Ohio Secretary of State Candidates to Face Off
Three candidates are set to compete for the Ohio Secretary of State office on November 3, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Do you believe stricter photo ID laws and removing drop boxes improve election security in Ohio?
Ohio voters will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide the next Secretary of State. The election features three candidates who hold diverging views on state election administration and security.
Why it matters
The race centers on the future of election accessibility and security measures in the state. Voters will choose between distinct approaches to photo ID laws, drop boxes, and ballot administration.
Three candidates are officially on the ballot for the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State election. This total represents the entire field of candidates vying for the position in the upcoming general election.
The players
Robert Sprague
He is a Republican candidate for Ohio Secretary of State who supports Issue 3 and advocates for eliminating ballot drop boxes.
Allison Russo
She is a Democratic candidate for Ohio Secretary of State who opposes Issue 3 and the proposed elimination of ballot drop boxes.
Tom Pruss
He is the Libertarian candidate for Ohio Secretary of State in the 2026 election.
The details
Candidates are campaigning on contrasting platforms that include proposals for Issue 3, which concerns photo ID requirements. The race also highlights differing stances on the use of ballot drop boxes and the potential designation of Election Day as a state holiday.
Timeline
The Ohio Secretary of State election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Political Context
The debate over Issue 3 highlights a fundamental disagreement regarding the future of photo ID requirements in Ohio. Opposition to this measure emphasizes concerns over potential barriers to voter participation and the protection of civil liberties in the electoral process.
The outcome of this race will directly influence future election procedures and voter access across the state. Residents will see changes to how they cast their ballots depending on which candidate's platform is implemented.
The takeaway
Voters should review each candidate platform to understand how proposed changes to ballot access and ID laws could affect their personal voting experience. Engaging with campaign information prior to Election Day helps ensure an informed decision at the polls.
Further reading
For more information on the current ballot, visit Ohio Elections.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WTOV.
Live Poll
Do you believe stricter photo ID laws and removing drop boxes improve election security in Ohio?
