Overview
- In a Jan. 27 campaign clip, Forhan says he would seek a conviction "in accordance with due process" that culminates in a death sentence.
- Republicans including State Auditor Keith Faber, Attorney General Dave Yost, and party leaders condemned the statement and pressed Ohio Democrats to denounce it.
- Democrat John Kulewicz, Forhan’s primary opponent, called the remarks disgraceful, and the state party chair said there is no place for political violence.
- Forhan says he will not quit the race, argues his comments are protected political speech, and told outlets he would prosecute Trump only if he tries "again to end American democracy."
- Outlets reported no public law-enforcement investigation into the video as a threat, and coverage revisited Forhan’s 2023 disciplinary sanctions and his post saying "F*** Charlie Kirk" after the activist’s assassination.