COLUMBUS — Ohio Auditor Keith Faber, who is term-limited from seeking a third term, announced Monday his candidacy to be the state’s next attorney general.
A Republican, the 59-year-old Faber hopes to replace Republican Dave Yost as the state’s top law enforcement officer. Like Faber, Yost cannot seek a third term as AG in 2026.
Yost, 68, announced last week he will run for governor as current Gov. Mike DeWine also faces term-limit restrictions. Former Lt. Gov. Jon Husted was selected by DeWine to serve in the U.S. Senate, replacing now-Vice President J.D. Vance.
Yost will likely face opposition in the GOP primary from Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy. Democrat Amy Acton has announced she is running for governor, as well.
The 51-year-old Sprague is also term-limited from seeking re-election.
Faber said his top priorities are defending Ohio’s Constitution, which involves ensuring the will of the people is upheld despite numerous lawsuits from a vocal minority; and protecting Ohio’s families as the state’s chief law enforcement officer focused on consumer protection and modernized crime fighting.
“The Ohio Attorney General plays a vitally important role in the lives of Ohioans,” Faber said. “I’m running for attorney general because I believe experience matters, and I will capitalize on my service as a lawyer, legislator, and state auditor to create an office that protects and defends Ohio’s people and institutions.”
As the state auditor, Faber said he created a record of identifying misspent taxpayer funds and convicted 129 people who betrayed the public trust. Faber said he also helped uncover billions in unemployment fraud during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He previously served as a state representative, state senator, and Ohio Senate president.
Faber said his Attorney General’s office will focus on public safety and will actively support Ohio police and prosecutors.
“From human trafficking to drug trafficking to violent crime, we’ve seen the impact of national policies like the open southern border right here in Ohio,” Faber said.
“My office will do all it can to aid local and federal law enforcement, protect victims’ rights, and keep our communities safe. We will efficiently and effectively use the Bureau of Criminal Investigations and other tools within the AG’s office to better support our law enforcement and protect Ohioans.”