Leonard to Back Hardin in Columbus Mayoral Race

Congressman-elect Don Leonard plans to endorse Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin in the 2027 mayoral contest.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in City Hall

Leonard to Back Hardin in Columbus Mayoral Race

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Congressman-elect Don Leonard plans to endorse Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin in the 2027 Columbus mayoral race, according to The Dispatch. Hardin is challenging Mayor Andy Ginther, who is seeking a fourth term.

Why it matters

Leonard's endorsement comes as Ohio Democrats have offered him little support following his primary against Adam Miller, a former State House representative. Hardin was one of the few elected Democrats to back Leonard, attending his election night party in Hilliard.

Hardin has served on Columbus City Council for 12 years, while Ginther is seeking a fourth term as mayor in the 2027 race. If more than two candidates qualify, a nonpartisan primary will be held, with the top two advancing to the general election.

The players

Don Leonard

Congressman-elect Leonard won a Democratic primary against former State House representative Adam Miller before heading to Congress.

Shannon Hardin

Hardin is the Columbus City Council president who has served on the council for 12 years and is challenging the incumbent mayor.

Andy Ginther

Ginther is the Columbus mayor seeking a fourth term in the 2027 election.

The details

Leonard told The Dispatch he plans to back Hardin, and Hardin told supporters he regrets some of the ways he breathed life into the Columbus Way and vowed to do better. State Representative Munira Abdullahi has pulled paperwork to run for mayor, though the stub does not confirm she has entered the race.

2026-11-06
Leonard's endorsement of Hardin was reported by The Dispatch.
2027: Columbus mayoral race, in which Hardin challenges Ginther.

Political Context

Leonard's endorsement follows a primary against Adam Miller after which Ohio Democrats gave him little support. Hardin's backing reflects a split within local Democratic politics ahead of the 2027 Columbus mayoral contest.

Columbus voters will choose between Mayor Ginther's fourth-term bid and Hardin's challenge in 2027. If more than two candidates qualify, a nonpartisan primary will narrow the field before the general election.

The takeaway

Party endorsements in local races can signal shifting alliances well before the ballot is set. Watch how candidates position themselves in the months ahead of the 2027 Columbus mayoral race.