12OHSEN: Coughlin Signs Taxpayer Protection Pledge

Release:

Grover Norquist and Kevin Coughlin

Washington, DC - Former Ohio State Senator Kevin Coughlin has signed the Americans for Tax Reform's Taxpayer Protection Pledge.  

Coughlin has formed a campaign committee to raise money and give careful consideration to a run against incumbent Senator Sherrod Brown. 

In making the pledge,  Coughlin promises to:

1)   oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates for individuals and/or businesses; and

2)  oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and credits, unless matched dollar for dollar by further reducing tax rates.

"Our government taxes too much, spends too much, and listens too little," Coughlin said.  "As I did for fourteen years in the Statehouse, I will stand by the principles of less government and fiscal responsibility should I be elected to the United States Senate."

Coughlin was a signer of the Taxpayer Protection Pledge during his entire service as a state legislator. Known for standing strong on fiscal conservative issues, Coughlin was once removed from the Ohio Senate Finance & Appropriations Committee for refusing to vote for a tax increase.

"Sherrod Brown and the spenders in Washington are mortgaging our future and saddling our children with debt," Coughlin said. "The culture of unlimited government and unsustainable spending must end if we are to reclaim America and get our country back on the right track."

Photo:  .

A Message From Kevin Coughlin About US Senate

Email:

For the last few weeks, I have been going through a process to determine whether to enter the race for United States Senate.  

I've had a few conservative organizations approach me about making a run against Sherrod Brown.  Though I'm not leaning toward or against it, I owe it to myself and my supporters to give it careful consideration. I have been meeting with party and opinion leaders around the state and in Washington, racking up mileage and securing commitments from contributors.

Having won in and represented a Northeast Ohio district were Democrats outnumbered Republicans 3:1,  I am a tested campaigner.  I would bring a depth of experience and knowledge on keys issues like health care reform and fiscal responsibility to the Senate.  And my long-established record of sticking to conservative principles even under pressure is what we need more of in Washington.

That said, I have some exploring to do on the feasibility of a campaign and the vulnerability of Sherrod Brown.  As I move toward a final decision I hope to get your thoughts and hear what's important to you.

If you'd like to speak to me or ask any questions please feel free to email me here or let me know a good time and a number where I can reach you.

Thanks and hope to see you soon,

Coughlin Bows Out

Announcement:

Since announcing the organization of a campaign for governor next year, I've had the opportunity to listen to people from across Ohio. They are rightly concerned about the future of our state and the direction in which our country is headed.

I'm grateful to my family, and to so many long-time supporters and new-found friends who have encouraged me to seek the chance to lead Ohio.

As great as this experience has been, as much as we have learned and as much as I care about the future of Ohio, I have decided that now is not my time.

Coming off of so many years in the legislature and in the current economic environment, I just don't have the motivation to raise the financial resources to wage a successful campaign. My family and I have decided that now is a time to pause and think, not to jump right into a new endeavor.

After my last election Anne and I began my final term in the Ohio Senate very much looking forward to the prospect of leaving public life. The fact is that there is much that I'd like to accomplish outside of elected office.

Now, after a brief interlude exploring a run for governor, I find myself back where I was - grateful for the opportunity to serve, better educated by the events surrounding my time in office, and excited about the opportunities ahead.

In the upcoming campaign for governor, my hope is that Ohioans will be able to choose from two candidates for who have the courage to put forth detailed and serious agendas to change our state for the better. Campaigns built on empty rhetoric lead to empty rhetorical government. That's been our problem for too long, and it does not serve Ohio well. Especially in these times, we need to expect more from our candidates and our elected officials.

Anne and I thank all of you who have supported the effort in so many ways. God bless you and God bless Ohio, this state we love so much.

I've been pretty busy at work today, plus I've been hip deep in Angry Armenian reseatch, so I have to tip the hat to Kevin Hotsberry for getting to this first.

So...Kevin...what do you say about a run for Secretary of State?

Coughlin Blasts Strickland and Kasich on Gambling

Statement:

State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) issued the following statement in opposition to Governor Ted Strickland's plan to allow over 15,000 slot machines in Ohio:

"The General Assembly should reject Governor Ted Strickland's proposal to allow over 15,000 video slot machines in Ohio. Ohio's voters have spoken loudly in four statewide elections to reject the expansion of gambling.

"I have no objection to allowing Ohio's voters to decide the fate issues via ballot initiative. But Governor Strickland's proposal is an end run around voters. The General Assembly is being asked to rush through a massive expansion of gambling without public testimony, proper hearings, substantive debate or a vote of the people. That's downright sneaky and Ohioans should be outraged.

"Equally troubling is the deafening silence from John Kasich. Ohio voters who oppose casino-type gambling have a right to know where John Kasich stands on this important issue.

"The fact is that John Kasich's top two campaign advisors are registered lobbyists for the gambling industry. Douglas Preisse and his partner Robert Klaffky are not only coordinators of the Kasich campaign, they are paid lobbyists for the Ohio Legacy Fund, a racetrack/gaming coalition that has spent millions to promote slot machines in our state.

