Rep. Brent Releases Statement Encouraging GOP Leadership to Appoint a New Ag Chairman

COLUMBUS— State Representative Juanita Brent (D-Cleveland) released a statement today in regards to Representative Kyle Koehler, Chairman of the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, and his use of profanity when speaking to her as the ranking member of the agriculture committee.

The conversation was directly before the agriculture & rural development committee met to discuss Rep. Brent’s amendment to prohibit confederacy memorabilia at county and independent fairs.

“I was surprised, insulted and disrespected when Rep. Kyle Koehler  called me a “SON OF A BITCH”. He even went on to mention that if I introduce this amendment it would make him look like a racist. Why would I be concerned about that when confederacy memorabilia is a sign of racism and oppression? Being a bully, condescending and lacking leadership seems to be the playbook he chose to play and as the Ohio House Republicans are discussing a new speaker they also need to appoint a new chairman to the agriculture & rural development committee,” said Rep. Brent. “As the Ohio House of Representatives awaits the inevitable decision ahead in appointing a new speaker to the house, this act of transgression should not be forgotten as leadership is chosen. Representatives should be expected to maintain a well-mannered code of conduct when operating within the Ohio House and engaging with their colleagues amongst committees.”

House Bill 665 passed the House June 12 and now moves to the Senate for consideration.