COLUMBUS — As early voting begins ahead of Ohio’s May primary election, the Ohio Education Association (OEA) has announced its endorsement of State Representative Allison Russo in the race for Ohio Secretary of State.
The endorsement was described as unanimous and was made by OEA members serving on the organization’s State Council and Convention.
“Ohio’s public schools serve nearly 90 percent of students in our state in safe, welcoming learning environments where every child can get the supports they need to succeed—no exceptions,” said OEA President Jeff Wensing. “We must have state leaders who will stand up against the ongoing attacks on our public schools and educators, and who will stand up for the great public education our students deserve. Allison Russo is the leader we need.”
Russo, a state representative, is seeking the Democratic nomination for Secretary of State. According to the OEA, her priorities include restoring public trust and transparency in the office, ensuring ballot initiatives and referenda receive fair consideration, making ballot language clearer for voters, and expanding voter registration and civic engagement efforts through partnerships, including with schools.
The Secretary of State position is open in 2026, as current officeholder Frank LaRose is term-limited and cannot run again.
Russo is running in the Democratic primary against Bryan Hambley, a physician. On the Republican side, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and retired Air Force officer Marcell Strbich are seeking their party’s nomination.
The Ohio Education Association stated that its endorsements are based on candidates’ positions on public education and labor issues.
“Public education is not a partisan issue, and OEA members recommend candidates for public office based solely on their positions on public education and labor issues—nothing else,” Wensing said. “Our members are proud to stand with Allison Russo and other candidates who have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the strong public schools our students and communities need.”
Early voting for the May primary is now underway across Ohio.