Statement from State Representative Al Cutrona

State Rep. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) has issued the following statement:

“As your state representative, it’s been my main goal to hear from my constituents and ensure that your voices are being heard in Columbus. Trust is the foundation of that relationship, for us to converse about ideas and concerns back and forth to bring meaningful solutions to the Statehouse. However, as many of you are aware, our Speaker of the House has tremendously violated that trust through allegations and a federal grand jury indictment of racketeering charges.

“In order for Ohioans and those within Mahoning Valley to trust the Ohio House again, my colleagues and I took decisive action today to remove Larry Householder as Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives. Those within this body must be held to a high standard, especially those in leadership positions, and it is my hope that this vote today is a step in the right direction to bring back respect and integrity to this chamber.

“To say I’m disappointed to discover something like this transpired is putting it lightly, but I will tell you that I am still very optimistic about our future. No matter the struggles, whether it be the challenges our state has faced in this matter or with the COVID-19 pandemic, we have found ways to overcome. I know as Ohioans and people of the Mahoning Valley that we will put our best foot forward as we continue to persevere through these strenuous times.

“On a positive note, we have chosen Bob Cupp to lead as the new Speaker of the House. I have no doubt that Speaker Cupp can certainly restore honor and justice back to this body. Please know that it is my intention that we will look into addressing issues related to the ongoing investigation, such as campaign finance reform. Additionally, I want to continue to serve you and hear your ideas, questions, and concerns so that I can bring them to Columbus where we can make real change happen. It’s key that we continue to focus on jobs, our healthcare infrastructure, and how to tackle the ongoing pandemic; I look forward to working with you, my constituents, on these priorities and any other efforts you think are necessary for the betterment of the Valley.”