Buckeye Firearms Assoc. endorsees dominate Senate majority leadership in 129th General Assembly

Buckeye Firearms Association endorsees have been elected by Republicans and Democrats to a majority of leadership positions in their respective caucuses for the 129th General Assembly.

Senate Republicans have picked former BFA endorsee Sen. Tom Niehaus (New Richmond) as Senate President.

The caucus also chose the following former endorsees to join Niehaus in leadership: Sens. Keith Faber (Celina), president pro tem; Jimmy Stewart (Albany), majority floor leader; and Shannon Jones (Springboro) as majority whip.

Also selecting leadership this week for the 2011-2012 legislative cycle were House Democrats. Caucus members selected Armond Budish (Beachwood) (who recently and single-handedly killed two pro-gun bills which had strong support in the House) as minority leader. "A" -rated former Buckeye Firearms Association endorsee Rep. Matt Szollozi (Oregon) was chosen as assistant minority leader, while "C-" -rated Rep. Tracy Heard (Columbus) and "B" -rated Rep. Debbie Phillips (Athens) were selected as minority whip and assistant minority whip, respectively.

Leadership selections by House Republicans and Senate Democrats were announced previously. Incoming Speaker William Batchelder has indicated that House committee assignments will be announced January 11.

Gun owners are encouraged to contact these legislators, congratulate them on their appointments, and express your hope that pro-gun legislation will take center stage in the 129th General Assembly.