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Mike DeWine
54.3%
#14 of 50

Mike DeWine

Ohio R | 2nd term
2019-01-14Took Office 7 yrs, 5 moIn Office 263Metrics Scored 897 / 1653Total Points

Section A: Governance

230/300
77%

Section B: State Outcomes

543/975
56%

Section C: Oath Fidelity

+124 (-378 to +378)

Section A — Governance 230/300

9 subsections evaluating executive performance: budget execution, legislative relations, appointments, emergency management, transparency, ethics, program management, federal relations, and constituent service.

On-time budget submission
All three biennial budgets submitted on time. HB 166 (FY2020-21) signed June 2019, HB 110 (FY2022-23) signed July 2021, HB 33 (FY2024-25) signed July 4, 2023. HB 33 totaled ~$86B in GRF with nearly $200B total appropriations. No government shutdowns in 7+ years.
OH OBM Budget Submission Records; OH Legislature Bill Tracking
3
Budget accuracy — revenue forecast vs actual
Revenue forecasts generally within 5%. FY2022 exceeded projections by ~$2B due to post-COVID recovery surge. FY2023 ended with $3.5B+ surplus on conservative estimates. FY2024 revenues roughly aligned. Income tax cuts ($3B+ over biennium in HB 33) reduced future revenue base, creating some forecast uncertainty.
OH OBM Monthly Financial Reports; OH LSC Revenue Analysis
2
Rainy day fund management
Budget Stabilization Fund grew from ~$2.7B (2019) to record $3.5B+ (2023) — largest in Ohio history. Constitutionally capped at 8.5% of GRF revenues, maintained near maximum. Fund survived COVID drawdowns and was replenished through structural surpluses. DeWine publicly announced record balance as achievement. Among strongest rainy day funds nationally relative to state budget size.
OH OBM Budget Stabilization Fund; Dayton Daily News Jul 2023
3
State credit rating trajectory
Ohio achieved AAA/Aaa/AAA — highest possible from all three agencies. S&P upgraded to AAA in Dec 2023 (first time ever). Moody's Aaa since 2021. Fitch affirmed AAA Aug 2023. Agencies cited sound budgetary management, growing reserves, low declining leverage, and JobsOhio economic diversification.
S&P Global Ratings Dec 2023; Moody's Aaa Ohio 2021; Fitch AAA Aug 2023
3
Pension funding ratio trajectory
OPERS funded ratio ~82% (2024), up from ~77% in 2019. STRS Ohio ~81.3% but mired in scandal: board paid $10M bonuses in 2022 despite 3% ($3B) loss; $9M bonuses in 2023. COLA suspended for retirees while staff got bonuses. $525M lost on Panda Power Funds. CEO Neville fired Dec 2024 after misconduct probe. DeWine removed/replaced board members amid QED investment controversy.
OPERS CAFR 2024; STRS Ohio Actuarial Valuation; OH Capital Journal Sep 2024
2
Debt per capita trajectory
GRF-backed debt per capita declined from ~$696 (FY2023) to ~$629 (FY2024) — well below national average. Total state debt ~$15.55B as of June 30, 2024. Long-term debt decreased $1.12B (6.7%) in FY2024. Issued $725.9M in GO bonds for capital projects. Debt trajectory strongly positive under DeWine's fiscal conservatism.
OH LSC State GRF Debt Aug 2024; OH OBM ACFR FY2024
2
CAFR/ACFR published on time
ACFR published within statutory deadlines each fiscal year under Auditor Keith Faber (elected 2018, reelected 2022). FY2024 ACFR issued on schedule. Faber's office has released 792 investigation reports since 2011, identifying $250M+ lost to the state. Clean audit opinions on GO bonds.
OH Auditor of State ACFR FY2024; OH IG 2024 Annual Report
3
Audit findings — material weaknesses
No adverse audit opinions on state financials under DeWine. Some minor findings in agency-level audits. Auditor Faber mandated fraud/waste training across state agencies per ORC. Inspector General identified $250M+ in losses cumulatively (mostly from prior administrations). STRS governance issues prompted AG Yost investigation but not executive branch audit failure.
OH Auditor of State Annual Reports 2019-2025; OH IG 2024 Annual Report
2
Federal grant fund accounting
Ohio received $5.4B in ARPA State Fiscal Recovery Funds; 87%+ obligated by July 2024 and ~$3.2B (60%) spent. Over $1.35B used to replenish Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund debt. Additional $5.3B distributed to local governments. CARES Act funds accounted for properly. No major suspended federal grants.
OH ARPA Tracker; USASpending.gov — Ohio; Policy Matters Ohio ARPA Report
2
Anti-fraud controls — federal programs
Ohio identified $3.8B in UI fraud and overpayments (Apr 2020-Jun 2021): $477M confirmed fraud, $3.4B in errors. 26% of all UI payments in FY2021 were overpayments vs 3.5% pre-pandemic. Implemented ID.me identity verification. Recovered $150M+ by mid-2021. Fraud rate lower than Michigan ($8.5B) but still substantial at $673 per worker.
OH Auditor of State Oct 2021; DOL OIG; OH ODJFS Fraud Data
2
Tax revenue vs expenditure alignment
Structural surpluses throughout tenure. FY2023 ended with $3.5B+ surplus. Budget Stabilization Fund at constitutional cap (~8.5% of GRF). HB 33 cut income taxes by $3B+ over biennium (top rate from 3.99% to 3.5%) while maintaining surplus. Moving to flat 2.75% tax rate by 2026 — second-lowest state income tax in nation.
OH OBM Monthly Financial Reports; OH LSC Budget Analysis; HB 33 Tax Provisions
3
Capital budget execution rate
Capital appropriations generally on schedule. Major projects include: $691M in Intel site infrastructure (roads, water, sewer) in Licking County; $3B allocated for Brent Spence Bridge Corridor project (with KY); $725.9M in GO bonds issued FY2024 for capital improvements. Ohio Veterans Homes $183M modernization (state $65M + federal $118M) underway in Georgetown/Sandusky.
OH OBM Capital Budget; OH Controlling Board; Brent Spence IIJA Records
2
Vendor/contractor oversight
Standard DAS procurement oversight. FirstEnergy/HB 6 scandal ($60M bribery scheme) primarily legislative — Speaker Householder sentenced to 20 years — but DeWine signed HB 6 into law (Jul 2019) and received FirstEnergy-linked contributions (~$2.5M to RGA). COVID emergency procurement streamlined but no major fraud. STRS board investment oversight questioned (QED controversy).
OH Auditor of State; DOJ U.S. v. Householder; OH DAS Procurement
2
Federal funding maximization
Landmark Intel recruitment: $2B state incentive package ($600M cash grant, $650M in 30-yr tax credits, $691M infrastructure). Secured $1.5B in federal CHIPS Act funds for Ohio One campus. $1.635B IIJA grant for Brent Spence Bridge. $793M BEAD broadband allocation. $5.4B ARPA maximized. $77.5M Capital Projects Fund for broadband (15,000 homes). Ohio among top federal funding recipients.
USASpending.gov — Ohio; CHIPS Act Awards; IIJA; BEAD Ohio
3
Program eligibility verification systems
Implemented ID.me for unemployment identity verification post-pandemic. Medicaid managed care enrollment verification standard — no CMS sanctions. SAVE system used for benefits eligibility verification per federal requirements. SNAP/TANF eligibility checks maintained. Created Department of Children and Youth (DCY) in HB 33 consolidating child programs from 6 agencies to improve service delivery.
OH ODJFS Program Integrity; CMS Reviews — Ohio; HB 33 DCY Provisions
3
Signature legislation enacted
Signature legislation: Intel $2B incentive package securing largest private investment in OH history ($20B chip plant). SB 215 permitless carry (Mar 2022, OH became 23rd state). SB 23 heartbeat bill (blocked by courts, then superseded by voter-approved Issue 1). HB 33 ($86B budget, Fair School Funding Plan continuation, income tax cuts). Created Dept of Children and Youth. H2Ohio water quality initiative.
OH Legislature Bill Tracking; Governor's Signing Records 2019-2025
2
Veto override rate
Two veto overrides — rare historically. SB 22 (Mar 2021): legislature overrode emergency powers veto 62-30 (House), 24-8 (Senate), limiting governor's emergency orders to 90 days. HB 68 (Jan 2024): House overrode 65-28, Senate 24-8 on trans youth care/sports ban. DeWine had vetoed Dec 2023 saying medical decisions belong to parents, then issued his own EO with similar provisions.
OH Legislature Journal; HB 68 Override Jan 2024; SB 22 Override Mar 2021
1
Bipartisan bills signed
Intel incentive package passed with bipartisan support. Fair School Funding Plan (HB 1/HB 33) had bipartisan origins (Reps. Cupp-R and Patterson-D). H2Ohio water quality program broadly supported. However, legislature is Republican supermajority (26-7 Senate, 67-32 House in 135th GA), limiting meaningful bipartisan dynamics. Most major bills passed on party-line votes.
OH Legislature Vote Records 2019-2025; 135th GA Composition
2
Special sessions called
Called special session for Intel incentives (Jan 2022) to fast-track $2B incentive package before Intel's site selection deadline — achieved purpose efficiently with bipartisan passage. No unnecessary special sessions called. COVID emergency orders handled through executive authority rather than special session. Legislature convened early in Jan 2024 for HB 68 override.
OH Governor's Office; OH Legislature Special Session Jan 2022
2
Executive orders — legal challenges
Multiple COVID EOs challenged. Wine v. DeWine challenged business closures. SB 22 (2021) limiting emergency orders to 90 days — DeWine vetoed calling it 'absolutely irresponsible,' overridden. LSC raised constitutional separation-of-powers questions about SB 22. HB 68 trans care EO issued after veto but before override. Stand Your Ground (SB 175) signed without legal challenge. Heartbeat bill (SB 23) enjoined by courts.
Wine v. DeWine; SB 22 Override Mar 2021; Court Records
2
Line-item veto usage
Active line-item veto use. HB 33 (FY2024-25): vetoed 44 items from $86B budget including flavored tobacco ban preemption, university vaccine mandate ban, school district surplus cap (would have bankrupted districts), and expanded sales tax holiday ($750M cost). HB 96 (FY2026-27): vetoed 67 line items. Vetoes show willingness to challenge own party's legislature on fiscal and policy grounds.
OH OBM; Governor's Veto Messages HB 33 Jul 2023; HB 96 Jul 2025
2
Regulatory burden change
