CLEVELAND — Ohio Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, whose political career began only months ago , announced Friday on social media that he will not run for governor in 2026.

Tressel, who became current Gov. Mike DeWine's second-in-command in February, said he made the decision after "considerable thought and prayer."

"I believe that our crucial opportunities in the areas of education and workforce deserve my full attention for the remainder of our term," Tressel wrote. "My goal is to help finish the amazing work started by the DeWine-Husted Administration. Ohio is winning and it must continue!"

The 72-year-old is broadly popular in the state thanks to a Hall of Fame career as head football coach at both Youngstown State and Ohio State, and he also served as YSU's president from 2014-23.

While Tr

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