday marked 100 days until the Republican National Convention. In just a short time, Republicans will visit Charlotte to re-nominate President Trump. The president has delivered on his campaign promises and I am excited for his presidency to continue for another four great years. During President Trump’s time in office, he has passed historic tax cuts, provided resources to fight the opioid epidemic, and passed landmark VA reform. He has proven to be a president for all Americans. In our own state, Governor DeWine has been a strong leader during a tough time. With certain services reopening last Friday and even more reopening in the coming weeks, I am grateful for the measured response Governor DeWine is taking. I look forward to brighter days ahead. Sincerely, Jane M. Timken
Portman Argues House Democrats’ New Coronavirus Proposal Will Not Help Move Economy Forward Last week on the Senate floor, U.S. Senator Rob Portman discussed how the new COVID-19 response proposal from House Democrats will not help to move the economy forward. Portman believes that Congress should focus on introducing bipartisan legislation that helps get the American economy moving again. He hopes that any additional legislation that Congress puts forward to address the coronavirus pandemic will work to fill the gaps left by the four previous rescue packages while stimulating the economy. A video can be found here. Governor DeWine; Lt. Governor Husted Continue Responsible RestartOhio Opening Announcements Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced additional sectors opening under Responsible RestartOhio:
A full list of mandatory and recommended best practices from are available at coronavirus.ohio.gov. Lt. Governor Husted Announces Additional Plans to Responsibly Reopen Ohio’s Economy Lt. Governor Jon Husted last week continued to discuss the responsible reopening of Ohio’s economy in midst of the Coronavirus crisis. By early this week, 89% of the state’s economy will have the ability to reopen, with additional openings planned for sit-down restaurant services and personal services, such as hair salons and barbers. At Governor DeWine’s request, the Lt. Governor has worked with health officials and business leaders to design safe guidelines for operating these businesses so that employees and customers can feel as safe as possible in returning. Attorney General Dave Yost Observes National Police Week Attorney General Dave Yost marked National Police Week by joining law enforcement from across the state to kick off Light Ohio Blue, and honor our currently serving peace officers and their families, and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. While we could not gather for the annual Ohio Peace Office Memorial Ceremony, General Yost had a message of remembrance and thanksfor our law enforcement. “These heroes that we celebrate who have fallen in the line of duty did not become heroes the day they fell,” Yost said. “They became heroes the day they pinned on the badge, the day they chose to take the risks of this job, the day they chose to stand between those that we love and the evil that is in the world.” LaRose Recommends Election Changes for November Secretary of State Frank LaRose proposed several changes to ensure a smooth and safe election in November. The plan includes safe in-person voting options and changes to improve voting by mail.
“Now more than ever it’s crucial that we learn from recent experience and make common-sense, informed decisions to assure Ohio is ready for the General Election,” said LaRose. “After all, voting is not just a right and a privilege, it’s a responsibility of citizenship we all share.”
LaRose is working currently with the legislature to ensure the best plan for Ohio voters is put forward.
Keith Faber Talks with Central Ohio Local Governments
This week Auditor of State Keith Faber continued his dialogue with local government officials. Auditor Faber stressed the importance of being ready for the fiscal impact on all government’s budgets and encouraged them to prepare to tighten their belts, doing more with less. The Auditor’s office has been maintaining its current workload, working to hold governments accountable to the taxpayers in this time of crisis.
Treasurer Sprague’s Family Forward Proposal Earns Unanimous Approval in the Ohio House Last week, the Ohio House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 405, which would establish the Family Forward program within the Ohio Treasurer’s office. Treasurer Sprague unveiled the proposal last November along with state Rep. Jon Cross (R – Kenton), the bill’s legislative sponsor.
Under the plan, prospective parents seeking to adopt may qualify for reduced interest rate loans to help them in managing the expenses associated with the adoption process.
