Harris in, Winburn out, surprise coming Friday

Democrat Greg Harris says he will, indeed file Friday morning to run for Hamilton County Commissioner Pat DeWine's seat. DeWine isn't seeking re-election, running instead for Common Pleas Court judge, so Harris will go up against Republican Greg Hartmann, who currently serves as Hamilton County Clerk of Courts.

Harris expressed hesitation about the race Thursday citing a potential conflict of interest because he sits on a governor workforce development board. But late in the day he confirmed he is, indeed running. If elected, he'll work out the conflict then.

In the meantime, former City Council Candidate Charlie Winburn, who'd taken out petitions to run as a Republican for Hamilton County Commission confirmed he will not follow through. Winburn said instead, he's decided to throw "100 percent of my support" behind Republican Hartmann for the seat. Winburn isn't done with politics though. He says he plans to run for city council again in 2010.

And the Hamilton County Republican Party will hold a press conference at 2 p.m. to announce their endorsed candidate to run against Democratic Hamilton County Commissioner Todd Portune. The party's won't give any hints, but says it's not Ed Rothenberg, the jail tax opponent who has already filed as a Republican opponent against Portune. Portune plans to file for re-election Friday as well. The Enquirer will have a full wrap up after the 4 p.m. deadline.