"So it's clear that when it comes to standing for principles and against casino-type gambling, Ted Strickland and John Kasich are two of a kind.

"Ohioans are already paying too much for everything. The last thing they need is the government rummaging through their pockets for more money. Slot machines are just another means of sucking cash from the people who can least afford it. I will oppose the conference committee report on the state budget if this reckless plan is included and I urge my colleagues to do the same."

Coughlin on Kasich

Statement:

State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) today issued the following statement regarding John Kasich's announcement for Governor of Ohio:

"I welcome John Kasich into the governor's race. John is a good man and a fine leader. He would provide far better leadership for Ohio than Ted Strickland.

"My campaign is about the future. I have a clear vision of what Ohio should look like by the year 2020. I am traveling the state sharing that vision and detailing the courageous moves we can make to get Ohio working again. I look forward to hearing John Kasich's detailed vision and allowing voters the chance to determine Ohio's future."

Doesn't sound like a guy who is ready to quit yet...also doesn't sound like a guy who thinks he can win this time out...

Coughlin to ORP: Butt Out

This just in...

State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) today sent a letter to Ohio Republican Party Chairman Kevin DeWine asking that the party let voters decide the 2010 nomination for governor. This follows a series of e-mails sent by the Ohio Republican Party touting Wall Street executive and Fox News personality John Kasich's upcoming campaign announcement.

"Ohio needs a rupture from the past," Coughlin said. "If we keep electing the same old politicians, we're going to get the same old results. If the Republican Party keeps falling back on old habits and recycling the names from our past, we're not going to be a significant part of Ohio's future."

Coughlin announced earlier this year that he is organizing a campaign for governor in 2010. He plans to kick-off his campaign after the legislative session finishes in July.



READ THE FULL TEXT OF KEVIN'S MAY 26 LETTER TO OHIO REPUBLICAN PARTY CHAIRMAN KEVIN DEWINE:

Kevin DeWine, Chairman
Ohio Republican Party
211 S. Fifth St
Columbus, OH 43215

Dear Kevin,

We've enjoyed a cordial relationship during our service together in the Ohio General Assembly. Both of us are committed to improving Ohio and helping Republican candidates win. So it's with some disappointment that I write to express my concern over of the Ohio Republican Party's apparent support of a candidate for governor prior to the voters' selection of a nominee.

Recently, the ORP has sent several communications, paid for by the party, promoting next week's event to announce John Kasich's campaign for governor,. Kevin, our shared goals are well served when we have candidates organizing, promoting our issues, and bringing new people into the party. Neither the process, nor the voters are well served when party bosses try to force their preferred candidates.

I believe it is the role of the party to support Republican candidates in the general election and to call out Democrats when needed. But the privilege of selecting our nominees is reserved to the people by direct election in a primary. Until the people have selected their nominee, the party and it's bosses should butt out - overtly and covertly.

Kevin, we are the party of free markets. We are the party that trusts the people. Let the horses run. Let Ohio's Republican voters decide for themselves which vision for our state they prefer. Let the voters decide our nominee. It's their election.

I hope that I can count on equal treatment by you and the ORP and that party interference in the primary election for governor is nonexistent. I'd be happy to talk further with you about this.

Kindest regards,
Kevin Coughlin

I really do think that the Ohio Republican Party ought to make it their policy to NOT get involved in primaries. If they must get involved to protect an incumbent, an exception could probably be made for that, but this constant interference on the part of the party on behalf of certain candidates is most irritating.

Don't get me wrong, I like John Kasich and I think he makes the best candidate for governor. I'm talking about Jon Husted. But Mr. Coughlin's point is well made: the Ohio Republican Party ought not be involved at this point. But that's politics...

State Senator Coughlin on Good Government

Two items from Kevin Coughlin today:

Coughlin Set to Propose Apportionment Board Reform

COLUMBUS-State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) will introduce legislation next week that seeks to bring more balance and fairness to the state's method for redrawing legislative districts.

The resolution, jointly sponsored by Senator Gary Cates (R-West Chester), would amend the Ohio Constitution to change the membership of the apportionment board to the Governor, the Auditor of State, the Secretary of State, the Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives, the House Minority Leader, the Ohio Senate President and the Minority Leader of the Senate.

Currently, the membership on the board includes the Governor, Auditor, Secretary of State, a person chosen by the Speaker of the House and the Senate President, who is a member of the Speaker's political party, and a person chosen by legislative leaders in the minority party. The board meets every 10 years to redraw districts after U.S. Census figures are released.

Coughlin's resolution would increase membership on the apportionment board to seven and require that five or more members agree to the district lines.

"This is a practical solution to the ongoing debate about redistricting in Ohio," said Coughlin. "This critical decision should be made by those who were elected by the people as part of a fair and balanced process."

Sen. Coughlin will detail the proposal next week be available to answer questions.