“The Family Forward proposal aims to chip away at the financial stressors families experience when navigating the adoption process,” said Treasurer Sprague. “By working together and seeing this effort through, we can help more families take shape across Ohio. I commend and thank Rep. Cross for taking the lead on this bill, and I applaud members of the Ohio House for advancing this very important initiative.”
The measure has garnered the support of the Ohio Right to Life and various family advocacy groups across Ohio.
Justice Kennedy Gears Up For Summer
When she was not hearing oral arguments or participating in a virtual Bar Admissions Ceremony, Justice Sharon L. Kennedy was engaging with groups and volunteers around the state. Setting her sights to the campaign trail she began the week by dropping door-to-door literature and yard signs to Butler and Greene Counties. Sharon also had video chat meetings with pastors from Cleveland and Columbus, and the Cleveland American Middle East Organization – covering a wide-array of topics from her upbringing to her rise to Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio to what the campaign trail looks like now. And she finished her week discussing the importance of the upcoming election with the Ohio Young Republicans via zoom. “I cannot win this race alone,” said Sharon. “I need your help and support. Help those in your community understand how critical judicial races are. Unlike the federal courts where the President, as confirmed by the U.S. Senate appoint judges, in Ohio we elect our judges. Ohioans select and confirm judges, like the President and the U.S. Senate, with their vote. It is our responsibility to ensure the tripartite system of government that was given to us under the United States Constitution flourishes here at home.” The meeting continued as a conversation with members sharing updates from their respective parts of the state, and reiterating their willingness to help bring Sharon to victory. “Thank you for being Republicans, thank you for believing in America, thank you for believing in me. And, thank you for this opportunity and your help,” she concluded. Justice French Films PSA to Help Direct Ohioans to Legal Services
Since taking office seven years ago, Justice French has pursued programs and avenues that ensure equal access to Ohio’s judicial system. She is particularly proud of Ohio’s www.OhioLegalHelp.org, a pioneering website that answers basic legal questions and provides resources for anyone with a legal question or challenge. It can be a particularly valuable resource for those struggling in the face of Covid-19 issues. While Ohio’s courts work to reopen safely, it’s important that potential litigants know where they can turn to get the help they need. Justice French hopes to spread that message to all Ohioans, but especially those who can’t afford a lawyer. |
Chairman’s Update 5/10/20
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Chairman’s Update
Good Evening, Last week, Governor DeWine announced a plan to reopen certain Ohio businesses. Ohioans have been eager to get back to work, and this is great news for everyone across our great state. On May 15th, personal services such as nail and hair salons will reopen, along with outdoor service at restaurants. Dine-in service will resume on May 21st. This is incredible news not only for those excited to get back to work, but also for those of us who have missed being able to support our local communities. I applaud the Governor for his handling of COVID-19 in Ohio, and agree that we must still take precautions as the economy continues to reopen. It’s not just a matter of protecting ourselves, but of protecting our loved ones and even strangers around us. As a community, we can do this together. We might not be able to be with all of them during this time, but today we celebrate the many women in our lives. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms, grandmas and incredible women who raised us. ICYMI: Don’t forget to head over to our website to shop our new Trump apparel. With less than 6 months until the election, help show your support as we work to Keep America Great! Sincerely, Jane M. Timken
On Fox News, Portman Calls on China to be Held Accountable for the Global Spread of COVID-19 and Highlights Successful First Virtual Senate Committee Hearing On Fox News’ Bill Hemmer Reports last week, Senator Portman called for China to be held accountable for the global spread of COVID-19, in particular due to their decision to allow people to travel out of Wuhan to other countries when they already knew how incredibly infectious COVID-19 was due to the internal spread in China. Click here to watchthe full interview. Portman also highlighted his success in chairing the Senate’s first virtual hearing last week. The virtual hearing examined the possibility of allowing senators to participate and vote remotely during a national crisis and how it can be done effectively and safely from a technological perspective. Portman is championing a bipartisan resolution to allow remote voting and deliberation in the Senate during national crises like the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. In addition, Portman