Derek Merrin

State Reps. Gail Pavliga and Sharon Ray are two of nearly two dozen incumbent Republicans the state GOP declined to endorse this year.

The factions that support Speaker Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) and those backing Rep. Derek Merrin (R-Monclova Township) couldn't agree on the appointment, showing the leadership battle is still on.

The Republican speaker revealed a list of priorities that include tax changes, education spending, and controversial bills like a ban on trans athletes in girls' sports - and his GOP opponent for speaker is saying he's pleased but also disappointed.

The scheduled session would be the first meeting of the Ohio House since Rep. Jason Stephens won a contentious battle for House speaker over Rep. Derek Merrin.

Dozens of House Republicans gathered in a closed-door meeting to talk about the future of their caucus after a fight over who will lead the chamber.

Merrin, who has served in the Ohio House since August 2016, currently chairs the ways and means committee.

State senators will soon take up a House-passed bill that its sponsor said will clarify descriptions of school and local levies and other property tax…