Republican Jay Edwards Jr. runs for Ohio treasurer

Jay Edwards Jr., a Republican and former state representative, is running for Ohio treasurer in the Nov. 3 general election. He faces Democrat Seth Walsh.

Edwards, a Nelsonville native who describes himself as a proud son of Appalachia, said he wants to modernize the treasurer's office and restore taxpayer trust, according to candidate questionnaire responses published by the Columbus Dispatch.

Candidate information

Party: Republican
Hometown: Nelsonville, Ohio
Education: High school diploma, Nelsonville-York High School; bachelor's degree in mathematics, Ohio University
Professional background: Realtor

Edwards said he played football on scholarship at Ohio University.

Experience and public service

Edwards served as state representative for District 94 from 2017 to 2025, according to BallotReady. Edwards said he served as chair of the House Finance Committee during his time in the Ohio House. He also said he served as House majority whip.

On the issues

Edwards outlined most of his policy positions through a candidate questionnaire with the Columbus Dispatch. His economy and jobs stance comes from his campaign website.

Government technology and modernization: Edwards said he would upgrade the treasurer's office from what he called an outdated 1970s-era ACH system to modern technology. He said he would also enhance the Ohio Checkbook program to make it simpler for residents to track state spending.

Artificial intelligence: Edwards said AI should serve as an efficiency tool, not a replacement for human oversight. He proposed using AI to analyze investment portfolios, detect fraud in unclaimed property claims and automate routine tasks. Every use would include strict human review and data security requirements, he said.

Law enforcement: Edwards said he would launch a "Link Deposit" program that prioritizes state deposits with financial institutions committed to backing first responders. "If cities refuse to support the police and public safety, then it is time for the state to step up," Edwards said in the Dispatch questionnaire.

State investments: Edwards said his investment decisions, including on Israel bonds, would be guided by what is best for Ohio taxpayers, prioritizing safety, liquidity and return. He said he is troubled by entities divesting from Israel bonds for political reasons.

Economy and jobs: Edwards said he supports more funding for job training, including vocational schools and skilled trades, and said he would oppose what he called job-killing government regulations.