The importance of state central committees
The brevity of the Aug. 2, 2022, Primary ballot seems unusual to many voters. We have been asked, “what is a state central committee?” and “why should I vote for a state central committee person?”
Typically, Ohio voters see lists of party central committee candidates on their May primary ballots. This year, the delay in determining Ohio House and Senate districts forced these candidates to await an August decision date.
Voters always can choose not to vote on some positions or issues on their ballot. We want to suggest that all voters should take some interest in those who are managing the affairs of the Republican and Democratic parties in Ohio.
It is the elected members of the state central committees that direct party policy development, fundraising and other campaign activities. While the Republican and Democratic state central committees operate under specific bylaws that vary in their detail, both central committees have duties prescribed in the Ohio Revised Code and must follow the rules of the Federal Elections Commission. The combined decisions of the state central committees from all states build the national agenda for each political party.
Many people who run for a state central committee position are, themselves, elected officials in local and state government, but not all candidates are in an office at this time. The two political parties always hope to attract new people to active roles, paid and unpaid. Serving on a state central committee often expands a person’s understanding of party politics.
We urge you to consider the 2022 candidates seriously and select the ones who will best reflect your personal viewpoints at both state and federal party conventions and other activities.
– Kathy Paulk Woolner and Nadia Zaiem, Co-chairs, Westlake/North Olmsted Chapter, League of Women Voters of Greater Cleveland
Kathy Paulk Woolner and Nadia Zaiem
Co-chairs, Westlake/North Olmsted Chapter, League of Women Voters of Greater Cleveland