Columbus – Senator Cafaro announced Tuesday at a Statehouse press conference that she has asked Senator Eric Kearney (D-Cincinnati) to assume the role of Minority Leader. Cafaro, who has served as the Democratic Senate leader since 2009, cited unanticipated political responsibilities for a legislative leader in a presidential election year. She voiced her added concern that such political activities could possibly take her focus away from her district, where hands-on advocacy is needed on emerging issues like oil and gas.
“I have always given 110% to the people I work for in the 32nd District, and that is not about to change now,” said Senator Cafaro. “However, I wanted to make sure that the Democratic caucus would be guided by someone with the experience, temperament and relationships to lead during a presidential election cycle.”
Senator Cafaro is the longest serving Senate Minority Leader since former Senator Ben Espy, who served in the 1990s. During her tenure, Senate Democrats passed more bills than any other Democratic caucus since 2000.
“I know that I have made the right choice for our caucus by asking Senator Kearney to serve as our leader,” said Senator Cafaro. “I have given him my full support to lead the Senate Democrats going forward.”
Senator Kearney says he’s humbled and honored to have the opportunity to lead the Senate Democratic Caucus.
“I extend my gratitude to Senator Capri Cafaro for her dedicated leadership to Senate Minority Caucus,” said Senator Kearney. “Going forward I hope to lead the Democratic Caucus with a business-like approach emphasizing teamwork, unity, accountability and discipline.”
Senator Kearney has represented the 9th Senate District since December of 2005, making him the senior member of the caucus. During his time in the General Assembly, Senator Kearney has championed the issues of small business development, child safety, healthy choices and crime prevention. He has served as the Ranking Minority of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the Financial Institutions Committee.
The Senate Democratic Caucus also announced that Senator Joe Schiavoni (D-Canfield) has been selected to serve as Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Nina Turner (D-Cleveland) as Minority Whip and Senator Edna Brown (D-Toledo) as Assistant Minority Whip.
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