Derek Merrin
United States Congress (9th District)
United States Congress (9th District)
November 3, 2026
Meet Derek Merrin
Derek Merrin brings eight years of conservative leadership at the Ohio Statehouse to his campaign for Congress. As elected leader of the Ohio House Republican Caucus and chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, he led successful efforts to cut Ohio's income tax, sponsored the photo ID requirement to vote, and repealed the sales tax on prescription eyewear, saving taxpayers $45 million a year. Roughly 20 of his sponsored bills became law.
His public service started early: Waterville City Council at 19, mayor at 21. He holds degrees from the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University, and lives in Monclova Township.