Walsh, the Democratic nominee for Ohio treasurer, stated during their campaign across Ohio that residents are expressing “anger” regarding what they perceive as statewide elected leaders selling out the state to multinational data center companies. Walsh characterized this sentiment as justified, arguing that current tax policies favor these companies while energy rates for Ohioans “skyrocket.”
According to Walsh, Republicans, including former Governor John Kasich, gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, and treasurer candidate Jay Edwards, have reportedly “applauded data center growth.” Walsh asserts that these political figures have also actively “backed tax policies that eliminate their corporate tax,” contributing to the financial burden on residents as energy costs climb.
Walsh has declared an “outspoken” opposition to what the candidate describes as “special treatment” afforded to data centers in Ohio. If elected treasurer, Walsh pledged not to oversee every economic development agreement but committed to “insist on transparent agreements.” Furthermore, Walsh stated an intention to “use my voice to demand strong protections for ratepayers and property owners” in instances where state funds are utilized to incentivize data center projects. This stance aims to ensure that state investments benefit Ohio residents and property owners directly, preventing potential negative impacts from large corporate subsidies.
The Democratic nominee also directed criticism towards the opponent in the Ohio treasurer race, Jay Edwards. Walsh identified Edwards as “a central figure in the $1.3 billion FirstEnergy bailout,” which Walsh described as the “largest corruption scandal in Ohio’s history.” Walsh contends that the ongoing financial impact of this scandal means Ohioans are currently paying “higher energy rates” every month, attributing this directly to Edwards’ “failed leadership.”
Walsh further stated that Edwards has actively “supported data center projects” and “defended using state dollars to incentivize them” during the current campaign. Given Edwards’ existing ethical record, Walsh questioned why Ohioans would place trust in him as the “steward of our $280 billion in state funds.” The candidate stressed the importance of ethical conduct in public office, noting that no resident in Lima “should have to worry that their elected officials are doing their job ethically.”
Walsh articulated a vision for Ohio that supports “pro-business growth” without resorting to “writing blank checks to out-of-state tech companies.” The candidate highlighted a consistent record in Cincinnati that reflects this philosophy, promising to apply the same principles and leadership approach as treasurer of Ohio. This perspective aims to foster economic development that prioritizes local interests and maintains financial accountability within state investments.
