Vivek Ramaswamy Fires Up Paulding GOP Banquet: ‘Ohio’s Time to Lead’
The Paulding County Republican Party hosted its annual banquet on Wednesday, October 2, drawing a record crowd of more than 300 guests to hear from a full slate of statewide and local officials, candidates, and party leaders. The evening began with an invocation by Pastor Ric Beals of First Christian Church in Paulding, who prayed for the nation’s leaders and asked for God’s blessing on the meal and gathering. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by David Kern, Defiance County Republican Chairman, followed by the National Anthem sung by Gina Campbell, 1st District State Central Committeewoman.
Party Chairwoman Laurie Lucas welcomed the crowd and led a moment of silence in memory of Turning Point Action founder Charlie Kirk. She thanked the many volunteers and sponsors who helped make the banquet possible and emphasized the importance of strong grassroots efforts in Paulding County.
Ohio Senate President Rob McColley introduced featured speaker Vivek Ramaswamy, who delivered a keynote address focused on his vision for Ohio’s future as he campaigns for governor. Ramaswamy said Ohio must reclaim its historical role as a national leader, pointing to the state’s legacy in industry and innovation. He called for eliminating the state income tax, reducing property taxes, cutting red tape, and improving educational standards. He emphasized school choice, merit-based advancement, and preparing students for both college and skilled trades. Ramaswamy also spoke of his family’s immigrant roots and his belief that Ohio can again lead America forward. “We don’t just want to make Ohio great again—we want to make Ohio greater than we have ever been,” he said to loud applause.
Several elected officials and candidates also addressed the crowd. State Rep. Roy Klopfenstein encouraged young attendees to get involved in local government and understand the responsibilities of county officials. State Rep. Angie King highlighted her work on the Ohio Property Protection Act, legislation banning foreign adversaries from purchasing land near critical infrastructure. Candidate for state treasurer Jay Edwards described himself as a “common-sense conservative” and voiced concern over rising property taxes. Paulding County Auditor’s Office employee Angie Stoller announced her candidacy to succeed retiring Auditor Claudia Fickel, pledging transparency and continued modernization of the office. Fellow auditor candidate Shawn Schuette, a teacher at Crestview schools, also spoke briefly, stressing collaboration and efficiency. State Rep. Jim Hoops, term-limited from his current seat, shared his campaign for state senate, while former state representative Craig Riedel also outlined his bid for the seat being vacated by McColley. Judge Colleen O’Donnell, a candidate for the Ohio Supreme Court, described her experiences presiding over immigration cases at the southern border and promised to uphold constitutional conservatism if elected. Congressman Bob Latta, who represents Paulding County in Washington, reminded the crowd of the narrow Republican majority in the U.S. House and urged continued grassroots efforts heading into the 2026 election.
The banquet also featured remarks from congressional candidates seeking to unseat long-time Democrat Marcy Kaptur in Ohio’s 9th District. Derek Merrin and State Rep. Josh Williams both energized the audience with calls for stronger border security, elimination of DEI policies, and an “America First” economic agenda. Williams shared his personal story of overcoming poverty, disability, and adversity, crediting faith and perseverance for his rise to public service. “The American dream is the ability to dream for a better tomorrow and the government getting out of the way,” Williams said.
The program additionally included speeches from Tony Schroeder, 1st District State Central Committeeman and Putnam County Chairman, and Gabe Guidarini, Ohio field representative for Turning Point Action, proclaiming the importance of keeping Charlie Kirk’s message alive to young Americans. State treasurer candidate Michael Zuren presented his priorities for financial transparency and taxpayer protection.
Local party chairwoman Laurie Lucas closed the evening with thanks to volunteers, central committee members, and sponsors who helped make the record-setting banquet possible. She noted the strong youth turnout, with more than 25 students in attendance thanks to sponsorships from local leaders. “This is beyond my wildest imagination,” Lucas said. “Together we are building something special here in Paulding County.”
