Kulewicz and Faber Debate Ohio Attorney General Race
Candidates for Ohio attorney general faced off at Youngstown State University to discuss their professional records.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Law Enforcement
Live Poll
Do you prefer a career prosecutor over a private practice attorney for the role of attorney general?
Attorney general candidates John Kulewicz and Keith Faber met at Youngstown State University for the only scheduled debate for a statewide office in Ohio. The debate focused on the professional legal and administrative backgrounds of both candidates as they seek to lead the state's justice department.
Why it matters
The debate provided Ohio voters with a direct opportunity to compare the qualifications and policy stances of the two candidates. It served as a critical platform for voters to evaluate the experience each candidate would bring to the role of the state's top law enforcement official.
Keith Faber has overseen the conviction of 172 public officials and politicians during his time as state auditor. Additionally, the office is preparing for the January 2027 retrial of two former FirstEnergy officials.
The players
John Kulewicz
He is a candidate for Ohio attorney general with 44 years of professional experience as an attorney.
Keith Faber
He is the current state auditor of Ohio and a candidate for attorney general who has overseen 172 public corruption convictions.
Youngstown Press Club
This organization acted as the moderator and primary coordinator for the statewide debate.
The details
The Youngstown Press Club moderated the debate, which highlighted Kulewicz's 44 years of legal experience and Faber's record as state auditor, including his prosecution of a public transit director in Allen County. Both candidates expressed support for using Flock Safety cameras, provided they are utilized with necessary safeguards.
Timeline
The debate took place on October 19, 2026.
A retrial for former FirstEnergy officials is set for January 2027.
Legal Context
The debate positions this race against the ongoing prosecution of former FirstEnergy officials. This trial serves as a significant benchmark for public corruption accountability in the state.
Voters across the state are seeing the direct policy distinctions between the candidates regarding the use of surveillance technology and capital punishment. The outcome of this election will determine the leadership of the office responsible for prosecuting public corruption.
The takeaway
Ohio voters are weighing the contrast between long-term private legal practice and experience in state auditing. Understanding these professional histories is essential for deciding the future direction of the state attorney general's office.
Further reading
Learn more about local proceedings on the Ohio Law Enforcement page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Vindicator.
Live Poll
Do you prefer a career prosecutor over a private practice attorney for the role of attorney general?
