Jay Edwards Jr. seeks Ohio treasurer seat in Nov. 3 election

Jay Edwards Jr., a Republican and former state representative, is running for Ohio treasurer in the 2026 general election. He faces Democrat Seth Walsh.

Edwards, a Nelsonville native who describes himself as a proud son of Appalachia, said he wants to modernize the treasurer's office and restore taxpayer trust, according to his candidate responses to the Columbus Dispatch.

Candidate information

Party: Republican
Hometown: Nelsonville, Ohio
Education: High school diploma, Nelsonville-York High School; bachelor's degree in mathematics, Ohio University
Background: Edwards said he played football on scholarship at Ohio University. He has also worked as a realtor, according to BallotReady profile data.

Experience and public service

Edwards served as state representative for District 94 in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2017 to 2025, according to BallotReady, and he said he chaired the House Finance Committee and served as House majority whip during that time.

On the issues

The following positions are Edwards' own stated responses, drawn from his campaign website and a Dispatch candidate questionnaire.

Government technology and modernization: Edwards said he would upgrade the treasurer's office from what he called an outdated 1970s-era Automated Clearing House system to modern technology. He said he would also enhance the Ohio Checkbook program to make state spending more accessible to residents.

Artificial intelligence: Edwards said AI should serve as an efficiency tool, not a replacement for human oversight. He proposed using AI to analyze investment portfolios, detect fraud in unclaimed property claims and streamline cash-flow forecasting. He said every AI use must include human review, data security and full transparency.

Law enforcement: Edwards said he would launch a "Link Deposit" program that prioritizes state deposits with financial institutions committed to backing first responders. He said the program would strengthen partnerships in cities where, in his view, respect for law enforcement has eroded.

State investments: Edwards said his investment decisions, including on Israel bonds, would be guided by what is best for Ohio taxpayers, prioritizing safety, liquidity and return. He said he is troubled by entities divesting from Israel bonds for political reasons.

Economy and education: Edwards said he supports more funding for job training, vocational schools and skilled trades. He said he would fight for fair funding and local control for schools and work to make Ohio's colleges and universities more affordable, according to his campaign website.