10/20/17 – 5:09 A.M.

We’re learning more about who could take Cliff Hite’s former 1st District Ohio Senate seat. The Courier reports State Representative Robert McColley of Napoleon plans to toss his name into the hat. The newspaper adds State Representative Craig Riedel of Defiance is also considering plans to pursue the seat.

State Representative Robert Sprague of Findlay and Mayor Lydia Mihalik both say they are not interested in the job. Sprague is running for State Treasurer. Mihalik tells the newspaper, “I have one of the best jobs as mayor of Findlay.” No one from Hancock County has expressed interest in the position according to county Republican Party Chair Jim Baker.

Plans to fill the State Senate seat vacated by Cliff Hite are coming together. Senate President Larry Obhof says the Republican Caucus will accept applications until 4 p.m. on November 6. They’ll screen applicants early next month. Hite’s term runs through the end of next year.

Hite stepped down earlier this week citing personal health reasons. He also admitted to being inappropriate with an employee in the state house.

MORE: The Courier