Elijah Knoll

Elijah Knoll earned a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in 2022. Knoll's career experience includes working in nonprofit management.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Elijah Knoll and I am an Independent Democratic Socialist. I have always felt a deep calling to help others and give back to the communities around me. That passion led me to Columbus, Ohio, where I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, graduating cum laude. After college, I began working in the nonprofit world with Habitat for Humanity, focusing on fundraising for affordable housing.

Even then, I knew I wanted a life rooted in service, but I also knew Columbus was not where I would ultimately build my future. After visiting Cleveland a few times, I felt an immediate connection to this city, its people, its neighborhoods, and its spirit. There was something about Cleveland that felt like home in a way no other place ever had.

Trusting that feeling, I took a leap of faith and moved here without a job lined up. Not long after, I found my place at Hunger Network, where I now work to address food insecurity across our community. Through this work, I have had the privilege of meeting families from every corner of the city, hearing their stories, and witnessing firsthand the strength and compassion that define Cleveland.

This city means so much to me. Cleveland is more than where I live, it is where I found my purpose. I am grateful every day for the opportunity to serve the community that welcomed me and helped me find my place.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Let's create an Ohio that works for all, not just the wealthy.Health care is a human right. We must expand access to affordable health care for all Ohioans and ensure that no one’s well-being is determined by their income or job. I support universal, single-payer coverage for all Ohioans.40% of food in this country goes to waste. Through my work with an organization that connects food donors to meal sites, food pantries, and community partners, I’ve seen firsthand how much more we can do to feed Ohio families. It’s time to make it illegal for large corporations to throw away perfectly edible food that could be feeding people instead.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Food waste prevention, healthcare for all, taxing the rich their fair share, union expansion, livable wages, housing for all, animal welfare, veteran assistance, anti-charter schools.