COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio's elections chief has squelched rumors he might be preparing to challenge Gov. John Kasich (KAY'-sik) in a Republican primary two years from now.
Secretary of State Jon Husted (HYOO'-sted) told reporters Thursday that if he runs for anything in 2014 it would be for re-election to his current job, where he oversees business filings and elections in the battleground state.
The 45-year-old Husted has served as state senator and speaker of the Ohio House. He's widely mentioned as an eventual contender for the governorship.
His remarks came at a news conference held to certify results of the 2012 election, including Democratic President Barack Obama's victory in Ohio.
Husted said deciding his political future is less a priority this week than wrapping up the election and being with his family.
