Don Leonard

Don Leonard is a Columbus Democrat and former Ohio State University professor who won the May 2026 primary with about 53% of the vote. Cook rates the seat Lean Republican, and Democratic-sponsored Hart Research polls have the race close, most recently Leonard 48% to Carey 45% in October.

On the ballot against Mike Carey (R)

Why it matters: Democrats argue this central Ohio seat could become vulnerable in a wave election, even though Republicans have held it and Spectrum News described it as a safe Republican seat.

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The race at a glance

Race ratingLean RCook Political Report, Oct 27 source

Latest poll Leonard 48% 45% Carey 7% undecided or other Hart Research Associates (Democratic pollster), Oct 9-12, 2026, 503 LV. source

Money raised (through Oct 14) Leonard$1,329,844 $97,707 cash on hand. source

In Don's own words

I am not a democratic socialist. Even if I were, I'd lie to the people of my district in order to get their votes.

Don Leonard, Remarks on the Hilliard Beacon Podcast in March 2026, as quoted by the Washington Free Beacon, a critical outlet., Jul 28 source

Where Don stands

Health care: He says all Americans deserve quality insurance they can afford to use. source
Economy: He argues America is not broke and that working families, not corporations, should get the help. source
Housing and child care: He says every working American should be able to own a home and that child care should not cost a second mortgage. source
Seniors: He says seniors should be able to retire with dignity. source

The record

Former professor at Ohio State University, from Columbus; he calls himself a 'Do-Something Democrat'.
Won the May 2026 Democratic primary over former state Rep. Adam Miller, with nearly 53% of the vote.
Was arrested in March 2026 at a 'No Kings' protest in Grove City on a noise violation, and the Free Beacon reports he was also charged with obstructing official business.

ConfidentialThe GOP File

The file on Mike Carey

Carey ran unopposed in the May 2026 Republican primary and received about 39,200 votes. source

Endorsed by

Planned Parenthood Action Fund (logo on campaign site)End Citizens United (logo on campaign site)Ohio Citizen (logo on campaign site)AFSCME, SEIU, UAW, UFCW, AFGE and Communications Workers of America (logos on campaign site)

Profile sources: 1, 2, 3, 4

Race data checked Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Quotes on this page were matched word for word against their sources.