discussed the importance of expanding flexibility of the funding the federal government provided in the CARES Act to help state and local governments impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. In April, Portman sent a bipartisan letter to Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin asking for additional flexibility, and Treasury issued guidance this week providing some of the requested flexibility by allowing state and local governments to use the funding to cover payroll expenses for police, fire, and first responders. His interview can be found here. Governor DeWine Continues Responsible RestartOhio Announcements with Openings of Restaurants, Personal Services On Thursday, Ohio Governor DeWine announced the next phase of the Responsible RestartOhio plan as it related to restaurants, bars, and personal care services. Restaurants and bars in Ohio will be permitted to reopen as follows:
To ensure that these establishments operate in the safest manner possible, Governor DeWine’s Restaurant Advisory Group created a detailed list of guidelines and best practices for restaurant and bar owners to follow. The full list of mandatory and recommended best practices can be found at coronaviurs.ohio.gov. Personal care services such as hair salons, barbershops, day spas, nail salons, and tanning facilities may reopen on May 15. To ensure that these establishments operate in the safest manner possible, Governor DeWine’s Personal Services Advisory Group created a detailed list of guidelines and best practices for personal care service providers to follow. The full list of mandatory and recommended best practices can be found at coronaviurs.ohio.gov. Lt. Governor Husted Continues Working to Responsibly Reopen Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted last week continued to discuss the responsible reopening of Ohio’s economy in midst of the Coronavirus crisis. By early this week, 89% of the state’s economy will have the ability to reopen, with additional openings planned for sit-down restaurant services and personal services, such as hair salons and barbers. At Governor DeWine’s request, the Lt. Governor has worked with health officials and business leaders to design safe guidelines for operating these businesses so that employees and customers can feel as safe as possible in returning. Dave Yost Answers Consumer Protection Questions Related to COVID-19 Attorney General Dave Yost announced last week that his office distributed nearly $1 million in funding to domestic violence shelters and coalitions across the state to assist battered women, men and children amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The $950,000 in domestic violence grants and statewide training grants were awarded to 48 shelters across Ohio, and the Ohio Domestic Violence Network. “While we have been asked to stay at home, sometimes home isn’t the safest place,” Yost said. “Thanks for the General Assembly, this money will be used to keep life-saving services available to those who need to escape dangerous environments.” LaRose Spotlights Resilient Ohio Businesses This week, Secretary of State Frank LaRose announced selected businesses for this month’s Ohio Business Spotlight. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a significant challenge to businesses across the country, but many Ohio entrepreneurs are finding ways to adapt. These featured businesses are shining examples of Ohioans’ strength. “This pandemic has certainly been a challenging time, but Ohioans have proven again and again their creativity and resilience”, said LaRose. “Ohio’s entrepreneurs have remained strong, finding ways to adapt amid these challenging circumstances and even find ways to give back” Check out the video featuring these resilient businesses here. Additionally, LaRose officially announced the re-opening of his office’s client service center for in-person business filings. Learn more here. Auditor Keith Faber Speaks with Colleagues from Around the Midwest
This week Auditor of State Keith Faber organized a call with State Auditors around the Midwest to discuss how they’re working to continue operations in the middle of the global pandemic. Auditor Faber shared experiences he has heard from local government officials across Ohio and how his office has remained working to make sure that government officials aren’t misspending taxpayer dollars.
Treasurer Sprague, Local Officials Discuss Ways to Support Ohio’s Communities Throughout the week, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague convened local government officials and stakeholder groups to discuss the various challenges they are facing in light of the COVID-19 crisis. Discussions centered around both immediate and long-term needs as communities prepare to re-open. As part of the conversations, Treasurer Sprague and staff provided an overview of current Treasurer’s office programs that can help in these efforts, as well as other ways the office may be able to provide assistance.
Justice Kennedy Wishes You a Happy Mother’s Day
Sunday, May 10th is a special day of celebration. A day where we honor our Mothers for their love and devotion and for the lifetime of sacrifices they make one day at a time.