Income tax reduced from 4.797% top rate (2019) toward flat 2.75% by 2026 — second-lowest state income tax in nation (behind AZ at 2.5%). Projected to save taxpayers $1B+ over two years. SB 215 permitless carry reduced gun regulation. But added healthcare regulations via HB 68 (trans care restrictions). H2Ohio added new agricultural nutrient management requirements. JCARR standard regulatory review maintained.
OH JCARR Annual Reports; HB 33 Tax Provisions; ITR Foundation Analysis
2
Budget negotiation success
All three biennial budgets signed before July 1 deadlines: HB 166 (Jun 2019), HB 110 (Jul 2021), HB 33 (Jul 4, 2023). Zero government shutdowns. DeWine negotiated $3B+ tax cuts in HB 33 while maintaining surplus and rainy day fund. Successfully merged governor's education priorities (Fair School Funding, school choice expansion) with legislature's tax-cut agenda.
OH OBM Budget Timeline; Legislature Calendar; HB 33 Analysis
3
Bill signing rate on popular legislation
Signed popular Intel incentives ($20B investment, bipartisan). Signed permitless carry SB 215 (popular with base). Signed Stand Your Ground SB 175. Proposed STRONG Ohio gun bill after Dayton mass shooting (9 killed, Aug 2019) — 17-point plan died in Senate, then signed SB 215 anyway. Vetoed HB 68 trans care ban (popular with base) — overridden. Issue 2 marijuana legalization: voters passed 57%, DeWine opposed but accepted.
OH Legislature Records; Governor's Signing Statements 2019-2025
2
Legislative relationship
Deeply strained relationship with own party's supermajority. Two veto overrides (SB 22 emergency powers, HB 68 trans care) — unprecedented for Republican governor with Republican legislature. Legislature stripped emergency powers via SB 22 override. MAGA wing views DeWine as too moderate. Proposed STRONG Ohio gun reform after Dayton shooting — own party killed it, then he signed permitless carry. He governs at cross-purposes with legislative leadership on multiple issues.
OH Legislature Override Records; SB 22; HB 68; Media Analysis
1
Implementation of voter-approved measures
Issue 1 (Nov 2023): Voters enshrined abortion rights in constitution 56.8%. DeWine OPPOSED and appeared in anti-Issue 1 ads. Supported Aug 2023 special election to raise amendment threshold to 60% — voters rejected that 57.1% (seen as transparent attempt to block abortion amendment). Issue 2 (Nov 2023): Marijuana legalization passed 57% — DeWine opposed but accepted result, urged legislative modifications before Dec 7 implementation.
OH SOS — Issue 1 Nov 2023; Issue 1 Aug 2023; Issue 2 Nov 2023
1
Task force follow-through
RecoveryOhio task force: opioid treatment providers grew from 35 (2019) to 125 (2023) — 250% increase. Naloxone distribution expanded 520% (2019-2023). Project DAWN diverted 20,000+ potential overdose deaths. Overdose deaths declined 9% in 2023 (4,452, down from 4,915 in 2022). DeWine allocated $100M federal grants (Nov 2024) for ongoing opioid response. East Palestine health monitoring task force established with $25M Norfolk Southern-funded community health program.
RecoveryOhio Reports; OH Dept of Health 2023 Overdose Report
2
Policy reversals under pressure
Multiple policy reversals. HB 68: vetoed Dec 2023 citing parental rights, then issued EO with similar trans care restrictions — overridden anyway Jan 2024. COVID: praised nationally for early aggressive response (first governor to close schools Mar 12, 2020), then pivoted to rapid reopening under pressure — lifted all health orders Jun 2, 2021. STRONG Ohio gun reform: proposed 17-point plan after Dayton shooting, then signed SB 215 permitless carry when reform died.
HB 68 Veto/Override Timeline; COVID EO Timeline; STRONG Ohio
1
Appointee criminal/ethics issues
No criminal charges against DeWine appointees. However, STRS board appointments controversial: DeWine removed board member Wade Steen (2023) for missed meetings — Steen won lawsuit for reinstatement. Replaced Steen with G. Brent Bishop (Scioto Capital Partners). Appointed Jon Allison (former Taft aide). STRS governance crisis (bonus scandal, QED investment controversy) reflects on board oversight quality.
OH Ethics Commission; Court Records; STRS Board Litigation 2023-2024
3
Agency head vacancy rate
Key vacancy: Dr. Amy Acton resigned as Health Director Jun 11, 2020 under political pressure from legislature (Householder threatened legislation). Replaced by Lance Himes (interim), then Bruce Vanderhoff. Kara Wente appointed first director of new Dept of Children and Youth (Aug 2023). Debbie Ashenhurst leads DVS. Agency head positions generally filled without extended vacancies.
Governor's Office Appointment Records; OH Dept of Health Leadership
2
State employee turnover
State employee turnover moderate overall. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) turnover 50-55% (2021) — above national average; HB 33 invested $579M in provider pay rates to stabilize workforce. Health agency turnover elevated during pandemic. HB 96 (FY2026-27) approved 4.5% pay increase (Jul 2025) and additional 3% (Jul 2026) for exempt state employees to improve retention.
OH DAS HR Reports; HB 33 DSP Provisions; HB 96 Pay Increases
2
Diversity of appointments
Moderate diversity. Notable appointments include Dr. Amy Acton (first female Health Director to gain national prominence), Kara Wente (first DCY Director), Debbie Ashenhurst (DVS Director). Lt. Gov. Jon Husted serves as InnovateOhio director. Cabinet reflects Ohio demographics reasonably but not exceptionally diverse for a Republican administration. STRS board appointments drew scrutiny for political considerations.
Governor's Office Appointment Records; Cabinet Directory
2
Judicial appointment quality
Judicial appointments generally rated qualified by bar associations. DeWine has extensive legal background (former AG 2011-2019, former US Senator, former county prosecutor) informing judicial selections. Ohio Supreme Court appointments not directly gubernatorial (elected), but appellate and common pleas vacancies filled with qualified candidates. No judicial ethics controversies traced to his appointments.
OH State Bar Association Judicial Evaluations; Governor's Appointment Records
2
State workforce pay competitiveness
State employee pay competitive for Ohio's low cost of living (RPP ~91-93). HB 33 invested $579M in DSP/provider pay rates. HB 96 approved 4.5% raise (Jul 2025) plus 3% (Jul 2026) for exempt employees. Ohio Checkbook (checkbook.ohio.gov) provides full salary transparency. Average state salaries align with BLS OES data for Ohio metro/non-metro areas. DSP wages specifically targeted to reduce 50%+ turnover.
OH DAS Compensation; HB 96 Pay Provisions; BLS OES Ohio
2
Whistleblower protection
No documented systemic whistleblower retaliation from executive branch. Dr. Amy Acton resigned June 11, 2020 as Health Director under intense political pressure — armed protesters at her home, Speaker Householder introduced bills targeting her authority. DeWine publicly defended Acton, said he was responsible for COVID shutdowns. STRS anonymous whistleblower letter prompted DeWine to call for AG investigation of pension fund. IG office operates independently.
OH Inspector General Reports; OH Ethics Commission; Acton Resignation Coverage
3
Inspector General independence
Inspector General Randall Meyer (appointed 2011, continuing under DeWine) operates independently. Since 2011: 792 investigation reports, 1,614 recommendations to agencies, identified $250M+ in losses to state. 2024 Annual Report published on schedule. Investigations include ODOT contractor quality issues, DODD employee misconduct. No evidence of governor interfering with IG independence.
OH Inspector General 2024 Annual Report; watchdog.ohio.gov
2
State employee morale
No systemic morale crisis. Pandemic strained health agency staff — Dr. Acton's departure reflected political toxicity. DSP sector had 50-55% turnover (2021) requiring $579M budget investment. State employee pay raises in HB 96 (4.5% + 3%) aimed at retention. Ohio Checkbook salary transparency helps accountability. No major labor disputes or strikes during tenure.
OH DAS Employee Survey; HB 96 Analysis; OH DSP Workforce Reports
2
Nepotism/cronyism
No documented nepotism despite DeWine family's deep roots in Ohio politics (DeWine served as county prosecutor, state senator, US congressman, US senator, Lt. Governor, AG before governor). Family owns farmland in Greene County. Son Pat DeWine serves on Ohio Supreme Court (elected independently, not appointed by father). No state employment violations for family members documented by Ethics Commission.
OH Ethics Commission Records; Financial Disclosure Filings
3
Senior staff criminal charges
No senior executive branch staff charged with crimes. Speaker Householder (legislative, not executive) convicted of racketeering in HB 6 scandal — sentenced to 20 years. STRS CEO Neville departed Dec 2024 after misconduct allegations (paid leave for ~1 year) but not a direct DeWine staffer. Governor's immediate office staff clean of criminal issues throughout 7+ year tenure.
Court Records; DOJ U.S. v. Householder; STRS Board Records
3
Agency performance accountability
Mixed. East Palestine: DeWine criticized for not visiting derailment site for several days, but then pushed aggressively for federal response — $310M+ federal settlement secured, $22M village settlement, 177,000 tons contaminated soil removed, 69M gallons wastewater treated. OH EPA monitoring ongoing. Norfolk Southern spending $1B+ total. H2Ohio program shows strong agency performance — 3,200 farmers, 2.5M acres enrolled, 420,000 lbs phosphorus reduction.
OH EPA Reports; DOJ Norfolk Southern Settlement May 2024; H2Ohio Data
3
Disaster declaration timeliness
Nationally first governor to close schools (Mar 12, 2020) — ordered K-12 shutdown when only 3 confirmed COVID cases in Ohio. Declared state of emergency Mar 9, 2020 on Dr. Acton's advice. Closed bars/restaurants Mar 15. East Palestine emergency declared promptly Feb 3, 2023 (same day as derailment). Tornado and flood declarations issued timely. 2020 civil unrest: curfews declared appropriately in Columbus, Cleveland.
OH Governor's Emergency Declarations; COVID EO Timeline Mar 2020
3
FEMA Public Assistance secured
