COLUMBUS, Ohio — Jo Ann Davidson, who made history as Ohio’s first female House speaker and was a fervent supporter of empowering Republican women in politics, passed away on Friday at the age of 97.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who was a longtime friend of Davidson, expressed his condolences in a statement, describing her as “a model public servant who embodied wit, intelligence, class, and skill.”
Davidson had a remarkable political journey that spanned nearly six decades. Beginning as a volunteer in a Columbus suburb, she transitioned to local city council and eventually took charge of the Ohio House as well as serving as co-chair of the Republican National Committee.
Upon becoming speaker, she took over from Vernal G. Riffe, a notable Democratic figure who held the position for an unprecedented 20 years. With her distinctive business attire and a blend of friendliness and assertiveness, Davidson focused on placing Republicans in leadership and tackling major policy issues of her time. She facilitated a significant welfare reform but resisted attempts by her fellow Republicans to pass laws on concealed weapons, although such legislation was eventually enacted by her successors.
“Jo Ann had a remarkable ability to build consensus,” noted Bruce Johnson, a former lieutenant governor, who shared a district with Davidson during his tenure in the state senate. He further remarked, “While some may resort to forceful tactics, Jo Ann achieved it by being better informed, smart, and diligent in her preparations.”
In 2004, Davidson played a crucial role in President George Bush’s reelection campaign, notably ensuring Ohio remained in Republican hands against John Kerry. She was also instrumental in the successful campaign that led to Bob Taft’s election as governor in 2002.
Despite her many successes, Davidson had a moment of embarrassment at the 2008 Republican National Convention when she mistakenly referred to the party’s first female vice-presidential nominee, Sarah Palin, as “Sarah Pawlenty,” inadvertently mixing up names with then-Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty. This slip-up was one of the few missteps in an otherwise illustrious career.
After stepping back from the public eye for a decade, Davidson returned as an influential advisor to former Republican Governor John Kasich, who appointed her chair of the state casino commission in 2011. She also played a significant role in the 2012 effort to replace the GOP state party chairman.
Following her retirement from the Ohio House in 2001 due to term limits, Davidson dedicated herself to the Jo Ann Davidson Ohio Leadership Institute, which she founded in 2000 to empower women seeking leadership roles in public service and politics. Over the years, she helped to mentor nearly 500 women in their aspirations.
“Jo Ann was not only kind and resilient but stood unwavering in her beliefs, symbolizing true public service,” said Jen Miller, the executive director of the League of Women Voters of Ohio. “She was a pioneer during an era when female representation in politics was scarce. Her influence transformed Ohio’s political landscape and inspired numerous women to assert their voices.”
Davidson emphasized the importance of women recognizing and cherishing their unique leadership styles and urged them to embrace public service despite societal pressures.