State Sen. Bill Reineke (R-Tiffin) recently announced his candidacy to succeed Senate President Rob McColley (R-Napoleon) for the next General Assembly. Reineke currently serves as president pro tempore, the second-highest-ranking Republican in the chamber, and is seeking to lead the Senate during the 2027–2028 General Assembly.

McColley, who began his term as president in January, cannot seek re-election due to Ohio’s term limits. Reineke is the first to formally declare his intent to run for the leadership role, though Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirkland) has also expressed interest.

Reineke’s early bid signals the beginning of what is expected to be a competitive race for Senate leadership. With years of experience in the House and Senate, as well as current leadership credentials, he is considered a strong contender within the Republican caucus to take the helm when the new General Assembly convenes in 2027. 8/5/2025