David J. Leland

David J. Leland was born on September 18, 1953, in Syracuse, New York. He is a prominent Democratic political figure and legal professional in Ohio with over 50 years of active involvement in state and national politics. Leland has two children, Benjamin and Maria, and is of Jewish faith. He is a graduate of Columbus North High School and has deep roots in the Columbus area, where he has built his career in law and politics.

Education

Leland earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University and his Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School. These credentials established the foundation for his career as an attorney and his subsequent roles in public service.

Political Experience

Leland's political career spans multiple decades and includes several significant roles:

• State Representative: First elected at age 29 to represent the 22nd Ohio House District in the 115th Ohio General Assembly , where he was voted the outstanding freshman state representative. He returned to the Ohio House in 2014 after being elected to represent the same district, serving constituents in Clintonville and northern Columbus.

• Ohio Democratic Party Chair: Served four terms as chair from 1995 to 2002 during President Bill Clinton's tenure.

• 2006 Gubernatorial Campaign: Served as finance chair and senior advisor to Ted Strickland's successful gubernatorial campaign, helping raise a record $17 million. Strickland became the first Democrat elected Ohio governor since 1983.

• Federal Appointment: Appointed to the Federal Service Impasses Panel by President William J. Clinton in 2000.

• Judicial Position: Elected in 2022 as a judge of the Ohio District Court of Appeals for the 10th District , her current position.

• 2005 DNC Candidacy: Was a candidate for chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Leland is also a partner at the Columbus-based litigation law firm Carpenter Lipps & Leland LLP and has served on the Board of Trustees of the Columbus Clippers baseball organization, currently serving as Chair Emeritus.