Ohio is set to lose a key advocate for legalized gambling as state Senator Nathan Manning transitions to a judicial role. Governor Mike DeWine announced on Friday that Manning, a Republican from North Ridgeville, will take a seat on the Ohio Ninth District Court of Appeals starting August 3.
Manning has been an influential figure in the gaming sector, having chaired the Select Committee on Gaming. He also sponsored a bill aimed at legalizing iGaming in Ohio during the current legislative session, although Senate Bill 197 has not yet advanced from his committee.
Initially elected to the Senate in 2018, Manning is concluding his final year as a state senator due to Ohio's term limits, which restrict individuals to two consecutive four-year terms in the Senate. He had planned to run for a House seat after winning the Republican primary unopposed, preparing to face Democratic candidate Mike Baker in the upcoming general election.
However, Manning has decided to forgo the House election in favor of the judicial position, succeeding Donna Carr, a Republican who retired after nearly three decades on the bench. To complete the remaining two years of Carr’s six-year term, Manning must win a special election in November.
Following Manning's departure from the Senate, Senate President Rob McColley will appoint a new chair for the gaming committee. Currently, Senator Mark Romanchuk serves as the vice chair, alongside other GOP members including Majority Floor Leader Theresa Gavarone and President Pro Tempore Bill Reineke.
Gambling legislation in Ohio has faced challenges in recent years, particularly after DeWine expressed regret over the legalization of sports betting. This year, some lawmakers have proposed measures to eliminate online sports betting, despite the state generating over $209 million from this sector in 2025.
As both Manning and DeWine approach the end of their terms, Ohio voters will select a new governor in November, impacting future gaming policies. The election features Democratic candidate Dr. Amy Acton, former Public Health director, and Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy, a businessman and ex-presidential candidate.
Market predictions from PredictIt and Kalshi indicate a competitive race, with shares for both parties closely priced as of Monday evening.