Just 4 running as GOP candidates in May primary

YOUNGSTOWN — Only four Republicans — including one who voted in last year’s Democratic primary — filed to run for elected offices in Mahoning and Trumbull counties.

Of the four, Newton Falls Judge Larry Turner won’t have a political party designation next to his name on the November ballot. Judicial general election races are nonpartisan even though there are partisan primaries for those positions.

“It’s challenging for Republicans in most urban areas,” said Mark Munroe, the Mahoning County Republican Party’s vice chairman. “We’re in an environment that is so heavily Democratic.”

Adam L. Rutushin, who filed for Youngstown’s 1st Ward council seat, may not be eligible to run as a Republican for the position. He voted in the 2006 Democratic primary so the Mahoning County Board of Elections will consider his eligibility at its Tuesday meeting.

For the complete story, see Sunday's Vindicator and Vindy.com.