Tuesday, April 28, 2009
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U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles
YOUNGSTOWN — Two politicians who wanted to succeed Tim Ryan in the U.S. House if he didn’t seek re-election say the congressman made the right decision to seek re-election.
Ryan of Niles, D-17th, had given strong consideration to being Gov. Ted Strickland’s lieutenant governor running mate next year.
But Ryan, a four-term congressman, has decided he will seek re-election to Congress.
Ryan said the decision came down to how to best serve the Mahoning Valley.
In the end, Ryan decided remaining a member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee and staying in the House was a better fit.
Mahoning County Commissioner Anthony Traficanti of Poland and state Rep. Robert F. Hagan of Youngstown said they were going to run for the seat if Ryan decided to vacate it.
With Ryan planning to seek another term in the House next year, Traficanti and Hagan will not challenge him.
Both Democrats said they were pleased Ryan is staying in the House because his position on the appropriations committee helps this area more than if he was lieutenant governor.
For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com