Kevin Introduces Bill Allowing Ohioans to Track Their Taxes Online

COLUMBUS-Looking to strengthen accountability and transparency of taxpayer dollars, State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) today introduced Senate Bill 78, legislation that would create a comprehensive website for Ohioans to better track how state resources are being spent.

"There is a lot of money flying around Columbus and Ohio taxpayers should not have to be lobbyists or politicians to know where their dollars are being spent, particularly at a time when billions in new stimulus dollars from the federal government are flowing into the state," said Coughlin. "SB 78 would create a one-stop shop for average Ohioans to keep tabs on the use of state resources."

SB 78 would require the state to maintain a searchable, user-friendly website where Ohio taxpayers can view agency expenditures, map the distribution of tax credits and monitor state employee compensation. Coughlin explained that while Ohioans can now piece together this information by visiting a number of different state department websites, including the Legislative Budget Office, the Governor's Office of Budget and Management, the Controlling Board, and others, there should be an easier, more transparent way for Ohio taxpayers to track state government spending.

"Many Ohioans are understandably concerned about the amount of taxes they are required to pay, and I can assure you that my colleagues and I in the General Assembly will continue to work to lower the tax burden for families and businesses in this state. At the same time, we should also ensure that Ohio taxpayers are getting the best value for their dollar," said Coughlin.

"SB 78 will help make state government more transparent for Ohio taxpayers and ensure that we are directing state resources to areas that will have the greatest impact on the future growth of our economy and the quality of life in our communities," Coughlin added.

News and Reax to a Real Mover and Shaker in Ohio

I get alot of my state news from a key operative for the Ohio Republican Party. He shares his insight with people in monthly emails. Having read his latest, I feel compelled to share and offer reax to his offerings this time. The operative's words are in italics, my reax are not.

Ohio's Races in 2010

Rob Portman for US Senate
It appears that Rob will not have a primary challenge. That is good news!
Bob Paduchik is his campaign manager. Anyone interested in helping with the campaign should contact Eric Toy at 513-519-7845
Now this is good news in a way in that Rob does not have to spend money against a possible primary opponent and can establish a war chest to take on what will be a huge 527 backed Dem campaign. However, for some, Rob Portman is still not quite known. Sure, many of us in SW Ohio know Mr. Portman, especially those in his district. However, for people that still have questions about him, where is the refining edge that a primary opponent can often serve as, to push Rob, to get him to clarify, etc.? While it means no bloody maiming primaries like Blackwell v. Petro, it does leave some questions.

Our next Governor?
Kevin Coughlin has announced his candidacy.
John Kasich has all but officially announced that he is running for Governor. In my February edition, I mentioned that Mr. Kasich has not yet repaired a rift with the gun lobby that was created when he voted for the failed Clinton gun banin 1994. His operatives have informed me that Mr. Kasich has a history of voting with the gun lobby. They are working on assembling a list of his gun related votes to prove that he is pro-Second Amendment. That's great! I'm looking forward to including that data in a future edition. Mr. Kasich's days in Congress are best remembered for his fiscal conservatism and being a budget hawk.
Todd Kritzwiseris a local candidate who is also seeking the office. He can be contacted at 937-444-Ohio (6446). Todd lives in Brown County's Sterling Twp. near Williamsburg. His campaign sent me the following:

Emerging from the small town of Waverly, Ohio, Todd Kritzwiser is not the average career politician. He feels compelled to enter the arena of politics to bring a fresh perspective and a commitment to restore the discarded values of Ohio's past. He is a graduate of the Southern Ohio School of Ministry and the Wagner Leadership Institute. He is co-founder of King's Way Fellowship in Batavia, Ohio and a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors. Todd makes a lifestyle of leading and caring for people. He is a leader among leaders and currently serves as a director and consultant for nonprofit and for-profit corporations alike. Todd and his wife Jenny have been married for 16 years and live in Williamsburg, Ohio. They have two sons, Gabe and Levi, ages 11 and 5.
Todd believes bigger government and higher taxes are never the answer to social issues. Todd strives to empower individual and business success through a commitment to hard work and financial responsibility. His leadership is built on experience and accountability and he will draw from that experience to help restore the dignity and standing of hard working Ohioans. Todd lives by Proverbs 9:10, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding." Todd will bring wisdom, leadership, and understanding to Ohio government and will work to restore confidence in Ohio's future.
OK, first, to Mr. Kasich, CRAP OR GET OFF THE POT ALREADY! If you check out Kyle Sisk's blog, he has elucidated a fear many of us have regarding Mr. Kasich and his continued delaying of the official kick off of the campaign. Is he really serious? Is he pulling a Fred Thompson? Why aren't there officers and treasurer designates of the campaign?

Regarding Mr. Coughlin, I think he should consider a run against Jon Husted for Secretary of State (we will get to Residency Question Jon later) as Husted will be a disaster of a candidate, though he would be less of a disaster than current SecState Jennifer "Queen of Moving the GoalPosts" Brunner, and certainly better than anyone the party of "plumbing joe the plumber's info, datagate, pimpof ohio faith based gate, and culture of carousing (note Marc Dann, et.al.)" can come up with. Coughlin is a a rising star in the party, and should be placed above a hack and non-principled jock boob like Husted. I think if Kasich gets in, Coughlin will be running a losing race, but it will get his face out there.

