The congressman who's district stretches from Youngstown to Akron is declining a bid for the Ohio Democratic nomination for Governor in 2014.
Tim Ryan's decision comes on the heels of Cuyahoga County Executive Ed Fitzgerald's decision to set up an exploratory committee that allows him to start fundraising and setting up a campaign organization before making any run official. Fitzgerald, Ryan and federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau czar Richard Cordray had been mentioned as the strongest candidates Ohio Democrats could field for the right to challenge Republican Governor John Kasich next year.
In a statement released by his office, Ryan said he would continue to lead in efforts to grow opportunity in Ohio. He specifically mentioned Akron's Austen BioInnovation Institute as well as efforts to build Tech Belt linking businesses and Universities crossing not only local congressional districts but also into Pennsylvania.
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(Congressman Tim Ryan) "This is the most exciting time in the history of Northeast Ohio and it has become increasingly clear to me that I will be able to do more for the region, state, and country by continuing to serve in the House of Representatives rather than running for governor. For decades, our young people have yearned for more opportunities, and now those opportunities are growing everyday. By continuing to lead that effort from my current position in Congress, together we can continue to build upon those accomplishments.
We have already accomplished much in our region, from the Austen BioInnovation Institute in Akron, to the Kent Central Gateway project, to the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute and a new billion dollar steel pipe factory in Youngstown. We have made great progress because of regional cooperation including Tech Belt, a vibrant 21st century mega-region that stretches from Cleveland and Akron over to Youngstown and Pittsburgh. Our region's success has been recognized as a model by national and international publications, as well as the President of the United States in his State of the Union.
Although the region has seen a tremendous turnaround, we are still at the early stages of our revitalization with too many people who have yet to share in that recent success. I recognize that I am in a unique position to help create opportunities for these people. I also wish to continue the work I am doing with our active duty troops and veterans, especially those who carry so much of the trauma of war and suffer from post-traumatic stress.
It has been an honor to serve in Congress for the great people of Northeast Ohio. I am and forever will be grateful for the support I've received over the years. I want to thank all of my dear friends, family and staff members for their views and support while I was considering this decision. I am blessed to have so many smart and caring leaders in my life from so many of the great communities around Ohio. I look forward to continuing this important work as we help Ohio reach its full potential."
