Jodi Salvo

Jodi Salvo was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Salvo earned a bachelor's degree from the California University of Pennsylvania in 1991 and a graduate degree from Marywood University in 1994. Her career experience includes working as a nonprofit director, medical social worker, home health care social worker, and rehabilitation unit case manager. Salvo has served as president and advisory council member on Ohio's Statewide Prevention Coalition Association and served on Ohio's Counselor, Social Worker, Marriage & Family Therapist Board. She has been affiliated with the Tuscarawas County Addiction Task Force, Children & Family First Council, Tusc Against Trafficking, Healthy Tusc, Empower Tusc, Empower Carroll, Access Tusc, and the Tuscarawas Chamber of Commerce.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a resident of Tuscarawas County for the past 18 years, with my husband Phil of 33 years. We have raised two wonderful adult sons, Matthew and Jeremy. My work in this community is marked by a deep commitment to service and advocacy, driven by my passion for making a positive difference in the lives of those around me. I am the Director of Substance Use Prevention Services at OhioGuidestone and coordinate Empower Tusc Coalition. My commitment has been to address critical issues such as mental health wellness, youth substance use prevention and finding solutions to our addiction and mental health crisis. I am a licensed master’s level social worker and an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant and have worked hard in our communities, on State boards and task forces, and am experienced at testifying at the Columbus State House to ensure that legislation is crafted in a way to protect local communities. My involvement in multiple organizations reflect my belief in the power of collaboration and community engagement. These experiences have shaped me into a leader who values integrity, compassion, and hard work, qualities that guide my actions every day. I am committed to representing the values and interests my constituents with diligence, dedication, and a steadfast resolve to make a difference. I bring to my work a deep-rooted work ethic cultivated during my upbringing on a dairy farm. I value hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to getting things done.

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?

As your representative, I will work to protect individual freedoms, including the right to life, religious freedoms, and the right to bear arms as outlined in the Second Amendment. I am committed to ending the teaching of social issues in schools. I will champion traditional family values, and upholding parental rights. I will work to preserve the integrity of our students education and safeguard our fundamental freedoms.As your representative, I will prioritize job creation and economic development. I'll work tirelessly to create a business-friendly environment by reducing burdensome regulations that stifle growth. I'll support initiatives like regulatory reform, workforce development programs, and economic incentives for businesses to thrive in our state.As your representative, I'm committed to exploring and considering a range of options to lower taxes. This includes scrutinizing the budget, advocating for tax reform, promoting government efficiency, and supporting economic growth initiatives. By prioritizing responsible fiscal policies and exploring innovative solutions, we can reduce the tax burden on families and businesses while ensuring essential services are maintained.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about addressing the addiction and mental health crisis. I want to see evidence-based prevention programs in schools and communities, improved access to treatment, individuals diverted from the criminal justice system into appropriate levels of care, integrate mental health services into primary care, expand peer support for recovery, reduce stigma, and invest in workforce development for behavioral health professionals.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I am not going to name a specific person but I deeply admire individuals of faith who actively engage in serving their communities and step into leadership roles. These individuals embody the values of compassion, kindness, and selflessness in their actions. They dedicate their time and energy to helping those in need, whether it's through feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, or helping others see their inherent worth. Their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others is a testament to the transformative power of faith and serves as a source of inspiration for me.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official include honesty, integrity, principled leadership, and a willingness to collaborate while standing firm on their beliefs. They must be accessible to constituents, actively listening to their needs, and willing to take decisive action to address issues. Additionally, they should prioritize representing the majority of their district, ensuring their decisions align with the community's interests and values, while embodying the principles of a servant leader. A truly effective elected official is fully committed to seeing their district and Ohio thrive, tirelessly working towards the betterment of their constituents and the state as a whole.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

My qualities of caring for others, being a natural networker, hard worker, problem-solver, and possessing the willingness to learn, stand firm, and walk in integrity make me well suited to be a successful officeholder. My genuine concern for the well-being of others will drive me to prioritize the needs of my constituents above all else. As a natural networker, I excel at building relationships and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. My strong work ethic and problem-solving skills enable me to tackle complex issues, while my willingness to learn ensures that I remain adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of my community. I am not afraid to stand firm on my principles and I will walk in integrity, knowing that it is essential for earning the trust and respect of those I serve. These qualities, combined with my dedication to serving others, make me confident in my ability to lead and represent my community with integrity and compassion.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe that the core responsibilities of a state representative include representing constituents' interests, crafting and voting on legislation, providing constituent services, overseeing the state budget, advocating for policies, communicating with constituents, and collaborating with colleagues to advance the interests of Ohio and its communities.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want my legacy to reflect a profound commitment to leaving this world better than I found it. A legacy defined by my commitment to making positive change in the world around me and advocating fiercely for those who need a voice. I would like to be remembered as someone who cared deeply, and who fought for justice. Ultimately, I want my life to reflect service to others.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

