Innovation Ohio

What you need to know about Ohio Politics and Policy

Toolkit — Lowering Costs for Ohioans

Folder full of graphics that you can download and share on social media!

President Biden’s Affordable Connectivity Program is providing reliable, affordable, broadband internet to Ohio families:

  • Many Ohioans can get $30 off broadband internet plans through Biden’s Affordable Connectivity Program.
  • The Biden Admin also negotiated with internet providers to get new plans that will make many Americans’ internet bills $0
  • Click here for Broadband graphics you can download and share!
  • Over 600,000 Ohio households are already benefiting from affordable, high-speed internet as a result of this program. But over 1.4 million Ohio households are eligible!

The Biden Admin is Increasing Your Social Security Check:

President Biden Lowered the Cost of Hearing Aids:

President Biden’s CHIPS Act is lowering costs for Ohio by:

  • Speeding up the production of computer chips, which will lower the cost of cars, computers, cell phones, home appliances, medical equipment, and more.
  • Making sure more products are built in America
  • Creating good-paying jobs in our state
  • Improving the supply chain, which will lower costs for your family
  • Click here for CHIPS Act graphics you can download and share!
  • VOTES:
    • Tim Ryan and Ohio’s Democratic House members voted FOR the CHIPS Act
    • Senators Sherrod Brown (D) and Rob Portman (R) voted FOR the CHIPS Act
    • Four of Ohio’s Republican House members (Davidson, Jordan, Latta, Wenstrup) voted NO. Why would they vote against Ohio?

President Biden’s Infrastructure Law is improving life in Ohio by:

  • Improving the supply chain, lowering costs for your family
  • Helping refill dangerous potholes in our roads
  • Providing resources to rebuild crumbling bridges
  • Providing access to broadband internet for all American families 
  • Lowering internet costs
  • Creating millions of good-paying jobs
  • Replacing old pipes and delivering clean drinking water to all families
  • Cleaning up brownfield sites and reclaiming abandoned mines
  • Click here for infrastructure law graphics you can download and share!
  • VOTES:
    • Tim Ryan and Ohio’s Democratic House members voted FOR the Infrastructure Law
    • Senators Sherrod Brown (D) and Rob Portman (R) voted FOR the Infrastructure Law
    • 11 of Ohio’s 12 Republican House members voted NO. Why would they vote against Ohio?

The Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act is lowering costs for Ohio:

  • CleanEnergy.gov — See how your family can save money through the Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act
  • Click here for Inflation Reduction Act graphics you can download and share!
  • VOTES:
    • Tim Ryan and Ohio’s Democratic House members voted FOR the Inflation Reduction Act
    • Senators Sherrod Brown (D) voted FOR the Inflation Reduction Act
    • All of Ohio’s Republican Congress members voted NO. Why would they vote against Ohio?

REMEMBER — Abortion Rights are an economic issue:

Make sure your community knows WHEN and HOW to vote:

  • Reminder: Election Day is Tuesday, November 8th!
  • Ohio Voter Guide (OhioVoterGuide.org) — Nonpartisan. Type your address to see the candidates on your ballot AND information about each candidate!
  • VoteOhio.gov— Official Ohio elections website. Explains the 3 ways to vote in Ohio.
  • Click here for voter information graphics you can download and share!

Stay Connected with Innovation Ohio:

Rachel’s Rural Roadtrip!

Everyone wants to know if progressive values are still around in rural Ohio. Well, we decided to hit the road and find out for ourselves. Innovation Ohio has been working all year to research and compile resources for rural progressives.

You’ve seen the articles, the polling, and the data, but that doesn’t tell the whole story.

Innovation Ohio staffer Rachel Coyle went on a road trip around the state to learn more about what’s on the hearts and minds of rural voters!

She visited rural counties to experience local culture (and local food!), promote early voting, and hear from members of each community:

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make action GIFs like this at MakeaGif

Ohioans in rural counties expressed to us, in their own words, why voting is so vitally important this year:

Then, we created this rural toolkit.

The toolkit contains facts, articles, and graphics (like the one below) that you can download and share with your own community!

Rural voices and rural votes can shape the future of our state — especially this year.

Early Vote among rural Ohioans is currently outpacing 2018:

Make sure you’re speaking with the rural Ohioans you love. Together, we can lift up the great work being done by President Biden and Democrats in Congress to lower costs and improve quality of life throughout Ohio!

