Washington Post: Ryan to run for lieutenant governor

The Washington Post is reporting on its Web site that U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th, “will announce that he is running for lieutenant governor later this week.”

The report cites “two sources familiar with the decision.”

Brad Bauman, Ryan’s spokesman in Washington, D.C., today would say only: “We know through news reports that he’s on the short list and he’s very flattered to even have his name be mentioned.”

Ohio Democratic Chairman Chris Redfern said he “doesn’t comment on the governor’s selection” for lieutenant governor.

When asked Friday about running next year as Gov. Ted Strickland’s running mate, Ryan told The Vindicator that he was thinking about it.

“It’s worth exploring what the opportunity may be from that position. It’s worth at least looking at.”

Strickland told The Vindicator on Friday that he was still thinking about what to do with the lieutenant governor’s position and a decision would “take a little while longer.”

Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher has announced plans to run in the Democratic primary next year for U.S. Senate and not seek re-election.

“I have incredible admiration for Tim Ryan, his commitment to public service and his skill set,” Strickland said.

But he added that Ryan is young and holds a seat on the powerful U.S. House Appropriations Committee.

“That’s a lot to give up,” Strickland said.

For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator or Vindy.com