UPDATE: Rocky River Municipal Court Judge Joseph Burke has officially dropped out of the heated Republican primary for the Ohio Supreme Court. This unexpected move, announced on October 26, 2023, marks a significant shift in the race to challenge Democratic Justice Jennifer Brunner next year.
Burke’s exit reduces the candidate pool and intensifies the competition among the remaining Republicans. He is the second candidate to bow out, following incumbent Justice Pat Fischer, who also withdrew earlier this month. Currently, four Republicans remain in the running: state appellate Judges Andrew King of Licking County, Jill Lanzinger of Summit County, and Ron Lewis of Greene County, as well as former Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Colleen O’Donnell from suburban Columbus.
In his departure statement, Burke emphasized his commitment to his role as administrative and presiding judge, stating, “This is where I believe my service can have its most meaningful impact.” He acknowledged that stepping aside was “a difficult but deliberate decision.” Notably, he did not endorse any remaining candidates, instead highlighting that “Ohio has no shortage of credible candidates for Supreme Court Justice.”
Burke’s campaign had previously focused on his electability against Brunner, noting his victory over a Democratic incumbent to secure his current position. His exit raises questions about the dynamics of the Republican primary as the candidates prepare for the upcoming election.
The Republican primary has already experienced a series of twists. Fischer’s attempt to run for another Supreme Court seat while serving his current term faced challenges, culminating in his withdrawal after a candidate screening committee recommended Lewis for the state party endorsement. However, Lewis later withdrew from the endorsement process, leading the Ohio Republican Party to refrain from endorsing any candidate for the time being.
As the primary race continues to develop, there are still nearly three months until the state’s candidate filing deadline in early February 2026. Other Republicans, including former Ohio Senate President Larry Obhof of Medina, have expressed interest in entering the contest.
With the political landscape shifting, all eyes will be on the remaining candidates as they vie for the opportunity to challenge Justice Brunner. This race is crucial not only for Ohio’s judicial future but also for the broader political implications in the state. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
