Veteran Stark County legislator Scott Oelslager recently announced that he is seeking the open State Senate seat in Ohio's 29th senate district.
"The state of Ohio is experiencing a severe economic and budget crisis," Oelslager stated. "In times like these the people of Ohio, and Stark County, are looking for a person with experience who has a record of reaching across the aisle and constructively work with legislators of both parties. My record clearly illustrates that I have done this."
During his tenure in the legislature, Oelslager has developed a successful working relationship with organizations with varying political views and has worked vigorously with individuals and legislators in a bipartisan fashion.
"Only by having an open door policy and encouraging dialogue with people with people with differing viewpoints can we attempt to address the issues of jobs, education and healthcare," he states. "As a Republican in a traditional competitive county, I learned the importance of being open, pragmatic and display the same kind of work ethic typified by my constituents."
In making the announcement that he would seek Ohio's 29th District Senate Seat, Oelslager further stated that "my record of understanding the plight of our working families, our senior citizens, an our young people and supporting them in every possible way as a legislator and as a individual, lends testimony to being the kind of public servant our district needs at this time in history."
Oelslager cites his recent vote to extend relief to Ohio families unable to make their monthly mortgage payment. He was one of just a handful of Republicans to vote for this Democratic measure (House Bill 3). "It just made good sense, if our families are suffering, Ohio is suffering...if our families are strengthened, Ohio and Stark County will be in a better position to face the future."
A bold and outspoken supporter of public education and open government, the North Canton legislator was named Legislator of the Year by the Association of Advanced Practice Nurses in 2008 and Outstanding Legislator of the Year by the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police in 2001.
In 2006, Oelslager received the Ohio Federation of Teachers-American Federation of Teachers Friend of Public Education Award and was also honored in 2005 with the First Amendment Award from the Society of Professional Journalists/Central Ohio Chapter.
Oelslager, who received his law degree in 2002 from Capital University Law School in Columbus, served as 29th District State Senator from 1985-2002 and was subsequently elected to the State House of Representatives, 51st Ohio District, in 2002.
He and his wife Elsie reside in North Canton.
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