Jay Hottinger is a Republican member of the Ohio Senate representing the 31st district, which includes all of Licking, Perry, Coshocton, and Tuscarawas Counties, and part of Holmes County. Born on December 1, 1969, in Newark, Ohio, he has served in the Ohio General Assembly since 1995, including terms in both the House of Representatives and Senate. He currently holds the position of Senate President pro tempore, the second-highest ranking role in the Senate, and has previously served as assistant majority whip and chairman of the Senate Insurance, Commerce and Labor Committee. Hottinger is also vice president of sales for Truck One, Inc., a Newark-based trucking company, and has advocated for tax reductions and business growth policies. A lifelong Newark resident, he is married to Cheri, with three daughters: Savannah, Heather, and Jayme; the family is active in their church and civic organizations.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from Newark High School in 1988 and earned a B.A. in political science and public administration from Capital University in 1992.
• Political Experience: Began public service at age 21 as a Newark city councilman; served in Ohio House District 71 and Senate District 31 ; Republican Whip . Notable positions include chairman of the Senate Insurance Committee, vice chairman of Financial Institutions & Technology and Rules & Reference Committees, and service on Finance, Ways & Means, Joint Legislative Ethics, and others. He defeated Melinda Miller in the 2018 general election for the 31st district.