Category: Party News

Candidate and Campaign Training

Franklin County needs energetic people to run for office! Libertarian elected officials get to make policy that reduces the scope of government and increases personal liberty.

Why run for office? Local elections are important. They affect the community and can bring about real change. Running for local roles, such as city council or school board, is a great starting point. These positions allow individuals to gain experience and learn about the political process. It is possible to build a path to bigger offices, such as state representative, state senator, or even federal positions, by starting small.

At the training, attendees will learn the basics of running for office. Topics will include the process for getting on the ballot, creating a plan for 1 or 2 year campaigns, reaching out to voters and applying Libertarian principles to public policy. Experienced speakers will share their knowledge and answer questions. It is a chance to connect with others who share a passion for making a difference in the community.

Candidate and Campaign Training
Tuesday, November 12, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM 
Franklinton Library Meeting Room
1061 W Town St, Columbus

Local offices include city and village council, township trustees, and school board members. With a term or two of local office, you will have the experience and credibility to run a successful campaign for county, state, or federal office, but if you have the qualifications to run for a different office, we won’t turn you down!

Check out what elected offices are open in Franklin County for 2025.

FRANKLIN COUNTY MUNICIPAL COURT 
Judge, full term commencing 1-1-2026 ………………………………… Jodi Thomas 
Judge, full term commencing 1-2-2026 ………………………………… Jessica D’Varga
Judge, full term commencing 1-3-2026 …………………………………..James E. Green

CITY OF COLUMBUS
Offices …………………………………………………………………. City Attorney (Klein) 
…………………………………………………………………………….. City Auditor (Kilgore)  
……………………………………………………………………………. Council District 1 (Wyche) 
……………………………………………………………………………. Council District 3 (Dorans) 
…………………………………………………………………………… Council District 4 (Remy) 
…………………………………………………………………………… Council District 7 (Favor) 

BOARD OF EDUCATION – COLUMBUS CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Board Member  ………………. Three Seats (six to be nominated) (Cole, Reyes, Vera) 

CITY OF HILLIARD
Offices …………………………………………………………………………….. Four Council Seats 

CITY OF REYNOLDSBURG
Offices …………………………………………………………………………….. City Auditor (Cicak) 
…………………………………………………………………………. Three Council-at-Large seats 

CITY OF WHITEHALL
Offices ……………………………………………………………………….. City Auditor (Quincel) 
….. City Council Ward Seats (Ward 1-Dixon, Ward 2-Heck, Ward 3-Smith, Ward 4-Brown)

VILLAGE OF BRICE charter
Offices ……………………………………………………………………………….. Four Council Seats 

Source: https://vote.franklincountyohio.gov/BOEL-website/media/Documents/Candidate-Requirements/2025-Primary-Schedule-and-Candidate-Requirements.pdf

Check out Election and Candidate Resources.

Before starting your campaign, take a quick look at our “Candidate Quick Start Guide” video (27 minutes).

Recommended resources:

Election & Candidate Resources
Candidate Quick Start Guide Video

How to Win a Local Election Paperback
by Lawrence Grey

Politics Is for Power: How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism, Take Action, and Make Real Change Hardcover
by Eitan Hersh

Guerilla Marketing: Easy and Inexpensive Strategies for Making Big Profits from Your Small Business Paperback
by Jay Conrad Levinson

Candidate and Campaign Training
Tuesday, November 12, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM 
Franklinton Library Meeting Room
1061 W Town St, Columbus

Meet the Candidate – Eric Terford

October 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Meet the Candidate – Eric Terford

Thu Oct 3rd, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
91 Flavors Bistro
5186 East Main Street Whitehall, 43213

Get directions.

Eric Terford, candidate for Ohio’s District 2 Representative, invites the community to a “Meet the Candidate” event to discuss his vision for a more socially conscious, fiscally responsible government. As a machinist by trade, Eric brings a pragmatic, hands-on approach to problem-solving—something he believes is sorely needed in the legislative process.

Eric Terford is a strong advocate for individual rights and believes that government should serve the people without overreach. His platform focuses on minimizing unnecessary government intervention while promoting policies that foster personal freedom and social responsibility. Terford envisions a government that operates within its means, ensures fiscal responsibility, and prioritizes smart, efficient solutions for Ohio’s future.

The event will provide voters the opportunity to learn more about Eric’s platform, ask questions, and share their concerns. Eric Terford is committed to representing the interests of all District 2 residents, and this gathering offers a chance to connect with voters on key issues affecting the community.

Event Details: Meet the Candidate – Eric Terford for Ohio District 2 Representative
Date: October 3rd
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Location: 91 Flavors Bistro
5186 East Main Street Whitehall, 43213

Elect Eric Terford Ohio House 2

Franklin County Libertarian Party to Host Candidate Forum

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio
9/12/2024

Franklin County Libertarian Party to Host Candidate Forum

Columbus, OH – The Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio (FCLPO) will host the Franklin County Candidate Forum on Thursday, October 17th, from 6pm to 8pm at the Columbus Metropolitan Library: Driving Park Branch in Meeting Room 3, located at 1422 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205. This event offers a candid discussion on opportunities, challenges, and policies impacting all Franklin County residents.