Regarding Todd, he sounds like a great guy. He has some great credentials and ideas. However, he doesn't have a snowball's chance in Havana of winning. This is the very essence of a protest campaign, and while it is noble to think Todd wants to serve, I would urge him to use his resources on a more local level first, build a base and political capital, and then ascend. But, he should be a great sounding board for those on the Christian Right who may have questions for Mr. Coughlin and Mr. Kasich and may pin them down on issues that the Christian Right cares about.

Auditor of State
Mary Taylor will run for re-election. It is very important that we support her and retain this Apportionment Board seat. Mary is a great lady and has been doing a fabulous job for Ohio.

State Treasurer
Josh Mandel has announced his candidacy. We met at the Clermont County Lincoln Day Dinner. Josh is a very impressive young man.
My friend the operative has good instincts here. Mary Taylor needs to be Auditor again. Maybe in 2014, she can run for governor or Senator, but for now, we need here right where she is, where she is putting out a record as one of the best Auditors we have had, and where she is the Republican voice in the Executive branch in Ohio.
Regarding Mr. Mandel, he is impressive. He is an Iraq War vet, as well as a distinguished member of the General Assembly. And, I think Jill Miller Zimon, humorless humdrum of another blog may actually support Josh since he is her current representative, and it would get him out of her district, since she seems to have a personal and primal animus toward him. Maybe it is compensation for a secret crush? I don't know. However, Mr. Mandel would be a fantastic treasurer and would bring honor and integrity back to the office formerly held by DICK Cordray.


Secretary of State
Jon Husted contacted me to let me know that he is campaigning for the office. Jon is a State Senator and former Speaker of the Ohio House. He also has an impressive history of being able to raise money.
Sandy O'Brien is also campaigning for the job. Sandy defeated Jennette Bradleyin a primary for State Treasurer in 2006. Unfortunately, she lost to Richard Cordray in the general election. Sandy is a great lady and has a contagious smile. Once you meet her, you'll be impressed.
OK, here is where we need someone like Kevin Coughlin to realize he is needed to bolster the ticket, instead of primarying against Kasich. Jon Husted is a boob of a human being, a dumb jock manipulator who took us from being a majority party in both houses of the General Assembly and manhugged his way with the governor to us being the minority party in the State House. Jon is a contemptible self serving individual, who doesn't even really reside in his own district, and who left other candidates out to dry by hoarding campaign money for himself. He was given the keys to the Ferrari far to young and wrecked the precision machine into minority status. He does not need to make the office of treasurer another of his political wastelands.

Sandy O'Brien is a sweet lady, and I don't know how she has been preparing herself since her disastrous campaign against Cordray a few years back. If she hasn't gotten more political capital and political insight, we are not looking good with her running for the position either. This race is one that really troubles me.

Attorney General
One of Dave Yost'soperatives contacted me. Mr. Yost is interested in seeking the office of Attorney General. Mr. Yost was my favorite to run last time. He dropped out and chose to support Mike Crites.
Mike Crites may be interested in running for this office again. I've met Mike and heard him speak. He is very impressive and has had a distinguished career.
I've also heard that former Senator Mike DeWine is interested in running. Mr. DeWine was John McCain's Ohio campaign chairman and performed admirably in that role.
OK, regarding Dave Yost. I don't know him very well, I can't say anything good or bad about him. However, if my operative thinks he is good, then that is a plus. Mike Crites ran a helluva campaign for someone many thought was just a placeholder candidate initially. He did quite well in SW Ohio, and did better than expected statewide. I think he should be given all due consideration for the post. Lastly, to Mr. Mike DeWine, STAY HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We do not want nor need the RINOs of the past to save us. If we are going to reach out to new voters with fresh faces, the last thing we need is Mike DeWine. And I disagree with my friend the operative regarding DeWine's handling of the McCain campaign, unless you are saying he was less of a trainwreck than other states. Mike, keep the flannel shirt in storage and stay home!

Matt's Chat

I am glad Mark posted this as I always have a hard time trying to decide just what I want to pull from this particular source...

Let me add one thing...I like Mike Crites for AG again, but if he isn't willing or able to run a bigger campaign, I'm willing to give Dave Yost another vote of confidence. Read his blog to learn more about this terrific candidate.

Resolution Opposing Freedom of Choice Act Introduced in Ohio Senate

Release:

(Columbus, OH) Pro-Life State Senators Tim Grendell and Steve Buehrer introduced a resolution in the Ohio Senate today opposing the federal "Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA).

The resolution (S.R.C. 6), which urges the President and Congress to oppose FOCA, states that:

"The Freedom of Choice Act is a radical attempt to enshrine abortion-on-demand into American law, to sweep aside existing laws that the majority of Americans support, such as requirements involving fully informed consent, parental involvement, and that licensed physicians perform abortions, and seeks to prevent states from enacting similar protective laws in the future."

