Jim Tressel, the former head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, has been appointed as Ohio's 67th lieutenant governor. Governor Mike DeWine announced Tressel's nomination on February 10, 2025, following the departure of Jon Husted, who was selected to fill a U.S. Senate seat.
Tressel's appointment was confirmed by the Ohio General Assembly on February 12, 2025, with a Senate vote of 31-1 and a House vote of 68-27.
Tressel, 72, is renowned for his successful tenure as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, leading the team to a national championship in 2002. His coaching record at Ohio State stands at 106-22, including a 9-1 record against Michigan. However, the NCAA adjusted his career record to 94-21 due to violations involving ineligible players during the 2010 season.
Before his Ohio State coaching tenure, Tressel served as head coach at Youngstown State University, where he led the team to four national championships over 15 years. After retiring from coaching, he became president of Youngstown State University, serving from 2014 to 2023.
Governor DeWine praised Tressel's leadership skills and deep understanding of Ohio, stating, "I wanted someone who knew Ohio.”
Tressel's appointment as lieutenant governor is expected to have significant implications for Ohio's political landscape. His extensive experience in education and leadership positions has garnered support from various sectors. Additionally, his new role positions him as a potential candidate in the upcoming 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election, where he could leverage his public service background and statewide recognition.
As lieutenant governor, Tressel will be responsible for assisting Governor DeWine in overseeing state operations and will be prepared to assume the governorship if necessary. His appointment reflects a strategic move to bring experienced leadership to Ohio's executive branch.
