Pickaway County attorney and business owner Mike Hess has announced that he will enter the race for Ohio’s 4th District Court of Appeals.
Hess, a former Assistant County Prosecutor and former member of Circleville City Council, made the announcement on Tuesday in front of both friends and family. He is seeking to replace Judge Bill Harsha who is unable to seek an additional term on the bench. Hess says he will run an aggressive grassroots campaign.
“I am excited to get into this race," said Hess. "The appellate court is the second set of eyes that ensures justice is done in Ohio. Sitting on this bench, following a leader like Bill Harsha would be an honor that I would take very seriously. My principles define who I am and will be reflected in my opinions that impact Ohioans."
The Fourth District Court of Appeals serves Adams, Athens, Gallia, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Pickaway, Pike, Ross, Scioto, Vinton, and Washington counties.
Hess starts this campaign with broad regional support. Co-Chairing his campaign will be Steve Caraway, Former Adams County Commissioner and Republican Party Treasurer, as well as Marilyn Ashcraft, Washington County resident and member of the Republican State Central Committee.
Mike also has the support of all three members of the Pickaway County Board of Commissioners, State Representative Gary Scherer and County Prosecutor Judy Wolford.
Mike Hess currently lives in Commercial Point, Ohio with his wife Stephanie and their daughter. He'll be running on the Republican ticket against fellow Republican, Kathleen Madden and Democrat, Valarie Gerlach.