"Ohio Right to Life strongly supports the resolution opposing the so-called "Freedom of Choice Act," said Mike Gonidakis, President of Ohio Right to Life. "FOCA would wipe out common-sense Ohio laws that require informed consent and parental consent before a minor's abortion, and would force taxpayers to pay for abortion on demand. FOCA is the most extreme pro-abortion legislation ever proposed," Gonidakis said.

In addition, S.C.R. 6 was co-sponsored by Pro-Life Senators Kevin Coughlin, Bob Gibbs, Tim Schaffer, Bill Seitz, Mark Wagoner, Kirk Schuring, and Keith Faber.

VIDEO: Coughlin Announces Run for Governor

Coughlin on State of the State

Release:

COLUMBUS-State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-Cuyahoga Falls) issued the following statement today in response to Governor Ted Strickland's State of the State address:

"Two years and three State of the State addresses into Governor Ted Strickland's term and Ohio shows no signs of turning around. The state is adrift and nothing in today's speech gave Ohioans reason to believe that will change anytime soon.

"The governor's address was long on promises and devoid of details, particularly on how his promises will be paid for and who will pay.

"Most troubling, the governor's speech almost ignored the single most pressing issue facing Ohio's families and businesses - the downward spiraling of our economy. Ted Strickland must come to grips with this reality: It is simply too expensive for employers to create and keep jobs in Ohio."


Sen. Coughlin's comments on specific proposals:

Budget Balancing - "The governor proposes to balance the state budget by paying for ongoing expenses with a mammoth amount of one time money including a handout from the federal government. While some one-time money may be necessary, his proposal will create a huge structural imbalance in the state government and set the table for massive tax increases should he be reelected to a second term."

Medicaid Expansion - "Despite tight revenues, the governor continues his quest to get the middle class hooked on government-controlled health care. I look forward to the debate in the coming months and believe that once government gets control of your health care, it controls your life.

"The governor's Medicaid buy-in program for children has been a complete failure, with only two children enrolled. Yet, he proposes to cut state coverage to critically ill children under the Bureau for Children with Medical Handicaps. This is a misplaced priority."

Higher Education - "If the governor wants students to aspire to attend college, he should propose something for them to work toward and make it meaningful. In the coming days, I will introduce a scholarship plan that, if enacted, will be Ohio's most sweeping financial assistance program in history."

K-12 Education - "This portion of the speech was a severe let down from every angle. The curriculum and teacher improvement proposals represent nothing new. No indication was given as to how all day kindergarten would be paid for. And the sole offering on school funding was a proposal that will have absolutely no benefit to property taxpayers. In fact, under the Strickland proposal, homeowners will pay more as their property taxes are raised without a vote of the people. In addition, the proposal will widen the disparity between the rich and poor school districts, something we have worked hard to erase.

"Ohio's families are already paying too much for everything. The last thing they need is Ted Strickland and school districts rummaging through their pockets for more money."

Coughlin Update

There must be something in the water up there in Summit County...

First we had Mary Taylor hints that she wanted some love, now we have Kevin Coughlin getting in on the act.

Apparently he wants the party to come to him and talk him down from a primary for Governor and gave him a consolation prize: the nomination for Treasurer.

The problem with that is State Rep. Shannon Jones who has also expressed interest in the position.

Exit Question: Doesn't ANYBODY want to be John Kasich's running mate?

UPDATE: Don't get me wrong, folks, I like Coughlin and I think his taking on of Arshinkoff is/was God's work. It is just that with an unknown new Dem treasurer, the first CPA Republican Auditor, Brunner's hack partisanship at the SoS office, a policy wonk like Portman running for Senate, and Kasich running for gov we should have a great statewide ticket, the only thing that's going to hold us back is this sort of thing.

A Kevin Coughlin Update

This just in...

• The Ohio Senate recently passed Kevin's SB 278 requiring colorectal cancer screenings to be covered by private and public health plans. Early detection of colorectal cancer results in a 90% survival rate with average treatments costs of $10,000. Late detection results in an 8% survival rate with treatment costs exceeding $100,000. SB 278 saves taxpayers, businesses, and individuals money and will save lives. For his work on this issue, Kevin has been named the American Cancer Society's Cancer Advocate of the Year. Attached below is a photo of Kevin signing the Fight Back Express tour bus.
You can watch Kevin's Senate floor speech and the vote on this bill here:http://www.ohiochannel.org/multimedia/organizations/media.cfm?file_id=113390&start_time=3869&organization_id=30



• The legislature has also passed Kevin's Grieving Parents Act (SB 175), allowing parents who experience a miscarriage to take possession and bury fetal remains. Currently, the remains are often incinerated as medical waste without knowledge of the parents. The bill is before the governor for his signature. You can watch Kevin's Senate floor speech and the vote on this bill here:http://www.ohiochannel.org/multimedia/organizations/media.cfm?file_id=111371&start_time=00:24:49&organization_id=30