If you live in rural Ohio, we’d love to tell Ohioans why you’re voting this year! Just email a short video (15-30 seconds is perfect) to info@InnovationOhio.org

Ohio Leaders Hold ‘Constituents Over Corporations’ Town Hall in Cincinnati

Despite repeated invitations, Congressman Chabot was a no-show to a recess event in his district

CINCINNATI — This week, Innovation Ohio (IO) joined local elected officials and SW Ohio residents for a Constituents Over Corporations town hall at the Woodward Theater in Cincinnati.

At this event, Ohioans celebrated the Democrats’ passage of the Inflation Reduction Act. This historic law will lower Americans’ healthcare and energy costs, lower the deficit, create jobs, and help our nation battle the effects of climate change.

“The Inflation Reduction Act is paid for by making sure billionaires pay their fair share…no one making under $400,000 per year will see their taxes go up. But they will see their costs go down,” said Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio.

Local leaders also named Republican Congress members who voted against the Inflation Reduction Act and several other recent bills, repeatedly choosing corporations over their constituents. Republican Congress members, including Steve Chabot and Brad Wenstrup in Ohio, have been enabling price gouging corporations — from Big Pharma to Big Oil.

“While my constituents are working extra jobs to make ends meet, corporate America is raking in more money than ever before…Republican politicians won’t do anything for working Americans because big corporations are lining their pockets,” said State Representative Jessica Miranda (D-Forest Park).

“Our people are hurting. Inflation is hurting them. But you get no answers from Congressional Republicans. They just want to complain. They say, ‘gas prices are too high. Inflation is too high.’ They don’t want to offer you solutions,” said Pavan Parikh, Hamilton County Clerk of Courts. “The Inflation Reduction Act offers actual solutions. It reduces medical costs. It actually encourages corporations to invest in their workers and not just line their pockets with stock buybacks.”

Despite multiple invitations, Congressman Steve Chabot refused to attend this town hall. A cardboard cutout of the congressman was therefore used to mark his empty chair during the event.

“It’s pretty unfortunate that Congressman Steve Chabot did not show up today to answer questions and be accountable to constituents. It’s interesting that he did show up to a parade recently to wave his hand at people, but then immediately got in a car and left,” noted State Representative Sedrick Denson (D-Cincinnati).

Event speakers included:

  • Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio (video)
  • State Senator Cecil Thomas, D-Avondale (video)
  • State Representative Jessica Miranda, D-Forest Park (video)
  • State Representative Sedrick Denson, D-Cincinnati (video)
  • Pavan Parikh, Hamilton County Clerk of Courts (video)
  • Victoria Parks, Cincinnati City Council Member (video)

About Innovation Ohio
Innovation Ohio is a diverse nonprofit organization working to improve everyday life for Ohio workers and families, create opportunities for all Ohioans, and strengthen Ohioan communities from the bottom up. Through polling, messaging campaigns, and coalition building, they are a catalyst for progressive policy and grassroots activity. Click here to support Innovation Ohio’s work.

About Unrig Our Economy
Unrig Our Economy is a national campaign to fix the rules of our economy to make it work for working people. We know that when the middle class does well, all of us do well — which is why we’re fighting on behalf of working Americans and holding corporations, their wealthy executives, and the politicians who enable them accountable. Learn more at UnRigOurEconomy.com or by contacting press@unrigoureconomy.com.

Innovation Ohio Adds Several New Team Members as Organization’s Work Expands

Today, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, proudly announced several new additions to the organization’s staff. Innovation Ohio continues to expand and grow in order to meet the demands of this crucial moment in Ohio politics.

“We have reached a pivotal juncture for our state and our nation. Will we allow ourselves to be thrown backward by a vocal minority intent upon unraveling decades of progress, or will we stand up, fight back, and continue to move forward toward a future that’s better for everyone? Innovation Ohio is stepping up and staffing up to provide the research, messaging, and resources necessary for Ohio’s progressive champions to succeed,” said Desiree Tims.

New Innovation Ohio staff members include:

Kayla Lewis
Chief of Staff
She/Her

Kayla Lewis brings an abundance of state and local campaign experience to IO, as well as five years of state legislative experience and four years in direct service nonprofit work. She has held various positions on political campaigns ranging from field and volunteer organization to communications and strategy.

Kayla is a proud HBCU graduate of Kentucky State University, where she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. She has also earned a diploma from The Campaign School at Yale University and currently attends Capital University Law School.

