Democrats, including Nina Turner of Cleveland, opposed the choice of Rick Hodges, who would be the first non-physician in 16 years to head the Department of Health.
“Putting someone who is not qualified in this position sends the wrong signal to the people of the great state of Ohio,” says Turner.
But supporters such as Shannon Jones of Springboro said his work as a former state lawmaker and head of various government agencies more than qualifies him.
“He certainly has significant administrative and managerial background that’s really important when you’re managing a large organization with lots of employees.”
The vote to confirm was nearly along party lines. Hodges will be joined by state medical director Dr. Mary D’Orio.