Gains mulling run for statewide office

YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul J. Gains is giving serious consideration to running in the Democratic primary for Ohio secretary of state next year.

“I’m leaning towards running,” Gains, county prosecutor since 1996, “There are so many variables involved, primarily money,” in making a final decision.

Gains estimates it would cost between $3 million and $5 million to run a successful campaign for secretary of state.

Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner, a fellow Democrat, plans to not seek re-election next year and instead run for the U.S. Senate. With Brunner leaving, state Rep. Jennifer Garrison of Marietta and Franklin Commissioner Marilyn Brown have announced plans to run in next year’s Democratic primary for the job.

Ohio Democratic Chairman Chris Redfern said Gains would be a “credible candidate” for secretary of state.

“I think he is a terrific prosecutor, he’s got strong name recognition in the Valley, and he’s built a very strong following in the Valley and among other prosecutors in the state,” Redfern said. “I’m impressed with his record of service and his candor.”

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