COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel has been nominated by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine to serve as the state’s next lieutenant governor. The governor made the announcement at a news conference on Monday, praising Tressel as a natural leader and expressing confidence in his ability to succeed Jon Husted, who has been appointed to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Vice President JD Vance. Tressel, who recently retired as president of Youngstown State University after serving since 2014, previously led the Ohio State Buckeyes to a national championship and six Big Ten titles during his coaching tenure from 2001 to 2010. Governor DeWine emphasized Tressel’s leadership qualities and familiarity with Ohio, stating, 'Jim Tressel, I trust his judgment. He is a born leader.' The nomination now awaits approval from the Ohio Senate and House. At 72 years old, Tressel is seen as a potential candidate for the governorship in 2026, although he has not confirmed any plans to run. Tressel's experience includes serving as a prominent fundraiser and leading Youngstown State to four NCAA Division I-AA national championships. His nomination comes as Ohio's political landscape shifts following Husted's Senate elevation. 'It was a surprise for sure,' Tressel reflected on his nomination. Notably, Tressel resigned from Ohio State in 2011 amid controversy regarding NCAA violations involving his players.
