State rep. Kathleen Clyde became the first Democratic candidate to officially join the race for Ohio Secretary of State in 2018.
Clyde, who represents Ohio's 75th district in Portage County, announced her campaign Tuesday morning at the King Arts Complex in Columbus. So far, only state rep. Dorothy Pelanda of Marysville has declared on the Republican side.
Secretary of State is a term-limited position, and current office-holder Jon Husted - whose term will expire - just announced his run for governor in 2018. Clyde has been a regular critic of Husted.
“Whether you work nine to five and support a family or are retired and need assistance getting to the polls, I will ensure registration is simple, you have every opportunity to vote, and your vote is counted," Clyde said in her announcement.
Ohioans deserve better from their leaders. That's why I'm running for Secretary of State. Join my team today —> https://t.co/NeQRFDDTB9
— Kathleen Clyde (@KathleenClyde) May 16, 2017
A statement from Clyde's campaign highlights the legislator's support of voting rights and her push for early voting extension automatic voting registration. Clyde oversaw setup and operation of the early voting center in Franklin County during the 2008 presidential election and previously served as deputy legal counsel to the House speaker, working on court access and voting rights.