Ambur Smith
Democracy and Civil Rights Director
She/Her

Ambur C. Smith, Esq. is an Ohio attorney, political strategist and entrepreneur. Prior to joining IO, Ambur gained experience in progressive politics as a field organizer and strategist for Democratic campaigns; most recently as the Deputy Director of Voter Protection for the Ohio Democratic Party in 2020. Simultaneously, Ambur has dedicated her legal career to empowering women and marginalized communities in both the public and private sector while exploring the intersections between identity, law and politics.

Ambur is a proud graduate of Hampton University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, and the Georgetown University Law Center, where she received her Juris Doctor. Ambur is licensed to practice law in Ohio and the District of Columbia.

Nick Tuell
Senior Communications Strategist and Paid Media Buyer
He/Him

Nick Tuell is a political professional with experience in government and political campaigns. He worked for President Obama’s reelection campaign as a field organizer in southeast Ohio, and worked four election cycles for the Ohio House Democratic Caucus, where he eventually ran the statewide field, digital, and communications programs.

Nick has several years of government experience as well. He first served as Legislative Aide to State Representative Stephen Slesnick, then Senior Legislative Aide to Ohio House Minority Leader Fred Strahorn. Most recently, Nick served as Chief Spokesperson for the Franklin County Clerk of Courts, Maryellen O’Shaughnessy. Nick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with certificates in Political Communications and Gender Studies from the Ohio University.

Sha’Tisha Young
Senior Digital Communications Associate
They/Them

Sha’Tisha Young was born in Colorado Springs, CO, but grew up primarily in Dayton and Xenia, OH. They attended Wright State University for a bachelor’s degree in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies with dual minors in Classical Humanities and Youth and Community Engagement.

Working in public libraries small and large for over 6 years, Sha’Tisha saw first hand how the lack of resources in any given community directly impacted its residents. Coupled with their work with organizations like Planned Parenthood, Pro-Choice Ohio, MoveOn and URGE, Sha’Tisha has developed a sense of organizing that is rooted in empowering and activating voters on a local level.

Emma Speyer
Research and Communication Associate
She/Her

Emma Speyer is from Cleveland, Ohio, and a recent graduate of the University of Dayton. During her time at UD, she studied Public Relations and Political Science, finding passion in state politics and engaging her local community.

Emma spent over three years in community organizing by leading her school’s voting rights organization, registering students to vote, and educating students on local and federal issues. She also spent time working for the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections, directly working for voters and assisting with community engagement for her hometown. Emma is most excited about the opportunity to continue her passion of helping educate voters and providing fair and equal opportunities for civic engagement.

To learn more about Innovation Ohio (IO), visit InnovationOhio.org and follow IO on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

To receive regular updates and/or news clips from IO, sign up here.

To support IO’s important work, contribute here.

Desiree Tims Celebrates Confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson

COLUMBUS — Today, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, released the following statement celebrating Ketanji Brown Jackson’s historic confirmation to the United States Supreme Court:

“Today, history has been made. Ketanji Brown Jackson was just confirmed as the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.

“I have often said it is the lived experiences and diverse backgrounds of Supreme Court justices that are vital to the deliberative decision-making process. Justice Brown Jackson brings a crucial perspective that will greatly enrich Court proceedings.

“Justice Brown Jackson will be the first former federal public defender on the U.S. Supreme Court. She will also be the first justice with extensive criminal defense experience since Thurgood Marshall. The Court and the American people will benefit greatly from her expertise and input.

“I am immensely grateful to President Joe Biden for keeping this promise to Americans. I look forward to the great work that Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson will do as the newest member of our nation’s highest Court.”

Desiree Tims Celebrates House Passage of Build Back Better Plan, Urges Quick Senate Passage

Today, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, released the following statement praising the passage of President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda through the House, and urging its quick passage through the Senate:

“President Biden’s Build Back Better plan just took a big step forward on the path to becoming law — and Ohio families are ready.

“This bill will lower the cost of prescription drugs, establish universal Pre-K, provide tax breaks for clean energy, and expand the Child Tax Credit. It will even cut taxes for millions of families and small businesses. The benefits are seemingly endless.

“I’m thrilled that Ohio’s Democratic delegation voted in favor of the Build Back Better plan. It is clear that the vast majority of Ohioans support this agenda, which will provide relief to hardworking families.

