Dems elect Hicks-Hudson as Whip, Brown as Assistant Whip
Ohio House Democratic Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) today announced the election of Rep. Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) as Minority Whip and Rep. Richard Brown (D-Canal Winchester) as Assistant Minority Whip for the 133rd General Assembly. Brown joins the Democratic leadership team after former Whip Rep. Kent Smith (D-Euclid) stepped down last week.
“I want to thank Rep. Smith for his service to this leadership team and dedication to strengthening our caucus. I know he will continue to use that same vigor to fight on behalf of his constituents here at the Statehouse,” said Leader Sykes. “I look forward to welcoming Rep. Brown into our leadership team and continuing working with Rep. Hicks-Hudson as we move Ohio forward and restore our promise as an opportunity state.”
Hicks-Hudson moves from her position as Assistant Whip to Minority Whip.
“We have an incredible leadership team that’s delivering results for taxpayers, and I look forward to continue working with members and staff to strengthen our caucus, expand opportunity for working families and build an economy that works for everyone,” said Hicks-Hudson.
Brown joins Leader Sykes, Assistant Democratic Leader Rep. Kristin Boggs (D-Columbus) and Minority Whip Hicks-Hudson on the House Democratic leadership team, which is the first majority-woman leadership team in Ohio House history.
“I am humbled by the support of my colleagues and thrilled to join this history-making leadership team,” said Rep. Brown. “I am eager to expand my role here and to work alongside members and staff to build opportunity for working people and to give every Ohioan a shot at a better life and a brighter future.”
Brown, an attorney of 37 years, was appointed to represent Ohio’s 20th House district in 2017, serving for a year and a half before winning election in 2018.
Hicks-Hudson and Brown were elected in a full-House vote.