In Ohio House of Representatives
Nov. 2, 2006
 |
Ben McCullough |
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio – Ben McCullough, Wittenberg University class of 2009 from Montpelier, Ohio, is not your average college student. At the age of 20, McCullough is running for the 74th District seat in the Ohio House of Representatives.
McCullough, a political science major, decided to run for the seat in his home northwest Ohio district, which includes Fulton and Williams counties and a large part of Defiance County, less than one year ago. After running unopposed in the Democratic primary in May, McCullough is bidding for a seat that represents approximately 100,000 citizens, a position currently held by Steve Buehrer (R-Delta).
With the campaign against Republican Steve Goodwin from Defiance now in the home stretch, McCullough anxiously awaits the upcoming Nov. 7 election.
“I wanted to give back to the community because the people there have done so much for me,” McCullough said, adding that he is also concerned about the condition of education and the economy in Ohio. “The last few weeks have gone real well. I can’t believe the election is almost here. It seems like we just started this process – the summer and fall went by so fast.”
McCullough’s campaign platform centers on improving the state’s education system, specifically the need for an up-to-date, 21st-century academic program.
“I plan to run a campaign that is focused on the future,” McCullough said. “Education is vital to Ohio’s future, and it has an impact on everything.”
In addition, McCullough’s platform supports an innovative economy, one that includes hybrid cars and alternative fuels. Another issue McCullough feels strongly about is the protection of the family farmer, perhaps as a result of his rural upbringing.
The road to election date has been long, especially considering that Wittenberg’s Springfield campus and McCullough’s home district are separated by a three-hour car trip. He spends most weekends driving back and forth to campaign.
However, when asked if he feels he is missing out on a normal college experience, McCullough answers with a resolute “no.”
“I’ve had plenty of time to do both,” McCullough said. “I have a normal college life.”
He also has had time to make his mark on Wittenberg’s student political world. McCullough currently serves as the sophomore class vice president.
Another obstacle McCullough faces is running as a political unknown in an area that has not had a Democratic state representative in more than 40 years. However, he remains optimistic as Election Day approaches.
McCullough credits his campaign manager, David Donofrio, Wittenberg class of 2009 from Dublin, Ohio, for his efforts throughout the campaign process. Although McCullough said he received criticism for hiring such a young campaign manager, he stands by his decision.
“David has done a great job,” McCullough said. “I don’t regret hiring him one bit. He’s been very dedicated and motivated.”
McCullough was first inspired to run for office after attending Buckeye Boys State, a nine-day, hands-on experience in the operation of the democratic government and the formation of political parties, while still a high school student in 2004. Sponsored by the American Legion, Buckeye Boys State is attended by 1,400 high school students every year. The annual conference focuses on city, county and state governments through a non-partisan, objective approach.
“I’ve always been interested in government and politics,” McCullough said. “When I attended Buckeye Boys State, I ran for, and won, the same position that I am running for now. I learned all about the position, and I learned how the legislative process works.”
McCullough said he has learned a lot of life lessons in the campaign process.
“It’s a lot different than reading a book or listening to a lecture [about politics],” he said. “I’m seeing how it works for myself. It’s a whole different ballgame.”
By: Rachel Morgan '08
134-06
| Related Links: |
