COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced on Monday he’s running for governor in 2026.

Yost is seeking the Republican nomination to replace term-limited Gov. Mike DeWine, arguing he is a “principled conservative and a strong advocate for Ohio’s families, businesses, and taxpayers.” The 68-year-old touted his record of protecting Second Amendment rights, pushing back against the Biden Administration’s border policies, and a legal campaign against COVID-19 vaccine mandates for businesses.

“This is my heart, my home,” Yost said. “I work for the people of Ohio, and I love my bosses. From the time I get up in the morning until I go to bed at night, I’m thinking about them and our future.”

The Republican hopeful had teased last November he would be eyeing a new position within state government. Yost posted a video on social media that showed him walking into the Ohio Statehouse, which ends with him approaching the governor’s office.

Yost previously served as Delaware County auditor and prosecutor before being elected to state auditor under former Gov. John Kasich in 2011. Yost boosted his profile by successfully running for state attorney general in 2018 and won reelection alongside DeWine in 2022.

The attorney general is likely to face a crowded Republican primary, as Ohio billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy has also hinted at plans to run for the governor’s mansion. Other Republican contenders could include Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and Morgan County Republican Heather Hill. Senator Jon Husted, who most recently served as lieutenant governor, was also thought to be seeking the governorship before he was appointed to Vice President JD Vance’s Senate seat.

Whichever candidate prevails will face the Democratic nominee. So far, the only Democrat who has entered the race is Former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton, who became a household name in the state in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

If successful, Yost would be following in DeWine’s footsteps in terms of political progression. DeWine also previously served nine years as attorney general for Ohio before he took over the governor’s chair from Kasich.

In Monday’s announcement, Yost also boasted his case against Akron-based First Energy and a former Ohio House speaker for their part in a $60 million bribery scheme. The attorney general also said he has championed an Ohio law that was enacted last year to ban certain healthcare for trans youth and prohibit trans female athletes’ participation in women’s sports. 

“After receiving a groundswell of support from voters across the state and much prayer and consultation, I am answering the call to duty,” Yost said. “I will be faithful. I will not falter, and I will not fail.”