“The president’s Build Back Better plan will provide the crucial care infrastructure Ohio parents and children need. Let’s get this bill across the finish line and through the Senate — and let’s make sure it includes paid leave.“

Mayors, Small Business Leader Discuss the American Rescue Plan and Local Aid

Yesterday, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, hosted three Ohio mayors and the Co-Chair of Small Business For America’s Future for a virtual “Local Aid Through the American Rescue Plan” panel.

Mayors Meghan George (Lakewood), Frank Whitfield (Elyria), and Steve Patterson (Athens) discussed how they are using local aid through President Biden’s American Rescue Plan to support their communities.

“The American Rescue Plan ensures that Ohio’s state and local governments can continue to fund critical public services. It also provides flexible funds that allow state and local leaders to decide how to best continue providing relief — especially to our small businesses,” said Desiree Tims.

“The resources in the American Rescue Plan are giving us a once in a generation opportunity to make catalytic investments in our cities and small businesses,” said Elyria Mayor Frank Whitfield.

Anne Zimmerman — founder and owner of Zimmerman & Co CPAs Inc. and Co-Chair of Small Business for America’s Future — also joined the panel to discuss local aid through a small business lens. SBAF co-sponsored the panel with Innovation Ohio.

“This aid is incredibly important for our community. 60% of small business owners say that relief from the American Rescue Plan will be used primarily to keep their workers on the job. Strong small businesses create a strong economy for all of Ohio,” said Anne Zimmerman.

The American Rescue Plan is sending Ohio’s state and local governments a total of $12 billion. $5.4 billion goes to the state. Another $6.6 billion goes directly to local cities, counties, townships, and municipalities to maintain critical COVID relief programs and avoid budget cuts.

“There are several key provisions that the American Rescue Plan is providing — including mitigating negative economic impacts caused by the pandemic and helping us support investments in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure,” said Lakewood Mayor Meghan George. “Every single household and every single business is going to benefit from the American Rescue Plan here in our community.”

“COVID had a significant impact on small businesses in college communities like Athens. They built their livelihoods around having students in the uptown area. I can’t imagine how much more of a negative, long-term impact we would have experienced if the American Rescue Plan hadn’t passed,” said Athens Mayor Steve Patterson. 

The full panel can be viewed online here.

As President Biden Visits Ohio, Desiree Tims Praises American Rescue Plan

COLUMBUS — Today, as President Joe Biden visited Ohio, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, released the following statement praising the American Rescue Plan and its impact on the state:

“We are so grateful to have President Biden in Ohio today as the American Rescue Plan continues to help our state recover. 

“The president’s plan is having a real, direct impact on Ohioans’ lives. It provides support in so many ways — from child tax credits, to rental assistance, to small business relief, to protecting our veterans. It’s exactly the boost our communities needed. 

“I’m also thrilled to see the president place such a high priority on infrastructure. Rebuilding our state will mean stable, good-paying jobs in dozens of industries for thousands of people. And the result will be a stronger Ohio that’s ready to grow and flourish for years to come.”

Biden’s Visit — Statement from Desiree Tims

With President Biden visiting Columbus later today, we wanted to share a few thoughts about the groundbreaking American Rescue Package.

The American Rescue Package will help us build back better. Money in your pocket and a shot in your arm – it’s that simple. The American Rescue Package is the first step towards rebuilding after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ARP will help keep food on the table and keep struggling families out of poverty. Most Ohioans will receive $1,400 under the rescue plan, plus additional funds for children. This is exactly what Ohio families need. Some estimates show that the ARP will cut child poverty in Ohio in half.

The American rescue package will provide massive support for our local communities. The ARP will give local governments in Ohio $4.6 billion to help pay for first responders, public health professionals, and vital city services. It will also provide $5.5 billion to the state of Ohio.

The ARP will keep health costs down and help reopen schools. The American Rescue Plan’s investments in healthcare and schools will help Ohio families afford quality healthcare and safely get our kids back to school – in person.

President Biden’s visit shows how important Ohio still is politically. With all the important elections in 2022, including the gubernatorial and U.S. Senate races, it’s no surprise that President Biden would come to Ohio this early. It’s another reminder that Ohio isn’t a red state, it’s a rigged state. Over the next two years, we have an incredible opportunity to rebuild progressive power in Ohio!

I hope you’ll help spread the word!

In solidarity,

Desiree Tims
Innovation Ohio CEO

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