East Palestine: DOJ/EPA secured $310M+ settlement from Norfolk Southern (May 2024) including $235M cleanup, $15M civil penalty, $25M community health program, $15M water monitoring. Village received separate $22M settlement. FEMA provided COVID-related public assistance. DeWine publicly pressured Norfolk Southern and federal agencies for faster response. Total Norfolk Southern commitment exceeded $1B.
DOJ Norfolk Southern Settlement May 2024; FEMA PA Records — Ohio
2
Emergency reserve adequacy
Budget Stabilization Fund reached record $3.5B+ (2023) — largest in Ohio history. Constitutional cap at 8.5% of GRF revenues. Fund grew from ~$2.7B when DeWine took office (2019) to record levels despite COVID spending. Combined with structural operating surpluses, Ohio had among strongest emergency fiscal positions nationally. AAA/Aaa/AAA credit ratings confirm reserve adequacy.
OH OBM Budget Stabilization Fund; Dayton Daily News Jul 2023
3
Lives lost — preventable from state failure
EAST PALESTINE (Feb 3, 2023): Norfolk Southern train with 20 hazmat cars (vinyl chloride, butyl acrylate) derailed. Controlled burn created massive toxic plume. ~2,000 of 4,900 residents evacuated. No immediate deaths but long-term health concerns persist. 177,000+ tons contaminated soil removed, 69M gallons wastewater treated. State environmental monitoring initially delayed — DeWine criticized for not visiting for several days. Rail safety primarily federal (NTSB/FRA) but Ohio has 7,000+ miles of freight rail with limited state inspection.
NTSB East Palestine Report; OH EPA Monitoring; CDC/ATSDR Assessment
1
Post-disaster recovery
East Palestine recovery ongoing but substantial. Federal settlement: $310M+ (May 2024) — $235M cleanup, $25M health program (20 years), $15M water monitoring (10 years), $15M civil penalty. Village settlement: $22M (Jan 2025). Norfolk Southern total commitment: $1B+. 177,000 tons contaminated soil and 69M gallons wastewater removed. Long-term health monitoring established. Community concerns about cancer risk and property values persist.
DOJ Settlement May 2024; Village Settlement Jan 2025; OH EPA Monitoring
2
Public health emergency response
Nationally praised early COVID response. First governor to close schools (Mar 12, 2020) when only 3 cases confirmed. Dr. Amy Acton's daily briefings became nationally recognized. Declared emergency Mar 9, closed bars/restaurants Mar 15. Roll Call called response 'prescient.' Vax-a-Million lottery (May 2021) boosted vaccinations 55% in 20-49 age group using $5.6M CARES Act funds. However, Acton resigned Jun 2020 under political pressure; reopening accelerated under legislative/base pressure.
OH Dept of Health; CDC; Roll Call Mar 2020; Vax-a-Million Wikipedia
3
Infrastructure failure prevention
East Palestine exposed critical rail infrastructure gap. Ohio has 7,000+ miles of freight rail but limited state hazmat inspection resources — rail safety primarily federal (NTSB/FRA). Norfolk Southern train was 149 cars, 1.7 miles long with multiple hazmat cars. State had no advance warning system for toxic cargo transit. Post-derailment, DeWine pushed for federal rail safety reforms. ASCE 2025 Report Card: Ohio roads D+, bridges C+ (6% poor, 200 closed). $3.6B Brent Spence Bridge project addresses I-71/75 bottleneck.
NTSB East Palestine Report; FRA Data; ASCE 2025 OH Report Card
1
National Guard deployment appropriateness
National Guard deployed appropriately: COVID-19 testing/vaccination sites and food bank operations (2020-2021); civil unrest response in Columbus after George Floyd protests (May 2020); East Palestine environmental monitoring support (Feb 2023); tornado and flood disaster response. No controversies over Guard deployment. Guard also supported election security operations. Deployments proportionate to need without overuse.
OH Adjutant General Records; Guard COVID/Disaster Deployments
3
Emergency communication
COVID communication initially exemplary — daily briefings with Dr. Acton became national model, praised across party lines. East Palestine communication failed initially: DeWine did not visit derailment site for several days while national media converged. Pete Buttigieg (DOT) also slow to visit. Once engaged, DeWine pressed Norfolk Southern and federal agencies publicly. Vax-a-Million announcement (May 2021) was creative communication — received national media coverage.
Governor's Press Records; East Palestine Timeline; COVID Briefing Coverage
2
Interagency coordination
COVID interagency coordination effective early — Health, EMA, National Guard, ODJFS coordinated testing, PPE distribution, unemployment surge. East Palestine required complex multi-agency coordination: federal EPA led cleanup, NTSB investigated, OH EPA monitored, FEMA provided support, National Guard assisted. Federal-state friction initially but DOJ settlement ($310M+) demonstrated eventual coordination success. RecoveryOhio (opioid) coordinates across OMHAS, ODH, Public Safety effectively.
OH EMA After-Action Reports; EPA East Palestine Coordination
2
Pandemic response metrics
Ohio COVID outcomes near national average despite early aggressive response. Marion Correctional Institution outbreak (Apr 2020): 80%+ of 2,500 inmates infected — facility built for 1,500 — became nation's largest institutional outbreak. Prison accounted for 14% of state's entire caseload. 76+ prison COVID deaths by Jun 2020. DeWine pivoted to reopening under SB 22 pressure — legislature overrode emergency powers veto. Lifted all health orders Jun 2, 2021.
CDC COVID Tracker — Ohio; ProPublica Marion Prison; SB 22
2
Disaster preparedness & emergency infrastructure
Emergency infrastructure adequate but gaps exposed. East Palestine: no state-level hazmat rail monitoring for 7,000+ miles of freight rail. Budget Stabilization Fund ($3.5B+) provides strong fiscal preparedness. EMA has county-level partnerships functioning. Tornado/severe weather preparedness standard for Midwest. Post-COVID: Vax-a-Million (vaccinations up 55%) was innovative. Post-East Palestine: pushed for Norfolk Southern $1B+ commitment. ASCE gives Ohio C- overall infrastructure grade.
OH EMA; ASCE 2025 OH Infrastructure Report Card
2
FOIA/open records compliance
Ohio Public Records Act (ORC 149.43) compliance standard. No major records-denial controversies from governor's office. However, FirstEnergy/HB 6 investigation revealed text messages between FirstEnergy executives and DeWine's office during HB 6 passage — obtained through legal discovery, not proactive disclosure. AG Yost's office handles open records disputes. COVID emergency temporarily modified some open-meeting requirements.
OH AG Open Records Opinions; News5 Cleveland FirstEnergy Texts
2
Governor's schedule availability
Governor's schedule available through office website. COVID-era daily briefings were highly accessible and transparent — became national model. Regular press conferences throughout tenure. East Palestine: initial communication gap (did not visit for days) but subsequent engagement was public and accessible. InnovateOhio (Lt. Gov. Husted) promotes digital government access.
Governor's Office Website — Ohio; InnovateOhio.gov
2
Campaign finance compliance
No formal campaign finance violations. However, FirstEnergy gave ~$2.5M to Republican Governors Association backing DeWine's 2018 campaign. Former FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones held lavish fundraisers for DeWine. Text messages revealed frequent communication between FirstEnergy execs and DeWine during 2018 campaign. DeWine signed HB 6 (Jul 2019) which FirstEnergy had spent $60M bribing legislature to pass. Not personally charged but proximity is documented.
OH SOS Campaign Finance; DOJ FirstEnergy Case; News5 Texts
2
Financial disclosure
Financial disclosures filed annually as required by ORC 102.02. DeWine family owns farmland in Greene County (Cedarville). No undisclosed business interests identified. Ohio Checkbook (checkbook.ohio.gov) provides public salary/spending transparency. Financial disclosure forms available through Ethics Commission. Standard compliance without notable omissions or controversies.
OH Ethics Commission Financial Disclosure; checkbook.ohio.gov
2
Open meetings compliance
Standard compliance with Ohio Sunshine Laws (ORC 121.22). COVID emergency required temporary remote-meeting provisions — restored in-person requirements after pandemic. Redistricting Commission meetings were public but maps produced were found unconstitutional multiple times despite open process. STRS board meetings became contentious public spectacles during bonus controversy. No governor's office Sunshine Law violations.
OH AG Open Meetings Decisions; OH Sunshine Law Records
3
Open data portal
Ohio open data portal at data.ohio.gov is functional but not exceptional. InnovateOhio (Lt. Gov. Husted) promotes digital government modernization. Ohio Checkbook (checkbook.ohio.gov) provides detailed state spending transparency — all vendor payments, employee salaries searchable. COVID dashboard provided real-time case/death/vaccination data. BroadbandOhio publishes coverage maps. H2Ohio publishes water quality monitoring data.
data.ohio.gov; checkbook.ohio.gov; InnovateOhio.gov
2
Budget transparency
Budget documents published online by Office of Budget and Management (obm.ohio.gov). Executive budget proposals, enacted budgets, and monthly financial reports all publicly available. HB 33 ($86B budget) details accessible including line-item veto messages. Ohio Checkbook provides granular spending data. LSC provides independent budget analysis. Capital budget status reports published quarterly.
OH OBM Budget Publications; obm.ohio.gov; OH LSC
2
Lobbying disclosure
Standard lobbying disclosure through Joint Legislative Ethics Committee (JLEC). However, FirstEnergy/HB 6 scandal exposed dark money loopholes — $60M bribery scheme used 501(c)(4) entities (Generation Now) to funnel money outside disclosure requirements. Post-scandal, Ohio has not enacted comprehensive dark money reform. JLEC lobbying registration and activity reports publicly available. Ethics Commission financial disclosure requirements maintained.
OH JLEC Lobbying Records; DOJ U.S. v. Householder; Generation Now
3
IG report publication
