Ohio State House District 44: candidates

Current seat holder: Josh Williams.

David J. Fournier

David J. Fournier Fournier graduated from St. John's Jesuit High School.

A neighbor, attorney, and father of three: “I'm a Northwest Ohio attorney, husband, father of three, and lifelong resident of this community.” (Campaign website (fournierforohio.com))

“No more sweetheart deals for utility companies or diverting our tax dollars to unaccountable private programs, schools, and special interests.” (Campaign website (fournierforohio.com))

Edward L. Schimmel

Edward L. Schimmel Schimmel advanced from the Republican primary on May 5, 2026 to qualify for the general election ballot in Ohio House of Representatives District 44.

Campaign site

“Having lived most of my life either in Toledo or Northwood, I have always had a mixture of city and rural life. It’s my hope that I can bring the prospective of a rural farmer, the business sense of an attorney, and the experience of a small-town mayor to the 44th District, because that’s what the district looks like, and that’s what we need in Columbus.” (Campaign website (edschimmelforohio.com))

Help Our Cause - Make a Contribution: “Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund the campaign.” (Campaign website (edschimmelforohio.com))

Lyndsey Stough

Lyndsey Stough Lyndsey Stough earned a high school diploma from Sylvania Southview High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in 2009 and a graduate degree from the University of Michigan in 2014.

Campaign site

“Lower Costs. People are stretched thin and we need to find ways to lower common recurring costs.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))

“I grew up here, went to school here, and built my career here. Over and over, I have chosen to stay and invest in this community's long-term quality of life.” (Ballotpedia Candidate Connection (2026))

I see you: “I believe Sylvania, the 44th District, and Northwest Ohio need an independent voice for real progress in Columbus. As a third-generation architect in a small family business and Sylvania City Council member, I’ve spent my life building our community, not a political career .” (Campaign website (votestough.org))