The new ODP chair is State Representative Chris Redfern. Wasn't allowed inside the room where voting occured (a uniformed fire marshal pushed me out), so I can't give details.
Bio on Chris Redfern below the jump, from redfernforohio.com
Representative Chris Redfern was sworn in as the Ohio House Democratic Leader in January of 2003. Under his leadership, House Democrats gained more seats in the 2004 election than at any time since 1982. His energy and passion and his ability to work in a bi-partisan effort to pass meaningful legislation for Ohio's residents has earned him great distinction as a top legislator in the state's General Assembly.
Since arriving in the Ohio House in 1999, Rep. Redfern has advocated for economic discipline and fairness by championing fiscal restraint in state budgeting, and pushing for a more equitable tax code that helps Ohio's working families. He has also been a passionate leader for environmental causes, working vigorously to protect Lake Erie from drilling, and ensuring the preservation of the natural resources so vital to our state.
For his leadership and vision, his commitment to Ohio and his devotion to Democratic causes, Rep. Redfern has received a wide array of awards and distinctions. In 2003, he received the Myrl H. Shoemaker Award, presented annually to a member of the Ohio Democratic Party displaying outstanding statewide service. He has also been awarded the 2004 Citizen of the Year by the Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as citations from the Ohio Association of Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Ohio Educational Service Center Association.
Before arriving at the Statehouse, Rep. Redfern was an Ottawa County Commissioner--the youngest in the state when his term began in 1993. In that role, he focused on expanding the county's infrastructure, improving local services and escalating economic development.
Rep. Redfern, whose legislative district includes parts of Ottawa and Erie Counties, attended Bowling Green State University, where he earned both a bachelor's degree, and then a Master's degree in state and local government. In 2004, he received the BGSU Accomplished Graduate Award.
Rep. Redfern lives in Catawba Island Township.