Inspector General reports published at watchdog.ohio.gov. IG Randall Meyer released 2024 Annual Report on schedule. Since 2011: 792 investigation reports published, 1,614 recommendations issued, $250M+ in losses identified. Reports cover ODOT contractor issues, DODD employee misconduct, and agency operational matters. All reports freely available to public. No restrictions on IG publication under DeWine.
watchdog.ohio.gov; OH IG 2024 Annual Report
2
Legislative audit cooperation
Standard cooperation with Auditor Keith Faber (independently elected Republican). Faber's office conducts state ACFR, GO bond audits, and agency-specific audits — executive branch cooperates without obstruction. Faber's pandemic UI fraud audit ($3.8B findings) was not impeded by administration. STRS investigation conducted independently by AG Yost at DeWine's request. Clean audit opinions on state financials throughout tenure.
OH Auditor of State Records; ACFR FY2024
3
Press conference accessibility
Regular press conferences. COVID daily briefings (Mar-Jun 2020) became national model — DeWine and Dr. Acton fielded extensive media questions. Press conferences continued regularly post-COVID for major events (East Palestine, budget signings, Intel announcements). Vax-a-Million announcement received massive national media attention. Generally accessible to state and national media. Some criticism of initial East Palestine media absence.
Governor's Office Media Schedule; COVID Briefing Coverage
2
State contract transparency
State contracts searchable via Ohio Checkbook (checkbook.ohio.gov). Emergency COVID procurement streamlined per federal guidance but no major procurement scandals. DAS procurement follows standard competitive bidding. Intel incentive package ($2B) details published. Norfolk Southern settlement terms ($310M+) publicly documented. No evidence of contract-steering from governor's office. HB 6 scandal was legislative corruption, not executive procurement failure.
checkbook.ohio.gov; OH DAS Procurement Records
3
Court order compliance
Mixed. Complied with court orders blocking heartbeat bill (SB 23). However, REDISTRICTING: DeWine sat on Ohio Redistricting Commission that produced maps ruled unconstitutional multiple times by OH Supreme Court (4-3 decisions). Commission defied court deadlines by ~500 days. 2022 elections held under maps found unconstitutional. DeWine voted for maps the court repeatedly struck down. A constitutional crisis where the commission he served on defied the state's highest court.
OH Supreme Court Redistricting Decisions 2022; Court News Ohio
2
Personal criminal charges
No criminal charges or investigations against DeWine personally. Not charged in FirstEnergy/HB 6 probe despite receiving FirstEnergy-linked campaign support (~$2.5M to RGA). DOJ investigation focused on Speaker Householder (convicted, 20 years), FirstEnergy executives (trial Mar 2026). DeWine has 40+ year political career (prosecutor, state senator, US congressman, US senator, Lt. Gov, AG, governor) with no personal criminal issues.
Court Records; DOJ; DeWine Political Career Records
3
Ethics complaints — substantiated
No substantiated ethics complaints against DeWine personally through OH Ethics Commission. FirstEnergy scandal proximity raised questions but no formal ethics complaint sustained. STRS board appointment decisions (removing Steen, appointing Bishop/Allison) prompted litigation but not ethics violations. DeWine's family farmland ownership disclosed properly. No conflict-of-interest findings from any investigative body.
OH Ethics Commission Records; STRS Board Litigation
3
Gift/travel disclosure
Gift/travel disclosures filed as required per ORC 102.02. No undisclosed gifts or travel identified. FirstEnergy executives held fundraisers for DeWine pre-election — legal campaign activity, disclosed through campaign finance filings. No personal gift scandal. Standard compliance with Ohio ethics gift restrictions ($75 threshold for reporting).
OH Ethics Commission Records; Campaign Finance Filings
2
Conflict of interest
No documented conflict of interest. DeWine family owns farmland in Greene County (Cedarville) — disclosed, no state contract conflicts. Son Pat DeWine serves on OH Supreme Court (elected, not appointed by father). Pat DeWine recused from some redistricting cases creating 3-3 splits. No business interests conflicting with gubernatorial duties identified by Ethics Commission.
OH Ethics Commission; Financial Disclosure Records; OH Supreme Court
3
State resources for political purposes
No documented misuse of state resources for political purposes. Vax-a-Million lottery ($5.6M from CARES Act surplus) raised questions — Sen. Antani (R) criticized using federal relief for lottery, but program was legal under CARES Act education provisions. Increased vaccinations 55% in 20-49 age group. No state aircraft misuse, no staff used for campaign work, no state facilities used for political events documented.
OH OBM; Vax-a-Million Records; CARES Act Compliance
3
Truthfulness in official statements
Generally truthful. East Palestine statements cautious but not deceptive. COVID briefings with Dr. Acton were data-driven and fact-based — praised for transparency. On HB 6: DeWine initially defended signing, then reversed — said the bill was 'forever tainted' by corrupt process. On redistricting: publicly supported maps that courts found unconstitutional, raising questions about candor regarding constitutional compliance. Fact-checkers have not identified systematic dishonesty.
Governor's Public Statements; PolitiFact Ohio; Media Fact-Checks
2
Protection of ethics infrastructure
Maintained Ohio Ethics Commission authority and budget. IG Randall Meyer continued independently (792 reports since 2011). However, no comprehensive dark money reform after FirstEnergy/HB 6 scandal — $60M laundered through 501(c)(4) Generation Now exposed loopholes that remain unaddressed. DeWine has not pushed major ethics reform legislation despite scandal. JLEC lobbying oversight maintained but not strengthened.
OH Ethics Commission Budget; HB 6 Dark Money Analysis
2
Emoluments/self-dealing
No documented self-dealing or emoluments issues. DeWine's Greene County farmland not involved in state transactions. No state contracts to family businesses. No personal financial benefit from Intel deal, H2Ohio, or other major initiatives. Standard governor's salary. No outside business income conflicts identified. Clean financial disclosure history across 40+ year political career.
OH Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; Career Records
3
Campaign donor to state contract pipeline
FirstEnergy/HB 6 scandal: $60M bribery scheme to pass nuclear/coal bailout. While DeWine was not personally charged, he received ~$5M in FirstEnergy-linked campaign contributions and signed HB 6 into law. Later supported repeal after scandal broke. Former House Speaker Larry Householder convicted of racketeering.
DOJ: U.S. v. Householder; OH Secretary of State Campaign Finance Records; HB 6 Legislative History
1
Foreign influence
No foreign influence concerns. Intel deal involves Taiwanese-American company (incorporated in US) — not a foreign influence issue. No FARA-registered foreign agent connections. No foreign government gifts or travel disclosed. Ohio's economic development through JobsOhio involves some foreign direct investment (Honda Japan expansion) but standard economic development, not foreign influence.
DOJ FARA Database; JobsOhio FDI Reports
3
Sexual harassment claims
No sexual harassment claims against governor or governor's office staff. STRS CEO Bill Neville (not direct gubernatorial staff) departed Dec 2024 after allegations of 'violent outbursts and sexually explicit language' — investigated by firm appointed by AG Yost. DeWine's office maintained clean record. No MeToo-era allegations surfaced against the governor or senior executive staff.
OH DAS HR Records; STRS Neville Investigation 2024
3
Records preservation
No documented records destruction from governor's office. Ohio State Archives records retention schedules followed. FirstEnergy/HB 6 investigation relied on text messages and emails that were preserved and discoverable. COVID-era executive orders and health orders archived and publicly accessible. No allegations of deliberate records destruction or concealment during tenure.
OH State Archives Records Retention; FirstEnergy Discovery Records
3
Revolving door
No major revolving door violations. Dr. Acton departed to become advisor then left government entirely. Standard post-government transitions for staff. FirstEnergy/HB 6 exposed revolving door between utility industry and PUCO regulators — but that predated DeWine and is primarily a legislative/regulatory issue. Ohio's one-year post-employment restriction (ORC 102.03) for certain officials enforced by Ethics Commission.
OH Ethics Commission Records; ORC 102.03
3
Fraud losses in state programs
Pandemic UI fraud substantial: $3.8B total in fraud/overpayments (Apr 2020-Jun 2021). $477M confirmed fraud, $3.4B in errors. Pre-pandemic: benefits under $900M/yr; FY2021: $14.2B paid out with 26% as overpayments/fraud. Implemented ID.me verification, recovered $150M+ by mid-2021. Better than Michigan ($8.5B fraud) but still $673 per worker in losses. PUA program accounted for $444M of $477M fraud.
OH Auditor of State Oct 2021 Report; DOL OIG; ODJFS
2
Program integrity — eligibility verification
Post-pandemic improvements: ID.me identity verification deployed for UI claims. Medicaid managed care eligibility verification standard — no CMS sanctions. SAVE system used for benefits verification. Created Department of Children and Youth (DCY) consolidating programs from 6 agencies to reduce duplication. DCY invested $2M expanding CPS Fellowship Program to 35 counties (75 positions). SNAP/TANF verification maintained without major errors.
OH ODJFS Program Integrity; CMS Reviews; DCY Creation HB 33
3
IT system modernization
UI system strained but outperformed many states (didn't crash like Florida's). InnovateOhio (Lt. Gov. Husted) leads IT modernization initiative. BroadbandOhio tracking $793M BEAD allocation for rural connectivity — 108,000 households connected or soon connected, 130,000 remaining. ORBEG awarded $94.5M for broadband in 23 counties. Ohio Checkbook provides modern spending transparency platform. Some legacy systems still need upgrading.
