Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has made a significant move in the state’s political landscape by nominating Jim Tressel, a legendary college football coach, to serve as his next lieutenant governor. Tressel, best known for leading the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship, has been tapped for the role, pending confirmation by the state Legislature. At a news conference on Monday, DeWine emphasized Tressel’s ability to generate thoughtful ideas and solve problems, qualities he believes will make him an effective leader in the role.
Tressel, who is 72, comes to the position with a storied career in both athletics and education. Before his coaching days, he served as the president of Youngstown State University, where he left a lasting impact on the institution. His transition into politics, however, marks a new chapter in his career. While Tressel has been floated as a potential candidate for public office in the past, he has never pursued elected office—until now. His nomination as lieutenant governor has sparked speculation about whether he might run for governor in 2026, though he has not yet indicated his intentions.
The domino effect of Tressel’s nomination is already being felt across Ohio’s political scene. Governor DeWine, who is term-limited and cannot seek reelection, recently appointed Senator Jon Husted to fill a Senate vacancy left by Vice President JD Vance. This move created an opening for lieutenant governor, which Tressel is now poised to fill. Meanwhile, the race for governor in 2026 is beginning to take shape, with State Attorney General Dave Yost already announcing his candidacy and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, a close ally of Vance and former President Donald Trump, expected to join the fray soon. Tressel’s entry into the political arena adds an intriguing twist to what promises to be a competitive and dynamic election cycle.
Tressel’s nomination has drawn mixed reactions, with many noting his unique blend of leadership experience and public appeal. His tenure as a coach at Ohio State was marked by both triumph and controversy, including his resignation in 2011 amid an NCAA investigation involving players selling memorabilia to a tattoo parlor. Despite this, Tressel remains a widely respected figure in Ohio, particularly for his ability to build winning teams and inspire loyalty. His reputation as a fundraiser and his connections to prominent political figures, such as former U.S. Rep. Anthony Gonzalez, whom he coached at Ohio State, also make him a formidable candidate.
In accepting the nomination, Tressel described the opportunity as “a surprise” but expressed enthusiasm for the chance to serve Ohioans. While his lack of political experience may present challenges, his background in education and athletics could also be an asset in a state that values both. As he prepares for the confirmation process, Tressel will likely face questions about his vision for the state and how he plans to work alongside DeWine to address key issues such as economic development, education, and healthcare.
Ultimately, Tressel’s nomination represents a bold move by DeWine to inject fresh energy into his administration and potentially set the stage for a smooth transition of power in 2026. Whether Tressel decides to run for governor or not, his appointment as lieutenant governor signals a new direction for Ohio’s leadership. As the state navigates the complexities of modern governance, Tressel’s leadership style and ability to connect with everyday Ohioans will be closely watched. For now, the focus is on his confirmation and the roles he will play in shaping the state’s future alongside Governor DeWine.
