
Fri Sep 06 20:45:41 UTC 2024: – An appeals court has returned control of Ohio House Republicans’ campaign purse strings to Speaker Jason Stephens, but the ruling does not resolve the ongoing intraparty dispute.
– Stephens pledged to support Republican candidates and defeat a redistricting ballot issue after the court ruling.
– The dispute stems from Stephens winning the speakership with support from House Democrats in January 2023, leading to rebellion from Republicans who supported speaker-apparent Rep. Derek Merrin.
– The court declined to resolve the central question of what the statute means by “caucus.”
– Rep. Phil Plummer, who was elected to head the campaign fund by the rival group, rejected the court’s ruling and said it will have no practical effect on their activities.
– Plummer is an ally of Senate President Matt Huffman, who is expected to challenge Stephens for the speakership in January.
Court puts Ohio House speaker back in control of GOP purse strings
Court puts Ohio House speaker back in control of GOP purse strings