OH DAS IT Reports; InnovateOhio; BroadbandOhio BEAD Data
2
Permit processing timeliness
JobsOhio (privatized economic development agency) provides streamlined one-stop business permitting. Intel $20B chip plant permitting fast-tracked through special session legislation. JobsOhio reported $12B+ in business investment commitments. InnovateOhio digitized some permitting processes. $150M JobsOhio grants for Intel workforce/economic development. Standard building permit processing in line with Midwest peers.
JobsOhio Reports; Census Building Permits — Ohio; Intel Incentive Data
3
Child welfare system
Created new Department of Children and Youth (DCY, Aug 2023) consolidating programs from 6 agencies — first new OH state agency in decades. Director Kara Wente appointed. DCY invested $2M expanding CPS Fellowship to 35 counties. Kids Summit (first ever) convened county leaders. Goals: reduce infant mortality by 330 babies/year, ensure 26,000+ children kindergarten-ready, keep 3,300+ children safely in homes. County-administered system has inherent challenges but DCY consolidation is positive reform.
OH DCY; HB 33 DCY Provisions; Kids Summit 2024
2
Medicaid program management
Medicaid managed care operating effectively — no CMS sanctions. DeWine continued Kasich's Medicaid expansion, maintaining coverage for ~3M Ohioans. Uninsured rate ~6.5% (Census ACS). HB 33 allocated $6.96B GRF Medicaid in FY2024, $8.03B in FY2025 (26.8% and 15.5% increases). $579M invested in DSP/provider pay rates to stabilize workforce. Post-COVID Medicaid unwinding handled without mass coverage losses.
CMS Reviews — Ohio; HB 33 Medicaid Appropriations; Census ACS
3
Environmental program
Mixed environmental record. H2Ohio (launched 2019): signature water quality initiative — 3,200 farmers enrolled, 2.5M acres, 420,000 lbs phosphorus reduction annually, reducing Lake Erie algal blooms. But East Palestine response initially criticized (delayed OH EPA monitoring). Norfolk Southern cleanup: 177,000 tons contaminated soil, 69M gallons wastewater removed. H2Ohio facing budget cuts in FY2026-27 (12% reduction to Agriculture Dept). OH EPA monitoring capacity questioned post-derailment.
H2Ohio Program Data; OH EPA East Palestine; FY2026-27 Budget
1
Transportation project delivery
ODOT is $4.5B/yr enterprise. FY2024-25 transportation budget: ~$11.5B total, including $2.2B pavement upgrades, $717M bridge improvements, $964M local government programs. Intel site: $691M infrastructure (roads, water, sewer). Brent Spence Bridge: $3.6B project secured $1.635B IIJA federal funding, environmental assessment approved May 2024, construction to start 2024. ASCE 2025: OH roads D+, bridges C+ (45,234 bridges, 6% poor, 200 closed).
OH DOT FY2025 Annual Report; ASCE 2025 OH Report Card; IIJA
2
Unemployment insurance system
UI system strained: benefits surged from <$900M/yr pre-pandemic to $14.2B in FY2021. $3.8B in fraud/overpayments identified. System did not crash (unlike Florida) but 26% overpayment rate was severe. ID.me identity verification implemented. $150M+ recovered by mid-2021. ARPA funds ($1.35B+) used to replenish Unemployment Compensation Trust Fund. Post-pandemic unemployment: 4.0% (roughly national average). System modernization ongoing.
DOL UI Performance — Ohio; ODJFS; OH Auditor Oct 2021
2
Veterans services
Two Ohio Veterans Homes (Georgetown est. 2003, Sandusky est. 1888) maintain 767 beds. $183M modernization project: $65M state + $118M federal VA grant. Director Debbie Ashenhurst leads DVS. ~90% of DVS budget supports Veterans Homes. Federal funding delays slowed full construction but site work proceeding. County veteran service officer training programs maintained. Ohio has ~800,000 veterans — services adequate but modernization needed.
OH DVS Budget Testimony; VA Grant Data; Veterans Home Modernization
2
Housing program effectiveness
Ohio remains very affordable: median home price ~$215K vs national ~$420K (2024). BEA Regional Price Parity ~91-93 (7-9% below national average). Rent burden moderate compared to coastal states. Homelessness roughly stable — not a crisis state. Columbus metro housing costs rising faster than state average due to growth (Intel-driven demand in Licking County). Springfield strained by rapid population influx (~15,000-20,000 Haitian migrants in city of 58,000).
Census ACS Housing; BEA RPP; HUD Homeless Assessment — Ohio
2
Corrections system
Severe corrections issues. Marion Correctional: built for 1,500, housed 2,500 — 80%+ infected with COVID in 3 weeks (Apr 2020), became nation's largest institutional outbreak. Marion accounted for 14% of Ohio's entire COVID caseload. Pickaway CI also had massive outbreak. 76+ prison COVID deaths by Jun 2020. Ohio prisons hold ~50,000 inmates in facilities designed for <40,000 (overcrowded since 1980s). No plans to address Marion/Pickaway overcrowding post-pandemic.
ProPublica Marion Prison Apr 2020; OH DRC; CDC/ODRC COVID Data
1
Federal funding captured
Exceptional federal funding capture. Intel: $1.5B CHIPS Act direct funding for Ohio One campus (part of Intel's $7.865B total CHIPS award). $1.635B IIJA for Brent Spence Bridge ($1.385B Bridge Investment Program + $250M MEGA Program). $793M BEAD broadband. $5.4B ARPA state funds. $77.5M Capital Projects Fund. $118M VA grant for Veterans Homes. $100M OMHAS opioid grants. Ohio among top states for federal funding per capita under DeWine.
USASpending.gov — Ohio; CHIPS Act; IIJA; BEAD; VA Grants
3
Federal corrective action plans
No major federal corrective actions outstanding. East Palestine cleanup under EPA oversight: $310M+ settlement, 177,000 tons soil removed, 69M gallons wastewater treated. Norfolk Southern spending $1B+ total. No suspended federal grants. ARPA 87%+ obligated on time. Medicaid in good standing with CMS. CFSR child welfare standards mostly met. No outstanding corrective action plans from any major federal agency.
EPA East Palestine; Federal Program Reviews — Ohio; CMS; ACF
3
Interstate cooperation
Active interstate cooperation. Great Lakes Compact participation — H2Ohio water quality directly benefits Lake Erie shared with MI/PA/NY. Brent Spence Bridge $3.6B project is joint OH-KY venture. East Palestine cleanup coordinated with Pennsylvania (derailment was 1/4 mile from PA border). Midwest governors coordination on COVID response. Wright-Patterson AFB (Dayton) maintained as critical defense installation. No interstate disputes or litigation.
Great Lakes Compact; Brent Spence OH-KY Agreement; EPA East Palestine
3
Local government relations
Mixed local relations. Gun preemption laws created tension with Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati (cities wanted local gun ordinances). Permitless carry (SB 215) overrode local preferences. Springfield migrant crisis: state response seen as inadequate by local officials — city of 58,000 absorbed ~15,000-20,000 Haitian migrants with limited state support. $964M in local government transportation programs in ODOT budget. Some rural communities feel neglected despite H2Ohio benefits.
OH Local Government Records; Municipal Association; Springfield Coverage
2
Federal litigation costs
Moderate federal litigation under AG Yost (independently elected). Ohio did not join excessive culture-war litigation compared to TX/FL. AG Yost pursued STRS investigation at DeWine's request. Heartbeat bill (SB 23) litigation was standard post-Dobbs. East Palestine litigation resulted in $310M+ federal settlement (favorable outcome). No major state-vs-federal constitutional showdowns. Federal litigation costs manageable relative to state budget.
OH AG Litigation Records; DOJ Norfolk Southern Settlement
2
Constituent inquiry response
Governor's office maintains constituent services team handling inquiries, complaints, and casework. COVID-era dramatically increased constituent contact volume — daily briefings provided direct communication channel. East Palestine residents had direct access during crisis. InnovateOhio (Lt. Gov. Husted) improved digital government access. Standard response times maintained throughout tenure without reported systemic backlogs.
Governor's Office Internal Metrics; InnovateOhio
3
Town halls held
COVID limited in-person events 2020-2021 but daily briefings served as public engagement substitute. Post-COVID: resumed public appearances including Intel groundbreaking ceremony, East Palestine site visits, H2Ohio farm events, DCY Kids Summit. Campaign events during 2022 reelection provided constituent access. RecoveryOhio community events for opioid awareness. Not known for extensive town hall format compared to some governors.
Governor's Office Schedule; Event Coverage 2019-2025
2
Constituent satisfaction
Morning Consult (Jul 2023): 57% approve, 36% disapprove — ranked 24th among governors. Unique cross-party dynamic: early COVID response earned Democratic praise, but alienated MAGA Republican base. Legislature overrode his vetoes twice (SB 22, HB 68) showing party fracture. Won 2022 reelection with 62.5% — strong margin. East Palestine temporarily damaged approval. Voters rejected his position on Issue 1 (abortion) 57-43 and Issue 2 (marijuana) 57-43.
Morning Consult Jul 2023; OH 2022 Election Results; Issue 1/2 Results
2
ADA compliance
Standard ADA compliance maintained. Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) agency functioning. HB 33 invested $579M in DSP pay rates serving individuals with developmental disabilities. COVID provided remote accessibility accommodations for government services. InnovateOhio digital government initiatives improve accessibility. No DOJ ADA enforcement actions against the state under DeWine.
OH OOD; DOJ ADA Reviews; HB 33 DSP Provisions
3
Electoral accountability
Won reelection Nov 2022 with 62.5% vs Nan Whaley (D) — largest gubernatorial margin in Ohio since 1994. Ohio considered a swing-to-lean-R state. DeWine carried 82 of 88 counties. Strong personal brand despite party tensions. Term-limited after 2026. Career trajectory: county prosecutor, state senator, US congressman (1983-1991), US senator (1995-2007), AG (2011-2019), governor (2019-present). One of most experienced politicians to serve as OH governor.
OH SOS — 2022 General Election Results; DeWine Career Records
3

