Two Ohio state representatives are looking to create a state holiday in honor of former President Donald Trump.
State Reps. Reggie Stoltzfus (R-40-Paris Township) and Jon Cross (R-83-Kenton) plan to introduce a bill that would make June 14, Trump’s birthday, a state holiday known as “President Donald J. Trump Day.”
June 14 is currently observed as Flag Day.
Ohio has celebrated past presidents, including former President Ronald Reagan, whose birthday, February 6, is dedicated as “Ronald Reagan Day,” according to a 2009 law.
“Former President Donald J. Trump was our 45th President of the United States and against great odds, accomplished many things that have led our nation to unparalleled prosperity,” the pair said in a co-sponsor request sent to fellow lawmakers and obtained by the Ohio Capital Journal.
The pair also said that the bill recognizes those who voted for Trump and “celebrate one of the greatest presidents in American history.”
Trump won Ohio in the 2020 presidential election in a 53.3 percent to 45.2 percent margin over President Joe Biden, according to the Ohio Secretary of State’s official results. The win secured him 18 electoral votes.
“[Trump] personified the emotions of millions of Ohioans who for too long have felt marginalized by our government and the American political system,” the representatives said in their co-sponsor request. “While the media tarnishes his achievements and his legacy, the legislation will help ensure that for one day each year the voices of millions of people from all corners of our state will be commemorated.”
The bill has received pushback from other lawmakers, including Rep. Jeff Crossman (D-15-Parma)
“I don’t like the idea of changing an existing federal holiday that honors the flag,” Crossman said, according to The Columbus Dispatch. “I think it’s disrespectful. ”
Stoltzfus and Cross said they are taking co-sponsor requests until Friday, the Ohio Capital Journal reports.
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Jordyn Pair is a reporter with The Ohio Star. Follow her on Twitter at @JordynPair.
