State Sen. Theresa Gavarone, R-Bowling Green, has announced that she is running for re-election to Ohio’s 2nd Senate District.

Gavarone joined the Senate in 2019 to replace Chancellor Randy Gardner after previously serving in the Ohio House of Representatives. She earned 62% of the vote to win a four-year term in 2020.

“I am running for re-election because I know there is much more that I can do to further solidify Northern Ohio’s standing as the best place to live, work and raise a family,” Gavarone said in a Monday statement. “I want to build upon our many successes that include reducing taxes, cutting burdensome rules and regulations, and defending our Constitutional rights.”

After serving as chairwoman of the Local Government and Elections Committee from 2021-22, Gavarone was unanimously elected in January by her colleagues to serve as majority whip, a member of senate leadership.

“During my term in the Senate, I have worked tirelessly to get across my district to learn about the issues that are important to you and your family,” Gavarone said. “That time has resulted in me bringing tens of millions of dollars to my district and enacting policies that my constituents have asked for.”

Gavarone has sponsored efforts to require a photo ID to vote, improve access to mental health services, enhance religious freedom, increase funding to clean Lake Erie, and put the party affiliation of Supreme Court candidates on the ballot.

Currently, Gavarone’s district contains all or part of Wood, Erie, Huron, Lucas and Ottawa and counties. The Primary Election will occur on March 19, 2024, with the General Election taking place on Nov. 5, 2024.