Section B — State Outcomes 543/975

13 categories measuring real-world outcomes: economic performance, population trends, fiscal health, public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, cost of living, transparency, controversy, historical context, constituent satisfaction, and immigration compliance.

BEA SAGDP: OH GDP ~$765B (2024) — 7th largest state economy. BLS LAUS: unemployment 4.0% (roughly at national avg of 4.2%). Intel $20B chip fabrication plant in New Albany/Licking County — largest private investment in Ohio history, creating 3,000 direct jobs + 7,000 construction jobs; secured $1.5B in federal CHIPS Act funds for Ohio One campus. JobsOhio reported $12B+ in business investment commitments. BLS QCEW: manufacturing employment stabilizing after decades of decline — OH still 3rd in manufacturing employment nationally. Census ACS: median household income ~$63,000 (below national $80,610). GDP growth trailing national average at ~1.2%. Columbus metro adding 30,348 residents/year (1.38% growth rate). Honda $4.4B EV battery plant announced in Fayette County.
Census: Ohio population 11.81M (Jul 2025) — essentially flat, grew 0.3% from 2024 to 2025. Highest number of people moving to Ohio in 25 years: net influx of 11,926 domestic migrants in 2025, dramatic turnaround from loss of 32,000 in 2021. Ohio is 1 of only 4 states (with KY, MT, NH) reporting more births, fewer deaths, AND improved domestic migration 2024-2025. Columbus metro reached 2.225M (2024), adding 30,348 residents/year at 1.38% growth rate — 38% above national avg. Columbus drew 23,395 international migrants (77% of metro growth). Only 14 of 88 counties growing — 74 declining. Rural/legacy industrial areas (Youngstown, Akron, Canton) continue population loss. Young professional retention remains a challenge — brain drain to Sun Belt states.
Structural surpluses. Rainy day fund at $3.5B+. AA+/Aa1 credit ratings. Pension funding improving (~82% OPERS). Debt per capita below national average. Conservative fiscal management. Budget signed on time each biennium.
Ohio LSC Dec 2025 report: OH violent crime rate decreased in 2024 but 2.5% decline was slower than national 5.4% decrease. OH property crime rate 12% below national average. Opioid crisis: overdose deaths declined 9% in 2023 (4,452, down from 4,915 in 2022) after RecoveryOhio investment — naloxone distribution expanded 520%, opioid treatment providers grew 250% (35 to 125, 2019-2023). Columbus homicides down 31% in 2025 vs 2024. Toledo homicides down 18% in 2024. Akron shootings down 33%, shootings into habitations down 38%. Cleveland violent crime rate 16.6/1K — highest in state. East Palestine derailment (Feb 2023) — no immediate deaths but long-term health concerns for 4,900 residents; 177,000+ tons contaminated soil removed. DeWine signed SB 215 permitless carry (Jun 2022) and Stand Your Ground (SB 175). $100M federal grants allocated (Nov 2024) for ongoing opioid response.
NAEP 2022: 4th grade math 236 (above national 235), 8th grade reading 260 (at national 260). Graduation rate ~87% (above national). School funding reform (Fair School Funding Plan) enacted with bipartisan support. School choice expanded. Some districts still struggling.
Census ACS uninsured rate ~6.5% (Medicaid expansion continued from Kasich). CDC: opioid overdose deaths remain high but trending down. Life expectancy below national average. Infant mortality 6.9/1K (above national 5.4 — concerning). Rural hospital access challenges.
FHWA NBI: bridges improving with dedicated investment. $3.2B Brent Spence Bridge project (OH/KY) funded through IIJA. Intel site infrastructure investments. Roads rated average nationally. Broadband expansion underway. East Palestine exposed rail infrastructure gaps.
BEA RPP: ~91-93 (prices 7-9% below national). Housing affordable — median home price ~$215K vs national ~$420K (2024). Rent burden moderate compared to coastal states. Gas prices at or slightly below national average. Overall very affordable state.
Ohio has some of nation's broadest 'sunshine laws' (ORC 149.43). Ohio Checkbook (checkbook.ohio.gov) provides granular public spending transparency — all vendor payments, employee salaries searchable. Open data portal at data.ohio.gov functional. InnovateOhio (Lt. Gov. Husted) promotes digital government access and modernization. Budget documents published by OBM (obm.ohio.gov). FirstEnergy/HB 6 scandal ($60M bribery, Speaker Householder sentenced 20 years) exposed dark money loopholes — DeWine signed HB 6 and received $2.5M via RGA from FirstEnergy-linked entities. 501(c)(4) Generation Now used to funnel funds outside disclosure requirements. Secretary LaRose's DATA Act (2022) positioned Ohio as national leader in election data transparency. COVID dashboard provided real-time case/death/vaccination data. Governor's office generally responsive to ORC 149.43 public records requests.
East Palestine train derailment — major national controversy, initial response criticized. FirstEnergy/HB 6 bribery scandal (DeWine signed bill, received contributions, not personally charged). HB 68 trans sports veto/override. COVID Vax-a-Million lottery questioned. Issue 1 abortion amendment opposition — voters rejected DeWine's position 57-43. COVID policy zigzags.
Against Ohio's governors: DeWine's fiscal management among strongest — AAA/Aaa/AAA ratings (first time ever, S&P upgraded Dec 2023), $3.5B+ rainy day fund (record), structural surpluses throughout tenure. Intel $20B chip plant is largest private investment in Ohio history — comparable to only Honda's 1977 Marysville decision in transformative impact. Education: Fair School Funding Plan enacted with bipartisan support after 25 years of effort since DeRolph v. State (1997). East Palestine derailment (Feb 2023) unique challenge — initially criticized for slow response but secured $310M+ federal settlement. Opioid crisis: overdose deaths declining (4,452 in 2023 vs 5,400+ peak) under RecoveryOhio. Predecessors: Kasich (R, 2011-2019) expanded Medicaid, budget discipline; Strickland (D, 2007-2011) financial crisis; Taft (R, 1999-2007) ethics scandal (Coingate). Population stagnation continues 4-decade trend. Mixed legacy: strong fiscal management vs HB 6 proximity and legislative relationship strain.
Won reelection with 62.5% (2022) — strong margin. Approval mid-50s. Mixed reception from own party — too moderate for MAGA wing, too conservative for Democrats. East Palestine response damaged approval temporarily. Generally seen as competent if not inspiring.
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Section C — Oath Fidelity +124 (-378 to +378)

126 items scored -3 to +3 measuring fidelity to constitutional oath. Grounded in Supreme Court precedent and constitutional text.

+3Exemplary +2Strong +1Adequate 0Neutral -1Concerning -2Failing -3Hostile

Protection of Life

Declaration of Independence; 5th/14th Amendments
Score: 19 Range: -93 to 93 Items: 31
Violent crime rate trend
OH violent crime rate approximately 310 per 100K (2023), slightly below national average. Some improvement during tenure. Cleveland and Columbus drive urban crime but overall trend stable.
FBI UCR 2023; OH DPS
+1
Homicide rate relative to national average
OH homicide rate approximately 6.0-6.5 per 100K, near national average. Cincinnati and Columbus have elevated rates. Statewide rate roughly at national level.
FBI UCR 2023; CDC WONDER
0
Homicide clearance rate
OH homicide clearance rate approximately 45-50%. Mixed performance across jurisdictions. Columbus PD clearance has improved. Average nationally.
FBI UCR Supplementary Reports; OH DPS
0
Law enforcement staffing adequacy
OH law enforcement staffing adequate in urban areas. Rural recruitment challenges. DeWine supported additional police funding. Standard for large state.
FBI LEOKA; OH DPS
+1
Drug overdose death rate trend
OH drug overdose death rate approximately 40-45 per 100K — among worst nationally due to I-70/I-75 corridor trafficking. Some decline from 2021 peak but remains well above average. $1B+ invested in treatment.
CDC WONDER; OH ODPS
-1
Emergency management preparedness (FEMA rating)
OH EMA adequate. East Palestine response highlighted coordination gaps but federal response ultimately effective. Standard FEMA compliance.
FEMA SPR; OH EMA
+1
Preventable mass-casualty event response
East Palestine train derailment (Feb 2023) was major response event. DeWine activated National Guard, secured federal declaration. Some criticism of initial speed. NTSB investigation ongoing. Mixed assessment.
FEMA; NTSB East Palestine; OH EMA
0
Infrastructure safety — bridge and road conditions
OH infrastructure in moderate condition. ASCE grade C. Some bridges structurally deficient. IIJA funding improving trajectory. InSight camera system for traffic monitoring innovative.
FHWA NBI; ASCE OH report card
0
Water and dam safety compliance
OH has some water quality challenges including Lake Erie algal blooms and East Palestine concerns. H2Ohio initiative ($900M+) addresses water quality. Some Superfund sites. Mixed record.
EPA SDWIS; H2Ohio; East Palestine
0
Healthcare access — uninsured rate
OH uninsured rate approximately 6-7% after Medicaid expansion under Kasich (maintained by DeWine). Below national average. Coverage improved during tenure.
Census ACS; KFF
+1
Maternal mortality rate
OH maternal mortality rate approximately 18-22 per 100K, near national average. Some maternal health initiatives funded.
CDC WONDER; OH ODHE
0
Infant mortality rate
OH infant mortality rate approximately 6.5-7.0 per 1,000, near national average. Racial disparities persist. Some funded programs.
CDC WONDER; OH ODHE
0
Self-defense rights — Castle Doctrine / Stand Your Ground
OH has Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground (SB 175, 2020 signed by DeWine). No duty to retreat. Shifted burden of proof to prosecution.
OH SB 175 (2020); ORC §2901.09
+2
Death penalty procedural safeguards
OH maintains death penalty with comprehensive appellate review. DNA access available. Clemency process functional. Moratorium on executions since 2020 due to drug procurement.
DPIC; OH clemency records
+1
Suicide prevention program funding and outcomes
OH suicide rate approximately 14-15 per 100K, near national average. Standard prevention programs funded. 988 integration proceeding.
CDC WISQARS; AFSP OH
0
911/emergency response time adequacy
OH emergency response times adequate for large state. Urban compliance good. Rural areas face typical challenges.
NFPA compliance; OH EMS
+1
Opioid/fentanyl interdiction and treatment funding
OH invested $1B+ in opioid response through RecoveryOhio initiative. Overdose deaths declining from 2021 peak but still among worst states. Comprehensive strategy in place.
RecoveryOhio; SAMHSA; CDC WONDER
+1
Veteran suicide and healthcare access
OH has veteran services programs. Cleveland VA Medical Center one of largest in nation. State supplements federal VA. Standard veteran support.
VA SAIL; OH DVA
+1
Food safety and foodborne illness enforcement
OH Department of Agriculture maintains food safety. No major outbreaks linked to state inspection failures. Standard compliance.
FDA Conformance; OH DOA
+1
Workplace fatality rate
OH workplace fatality rate approximately 4.0-4.5 per 100K FTE, near national average. Manufacturing and construction exposure.
BLS CFOI; OSHA OH
0
Domestic violence fatality rate and funding
OH has DV fatality review board. Programs funded. Rate near national average. Standard domestic violence services.
NNEDV; OH DV data
+1
Correctional facility death rate and conditions
OH corrections system has challenges. Southern Ohio Correctional Facility incident history. Some overcrowding. No active DOJ investigation but past consent decrees.
BJS mortality; OH DRC
0
Pollution-related mortality and environmental health
OH has some EPA nonattainment areas (ozone near Cleveland). H2Ohio water quality investment positive. East Palestine raised environmental health concerns. Mixed record.
EPA Green Book; H2Ohio; East Palestine
0
Pedestrian and traffic fatality rate
OH traffic fatality rate approximately 1.2-1.3 per 100M VMT, near national average.
NHTSA FARS; OH DOT
0
Sanctity of life legislative framework
DeWine signed Heartbeat Bill (SB 23, 2019), banning abortion after fetal heartbeat detection (~6 weeks). Enacted after Dobbs. Clinic safety regulations maintained.
OH SB 23; Guttmacher; Dobbs
+2
Homeless mortality — exposure deaths, overdoses in encampments, violence
Ohio does not have California-level homelessness crisis. DeWine allocated $25.9M for housing growth. Moderate approach.
Governor housing announcements; HUD PIT Count Ohio
+1
Population loss impact on services — EMS/hospital closures, tax base erosion
Ohio's population has been relatively flat. Springfield migrant surge strained local services. DeWine responded with $2.5M.
Census population estimates; DeWine Springfield response
0
Police staffing/funding — governor's direct actions on law enforcement
DeWine has been consistent champion for law enforcement funding. Nearly $900K in sexual assault investigation grants. $3M+ for violent crime reduction.
Governor grant announcements 2024-2026
+2
Criminal recidivism from early release — parole/clemency, no-cash-bail
Ohio has not implemented no-cash-bail policies. No mass early release programs. Adequate but not distinguished.
Ohio Adult Parole Authority; Ohio DOC recidivism
+1
Prison/shelter housing — biological males in women's facilities
DeWine vetoed HB 68, the Save Women's Sports Act. Legislature overrode his veto. Score reflects his direct action (veto).
HB 68 veto (Dec 2023); Legislative override Jan 2024
0
Mental health crisis system — involuntary commitment reform, crisis intervention
DeWine has made mental health a signature issue. Expanded Youth Mobile Crisis Response Service to all 88 Ohio counties. Signed HB 571.
HB 571; SB 95; MRSS expansion; RecoveryOhio
+2

