Economic woes fuel appetite for change in Ohio

The escalating price of gasoline and groceries, the war in Iraq, the housing crisis and the struggling economy are fueling an appetite for change among voters, according to Chris Redfern, a member of the Ohio House of Representatives and Ohio Democratic Party chair. Redfern and Ohio House Speaker Pro Tempore Kevin DeWine, who also serves as vice chair of the Ohio Republican Party, addressed 50 members of The Ohio Society of CPAs’ Council of Leaders this week in a frank though cordial debate.

DeWine, countered Redfern’s predictions, stating Republicans are likely to maintain a slim majority in the Ohio House. “It is a great time to be involved,” he said. “This is a change election – a time for bold ideas, innovative solutions to control spending and put the brakes on massive entitlement programs.”

Both Representatives predict that this will be an interesting four months for Ohioans and the focus of significant spending by both parties. “Ohio will be ground zero in this election,” DeWine said. “Expect visits, phone calls and mail from candidates on both sides of the aisle.” He encouraged audience members to get involved in the process and get to know the candidates around the state.

Redfern agreed, referencing OSCPA’s legislative keyperson program. “One of OSCPA’s key activities is to bring people together,” he said. “Don’t let your personal political beliefs impact the Society. Allow the Society’s objectives to succeed with Democrat and Republican leaders. It makes good business sense to hedge your bets and build great relationships on both sides of the aisle. Begin by getting to know the candidates and legislators – without any agenda. Have a cup of coffee with candidates in the weeks before they are elected so that when the legislative session starts you can pick up the phone and request time to discuss an issue. We need people willing to get involved beyond writing a PAC check.”

Regarding OSCPA’s lobbying efforts on behalf of Society members and the CPA profession, DeWine said, “OSCPA staff provide honest, credible information – the Society is a resource that is trusted on capitol square. Decent, hardworking, respectable people represent your interests in the General Assembly. We look at the Society as a significant supporter of pro-business issues.”

Following discussion on the political climate, the Council of Leaders heard presentations on key business and professional issues the Society is managing and provided guidance on action steps to achieve the key objectives identified by the Society’s Strategic Planning Committee.

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