Easton Retzke Issues Statement Regarding Ohio House District 89 Race

SANDUSKY, OH — Following the announcement that Representative DJ Swearingen is withdrawing from the race for Ohio House District 89, Democratic Nominee Easton Retzke released the following statement regarding the campaign and the road ahead to November:

“Following Representative DJ Swearingen’s decision to withdraw from the race for Ohio House District 89, I want to first wish him and his family nothing but the best. I respect the decision he has made, and I recognize the commitment and personal sacrifices that come with serving in public office.

 

While this announcement represents a change in this election, it does not change why I entered this race. I launched this campaign because I believe the people of House District 89 deserve a representative who listens, shows up, and works every day to deliver results for the communities we call home.

 

Over the past several months, I have had the privilege of meeting with residents across Erie, Ottawa, and Huron counties, hearing their concerns, their hopes, and their vision for the future of our district. Those conversations have shaped this campaign and strengthened my commitment to fighting for working families, protecting our communities, and bringing a fresh voice to Columbus.

 

Regardless of who may be on the ballot in November, our campaign will continue doing what we have done from day one: showing up, listening to voters, and earning every vote.

 

I am grateful for the incredible support this campaign has received, and I look forward to continuing this journey with the people of House District 89.”

About Retzke:

Easton Retzke is a lifelong Sandusky resident and the Democratic Nominee for Ohio House District 89, representing Erie, Ottawa, and Huron counties. Raised in a working-class family with deep roots in local labor and municipal service, Retzke brings a fresh, community-first perspective to state leadership. A graduate of Sandusky High School and The Ohio State University with a background in political science, public engagement, and service-industry work, his campaign is centered on four primary pillars:

• Economic Growth & Working Families: Investing in local infrastructure, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture to build sustainable opportunity across Northern Ohio.
• Support for Public Education: Ensuring robust, equitable funding for K–12 public schools so every student and educator has the resources needed to succeed.
• Affordable Housing: Advocating for practical, local housing solutions to relieve financial pressure on families, seniors, and young professionals.
• Transparent Governance: Promoting clear spending accountability, fair campaign practices, and accessible government that works directly for the people rather than special interests.

For more information, press inquiries, or to get involved, please visit retzkeforrepresentative.com or contact info@retzkeforrepresentative.com.