Democrat O’Neill picks school principal to join governor ticket

William O’Neill

William O’Neill

Democrat William O’Neill has picked a Cleveland educator as his running mate in the race for Ohio governor.

Chantelle E. Lewis, of East Cleveland, is a former city council member and school board member, a one-time Cleveland schools teacher and a current elementary school principal in Lorain County.

O’Neill caused a national stir in November when he volunteered candid details of his sexual past on Facebook in an attempt to take a swipe at the “media frenzy” over sexual misconduct. He later apologized.

WHO IS RUNNING FOR OHIO GOVERNOR?

The 70-year-old retiring Supreme Court Justice, military veteran and nurse on Tuesday called the addition of Lewis to his ticket “a dream come true.” He said the 42-year-old, who is black, brings a diversity and experience to his team that will resonate with Democratic voters.

O’Neill is running for the Democratic nomination against former Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, former Attorney General Richard Cordray, former Congresswoman Betty Sutton, state Sen. Joe Schiavoni and former state Rep. Connie Pillich.

The primary election is May 8.

About the Author