While my Mom has passed, there is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about her or thank her for nurturing me to be a strong and independent child of faith unwavering in the belief that if you live your life according to her rules – decide and commit, work hard and have fortitude – you can achieve anything professionally and personally.
I turned 50 years old when I began chasing my dream of serving as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ohio. I still have the Birthday card she gave me and read it everyday. “50 – Follow your heart, Invent your future, Find what you’ve been seeking, Take charge of your destiny, You deserve all the happiness life can bring.”
Today, take time to express your gratitude to your Mother for her sacrifice, support, and unconditional love. Celebrate your mothers, your aunts, your sisters, your wives, and the amazing women who believed in you when others said you couldn’t. To all the Mothers and Mother figures, thank you for instilling wisdom, love and hope into each generation. Thank you for being you. Happy Mother’s Day!
Justice French Virtually Meets with Ohio Law Firms
In addition to her meetings with local Republican groups, Justice French has been busy meeting virtually with lawyers and law firms throughout the state. Her meetings allow discussion about all that is happening in Ohio’s judicial system, but also about the challenges lawyers and their clients are currently facing. |
Chairman’s Update 5/03/2020
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Chairman’s Update
Good Evening, Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our Ohio leadership, the primary election is successfully behind us. I thank our Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Secretary of State for their commitment to ensuring a fair and safe election process for all Ohioans. We are excited that Ohio will begin reopening its economy in the coming days and weeks. We now have only 6 months until November, and must persevere through these adverse times so we can re-elect President Trump for another four great years. The president has worked hard to keep the American people informed and has been a sound leader during this time. It is imperative that we finish this election year strong. ICYMI: If you would like to show your support for President Trump, you can purchase our new Trump apparel here! Sincerely, Jane M. Timken
Portman Hosts Virtual PSI Roundtable Discussion on Continuity of Senate Operations & Remote Voting in Times of Crisis Last week, U.S. Senator Rob Portman, Chairman of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), delivered opening remarks at a virtual roundtable discussion entitled “Continuity of Senate Operations and Remote Voting in Times of Crisis.” The virtual roundtable was a successful test run for future virtual hearings. Last week, PSI released a joint memorandum for discussion during the roundtable that examines the possibility of amending the Standing Rules of the Senate to allow senators to participate and vote remotely during a national crisis. The memorandum also examines current remote voting and participation proposals, including the bipartisan resolution introduced by Senators Portman and Dick Durbin (D-IL) to allow senators to participate and vote remotely during a time of national crisis. A video of Portman’s opening remarks can be found here. Governor DeWine Initiates Responsible RestartOhio On Monday, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced Ohio’s plan to responsibly restart Ohio’s economy. The guiding principles of the Responsible RestartOhio plan are protecting the health of employees, customers, and their families, supporting community efforts to control the spread of COVID-19, and responsibly getting Ohio back to work. Beginning May 1, 2020, all medically necessary procedures that do not require an overnight stay in a healthcare facility, or do not require inpatient hospital admission and minimizes use of personal protective equipment, may move forward. This includes regular doctor visits, well-care checks, well-baby visits, out-patient surgeries, imaging procedures, and diagnostic tests. Dental services and veterinary services may also proceed if a safe environment can be established. Beginning on May 4, 2020, manufacturing, distribution, and construction businesses may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. Beginning on May 4, 2020, general office environments may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. Beginning on May 12, 2020, consumer, retail and services, may reopen if these businesses can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees. Advisory groups of business of business owners and industry experts have been formed to help advise on how to safely open up other sectors that are temporarily closed, including daycares, dine-in restaurants and bars (carry-out is still permitted), personal appearance and beauty businesses, outdoor recreation, and gyms. For greater detail on the Responsible RestartOhio plan, or the types of businesses that must stay closed, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov/ResponsibleRestartOhio. Husted Continues to Lead in Responsibly