Ohio boasts a rich history of accomplishments that have impacted the state, nation and African Americans, in particular. From its roles in facilitating the Underground Railroad and being the home state of 8 U. S. Presidents--to the historic election of the nation's first African American female Lieutenant Governor and candidacy of the first African American in a major Ohio party to run for Governor--Ohio rises to the call. 

     During the last Presidential election, 16% of African Americans in Ohio cast their votes, as compared to 11% nationally. Based upon the election results, OBRA translated this to mean that there are, indeed, more African Americans who embrace Republican philosophy, ideals and principles in Ohio than anyone knows. So, OBRA has embarked on the challenging and exciting goal of identifying and recruiting these individuals, to join in strengthening and bringing about positive changes in the Republican Party, as well as positive social and economic changes in the African American community. In 2006, OBRA took its first major step towards this end by convening THE OHIO BLACK REPUBLICAN SUMMIT, which included Republican candidates, ORP leaders, officials, supporters and our members. It was a big success. (See photos below and more on the EVENTS page.)

Photos by Curtis Blake Photography

Results from Poll Conducted 9/17 -11/2/07:
How would you describe yourself, politically?
Conservative (61%), Moderate (30%), Liberal (9%)

Results from Poll Conducted 11/8/07 - 1/4/08:
If the Presidential Election were held today, for whom would you vote?
Senator John McCain (22%); Rudy Giuliani (16%);
Fred Thompson (11%); Dr. Alan Keyes (11%);
None of the Above (11%); Mike Huckabee (5%);
Mitt Romney (5%); Duncan Hunter (5%);
Rep. Ron Paul (5%); Rep. Tom Tancredo (3%)

I Am a Republican Because . . .

I BELIEVE the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person's dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.

I BELIEVE in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.

I BELIEVE free enterprise and encouraging individual initiative have brought this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.

I BELIEVE government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn.

I BELIEVE the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.

I BELIEVE the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.

I BELIEVE Americans must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.

I BELIEVE Americans value and should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.

Finally, I BELIEVE the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.

Source: Political Division of the Republican National Committee