At the age of 10, I vividly I remember the energy crisis. I remember waiting in long lines at gas stations, with tensions rising as fuel became scarce. I remember a station refusing to serve my parents gas because they were not a regular customer.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Growing up on a dairy farm instilled in me the importance of hard work and discipline from an early age. My first job, although unpaid, involved the daily routines of milking cows and working in the fields. At 15, I held my first paid position at our local ice cream shop. I worked at the ice-cream shop until I turned 16 and then started waiting tables at a local restaurant. I continued working throughout college to support myself by serving at various restaurants. I like to work and I am known for my strong work ethic.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I love anything written by Jodi Picoult. Her novels are gripping and emotionally charged, diving deep into complex moral dilemmas. I appreciate how she skillfully presents various perspectives on controversial issues, making me to evaluate my own beliefs.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Elizabeth McCord in Madam Secretary. She is highly capable, principled, navigates crazy situations and balances her personal and professional life.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

"Strong" by Anne Wilson

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Work life balance has always been a struggle in my personal life.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

I believe there should be a balanced and cooperative relationship between the Governor and State Legislature, rooted in respect for the separation of powers, checks and balances, and state sovereignty. This means that while each branch of government has its own distinct roles and responsibilities, they should work together collaboratively to address the needs of the state and its citizens.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, Ohio may confront significant challenges across various fronts. These challenges could encompass healthcare, particularly ensuring access to behavioral health care, addressing the rise in addiction issues, and reforming education to mitigate the impacts of the culture war on our children's well-being. Additionally, infrastructure investment, rural development, and the pursuit of energy independence are also areas that might demand attention. Moreover, there's a need to address the rise in inflation and the imperative to reduce taxes to support economic growth and affordability.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

I firmly believe that effective state legislators do not require prior experience in government or politics. What is needed is a person with a genuine passion and commitment to advancing the best interests of our State and communities. Individuals who have a proven track record of pulling people together and getting things done. They need a willingness and commitment to learn from trusted community leaders across all sectors, coupled with a sincere dedication to serve and represent their constituents. They need to possess a willingness to stand up for district needs and advocate tirelessly for their communities.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I firmly believe that it is not only beneficial but essential for a legislator to build relationships with other legislators. These connections are vital to ensure they can gain support and work together in the best interests of districts and state. Collaboration and cooperation among lawmakers are fundamental to achieving meaningful progress and addressing the diverse needs of our communities.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I am taking notes from Senator Al Landis as he is serving us well. With a steadfast commitment to integrity, he remains true to his personal values while diligently hearing and learning from his constituents, representing the collective voice of his district. He is a skilled problem solver; he prioritizes finding solutions for both state and community issues. Senator Landis works collaboratively with others to ensure the greater good is accomplished, all the while maintaining a steadfast commitment to advocating for his district and prioritizing their needs.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am not.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

I am wary of granting broad emergency powers to the executive branch without oversight. The rule of law dictates that all individuals, including government officials, must be accountable under the law. Therefore, I support measures that clarify and limit the scope of emergency powers, with mechanisms for legislative approval. Maintaining this balance between executive authority and legislative oversight is crucial to safeguarding individual liberties and upholding the rule of law.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

My legislation would be the Ohio Suicide Prevention Funding Act, which will be crafted to allocate state resources to all Ohio counties for comprehensive suicide prevention efforts. It will bolster existing local suicide prevention coalitions and establish new ones where needed, ensuring they have the necessary support, including funding for paid staff. Emphasizing evidence-based approaches, the focus will be on empowering communities to devise effective solutions using best practices. The bill will include monitoring of program effectiveness and transparent utilization of funds. Given the escalating issue of suicide in our communities, it's imperative that we prioritize this issue, saving lives and supporting those impacted by death by suicide.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Ohio Value Voters, Associated Builders and Contractors, Sheriff Orvis Campbell, Kerry Metzger former Ohio State Rep and Tuscarawas County Commissioner, State Senator Al Landis

What committees interest you?

