Colleen T. O'DonnellColleen T. O'Donnell

these candidates have demonstrated a commitment to protecting innocent human life, supporting women and families, and advancing public policies that recognize the dignity of every human being.

"The Supreme Court makes decisions that affects how Ohio's laws are interpreted and applied, and those decisions can have real impact on businesses that are trying to create jobs, make investments, and grow right here in Ohio. Businesses need certainty. They need to know that the rules, what the rules are and how the rules will be applied, and that they'll be applied fairly and consistently," said Ohio Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Steve Stivers in endorsing Hawkins and O'Donnell. "They both think the law should be applied fairly, and they are going to interpret the law and not write the law from the bench."

The Ohio Chamber of Commerce, NFIB Ohio, Ohio Business Roundtable, Ohio Farm Bureau and Ohio Manufacturers’ Association announced their endorsements at an event Aug. 18 at the Ohio Chamber, citing the candidates’ judicial experience, commitment to the rule of law and ability to provide the stability and predictability that Ohio’s business community needs.

“Just like on my farm, families across Ohio are struggling with the high cost of expenses needed to make their farms successful. Undoubtedly, our legal system, especially if unpredictable and inconsistent, can significantly increase the costs on every Ohioan,” said Adele Flynn, treasurer, Ohio Farm Bureau.

Leaders from each organization spoke about the critical role the Ohio Supreme Court plays in determining how Ohio laws are interpreted and applied, making its decisions consequential for businesses of every size and in every industry.

“Now more than ever, Ohio’s agricultural community needs a consistent Ohio Supreme Court. Ohio Farm Bureau’s Agriculture for Good Government PAC is proud to support Justice Dan Hawkins in his reelection effort, and Colleen O’Donnell in her candidacy for the court,” Flynn said. “They both have a strong record of working to maintain a stable and predictable judicial system, respecting the co-equal branches of government, and recognizing the impact the courts can have on the livelihood of Ohio farm families.”