Gerberry drops out of contention to replace Boccieri

State Rep. Ronald Gerberry (D-Youngstown) has withdrawn his name from those contending to replace Congressman-elect John Boccieri (D-Alliance) in Ohio's 33rd state Senate district.

Gerberry had expressed an early interest in the position, but told the Youngstown Vindicator that he was withdrawing from contention because he believes he can best serve his district in the Ohio House.

Gerberry is a senior member of Ohio's House, having served for about 20 years. The Democrats recently gained control of the House, but made no gains in the state Senate. Gerberry said he anticipates being appointed chair of a House committee, but isn't sure which ones interest him as of yet.

With Gerberry out of the picture, the presumed front-runner to replace Boccieri is now gone.

Those left vying for the replacement include Alliance at-large Councilman Steve Okey (D-Alliance) and Boardman trustee and attorney Robyn Gallitto.

Mahoning County Commissioners Anthony Traficanti (D) and John McNally (D) have previously expressed their interest in the position.

It has been reported that the Carroll County Democratic Party plans to recommend Brian Thomas of Perrysville for the slot. Thomas, 37, works at Colfor in Minerva and is active with the United Auto Workers through Local 4199.

Boccieri spokesperson Bryan Collinsworth said that Boccieri is not weighing in on the candidates to replace him in the Ohio Senate.