32nd District finally has replacement for Bob Young. Here's what to know about Jack Daniels
It took longer than he'd hoped, but former New Franklin Councilman Jack Daniels is now an Ohio House member.
Daniels was sworn in April 24 after Republicans in the Ohio House chose him to replace former Ohio House Rep. Bob Young in the 32nd District.
The district includes Green, New Franklin, Clinton, Lakemore, Mogadore, Coventry, Springfield and the Ellet and Goodyear Heights neighborhoods of Akron.
Young resigned Oct. 2 while he was facing allegations of domestic violence and violating a restraining order. He was later found guilty of domestic violence and sentenced to two years of probation.
More: Former state Rep. Bob Young found guilty on domestic violence charge, not guilty in assault
Here's what to know now that Daniels has assumed his new position.
Daniels could have been sworn in sooner, but lawmakers chose to wait
After Young's resignation, Ohio House Republicans could have selected a replacement who would fill the district until the election Nov. 5.
The Summit County Republican Party picked Daniels as their preference and notified the Ohio House Speaker, a Republican.
But Ohio House Republicans decided to wait until the primary election in March to act.
"It was a full six months," Daniels said. "It's been a while."
More: Ohio House doesn't plan to fill former Rep. Bob Young's seat before March primary
Daniels faces another election in six months
Daniels squared off in the primary against Mary Stormer, another New Franklin resident. He defeated Stormer by more than 4,000 votes.
Before the election, both Daniels and Stormer said they were strong supporters of police and interested in improving vocational education options in schools.
Now, Daniels will run against unopposed Democrat Jim Colopy, who garnered over 4,500 primary votes, in the November election.
More: Jack Daniels takes Republican seat in 32nd District primary
Daniels did his prep work
Daniels said he's been going to Statehouse sessions for the last six months, observing and learning the process.
"I've already learned quite a bit," he said.
On Tuesday, he was appointed to the Ways and Means and Transportation committees and said he's hoping to explore what can be done with property taxes.
New Franklin is now looking for a council member
With Daniels moving to the Ohio House, New Franklin has an open spot on council.
Applications will be accepted for the at-large position through 4:30 May 10 at New Franklin City Hall.
Daniels said his goodbyes at Wednesday's City Council meeting, but his last official day was April 24.
Being selected is a 'pretty overwhelming' experience for Daniels
"I hope that when I am needed, I'll be called on to do hard work," Daniels said after being sworn in April 24.
Daniels said in his speech he's not looking for the spotlight.
In an interview with the Beacon Journal, Daniels said becoming a state lawmaker was a moving experience.
"It was pretty overwhelming," he said. "I think it's a responsibility my life experience has prepared me pretty well for."
Leave a message for Alan Ashworth at 330-996-3859 or email him at aashworth@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @newsalanbeaconj or Facebook at www.facebook.com/alan.newsman.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Jack Daniels replaces Bob Young as 32nd District rep for Ohio House
