Redfern: Democrats will win Statehouse majority

LIMA - With much focus on the presidential race, Ohio's Democratic Party chairman sees a future with a friendly majority at the Statehouse.

During his second visit to the region this week, Chris Redfern predicted Democratic legislative pickups.

"We fully expect to win a majority. Keep in mind, that's with districts drawn by Republicans," Redfern said. "Just like Gov. Ted Strickland needs a friend in the White House in Barack Obama, he needs friends at the Statehouse to fully implement his agenda."

Redfern spoke to union and Allen County Democratic Party members Thursday at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers hall, imploring with them to talk up Obama and other candidates.

"You're all converted. Go to your cafés, your union halls and turn their hearts and minds," Redfern said. "If you can't, turn their ankles and you will know them by their limping. Take them off the fence."

When met with questions about gun rights and uncertainty or mistrust of Obama, have answers ready about his record, said Redfern, who, along with Strickland, is supported by the National Rifle Association.

"Bob Taft and George Bush were supported by the NRA," Redfern said. "While George Bush has been president, we have lost 68 jobs a day in this state. While you're bowling, hunting, at your kids' soccer games, walk people through it. When the budget's been cut, when they're laid off, they'll wish they had voted on the economy and not guns."