Mandel Promises To Leverage Internet

Someone please tell Josh Mandel that StarOhio is not a constellation that hangs over the Buckeye state. The fresh faced Lyndhurst Republican state rep. announced his candidacy for State Treasurer last week. He throws his hat into the ring with stellar ideas and "utilize technology" to maximize State resources and communicate with constituents.

That's a peachy idea Josh. In case you've been out of the loop, technology is already very pervasive in the financial milieu. Yes the banking sector actually uses computers and web-based appplications to transact business. The State Treasurer's Office has been using a web based portal to provide content, accept tax returns and coordinate the CPIM program for years.

I can't wait to see his full platform on running for Office. If you've been able to catch any of Jill Miller Zimon's posts on the up and coming GOP candidate you'll notice there's not much in there about overseeing the State's financial resources. Of course that doesn't say much about his chances. According to media reports young Mandel has a sizable war chest of over half a million dollars. His Democratic opponent, Kevin Boyce is also not well known and who really wants the State Treasurer to communicate to them anyway?

His one well noted foray into financial policy was a bill that would require Ohio's pension funds to divest from companies connected with the regimes in Sudan and Iran. Good for political points on the right bad for portfolio diversification. I won't knock the guy any further though. I'll give some credit for at least crossing party lines to vote for the House foreclosure bill.