Behavioral Health, Families and Aging, Health Provider Services, Public Health Policy Committee

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are essential. I will advocate for limited government intervention, fiscal responsibility, and measures to prevent corruption. Transparency empowers citizens to hold elected officials accountable and fosters trust in our government.

Note: Salvo submitted the above survey responses to [the profile publisher] on February 17, 2024.

Show past responsesHide past responses

February 14 submission

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a resident of Tuscarawas County for the past 18 years, with my husband Phil of 33 years. We have raised two wonderful adult sons, Matthew and Jeremy. My work in this community is marked by a deep commitment to service and advocacy, driven by my passion for making a positive difference in the lives of those around me.

I am the Director of Substance Use Prevention Services at OhioGuidestone and coordinate Empower Tusc Coalition. My commitment has been to address critical issues such as mental health wellness, youth substance use prevention and finding solutions to our addiction and mental health crisis. I am a licensed master’s level social worker and an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant and have worked hard in our communities, on State boards and task forces, and am experienced at testifying at the Columbus State House to ensure that legislation is crafted in a way to protect local communities.

My involvement in multiple organizations reflect my belief in the power of collaboration and community engagement. These experiences have shaped me into a leader who values integrity, compassion, and hard work, qualities that guide my actions every day. I am committed to representing the values and interests my constituents with diligence, dedication, and a steadfast resolve to make a difference. I bring to my work a deep-rooted work ethic cultivated during my upbringing on a dairy farm. I value hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to getting things done.

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?

As your representative, I will work to protect individual freedoms, including the right to life, religious freedoms, and the right to bear arms as outlined in the Second Amendment. I am committed to ending the teaching of social issues in schools. I will champion traditional family values, and upholding parental rights. I will work to preserve the integrity of our students education and safeguard our fundamental freedoms.As your representative, I will prioritize job creation and economic development. I'll work tirelessly to create a business-friendly environment by reducing burdensome regulations that stifle growth. I'll support initiatives like regulatory reform, workforce development programs, and economic incentives for businesses to thrive in our state.As your representative, I'm committed to exploring and considering a range of options to lower taxes. This includes scrutinizing the budget, advocating for tax reform, promoting government efficiency, and supporting economic growth initiatives. By prioritizing responsible fiscal policies and exploring innovative solutions, we can reduce the tax burden on families and businesses while ensuring essential services are maintained.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about addressing the addiction and mental health crisis. I want to see evidence based prevention programs in schools and communities, improved access to treatment, individuals diverted from the criminal justice system into appropriate levels of care, integrate mental health services into primary care, expand peer support for recovery, reduce stigma, and invest in workforce development for behavioral health professionals.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I am not going to name a specific person but I deeply admire individuals of faith who actively engage in serving their communities and step into leadership roles. These individuals embody the values of compassion, kindness, and selflessness in their actions. They dedicate their time and energy to helping those in need, whether it's through feeding the hungry, providing shelter for the homeless, or helping others see their inherent worth. Their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others is a testament to the transformative power of faith and serves as a source of inspiration for me.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I believe the most important characteristics for an elected official include honesty, integrity, principled leadership, and a willingness to collaborate while standing firm on their beliefs. They must be accessible to constituents, actively listening to their needs, and willing to take decisive action to address issues. Additionally, they should prioritize representing the majority of their district, ensuring their decisions align with the community's interests and values, while embodying the principles of a servant leader. A truly effective elected official is fully committed to seeing their district and Ohio thrive, tirelessly working towards the betterment of their constituents and the state as a whole.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

My qualities of caring for others, being a natural networker, hard worker, problem-solver, and possessing the willingness to learn, stand firm, and walk in integrity make me well suited to be a successful officeholder. My genuine concern for the well-being of others will drive me to prioritize the needs of my constituents above all else. As a natural networker, I excel at building relationships and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. My strong work ethic and problem-solving skills enable me to tackle complex issues, while my willingness to learn ensures that I remain adaptable and responsive to the evolving needs of my community. I am not afraid to stand firm on my principles and I will walk in integrity, knowing that it is essential for earning the trust and respect of those I serve. These qualities, combined with my dedication to serving others, make me confident in my ability to lead and represent my community with integrity and compassion.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