Constitutional Rights

Bill of Rights (Amendments I-X); 14th Amendment incorporation
Score: 30 Range: -87 to 87 Items: 29
Second Amendment — right to carry status
DeWine signed SB 215 (2022) enacting constitutional/permitless carry in Ohio. Permitless carry for 21+. Active gubernatorial action to expand 2A rights — full credit for signing into law.
OH SB 215; ORC §2923.111
+3
Second Amendment — semi-automatic rifle restrictions
No restrictions on semi-automatic rifles beyond federal law. No assault weapons ban.
OH Code; ATF compendium
+2
Second Amendment — magazine capacity restrictions
No magazine capacity restrictions in OH.
OH statutes; NRA-ILA
+2
Second Amendment — Red Flag / ERPO due process
DeWine signed ERPO-type provisions as part of STRONG Ohio Act (SB 357, 2022) creating safety protection orders. Ex parte orders available with 14-day hearing. Some due process concerns from 2A advocates.
OH SB 357; ERPO provisions
-1
First Amendment — campus free speech protections
OH has some campus free speech protections. FIRE gives mixed ratings to OH universities. DeWine signed anti-compelled speech measures for universities.
FIRE rankings; OH legislation
+1
First Amendment — anti-SLAPP protections
OH has limited anti-SLAPP protections. No comprehensive statute. Common law protections only.
Public Participation Project; OH law
0
First Amendment — religious liberty protections
OH has some religious liberty protections. No formal state RFRA but religious exercise generally respected. DeWine vetoed bills that would have restricted religious institutions.
Becket Fund; OH legislation
+1
Fourth Amendment — warrant requirements for digital surveillance
OH relies primarily on federal Carpenter standard. No comprehensive state electronic privacy statute.
EFF database; OH statutes
0
Fourth Amendment — civil asset forfeiture reform
OH has moderate civil asset forfeiture reform. Some reforms enacted but not comprehensive. Standard procedures.
Institute for Justice; OH forfeiture statutes
0
Fifth Amendment — eminent domain protections post-Kelo
OH enacted post-Kelo reform (HB 524, 2007). Restricts eminent domain for economic development. Moderate protections.
Castle Coalition; OH HB 524
+1
Due process — regulatory takings and permitting timelines
OH has regulatory reform efforts. DeWine established Common Sense Initiative for regulatory streamlining. Some permitting improvements.
OH Common Sense Initiative; permitting data
+1
Tenth Amendment — federal overreach resistance
DeWine joined multistate litigation on immigration, EPA regulations, and federal mandates. Active resistance to perceived federal overreach while maintaining cooperative posture.
Multistate litigation; OH AG Yost
+2
Equal Protection — state contracting nondiscrimination
OH moved toward race-neutral contracting post-SFFA. DeWine administration compliant with equal protection requirements.
OH procurement; SFFA compliance
+2
Second Amendment — state preemption of local firearms laws
OH has state preemption of local firearms laws (ORC §9.68). Municipalities cannot enact stricter gun laws. Effective preemption with enforcement mechanism.
ORC §9.68; NRA-ILA
+2
First Amendment — government transparency and FOIA compliance
OH public records law provides reasonable FOIA compliance. Some delays documented but generally responsive. Moderate transparency.
RCFP; OH public records
+1
Sixth Amendment — public defender funding adequacy
OH public defender system faces resource constraints. Caseloads above recommended levels. Funded but stretched. Average performance.
Sixth Amendment Center; OH PD data
0
Eighth Amendment — bail reform and pretrial detention
OH bail reform progressing. Some risk-based pretrial assessment. STRONG Ohio Act improved pretrial safety provisions. Standard improvements.
Pretrial Justice Institute; OH SB 357
+1
Property rights — regulatory burden and economic freedom
OH regulatory burden below average due to Common Sense Initiative. Tax cuts ($3B+) improved economic freedom. Moving to flat 2.75% income tax.
Mercatus RegData; CATO; OH HB 33
+1
Second Amendment — governor's litigation posture on firearms cases
OH AG Yost supports 2A. Filed pro-2A amicus briefs. Defended state firearms laws. Neutral-to-supportive litigation posture.
OH AG litigation; amicus filings
+1
First Amendment — compelled speech protections
No active compelled speech laws. DeWine signed measures protecting viewpoint diversity at universities.
OH legislation; FIRE analysis
+1
Commerce Clause compliance — interstate trade barriers
OH has reasonable interstate commerce environment. Some licensing reciprocity progress.
IJ licensing; OH reciprocity
+1
Privileges and Immunities — occupational licensing reform
OH has made licensing reform progress including universal license recognition for military spouses. Some broader reform.
IJ License to Work; NCSL; OH legislation
+1
Contract Clause — state compliance with contractual obligations
OPERS 82% funded, STRS 81.3% — both above national average. AAA/Aaa/AAA credit rating. Contractual obligations met despite STRS scandal.
OPERS/STRS CAFR; S&P/Moody's/Fitch
+2
Jury trial rights — civil and criminal jury access
Standard jury trial access in OH. No significant access issues.
OH court reports; NCSC
+1
Immigration law compliance — Supremacy Clause adherence
OH cooperates with federal immigration enforcement. No sanctuary law. E-Verify not mandated statewide. Standard ICE cooperation. Some limits on local participation.
8 USC §1373; OH immigration policy; FAIR
+1
Qualified immunity / due process for officers
Ohio maintains qualified immunity. Pro-law-enforcement posture but no proactive legislation to strengthen officer protections.
Ohio Revised Code; DeWine law enforcement record
+1
Voter ID and ballot chain-of-custody
DeWine signed photo voter ID law (2023). Mail-in ballot procedures tightened.
Ohio voter ID bill signing 2023
+2
Non-citizen voting prevention
Voter ID law helps prevent non-citizen voting indirectly. No specific proof-of-citizenship requirement beyond federal minimums.
Ohio voter ID law; SoS procedures
+1
Women's sports / Title IX — biological sex protections in state-funded athletics
DeWine VETOED HB 68, the Save Women's Sports Act. Legislature overrode the veto. Score reflects the governor's direct action.
HB 68 veto; DeWine veto statement
-1

Child Welfare & Parental Rights

Meyer v. Nebraska (1923); Pierce v. Society of Sisters (1925); Troxel v. Granville (2000)
Score: 17 Range: -75 to 75 Items: 25
Parental rights legislation — statutory recognition
OH has some parental rights protections in education code. No comprehensive standalone Parental Bill of Rights enacted during DeWine tenure.
OH education code; parental rights
+1
Education choice — school choice programs
OH has EdChoice scholarship program (income-based), charter schools, and some school choice. Not universal ESA. Moderate choice environment.
EdChoice OH; NAPCS
+1
Parental notification/consent for medical procedures on minors
OH requires parental consent for abortion (minors) with judicial bypass. General parental consent for medical procedures. Standard framework.
Guttmacher; OH Code
+2
Gender-transition procedures for minors — restrictions
DeWine signed HB 68 (Jan 2024, veto overridden) banning gender-transition surgeries and hormones for minors. Also restricts trans athletes in girls' sports. Legislature overrode his initial veto.
OH HB 68; Reuters tracker
+2
Child abuse and neglect — substantiated case rate trend
OH child abuse rate near national average. Some CPS challenges. Standard system performance.
ACF NCANDS; OH DCYF
0
Foster care — CFSR conformity assessment
OH CFSR performance standard. Mixed outcomes across counties. Standard improvement plans.
ACF CFSR; OH DCYF
0
Foster care — permanency outcomes
OH foster care permanency outcomes average. Some county variation. Standard system.
ACF AFCARS; OH DCYF
0
Child trafficking prevention and prosecution
OH has comprehensive trafficking statute and funded task force. AG Yost active in prosecution. Safe harbor provisions. Standard enforcement.
Polaris Project; OH AG
+1
Education outcomes — 4th grade NAEP reading proficiency
OH NAEP 4th grade reading approximately 33% proficient — near national average. Moderate improvement.
NCES NAEP 2024
+1
Education outcomes — 8th grade NAEP math proficiency
OH NAEP 8th grade math approximately 28-30% proficient — near national average.
NCES NAEP 2024
+1
Parental curriculum transparency
OH has some parental curriculum review rights. Standard textbook adoption. Limited opt-out provisions.
OH education code
+1
Social media — minor protections
OH has limited social media protections for minors. No comprehensive state legislation.
NCSL tracker; OH legislation
0
Juvenile justice — age-appropriate treatment
OH juvenile jurisdiction to 18 with standard transfer provisions. Rehabilitation programs funded.
OJJDP OH; OH juvenile code
+1
Child poverty rate and state response
OH child poverty rate approximately 17-18%, near national average. Some TANF programs but not exceptional.
Census ACS SAIPE; KIDS COUNT
0
Adoption and permanency — adoptive family support
OH has standard adoption framework. Some subsidized adoption programs. Standard processing.
ACF AFCARS; OH DCYF
+1
Homeschool rights and protections
OH homeschool regulation low to moderate. Notification only with annual assessment. No mandatory curriculum.
HSLDA OH; OH Code
+1
Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) enforcement
OH ICAC task force active. AG Yost prosecutes CSAM cases. Standard capacity.
ICAC; OH AG; NCMEC
+1
School safety — violence prevention and incident response
OH has school safety grant programs. Sandy Hook reforms implemented. SRO availability improving.
NASRO; OH DOE safety
+1
Children's mental health services access
OH school counselor ratio moderate. Some programs. Average access to children's mental health services.
ASCA data; SAMHSA OH
0
Childhood vaccination — parental choice protections
OH allows religious and medical exemptions for vaccination. No philosophical exemption. Standard framework.
NCSL; OH Code §3313.671
+1
Child care affordability and access
OH child care affordability moderate. Some subsidy programs. Standard waitlists.
ACF CCDF; OH data
0
Education — teacher quality and retention
OH teacher vacancy moderate. Compensation near state average. Some recruitment challenges in rural/urban areas.
NCES; NEA; OH DOE
0
Child nutrition — food insecurity rate
OH child food insecurity near national average. School meal programs operational. Standard coverage.
USDA ERS; Feeding America OH
0
Custody and family court — due process in child removal
OH has standard due process in family court. Santosky-compliant. Standard protections.
OH Code; ABA
+1
Children with disabilities — IDEA compliance
OH IDEA compliance standard. OSEP determination varies by year. Most districts compliant.
OSEP determinations; OH DOE
0