• The House is gearing up to vote on Kevin's Special Education Scholarship bill (SB 57). The bill establishes a pilot program to allow kids with special needs to attend the school that best suits their individual needs. You can watch Kevin's Senate floor speech and the vote on this bill here: http://www.ohiochannel.org/multimedia/organizations/media.cfm?file_id=113130&start_time=752&organization_id=30

• Finally, the National Alliance for Mental Illness Ohio named Kevin their 2008 Legislator of the Year for his work to reverse a Strickland administration policy of switching mental health Medicaid patients to generic drugs. http://www.namiohio.org/

Coughlin Letter to Summit County GOP Central Committee

This just in...

Dear Fellow Central Committee Member,

Recently, Carol Klinger sent you a copy of her proposed Articles of Regulation for the Summit County Republican Party for your consideration. This week, Alex Arshinkoff followed suit and issued his own version of party rules. Make no mistake - the rules proposed by Carol Klinger:

• Keep the basic powers of the party in the hands of the duly-elected Central Committee;

• Allow for greater participation in the party;

• Guarantee a secret ballot in all votes all party officers;

• Guarantee a vote on the party chairmanship by the duly elected Central Committee;

• Provide fiscal and ethical accountability.

The rules proposed by Alex Arshinkoff violate the spirit of all we are trying to improve in the party. His proposed Code of Regulations:

• Denies the Central Committee its right to elect the party chair/Executive Committee chair. Arshinkoff declined to run for reelection to the Central Committee, denying voters in his precinct a referendum on his leadership. Now he is trying to avoid a straight up or down vote on his leadership by the governing committee of the party. (Page 12, 5.7(a)(i)

• Allows for Arshinkoff to weasel his way out ofsecret ballotillg in elections for party officers. (Page 19, Section 8.7(b» What does it meall to you that Alex Arshinkoff fears a secret ballot? The media and even his own supporters publicly admit that Arshinkoff cannot win if the votes are conducted by secret ballot.

• Hands over the power to Arshinkoff's hand-picked Executive Committee to fill vacancies on Central Committee and in candidate races and public offices, and to endorse in all races. These are basic powers that should be reserved to the duly-elected Central Committee. Otherwise, we're just here to hand over all the power and go home for the next two years;

• Seeks to exclude individuals from serving in party leadership, limiting the talent pool from which we can select. Arshinkoff's rules would bar any public official, anyone working at one specific law firm, and anyone with a job, from being Central or Executive Committee chair. On that last note, I would call your attention to the fact that Stark County Republicans have just named the deputy director of their Board of Elections as party chairman. He will work 9-5 at the Board and fulfill his party obligations around his work schedule. Stark County, incidentally, is a far more successful county party by every measure.

• Locks the party into the current headquarters location for no apparent reason.

These proposed rules should be viewed for what they are - an attempt to solidify Alex Arshinkoff's grip on the party organization and continue business as usual.

As we come together Wednesday evening, let us remember that as members of the Central Committee, we are the governing body ofthe Summit County Republican Party. This important power is granted by Ohio law. The committee has the freedom to organize the party in any way it deems appropriate.

I would urge you to speak up and:

• Demand a secret ballot and a fairly-run meeting;

• Resist Alex's demand that we vote our power to govern the party away to his hand-picked clique.

• Vote for reform-minded candidates to party leadership;

• Adopt Articles ofRegulation that truly change our party for the better, allow more people to direct the party, and create real accountability.

Kindest regards,
Kevin Coughlin
State Senator

Summit County GOP Update: Ohio GOP May Need to Get Involved

The latest news out of Summit County is that the Republican Party reorganization meeting may be chaired by someone from the Ohio Republican Party in order to insure "a fair process." The Akron Beacon Journal's story sums up the entire thing in the first four paragraphs:

The Ohio Republican Party should preside over the Summit County Republican Party's upcoming reorganization meeting to make sure the meeting is run properly, state Sen. Kevin Coughlin said Tuesday.

"We want to have an impartial third party preside over the meeting and ensure that it is a fair process," Coughlin said during a teleconference call with the media.

But Alex Arshinkoff — the county party chair whom Coughlin is trying to overthrow — said having the state party involved would be illegal. He said the party will follow state law in how the central committee meeting will be conducted.

"The state party has nothing to do with organizing the Summit County Republican Party," Arshinkoff said in a phone interview Tuesday. "We're going to organize the Summit County Republican Party pursuant to the Ohio Revised Code, and that's the way it's going to be."

As usual, Alex is taking the hardline approach. You know, Governor Tarkin, the more you tighten your grip; the more systems will slip through your fingers...or something.

To be perfectly honest, I don't think the Ohio Revised Code has much to say about who presides over a re-organizational meeting of a county party. I could be wrong about that, but I don't remember seeing anything about that. Let me check again...

