Derek Merrin is a Republican politician from Monclova Township, Ohio, born January 4, 1986. He previously served as Ohio State Representative for District 42 and District 47 *, totaling eight years in the Ohio House. He was elected leader of the Ohio House Republican Caucus and ran as the Republican nominee for *Ohio's 9th Congressional District in 2024, narrowly losing to incumbent Marcy Kaptur. Notable achievements include leading efforts to cut state income taxes, reduce regulations, expand school choice, require photo ID for voting, and allow constitutional carry of firearms. He secured about 20 legislative victories, such as extending driver's licenses to eight years, reducing mortgage lenders' taxes, passing the Affordable Homebuilding & Housing Act to block property tax hikes on subdivided lots, requiring school counselor training in construction trades, and prohibiting municipal income taxes on minors. Merrin is a real estate investor, Bengals fan, and played high school basketball at Monclova Christian Academy. He has been outspoken on anti-abortion measures, including sponsoring six-week bans.

Education and Political Experience

Education

• BA, University of Toledo
• MPA in International Relations, Bowling Green State University
• Certified in Public Performance Measurement, Rutgers University
• Graduated from Monclova Christian Academy

Political Experience

• Elected to Waterville City Council at age 19; later served as Mayor
• Regional Liaison and Senior Performance Analyst, Ohio State Auditor's Office
• Appointed to Ohio House District 47 in July 2016; elected in 2016, 2018, 2020, and 2022
• Appointed to House committees: Health and Aging, Insurance, Ways and Means
• Founder, Fallen Timbers Republican Club; member of Fulton County Republican Club, Lucas County Republican Party Central Committee , NRA, Ohio Retirement Study Council, Monclova Road Baptist Church
• Awards: Top 30 "Most Influential Conservatives under 30" ; Abraham Lincoln Public Official of the Year