Reopening Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted has continued working closely with Ohio’s business community and health experts to push forward the state’s plan to restart the economy in the midst of the coronavirus crisis. Governor DeWine asked the Lt. Governor to bring recommendations from the group, which resulted in the administration’s “Responsible RestartOhio” plan, released this week. The recommendations in the plan outline a pathway for resuming business activity while also focusing on the health and safety of all Ohioans. Dave Yost Answers Consumer Protection Questions Related to COVID-19 Attorney General Dave Yost participated in Twitter’s #AskTheAG event last week, answering constituent questions about how his office is keeping Ohioans safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other topics, Yost addressed:
LaRose Looks to November Election After Ohio Overcomes a Challenging Primary This week Secretary LaRose and election officials throughout Ohio’s 88 counties oversaw an unprecedented election and did so in a way that kept Ohioans safe while ensuring them the opportunity to exercise their right to vote. About 1.8 million Ohioans cast their ballot in this year’s primary election, on par with the 2012 primary where the winner in the Republican primary won by just one percentage point, and our boards of elections will count many outstanding ballots in the weeks to come. Our patriotic teams of election officials in all 88 counties overcame great adversity to make sure that every Ohioan had a chance to make their voice heard without jeopardizing their health. More than 150 community groups, universities, elected officials, media outlets, grocery store chains, volunteers, and many other Ohioans helped to spread the word and made sure registered voters knew how to vote-by-mail. Now, LaRose is looking ahead to November and is working with the legislature to ensure that no matter what circumstances Ohio faces, every single registered voter will have the opportunity to have their voice heard. Auditor Faber Talks COVID with Schools and Libraries
This week, Auditor Keith Faber held townhalls with school and library officials from across the state to hear how they are preparing to deal with the financial fallout of COVID-19. Auditor Faber has been working to ensure that governments at every level are prepared to respond to the crisis.
Treasurer Sprague Reminds Ohioans STABLE is Here to Help As many Ohioans are receiving federal stimulus payments through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague is reminding individuals living with disabilities and their families that the STABLE Account program remains a helpful tool in managing funds needed for care and certain expenses. By placing the stimulus payment into a STABLE Account, individuals can ensure the money does not affect their eligibility for needs-based federal programs such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Last year under Treasurer Sprague‘s leadership, participation in the STABLE Account program grew by more than 50 percent as more Ohioans and their families are turning to it to achieve greater financial security and empowerment.
More details can be found online at https://www.stableaccount.com/Files/Documents/STABLE-Stimulus.pdf
Justice Kennedy Continues to Engage with Ohioans, Virtually
Last week, Justice Sharon L. Kennedy connected with Trump Victory volunteers and the Putnam and Hancock Women’s Republican Clubs via video conference. Kicking off a few virtual grassroots trainings, Sharon thanked the volunteers for their commitment to support her re-election campaign. “Every hand you touch, every conversation you have about who the conservative justice is running for the Supreme Court of Ohio, is a touch for me. Candidates cannot do it alone, I need volunteers like you who will help propel me to victory. Thank you for all of your efforts on my behalf.” Having a similar conversation with the women’s republican clubs, Sharon emphasized that the primary election results show the historical trend of voter falloff for down ticket races. “We talk about this every election cycle. Judicial candidates know there will be down ticket voter falloff, so our task is to keep the conversation going. It is never too early to speak with your family, friends, and neighbors about the importance of judicial races. Together, we can educate the voters in Putnam and Hancock Counties about the need to elect candidates who believe in judicial restraint. Together, we can close the voter falloff gap. Together, we will be victorious on November 3rd.” Sharon concluded by thanking the groups for caring about her and this year’s election. Justice French Takes Part in Fireside Chat with the Cleveland Metro Bar Association
Judi was interviewed as part of a Fireside Chat with the Cleveland Metro Bar Association this week. The interview explored her background and experience. It also focused on current court operations around Ohio and the need for flexibility as we balance the dangers of the pandemic against the rights of litigants. Judi was asked if there is something most people don’t know about her, and she revealed that she is a Trekkie—the name for fans of the Star Trek series and movies. |