All candidates and elected officials are invited to participate in this forum, which encourages open dialogue on key local issues such as public safety, education, economic development, and community services. Candidates will have the opportunity to present their ideas and engage directly with residents on the most pressing concerns affecting the county.

The forum fosters an inclusive, nonpartisan environment where candidates from all political backgrounds can share their perspectives, offering transparency and accountability to the voters. Franklin County residents are encouraged to attend and hear firsthand from those running for office.

The Franklin County Candidate Forum is free and open to the public. For more information and event updates, please visit the FCLPO.org website or follow their social media channels.

All Franklin County candidates and elected are invited and welcome.

Candidates confirmed to attend:

Drake Lundstrom – Candidate for Franklin County Treasurer

John Rutan – Candidate for Franklin County Prosecutor

Brandy Seymour – Candidate for Ohio House District 9

Eric Terford – Candidate for Ohio House District 2

Event Details:
What: Franklin County Candidate Forum
When: Thursday, October 17th, 6pm to 8pm
Where: Columbus Metropolitan Library: Driving Park Branch, Meeting Room 3
1422 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43205

Contact:
Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio
Email: info@fclpo.org
Website: fclpo.org

For media inquiries, please contact Ken Holpp, Communications Director, info@fclpo.org

Campaign Training and Planning

September 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Franklin County Libertarians Offer Campaign Training for November Election and Beyond

Franklin County Libertarians are excited to announce a comprehensive campaign training program designed to equip candidates, volunteers, and supporters with the skills needed for success in the upcoming November election and future races. The training will cover essential aspects of campaign planning, including strategy development, voter outreach, fundraising, and digital engagement. By participating, attendees will gain the knowledge and tools necessary to run effective, grassroots campaigns that reflect Libertarian values. This initiative underscores the party’s commitment to empowering individuals to take active roles in the political process. For more information, visit Franklin County Libertarians’ website.

Contact: Franklin County Libertarians
Email: info@fclp.org
Website: www.fclpo.org

September 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Join Franklin County Libertarians to cover campaign training and planning for the November election and beyond.

Whetstone Library

3909 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214

Get Directions

Franklin County needs energetic people to run for office! Libertarian elected officials get to make policy that reduces the scope of government and increases personal liberty.

We encourage first-timers to run for local offices in odd-numbered years. You must file a declaration of candidacy with the Franklin County Board of Elections, with completed petitions containing the number of signatures required for the office you are seeking.

Local offices include city and village council, township trustees, and school board members. With a term or two of local office, you will have the experience and credibility to run a successful campaign for county, state, or federal office, but if you have the qualifications to run for a different office, we won’t turn you down! Before starting your campaign, take a quick look at our “Candidate Quick Start Guide” video (27 minutes).

Check out Election and Candidate Resources.

Recommended resources:

How to Win a Local Election Paperback
by Lawrence Grey

Politics Is for Power: How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism, Take Action, and Make Real Change Hardcover
by Eitan Hersh

Guerilla Marketing: Easy and Inexpensive Strategies for Making Big Profits from Your Small Business Paperback
by Jay Conrad Levinson

Franklin County Libertarians’ statement on arrest and charges against Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Franklin County Libertarians’ statement on arrest and charges against Telegram CEO Pavel Durov

Columbus, Ohio – August 28, 2024

The Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio is outraged by the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov by French authorities and the charges brought against him. This act is seen as a direct threat to free speech and digital privacy, targeting a leader committed to protecting user rights. The move sets a dangerous precedent, signaling increased governmental overreach into private communication. The Party stands in solidarity with Durov and all advocates of civil liberties, emphasizing the urgent need to defend the fundamental right to communicate freely without interference. This incident underscores the importance of protecting individual freedoms in the digital age.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Ken Holpp
Communications Director
Franklin County Libertarian Party
info@fclpo.org
fclpo.org

About Franklin County Libertarian Party

The Franklin County Libertarian Party is committed to defending individual liberties, advocating for limited government, and promoting policies that empower individuals and communities throughout Ohio.

Contact:

Ken Holpp
Communications Director
Franklin County Libertarian Party
info@fclpo.org
fclpo.org

This press release reflects the Franklin County Libertarian Party’s call to protect freedom of speech in all formats and forums, emphasizing the individual’s right to expression free of government harassment and interference.

Franklin County Libertarian Party Urges End to Fluoride in Drinking Water Citing Safety Concerns: “Fluoride Neurotoxic at ANY Level”

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Franklin County Libertarian Party Urges End to Fluoride in Drinking Water Citing Safety Concerns: “Fluoride Neurotoxic at ANY Level”

Columbus, Ohio – August 14, 2024

The Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio is taking a firm stance against the continued addition of fluoride to municipal drinking water supplies, citing significant safety concerns. The party asserts that fluoride is neurotoxic at any level and calls upon state agencies and local municipalities to immediately halt its inclusion in public water systems.

