COLUMBUS: Democrats have lost a tight Ohio House race in Cuyahoga County, narrowing the minority party’s chances of controlling 40 seats in the next legislative session.
By hitting the 40-seat mark, Democrats could block the GOP majority from more easily placing ballot issues before voters.
Three Ohio House races had been too close to call on election night.
A recount completed Thursday in Cuyahoga County confirmed that state Rep. Mike Dovilla of Berea, the Republican incumbent, has beaten Democrat Matt Patten of Strongsville.
Meanwhile, Democrats picked up a seat in Columbiana County, giving them 39 seats to 59 for the Republicans.
One seat remains up in the air.
Republican Rep. Al Landis of Dover has a 15-vote edge over Democrat Joshua O’Farrell of New Philadelphia in a recount to be completed today.