I believe that the core responsibilities of a state representative include representing constituents' interests, crafting and voting on legislation, providing constituent services, overseeing the state budget, advocating for policies, communicating with constituents, and collaborating with colleagues to advance the interests of Ohio and its communities.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I want my legacy to reflect a profound commitment to leaving this world better than I found it. A legacy defined by my commitment to making positive change in the world around me and advocating fiercely for those who need a voice. I would like to be remembered as someone who cared deeply, and who fought for justice. Ultimately, I want my life to reflect service to others.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

At the age of 10, I vividly I remember the energy crisis. I remember waiting in long lines at gas stations, with tensions rising as fuel became scarce. I remember a station refusing to serve my parents gas because they were not a regular customer.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Growing up on a dairy farm instilled in me the importance of hard work and discipline from an early age. My first job, although unpaid, involved the daily routines of milking cows and working in the fields. At 15, I held my first paid position at our local ice cream shop. I worked at the ice-cream shop until I turned 16 and then started waiting tables at a local restaurant. I continued working throughout college to support myself by serving at various restaurants. I like to work and I am known for my strong work ethic.

What is your favorite book? Why?

I love anything written by Jodi Picoult. Her novels are gripping and emotionally charged, diving deep into complex moral dilemmas. I appreciate how she skillfully presents various perspectives on controversial issues, making me to evaluate my own beliefs.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Elizabeth McCord in Madam Secretary. She is highly capable, principled, navigates crazy situations and balances her personal and professional life.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Strong by Anne Wilson

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Work life balance has always been a struggle in my personal life.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

I believe there should be a balanced and cooperative relationship between the Governor and State Legislature, rooted in respect for the separation of powers, checks and balances, and state sovereignty. This means that while each branch of government has its own distinct roles and responsibilities, they should work together collaboratively to address the needs of the state and its citizens.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, Ohio may confront significant challenges across various fronts. These challenges could encompass healthcare, particularly ensuring access to behavioral health care, addressing the rise in addiction issues, and reforming education to mitigate the impacts of the culture war on our children's well-being. Additionally, infrastructure investment, rural development, and the pursuit of energy independence are also areas that might demand attention. Moreover, there's a need to address the rise in inflation and the imperative to reduce taxes to support economic growth and affordability.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

I firmly believe that effective state legislators do not require prior experience in government or politics. What is needed is a person with a genuine passion and commitment to advancing the best interests of our State and communities. Individuals who have a proven track record of pulling people together and getting things done. They need a willingness and commitment to learn from trusted community leaders across all sectors, coupled with a sincere dedication to serve and represent their constituents. They need to possess a willingness to stand up for district needs and advocate tirelessly for their communities.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I firmly believe that it is not only beneficial but essential for a legislator to build relationships with other legislators. These connections are vital to ensuring we have the ability to gain support and work together in the best interests of our districts and state. Collaboration and cooperation among lawmakers are fundamental to achieving meaningful progress and addressing the diverse needs of our communities.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I am taking notes from Senator Al Landis as he is serving us well. With a steadfast commitment to integrity, he remains true to his personal values while diligently hearing and learning from his constituents, representing the collective voice of his district. He is a skilled problem solver, he prioritizes finding solutions for both state and community issues. Senator Landis works collaboratively with others to ensure the greater good is accomplished, all the while maintaining a steadfast commitment to advocating for his district and prioritizing their needs.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am not.

Should the legislature oversee or grant the use of emergency powers?

I am wary of granting broad emergency powers to the executive branch without oversight. The rule of law dictates that all individuals, including government officials, must be accountable under the law. Therefore, I support measures that clarify and limit the scope of emergency powers, with mechanisms for legislative approval. Maintaining this balance between executive authority and legislative oversight is crucial to safeguarding individual liberties and upholding the rule of law.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

My legislation would be the Ohio Suicide Prevention Funding Act, which will be crafted to allocate state resources to all Ohio counties for comprehensive suicide prevention efforts. It will bolster existing local suicide prevention coalitions and establish new ones where needed, ensuring they have the necessary support, including funding for paid staff. Emphasizing evidence-based approaches, the focus will be on empowering communities to devise effective solutions using best practices. The bill will include monitoring of program effectiveness and transparent utilization of funds. Given the escalating issue of suicide in our communities, it's imperative that we prioritize this issue, saving lives and supporting those impacted by death by suicide.

What committees interest you?

Behavioral Health, Families and Aging, Health Provider Services, Public Health Policy Committee

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are essential. I will advocate for limited government intervention, fiscal responsibility, and measures to prevent corruption. Transparency empowers citizens to hold elected officials accountable and fosters trust in our government.