Fluoride has historically been added to drinking water with the intention of improving dental health. However, a diverse community of scientific studies show neurotoxic effects even at low levels of exposure. Studies conducted in Canada, Mexico and the United States, as well as studies funded by the federal NIH, consistently found lowering of IQ or increased risk of behavioral problems like ADHD associated with early life exposure to fluoridated water. The Franklin County Libertarian Party argues that these risks outweigh any purported benefits, especially considering the widespread availability of fluoride in dental products.

“It is unacceptable to expose our population, especially vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women, to a known neurotoxin,” said Michael Sweeney, At Large Member of the Franklin County Libertarian Party. “Fluoride should not be administered through public water supplies when safer alternatives exist, and individuals have the right to make their own choices regarding their health.”

The party emphasizes that the decision to ingest fluoride should be a matter of personal choice and informed consent, not a mandate imposed by government agencies. They advocate for policies that respect individual rights and prioritize public health based on transparent, independent scientific research.

“We call upon state agencies and local municipalities to heed the growing body of evidence and prioritize public health by voluntarily ending water fluoridation,” added Sweeney. “It is time to protect our citizens’ health and uphold their right to make informed decisions about what goes into their bodies.”

The Franklin County Libertarian Party encourages public discourse and urges policymakers to reconsider water fluoridation policies in light of emerging scientific findings and the principle of individual liberty.

For more information or media inquiries, please contact:

Ken Holpp
Communications Director
Franklin County Libertarian Party
info@fclpo.org
fclpo.org

About Franklin County Libertarian Party

The Franklin County Libertarian Party is committed to defending individual liberties, advocating for limited government, and promoting policies that empower individuals and communities throughout Ohio.

Contact:

Ken Holpp
Communications Director
Franklin County Libertarian Party
info@fclpo.org
fclpo.org

This press release reflects the Franklin County Libertarian Party’s call to end fluoride use in drinking water due to safety concerns, emphasizing the need for informed choice and public health protection.

Resources and references:

News media source: https://www.wjbf.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/713217866/first-us-study-of-fluoride-neurotoxicity-finds-significant-risk-to-developing-brain/

Reference: Maternal Urinary Fluoride and Child Neurobehavior at Age 36 Months, https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2818858

Reference: NTP Monograph on the State of the Science Concerning Fluoride Exposure and Neurodevelopmental and Cognitive Health Effects: A Systematic Review 

Dinner with Chase, Meet the Candidates

Join Libertarian candidate for President Chase Oliver and Franklin County Libertarians for dinner, comedy and live music.

Brandy Seymour for Ohio House of Representatives District 9

Eric Terford for Ohio House of Representatives District 2

Saturday, 24th, 6-10PM at the Antrim Park Shelterhouse!

Limited Seating! RSVP Today!

Donation Tiers and Donor Gifts.

$50 – Friend of the County Party

$100 – Philosopher – LPO Banner Mug

$250 – Activist – LPO Logo Embroidered Polo Shirt

$500 – Ambassador – “Eagle Laurels” Drawstring bag

$1000 – Strategic Partner – All of the above gifts.

$2500 – Influential Donor 😉 – All of the above gifts.

$50 minimum donation to attend.  We will need phone number to confirm attendance. Event details will be sent with confirmation.

Click DONATE below to RSVP for Dinner with Chase

Donation Tiers and Donor Gifts.

$50 – Friend of the County Party

$100 – Philosopher – LPO Banner Mug

$250 – Activist – LPO Logo Embroidered Polo Shirt

$500 – Ambassador – “Eagle Laurels” Drawstring bag

$1000 – Strategic Partner – All of the above gifts.

$2500 – Influential Donor 😉 – All of the above gifts.

RSVP for Dinner with Chase

County Party Candidate Endorsements

The Franklin County Libertarian Party of Ohio is thrilled to fully endorse the following candidates for their respective elections.

Chase Oliver for President of the United States of America

Mike ter Maat for Vice President of the United States of America

Learn more about Chase Oliver and Mike ter Maat.

Don Kissick for US Senate

Tom Pruss for US House of Representatives District 9

Brandy Seymour for Ohio House of Representatives District 9

Learn more about Brandy Seymour

Eric Terford for Ohio House of Representatives District 2

Learn more about Eric Terford

Drake Lundstrom for Franklin County Treasurer

Eric Terford for Ohio House 2nd District

A machinist by trade, Eric Terford is running for Ohio House District 2, championing lower taxes, government accountability, and individual liberty.

Eric pledges to reduce the tax burden on families and businesses, fostering economic growth. Terford advocates for increased transparency in government operations, ensuring officials are held accountable for their actions.

He also emphasizes the importance of protecting personal freedoms, opposing regulations that infringe on individual rights. Terford’s platform aims to create a more efficient, responsible government that respects the autonomy of its citizens, striving for policies that enhance prosperity and safeguard liberties for all Ohioans.