Driehaus gives up leadership post during Congressional run

State Rep. Steve Driehaus, a Democrat from Price Hill, announced today that he had stepped down from his position as House Minority Whip because he is running for Congress in the 2008 election.

Joyce Beatty, D-Columbus, said. "He is one of the most intelligent and dedicated public servants I know. His ability to grasp complex public policy issues quickly and help other members understand their ramifications has been invaluable to us and our success."

The third-ranking minority leadership post paid Driehaus an extra $10,301 this year above his base Ohio House member salary of $58,933.

House Democratic Caucus members chose State Rep. Fred Strahorn of Dayton, who previously served as Assistant Minority Whip, to take over as new House Minority Whip.

With Democrats needing to win a net seven of the 99 seats to gain control of the Ohio House, Beatty said she looks "forward to working closely with our entire leadership team as we seek to increase our numbers in the Ohio House."

Strahorn’s selection requires formal approval of the full House.