Chapter 9 – The Governor & Other Executives
9.8 Other Statewide Elected Executive Officials
While the United States federal government allows the President to appoint the Attorney General and other high-profile positions, the framers of the Ohio state constitution opted for a different approach by making these key executive positions elected rather than appointed. This decision ensures greater accountability and representation of the public’s interests, as Ohioans have direct control over who holds significant offices such as Attorney General, Secretary of State, Auditor, and Treasurer.
By electing these officials, the power is distributed more evenly, preventing the Governor from consolidating too much authority. This system provides a built-in check and balance within the executive branch, fostering a more balanced and democratic governance structure. The history of Ohio’s executive branch demonstrates that independently elected officials can serve as effective checks on the Governor’s power, promoting transparency and accountability in state government.
Foundational Facts
Sections 1 and 2 of Article III in the Ohio Constitution mandate that key executive positions—such as Attorney General, Secretary of State, Auditor, and Treasurer—be filled through elections rather than appointments by the Governor. This approach ensures that these officials are more directly accountable to Ohio voters rather than being appointed by the Governor.
References
Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 10 – The Executive Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH.
Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.
