Leader Sykes: Secretary LaRose is creating more chaos with misinformation campaign

COLUMBUS—House Democratic Leader Emilia Strong Sykes (D-Akron) issued a statement today criticizing the state’s chief election officer, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, for sharing inaccurate information during a time of chaos when Ohioans are turning to him for truth and guidance.   

“ As the state’s chief election officer, Secretary LaRose is uniquely charged with the proper execution of a fair election for the state of Ohio. That includes sharing accurate information. What has transpired in recent hours has been anything but.

Now in the hours following the chaos, he continues to send out press releases and share information on his website saying the election day has been moved to June 2^nd. This is just wrong. As the governor has noted, and state law requires, only the legislature or the court has the power to set or change the election date and thus far, neither entity has done that. Yet LaRose continues to suggest people can continue to vote absentee in direct violation of state law. This too is wrong.

I strongly urge Secretary LaRose to be a good public servant and be transparent and honest with Ohioans about this election and the options they have. What has taken place in the last 24 hours sets a dangerous precedent to our democracy and his overreach must be reigned in immediately.”

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