Faithful Discharge of Duties

Gubernatorial oath; Art. IV Sec. 4; state constitutional requirements
Score: 58 Range: -123 to 123 Items: 41
Budget balance — structural surplus/deficit
OH had structural surpluses throughout DeWine tenure. Budget Stabilization Fund at constitutional maximum (~8.5% GRF). $3.5B+ surplus in FY2023.
OH OBM; NASBO
+3
State credit rating stability
OH achieved AAA/Aaa/AAA from all three agencies — S&P upgraded to AAA Dec 2023 for first time. Highest possible credit rating.
S&P Dec 2023; Moody's Aaa; Fitch AAA
+3
Rainy day / budget stabilization fund adequacy
Budget Stabilization Fund at constitutional cap (~8.5% GRF), record $3.5B+. Among strongest reserves nationally. Statutory protection against raids.
OH OBM; Pew rainy day data
+3
Pension system funding responsibility
OPERS 82% funded, STRS 81.3%. Making full ARC/ADC payments. STRS scandal (bonuses amid losses) a governance concern but funded ratio is strong.
OPERS/STRS CAFR; Pew pension
+2
State debt burden
OH GRF-backed debt per capita declined to ~$629 (FY2024). Total state debt ~$15.55B but declining. Well below national average.
OH LSC Debt Report; Census
+2
Government efficiency — state employee headcount per capita
Standard government efficiency. No major headcount reforms. Common Sense Initiative streamlines regulation. Average state employee per capita.
Census Public Employment; OH CSI
+1
Inspector General / state auditor independence
OH Auditor Faber (elected independently) operates with full independence. IG identified $250M+ in losses. Governor responsive to findings. Strong oversight.
OH Auditor; OH IG 2024 Annual Report
+2
Ethics violations and personal scandals
DeWine generally clean ethics record. No formal violations. Some controversy over COVID emergency orders but no ethics findings. Financial disclosure compliant.
OH Ethics Commission; financial disclosures
+2
Executive order restraint
DeWine used numerous EOs during COVID — drew criticism for overreach. Post-COVID EO usage returned to normal levels. Some challenged but none struck down.
OH EO database; court records
+1
Emergency powers — adherence to statutory limits
Extended COVID emergency powers beyond what many considered appropriate. Faced legislative pushback. SB 22 (2021) limited gubernatorial emergency powers — reaction to DeWine's COVID orders.
OH SB 22; emergency statutes
-1
Legislative cooperation — veto override rate
Low veto override rate overall. HB 68 (gender transition ban) was a notable override — DeWine vetoed and legislature overrode. Otherwise productive relationship.
OH Legislature records
+2
Judicial appointments — qualifications and process integrity
Judicial appointments generally well-qualified. No appointees removed for cause. Follows standard process. OH AG Yost appointment quality debate but not DeWine-appointed.
OH judicial records; ABA
+2
Timely execution of laws — implementation of enacted legislation
Strong law implementation record. Major bills implemented on schedule. Common Sense Initiative ensures regulatory efficiency.
OH agency reports; CSI
+2
Federal fund utilization — grant management
Federal funds managed well. ARPA $5.4B properly obligated. 87%+ obligated by July 2024. $1.35B replenished UI trust fund. No major clawbacks.
Federal Audit Clearinghouse; USASpending
+2
Public approval as competence indicator
DeWine approval approximately 50-55%. Won 2022 reelection with 63%. Generally well-regarded. COVID period dipped then recovered.
Morning Consult; OH polls
+2
State IT security and data protection
Standard IT security. No major breaches. InSight camera system is technology innovation. Standard CISO framework.
NASCIO; OH IT reports
+1
Infrastructure spending — capital budget execution
Capital budget execution adequate. $725.9M in GO bonds issued FY2024 for projects. H2Ohio $900M+ water infrastructure. Standard execution.
ASCE OH; OH OBM capital budget
+2
Disaster fund readiness
Adequate disaster reserves. Budget Stabilization Fund at maximum. FEMA cost-share met for all events including East Palestine.
FEMA; OH OBM
+2
Workforce development — unemployment system integrity
OH UI system had $3.8B in fraud/overpayments during pandemic but recovered $150M+. ID.me implemented. System recovered. Trust fund replenished with ARPA.
DOL OIG; OH ODJFS
+1
Medicaid program integrity
OH Medicaid managed under expansion. Standard PERM compliance. Some managed care oversight issues flagged by state auditor.
CMS PERM; OH auditor
+1
Election administration — constitutional compliance
OH has voter ID requirement (SB 458, 2023 signed by DeWine). Paper ballots in most counties. Post-election audits. Strong election administration.
OH SOS; EAC EAVS; SB 458
+2
Transparency — state budget accessibility
OH has transparency portal (OhioCheckbook.com). Budget data publicly available. GFOA awards for financial reporting. Strong transparency.
U.S. PIRG; OhioCheckbook.com; GFOA
+2
Intergovernmental cooperation — federal compliance balanced with sovereignty
Cooperative with lawful federal requirements while resisting overreach. Immigration cooperation standard. Some federal mandate challenges.
Federal compliance; OH AG litigation
+2
Gubernatorial succession and continuity planning
OH has Lt. Governor (Jon Husted). Clear succession. COOP plan current and tested.
OH Constitution; succession records
+2
Anti-corruption — state procurement integrity
OH procurement generally well-controlled. Competitive bidding above threshold. State Auditor active oversight. STRS investment scandal was governance failure but not state procurement.
OH procurement; Auditor reports
+2
Gas price burden — state gas taxes, refinery regulations, cap-and-trade
Ohio gas tax 38.5 cents/gallon — above national average. Gas tax raised in 2019 by 10.5 cents for infrastructure.
Ohio gas tax rate data; DeWine 2019 increase
+1
Energy affordability — residential electricity costs from state policy
Ohio electricity rates near/slightly below national average. DeWine signed HB 15 eliminating HB 6 scandal-era coal plant subsidies.
EIA Ohio electricity; HB 15 (2025)
+1
Energy policy competence — forced mandates without infrastructure readiness
Ohio has diversified energy mix. No forced transition mandates. DeWine signed HB 15 for market-based energy framework.
HB 15 (2025); Ohio energy portfolio
+1
Property tax burden — effective rate vs national median
DeWine signed landmark property tax reform package (Dec 2025) expected to save taxpayers $2B+ over 3 years.
HB 124, 129, 186, 309, 335 (Dec 2025)
+2
Regulatory cost burden — permits, compliance costs per household/business
Ohio's regulatory burden moderate. Signed flat income tax at 2.75%.
Ohio income tax reform; Business climate rankings
+1
Unfunded mandates on municipalities
No significant legislation addressing unfunded mandates on municipalities.
Ohio Municipal League reports
0
Cost of living trajectory — policy-driven affordability trend
Ohio cost of living remains below national average. Property tax reform will help.
BLS CPI — Midwest; Ohio housing data
+1
Immigration fiscal burden — taxpayer cost of sanctuary/benefits policies
Ohio is not a sanctuary state but faced unexpected fiscal burden from Springfield Haitian migrant surge (20,000+).
DeWine Springfield press conference Sept 2024
0
Homelessness spending accountability — spending vs measurable outcomes
Ohio's homelessness spending is modest. No major spending accountability scandals.
Governor housing investment; Ohio homelessness data
+1
Encampment enforcement — response to SCOTUS Grants Pass ruling
No significant encampment enforcement action post-Grants Pass. No statewide camping ban.
Ohio legislative tracker; HUD PIT Count
0
Net domestic migration trend — people leaving vs arriving
Ohio's domestic migration turned positive in 2025 — gaining 11,926 net domestic migrants (up from -32,482 in 2021).
Census Bureau 2025; NAR state migration
+1
Business exodus — corporate HQ and jobs relocating due to policy
Ohio attracted Intel's $20B semiconductor fabrication plant. Some business growth. Not a top destination for HQ relocations.
Intel Ohio investment; JobsOhio data
+1
DA accountability — governor's power to remove rogue prosecutors
Ohio governor has limited power to remove local prosecutors. No documented instances of DeWine using removal power.
Ohio Constitution; Ohio DA office data
0
Election infrastructure — ballot harvesting, drop box security, audit transparency
DeWine signed voter photo ID law (2023). Secretary of State LaRose maintained voter roll hygiene.
Ohio voter ID law 2023; SoS data
+2
Weaponization of state agencies — using AG/regulatory bodies against political opponents
No documented pattern of weaponizing state agencies. Clean record on this metric.
Governor's executive orders; AG independence
+1
Foreign adversary protections — Chinese land, TikTok bans, Confucius Institutes
No Ohio legislation restricting Chinese land purchases or banning TikTok on state devices.
Ohio legislative tracker
0
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