In a unanimous decision, the Ohio House GOP caucus has nominated outgoing Senate President and Rep.-elect Matt Huffman to preside over the chamber in the next legislative session. Huffman, who has served in both the House and Senate for eight years and four years as president, will now lead the House for a potential eight-year term. He expressed enthusiasm for the challenges ahead, including energy issues and opportunities with the new federal government.
Huffman’s nomination came after Rep. Tim Barhorst, who was planning to run against him, was not nominated by anyone in the caucus due to confusion over the process. House Speaker Jason Stephens announced he would not seek re-election, paving the way for Huffman’s candidacy.
The selection of Huffman marks a turning point for the GOP caucus, which faced internal divisions and infighting in the past. Huffman emphasized the need to move forward and focus on important issues such as school choice, higher education, and taxes. His priorities align with the sentiments of many lawmakers and conservative advocacy groups within the party.
After the nomination, Huffman received congratulations from his colleagues in the lobby of the Riffe Center. In the Senate, Sen. Rob McColley was elected to take over the president’s position in January 2025. Huffman’s confirmation vote will take place in January, but his nomination signals a new chapter for the Ohio House GOP caucus under his leadership.
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