State Representative Jim Hoops has officially announced that he will run for the Ohio First District Senate seat in the 2026 election.
The seat represents northwest Ohio, including the counties of Defiance, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, Williams, and northern Logan County.
The seat is currently held by Senate President Robert McColley, who will be finishing his final term due to term limits.
“I’m excited to bring my experience and strong conservative values to the race,” said Hoops. “Senator McColley has done a great job, and I want to continue pushing forward a conservative agenda that supports our families and communities.”
Representative Hoops is known for his pro-life stance, support of the Second Amendment, and focus on fiscal responsibility.
He currently serves the 81st House District, which includes Fulton, Henry, and Williams counties, as well as northern Defiance County.
He was first appointed to the House in 2018 and has been reelected in every election since.
He also served from 1999 to 2006 before being term-limited.
In addition to his work in the Legislature, Hoops is active in the community.
He has volunteered for the United Way of Henry County, served on the Senior Center Board, and was treasurer for the Henry County Humane Society.
Jim and his wife Deb live in Napoleon.
They have a daughter, Erica, a son-in-law, Ross, and a grandson, Hudson.
To learn more, visit www.jimhoops.com.
