Tom Herner

Tom Herner graduated from Centerville City High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Wright State University in 2021.

His career experience includes working as an auditor.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a lifelong Ohioan, a product of Centerville City Schools, and a proud Wright State University alumnus—Go Raiders! Raised in a union household, I learned early on the value of hard work and community solidarity. My life itself is a testament to the importance of reproductive healthcare; I was conceived through In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), and I am running to ensure those same healthcare freedoms are protected for every Ohioan.

Professionally, I bring over a decade of experience in internal auditing, banking, and entrepreneurship. I have spent my career "following the money" and identifying inefficiencies—skills I intend to use in Columbus to root out corruption and special-interest waste. I am running to flip House District 37 because our community deserves a representative who prioritizes transparent, accountable leadership over the interests of billionaires and lobbyists.

I attended Centerville City Schools and earned my B.S. in Entrepreneurship with a minor in Computer Science from Wright State University.

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?

Combatting the Rising Cost of Living: Ohioans are being squeezed by the rising costs of food, utilities, and housing. We face some of the highest property tax rates in the nation, which is pricing seniors out of their homes and keeping younger generations out of the market. I will work across the aisle to provide meaningful relief by expanding the Homestead Exemption, supporting first-time homebuyer programs, and investing in affordable childcare.Prioritizing Strong Public Schools: Education is a fundamental right. For too long, the legislature has diverted essential funding toward private vouchers at the expense of our public system. I will fight to return to the Fair School Funding Plan—a move that would bring an estimated $12 million in additional funding to West Carrollton schools alone—ensuring every child has the resources they need to succeed.Protecting Reproductive Freedom: My stance on reproductive choice is unwavering and personal. Without access to IVF and reproductive health services, I would not be here today. I will always defend the right of Ohioans to make their own healthcare decisions without government interference.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Reproductive Rights and Healthcare: As someone born through IVF, I understand that reproductive freedom is not just a policy issue—it's a matter of personhood and family. I will be a tireless advocate for protecting and expanding access to the full spectrum of reproductive care.

2. Government Ethics and Accountability: From the FirstEnergy HB6 scandal to the recent $600 million giveaway to billionaires in the state budget, Ohio has suffered under a decade of mismanagement. My background as an internal auditor makes me uniquely qualified to demand transparency, challenge special-interest spending, and ensure that our tax dollars are reinvested back into our neighborhoods rather than corporate pockets.

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

Integrity: It's about doing the right thing for our constituents, not the popular thing.

Transparency: Honesty with voters about purpose and background. A strong sense of commitment to people.