Okay, here is, I think, the relevent law:

The members-elect of each major political party state central committee shall, except as otherwise provided in this section, meet following the declaration of the results by the boards of elections of the election of members of the state central committees, at a suitable place and time to be designated by the retiring chairman of the committee in accordance with party rules. In the case of a county central committee, the meeting shall be held not earlier than six nor later than fifteen days following the declaration of the results by the board of elections of the election of members of county central committees in that county. Notice of any meeting held pursuant to this section, giving the place and time, shall be sent to each member-elect by the retiring secretary of the committee by mail and a copy of the notice shall be posted in the office of the secretary of state or board of elections, as the case may be, at least five days prior to any such meeting. The meeting shall be called to order by the retiring chairman or secretary or if there is no such officer, or if such officer is absent, then by a member of such committee designated by the secretary of state in the case of the state committees, and by a member of the board of elections of the same political party, designated by the board, in the case of county committees. A temporary chairman and secretary shall be chosen and the committee shall proceed to organize by the election of a chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer, secretary, and such other officers as the rules provide.

Emphasis added.

The way I read this, Alex is in the right on this one... %@#& it... I do think it would be prudent for ORP representation to be there in order to ensure that shenanigans don't take place...unless the media can handle that job.....

Primary2008: Big Party Money Can't Buy Majority of Races for Arshinkoff

This came in last night after I shut down "live coverage" of the primary:

The New Summit Republican scored a strong victory tonight in the ongoing effort to oust Alex Arshinkoff and elect a new chairman of the Summit County Republican Party.

In the contested precincts for Republican County Central Committee, 83 anti-Arshinkoff candidates won, while Arshinkoff-backed candidates won in 64 precincts. Candidates in 4 precincts tied.

"Last year, Alex Arshinkoff said our effort would fizzle by December," said former Fairlawn mayor Pete Kostoff. "Well, we're still here, we're on the verge of ousting him, and making a clean break from the past."

"Alex Arshinkoff has spent more of the party's money in the last week to save his job than he has spent on any local or countywide candidate in recent years," State Senator Kevin Coughlin said. "Still, we've won in more precincts than him. This should send a strong message to all Republican leaders that Alex Arshinkoff has lost control of the party."

In some of the higher profile races, several New Summit Republican candidates defeated Arshinkoff insiders:

Senator Coughlin defeated Cuyahoga Falls mayor Don Robart in their home precinct for a seat on the central committee.

Kostoff defeated Summit County Republican Party vice chair and Board of Elections Director Bryan Williams.

New Summit County Board of Elections member and longtime Republican activist Donald Varian defeated Summit County Republican Finance Committee member Ray Weber.

Akron Attorney Marshal Pitchford defeated Summit County Republican Finance Committee member William Criss.

Hudson Republican activist Arlene Wagner defeated pro-Arshinkoff city councilman Tom Ellicson.

Stow attorney Lee Wagoner defeated Arshinkoff's political director Michael Chadsey.

Silver Lake's Jon Turney defeated Summit County Republican Finance Committee member Edward Bittle.

In the two races for Republican State Central Committee, the two sides split. Anti-Arshinkoff candidate Anne Coughlin was elected to one seat, while pro-Arshinkoff candidate Bryan Williams won the other.

Results in several precincts remain unclear after tonight's results. Over 5,000 provisional ballots were cast in Summit County. In the tied races and those decided by a few votes or less, provisional and overseas ballots could change the outcomes.

"What is certain is that we have elected a significant bloc of Anti-Arshinkoff members to the party's central committee," Coughlin said. "As we begin the fourth quarter, we have the ball and good field position. I am grateful to everyone who ran for central committee. Ending the corruption and mismanagement in our local party is worth the fight. I now call on all Summit County Republicans to come together and strengthen our party behind a new chairman. Together, we can get our party winning again."

Coughlin Statement on Arshinkoff Removal from BOE

This just in...

"Today is, at once, a sad day and a great day for Summit County Republicans. It is unfortunate that a leader of our party conducted himself in such a way as to invite removal from his position of public trust.

It is a great day for every citizen that wants free and fair elections. As a member of the Summit County Board of Elections, Mr. Arshinkoff did not conduct himself as a responsible elections official. Rather, he abused his role and the election process in a desperate attempt to maintain his hold on the party leadership. The Secretary of State's decision raises the level of confidence in our electoral process.

It is also a great day for the many good and conscientious people who work at the Board of Elections. On measure of a leader is the level of respect and dignity with which he treats employees. At the close of business next Friday, Board staff will be freed of Arshinkoff's regime-style leadership.

As the Board transitions through the next several weeks, it is important for all Board employees to remember that their service to the people is more important than their service to party."

Coughlin on Nero for State Reprentative

This just in this morning's WMD Mailbag:

Dear Friends,

Richard Nero is running for State Representative in my old House seat (42nd District). I recently met Rich and found him to be a candidate who will bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the legislature. He's a business leader with a strong grasp of the challenges facing Ohio, particularly access to affordable health care and to a quality efficient education.

