Ohio’s 15th Congressional District special election will not bring change to politics

Eric Sese Staff Writer

The following story was written by a student on the staff of The Jaguar Times as part of Hilliard Bradley High School’s Journalism Production course.

Mike Carey (L) and Allison Russo (R) are running against each other to be the next representative for Ohio’s 15th Congressional District. Photo Credit: careyforcongress.com, legislature.ohio.gov. Artwork by Eric Sese.

Following the resignation of United States Representative Steve Stivers, residents of Ohio’s 15th Congressional District are set to vote for a new representative on Tuesday, November 2. Following the August 3 primaries, voters are pitting Republican nominee, Mike Carey, against Democratic nominee, Allison Russo. With Hilliard Bradley High School situated well inside of the 15th Congressional District, it is important for staff and students eligible to vote to be well informed of the upcoming election.

On May 16, 2021, Republican Steve Stivers resigned as the United States Representative for Ohio’s 15th Congressional District to become the CEO of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. His resignation created a vacancy which is required to be filled by law. This triggered a special election which Governor Mike Dewine set for November 2, 2021.

Throughout the months preceding August, numerous candidates joined the race in hopes of winning their political parties' nomination during the August 3rd primaries. Social studies teacher Miss Cline explains, “primary elections are an opportunity for multiple candidates of a party to run against one another to narrow down the parties' candidates to one for the general election.” The Republican Party saw a crowded field of twelve candidates. State Representative Jeff LaRe was endorsed by Steve Stivers, but energy executive Mike Carey moved to the forefront after being endorsed by former President Donald Trump in early June. The Democratic Party saw only two candidates, state representative Allison Russo and a virtually unknown candidate, Greg Betts.

The 15th Congressional District was elevated to national attention following Trump’s endorsement as people saw how influential the former president could be as a kingmaker. Mrs. Rich, a U.S. Government teacher, said, “It’s not uncommon to see leaders within the party give out endorsements which can have a big impact on the race. It’s actually a very sought after phenomenon. Any candidate that’s running in a primary is looking for big name politicians within their party to get endorsements from.” Luckily for Trump, Mike Carey walked away with the nomination. According to the Franklin County Board of Elections, he received 36% of the primary vote. Allison Russo earned her party's nomination with 84%. Both candidates are now eagerly campaigning throughout the 15th District in hopes of winning the general election which is less than a week away.

While Steve Stivers has generally been regarded as a moderate Republican, and Mike Carey a more staunch conservative, Donald Trump won the district by 14% in 2020. Scott Hosni (9) states, “I think Mike Carey is going to win because the district is heavily Republican. Allison Russo doesn’t seem likely to win because of this.” Although the odds are stacked against Allison Russo, the Democrat’s hold a five seat majority in the United States House of Representatives, and any and all congressional seats could tip the balance of power in the government.