By Marty Trese, KnoxPages.com Editor
MOUNT VERNON – State Representative Rick Carfagna says he is “absolutely interested” in Congressman Pat Tiberi’s seat. Tiberi announced today that he is resigning as Representative for Ohio’s 12th Congressioinal District, which includes Carfagna’s Delaware County neighborhood. Carfagna represents Knox County and a portion of Delaware County in Columbus.
In a statement Tiberi said, “It has been the most remarkable honor of my life to serve the people of the 12th District. As the son of Italian immigrants, I am forever grateful for the opportunity my parents gave me by coming to America and raising our family in Ohio. It was because of their pursuit of the American Dream that made it possible for me to serve 17 years in the halls of Congress representing my home. This truly is the greatest country in the world.
“Today, it is with a humble and thankful heart that I announce I will not be seeking reelection. While I have not yet determined a final resignation date, I will be leaving Congress by January 31, 2018. I have been presented with an opportunity to lead the Ohio Business Roundtable that will allow me to continue to work on public policy issues impacting Ohioans while also spending more time with my family. Leaving Congress is not a decision I take lightly but after a lot of consideration, it is the best one for me, my wife, Denice, and our four wonderful daughters.”
Tiberi is a neighbor and mentor of Carfagna’s. The Congressman contributed to Carfagna’s successful campaign for State Representative.
Carfagna told KnoxPages.com that he is,”Still trying to process it [Tiberi’s resignation announcement]. It is a sudden turn of events. I credit [Tiberi] for giving me my start in politics. He sponsored me as a page in the the Ohio House.” Carfagna continued, “He’s choosing being a father and husband over a position in Washington DC. He has been very candid about how toxic it is in DC.”
According to ThoughtCo.com the U.S. Constitution and state law say the governor of the state calls for a special election to replace a vacant House seat. The full election cycle must be followed including political party nominating processes, primary elections and a general election, all held in the congressional district involved. The entire process often takes as long as from three to six months.
While a House seat is vacant, the office of the former representative remains open, its staff operating under the supervision of the Clerk of the House of Representatives.
Congressman Tiberi spoke at the Knox County Republican Party annual dinner in February. KP file photo
