January 14, 2010

Former Rep. Thom Collier Files Petitions

Mansfield, Ohio (January 13, 2010) - Former State Representative Thom Collier (R-Mount Vernon) today announced that he formally filed petitions at the Richland County Board of Elections to be a candidate for the 19th State Senate District.  The 19th Senate District is being vacated by Senate President Bill Harris due to term limits.

Collier stated, “I am running for the State Senate to serve.  Ohio is losing jobs and people at an alarming rate.  I cannot stand on the sidelines and watch as Ohio loses companies and people to states with a better business climate.”

“Since I announced my campaign in August, I have spoken with thousands of voters across the 19th District.  The message is loud and clear that voters are not going to continue to support business as usual in Columbus.  Just like me, they are frustrated with the economic condition of our state, and they are going to make their voices heard at the voting booths.”

Serving as a state representative for 8 years, Thom built an impressive conservative record. Thom was given the Watchdog of the Treasury Award by the United Conservatives of Ohio and was instrumental in shaping a tax reform package that eliminated the corporate franchise, tangible personal property taxes, and cut the income tax of every Ohioan by 21 percent.

Thom and his wife, Diane, have been married 17 years and have two daughters, Cathern, 15, and Natoli, 10.  Thom is a leader in his church and for 27 years has been a small business owner.