Lt. Gov. Jon Husted lays groundwork for potential Ohio governor run in 2026

Lt. Gov. Jon Husted laid the groundwork Wednesday for a campaign for Ohio governor, all but confirming that he's eyeing the job in 2026.

Husted filed what's called a "designation of treasurer" with the secretary of state's office, which establishes who will oversee the purse strings of a campaign committee. He also launched a new campaign website.

The filing obtained by the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau shows his campaign specifically identified governor as the office being sought.

The Ohio Republican has been widely expected to run in an effort to succeed Gov. Mike DeWine, who just began his second and final term in office. Before becoming lieutenant governor, Husted served as secretary of state, Ohio House speaker and state senator.

"I am proud of what we have accomplished and of the direction Ohio is now heading, but there is more work to be done," Husted said in a statement. "After thought and prayer, Tina and I have agreed: We will continue serving this state and its people, working toward a more prosperous future for everyone, and we will do so as long as the people of Ohio will have us.”

Husted selected longtime aide and political fundraiser Blake McNamara to serve as his finance director. McNamara previously held that role for DeWine and Husted's campaign and inaugural committees, as well as Husted's campaigns for secretary of state.

Matt Mayer, who's led two conservative think tanks in Ohio, announced last month that he plans to run for governor. Attorney General Dave Yost has also been identified as a potential candidate.

Haley BeMiller is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted lays groundwork for potential 2026 campaign