DeWine opposes efforts to change governor's powers

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has begun talks with Governor-elect Amy Acton about her administration and indicated he does not support any attempt by lame-duck Republican supermajority lawmakers to dramatically change the powers of governor before January. DeWine made his position clear on the potential for lame-duck legislative action, stating, I don’t think any governor is going to approve anything, whether Democrat or Republican, that would dramatically change the powers of the governor. The governor held discussions with Acton and her husband at the Ohio Governor’s residence, emphasizing a smooth transition for the incoming administration.

DeWine’s Transition with Acton

DeWine has initiated talks with Governor-elect Amy Acton, telling reporters we want to be helpful. The meeting at the Ohio Governor’s residence on Wednesday was followed by a press conference Thursday morning where DeWine detailed his efforts to share his experiences and insights with Acton. What I started to do with her is here’s what I know. Here’s what my experiences have been. Here are some difficult things. Here are things that, I think, as I look at the trajectory of Ohio, I think is going to be challenging, he said. Acton, who previously served as Ohio Department of Health director in DeWine’s cabinet, named John Haseley as her transition chair.

Opposition to Legislative Power Shifts

DeWine is opposed to attempts by Republican lawmakers to change the governor’s powers before his term ends. I don’t think that’s appropriate. I have no idea if they are going to do that, he stated. While Ohio Democrats broke the Republican supermajority in the Ohio House, political analysts expect Republican lawmakers to propose measures to limit gubernatorial authority. DeWine emphasized the importance of stability, saying, Predictability, stability, is really one of the strengths that we have as a state.

Gov. DeWine discusses transition of power with Gov.-elect Acton

DeWine’s Vision for Ohio’s Future

DeWine expressed hope that Acton will continue key initiatives like the science of reading, the OhioSEE Program, and the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. We must continue to invest, frankly, in our greatest asset. And our greatest asset is our children, he said. When asked about former candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, DeWine noted both candidates expressed support for these issues. She’s got to govern, and she’s got to face the challenges that she faces. All I can do is talk about what I think is in the best interest in the state of Ohio. Investing in children is absolutely the best money we can spend, he added. DeWine declined to comment on whether Ramaswamy’s controversial ad impacted other Ohio Republicans in the election.

Keep reading