Michael Ashford facts for kids

Michael Ashford was an important leader in Ohio. He was born on September 15, 1955. He used to be the Minority Whip in the Ohio House of Representatives. This means he helped lead the minority political party. He worked for over 116,000 people in the city of Toledo.

Michael Ashford's Career Journey

Michael Ashford grew up in Toledo, Ohio. He studied sociology at the University of Nebraska. Later, he earned a master's degree from Spring Arbor University. He spent his early career helping communities. He worked with groups like the YMCA and the Boys and Girls Clubs.

He started his political journey in 2002. He became a member of the Toledo City Council. The people of District 4 supported him in elections. In 2007, he even became the president of the Toledo City Council.

While on the Council, he worked on important projects. He helped improve Toledo's water system. This project made the water cleaner for everyone. He also helped create a new entertainment area in Downtown Toledo. He worked hard to manage the city's money. He also helped local groups get the resources they needed.

Serving in the Ohio House

In 2010, Michael Ashford ran for the Ohio House of Representatives. The person who held the seat before him, Edna Brown, could not run again. Michael Ashford won the election easily. He started his first term on January 3, 2011.

In the House, he served on several important committees. These included committees for Finance, Insurance, and Public Utilities. He also helped with the Ohio Commission on Fatherhood.

Important Committees He Joined

• House Committee on Finance and Appropriations
• House Committee on Public Utilities
• House Committee on Insurance
• House Committee on Rules and Reference
• Joint Legislative Ethics Commission

His Views on Important Issues

Michael Ashford often spoke about important issues. He disagreed with a plan by the Ohio Republican Party. This plan wanted to end "collective bargaining" for state employees. Collective bargaining is when groups of workers talk together about their pay and working conditions.

He believed this plan would hurt the state's economy. He thought it would not help create jobs. He felt it would have a very bad financial impact on Ohio.

Leading the Democratic Party in Lucas County

On June 2, 2020, Michael Ashford was chosen for a new role. He became the Chairman of the Lucas County Democratic Party. This meant he was a top leader for the Democratic Party in that county. He held this position for almost three years. On March 31, 2023, he decided to step down from this role.