Rich's opponent in the March 4th primary is a part-time bouncer at a downtown Akron nightclub and is pursuing an online degree from Grand Canyon College.

The prospect of a turnover of control in the Ohio House is not quite what is was prior to the filing deadline. House Democrats missed several opportunities to field quality candidates and I am more optimistic than ever that the Republican majority will be held in the Ohio House. The Democrats did, however, recruit fairly well in the 42nd District. Although it's a Republican leaning district, the right candidate is needed to keep it in our majority.

Take a moment to view Richard Nero's video message and website. I think you'll find him to be a candidate worth touching base with and supporting in his effort.

Sincerely,

Kevin Coughlin
State Senator

Nero Campaign Website: http://www.electnero.com/default.htm

What Would Coughlin Do?

This document came in via email:

MEMORANDUM
FROM: Kevin Coughlin
TO: New Summit Republican Working Group
DATE: November 17, 2007

This is a draft document for your review and suggestions. Below are suggested changes to the Summit County Republican Party’s by-laws and or policy statements. Each are designed to create transparency, accountability, and clean operation of the party to ensure a strong two-party system.

Please review and contact me with your thoughts. After January 4th, we will
meet either at the office or by conference call to discuss further.

Tight Fiscal Accountability

• We will conduct a full independent audit of all party funds and make the
results public.

• All expenditures over $250 must be approved by majority of a Board of Control, consisting of three members selected by the Central Committee.

• Records of all party finances including bank statements, credit cards statements, receipts, accounting books etc. will be made available to any member of the Central Committee, Executive Committee, contributor, or officeholder upon request.

• All loans made to the party must be backed up by bank documentation proving the loan was made.

• The party will take no commercial loans.

• The party will not pay interest in loans made to it.

• The party shall not maintain a credit card. All party-related expenses incurred by employees of the party will be reimbursed subject to approval of the Board of Control

Clean Leadership

• The chairman of the Summit County Republican Party may not be a lobbyist.

• The chairman of the Summit County Republican Party may not use the position for personal financial gain and may not be owner, partner, or a shareholder in any entity that receives business from the Party or it's endorsed candidates.

• The party leadership, Republican officeholders, candidates, and developing candidates will be encouraged to become active in community organizations and to be a positive force in the community.

More Participation, More Inclusiveness

• We will change the party rules to allow the whole duly-elected Central Committee to elect the party chairman.
Currently, this is power is ceded to the Executive Committee, a small group
of people hand-selected by Alex Arshinkoff.

• All judicial candidates will be screened by a Judicial Screening Committee, selected by the Central Committee. The Judicial Screening will be comprised of attorneys and may grant approval to candidates. Only approved candidates may be endorsed by the Summit County Republican Party.

• The Summit County Republican Party will not endorse candidates in primary elections, unless an incumbent officeholder is challenged. In that case, a majority vote of the duly elected Central Committee is needed to endorse.

• We will encourage the creation of more Republican clubs and organizations throughout the county in order to strengthen the grassroots organization and develop candidates.

Better Service for Candidates and Officeholders

• We will spend more money on election campaigns and less on operational overhead. The current $600,000 allotted is outrageous.

• We will make available one-stop shop campaign services and consulting to all Republican candidates competing in general elections.

• We will provide legal counsel as it relates to Ohio Election Law, Ohio Campaign Finance Law, Ohio Ethics Law to all candidates and officeholders.

• Party activists will be treated with respect, dignity, and appreciation for all they have done to build the party.

• No candidate, officeholder, patronage employee, or party activist will be asked, coerced, or forced, to violate any laws of the State of Ohio or the United States.

This document is a work-in-progress. Please feel free to call me at (330) 940-3260 to discuss further or to add your suggestions.

Summit County GOP Update: Arshinkoff's Party Finances Under State Investigation

This just in...

As Summit County Republicans line up to vote for a new party chairman the current one, Alex Arshinkoff, is the target of a state investigation into the party's finances.

The Akron Beacon Journal reported today that Board of Elections officials declared the Summit County Republican Party's campaign finance reports to be "impossible to audit." The Board filed a compliant against Arshinkoff's party with the Ohio Elections Commission.

Among several omissions, there are questions regarding the payment of loan interest to current GOP chairman Alex Arshinkoff. The Ohio Elections Commission will investigate the matter and will either find no wrong doing, order the party to correct the omissions, fine the party, or refer the party for criminal prosecution.

The Summit County Party's secretary, Jack Morrison Jr. (himself once the target of an FBI investigation and currently under investigation by the Ohio Ethics Committee) is acting as Arshinkoff's spokeman now as the chairman is "emotional." He says this is all nothing. Once the party's books are opened up, we will see.

This mismanagement and possible theft is one of the primary reasons we need a new party chairman in Summit County. There is still time to try to become a member of the Central Committee. This committee can vote Arshinkoff out and elect a new chairman.

Let's rid our party of the corruption and incompetence that marks Alex Arshinkoff's chairmanship. Join our effort here.