Sylvania Councilwoman Launches Independent State House Bid

Lyndsey Stough challenges Republican incumbent Josh Williams for Ohio's 44th District seat.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:45pm

Sylvania City Councilwoman Lyndsey Stough has announced her plans to run as an independent candidate for the Ohio State House of Representatives seat currently held by Republican Josh Williams. The 44th District race will be an open contest after Williams announced he will not seek re-election.

Why it matters

Stough's independent campaign challenges the traditional two-party dynamic in Ohio politics, offering voters a centrist alternative to the Republican and Democratic nominees. The race could impact the balance of power in the state legislature, where Republicans currently hold a narrow majority.

The details

Stough, a two-term city councilwoman, is positioning herself as a pragmatic problem-solver focused on local issues rather than partisan ideology. She has pledged to work across the aisle and prioritize community concerns over partisan agendas if elected.

  • Stough announced her campaign on April 2, 2026.
  • The 44th District seat is currently held by Republican Josh Williams, who is not seeking re-election.

The players

Lyndsey Stough

A two-term Sylvania City Councilwoman running as an independent candidate for the Ohio State House of Representatives 44th District seat.

Josh Williams

The current Republican state representative for Ohio's 44th District, who is not seeking re-election.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“As an independent, I'm not beholden to any party platform. My only allegiance is to the people of this district and solving the issues that matter most to our community.”

— Lyndsey Stough, Sylvania City Councilwoman

What’s next

The 44th District race will be an open contest in the November 2026 general election, as incumbent Josh Williams is not seeking re-election.

The takeaway

Stough's independent campaign for the Ohio State House seat represents a challenge to the traditional two-party system, offering voters a centrist alternative focused on local issues over partisan agendas.