Jerrad Christian

Jerrad Christian

Democratic Party

Candidate, U.S. House Ohio District 12

Elections and appointments

Next election

May 5, 2026

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Navy

Years of service

2002 - 2007

Personal

Birthplace

Ohio

Profession

Software engineer

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Campaign YouTube

Personal LinkedIn

Jerrad Christian (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent Ohio's 12th Congressional District. He declared candidacy for the Democratic primary scheduled on May 5, 2026.^[source]

Biography

Jerrad Christian was born in Ohio. He served in the U.S. Navy from 2002 to 2007. His career experience includes working as a software engineer and as a meteorologist and oceanographer with the Navy.

Elections

2026

See also: Ohio's 12th Congressional District election, 2026

General election

The primary will occur on May 5, 2026. The general election will occur on November 3, 2026. General election candidates will be added here following the primary.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12

Jerrad Christian is running in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12 on May 5, 2026.

		Candidate
		Jerrad Christian

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	There are no incumbents in this race.
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Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12

Incumbent Troy Balderson is running in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12 on May 5, 2026.

		Candidate
		Troy Balderson

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

2024

See also: Ohio's 12th Congressional District election, 2024

Ohio's 12th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Republican primary)

Ohio's 12th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Ohio District 12

Incumbent Troy Balderson defeated Jerrad Christian in the general election for U.S. House Ohio District 12 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Troy Balderson (R)	68.5	260,450
		Jerrad Christian (D)	31.5	119,738

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 380,188
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12

Jerrad Christian advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12 on March 19, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jerrad Christian	100.0	22,809

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 22,809
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12

Incumbent Troy Balderson advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 12 on March 19, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Troy Balderson	100.0	81,263

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 81,263
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Christian in this election.

Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Jerrad Christian has not yet completed Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey. Send a message to Jerrad Christian asking him to fill out the survey. If you are Jerrad Christian, click here to fill out Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

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You can ask Jerrad Christian to fill out this survey by using the buttons below or emailing info@christianforohio.com.

2024

Jerrad Christian completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Christian's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm Jerrad Christian, and I've spent most of my life in what is now District 12. I'm more than just a candidate; I'm a father to an 8-year-old boy and a Navy veteran. I fueled planes on the deck of an aircraft carrier and later became a meteorologist and oceanographer, stationed in Naples, Italy. Today, I work as a software engineer, but my time in the US Navy as a meteorologist gave me profound insights into climate science and made me a passionate advocate for reducing our nation's dependence on oil and increasing green initiatives. My experience in technology has fueled my passion for ensuring rural areas have access to information through broadband internet and education. The safety and security of our nation depend on technology, and our nation has to do better.

Growing up in rural Ohio, I witnessed the struggles many Americans endure, from the battle for access to healthcare to the pursuit of a quality education and a stable job. These struggles have touched the lives of countless individuals and families, including my own. My experiences with poverty taught me valuable lessons in budgeting and making every dollar count. My roots here instilled in me the belief that when good people come together, there's no challenge we can't overcome.

I'm committed to representing District 12 and working towards a brighter future for our community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Economy: Rural Ohio's economic challenges require investment in infrastructure, diversification of agriculture, vocational training, support for strong unions, transitioning to renewable energy, expanding rural internet access, and leveraging natural beauty for tourism to create well-paying jobs and community prosperity.
• Climate: Transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources is not just an environmental choice; it's an urgent necessity to safeguard our planet for future generations, reduce our carbon footprint, and combat the escalating climate crisis, while creating new, sustainable job opportunities for our communities.
• Bipartisanship and Collaboration: I believe in working across the aisle, putting progress before partisanship, and finding common-ground solutions that benefit our communities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

1. Veterans affairs and support for healthcare access, education and employment, mental health and suicide prevention, along with issues with housing and homelessness.

2. Technology and innovation training with broadband access, education and STEM programs and small business and entrepreneurship.

3. Climate change and environmental sustainability through renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green jobs creation.

4. Increased access to social services including mental health assistance, senior care programs so we can retire with dignity, and increased care for children in the foster system.

I also need to highlight the importance of equity and justice in my policymaking to ensure that healthcare, technology, and environmental policies benefit all citizens, regardless of their background, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Fred Rogers has got to be one of the kindest humans that has ever been recorded in history. I wish to follow his example provided by the quote, “We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.”

I want to be a hero to a person like him.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Kindness, empathy and transparency are the foundations of trust. As the deep need to restore trust in our systems is of paramount importance, those are the best candidates for important principles for an elected official.

Just as important is intelligence and understanding, lending to the ability to make important decisions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am a dedicated individual, driven by a deep sense of commitment to the well-being of my communities and the people of this nation. I value open and honest communication, and I am a good listener, which allows me to understand the concerns and needs of the people I represent. I am also a collaborative problem solver who believes in working with others to find practical and effective solutions to the complex challenges our society faces. Additionally, my integrity, accountability, and ability to make informed decisions are qualities I bring to the table, ensuring that I will make choices that prioritize the best interests of the public.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Someone elected to public office, whether in the U.S. House of Representatives or any other position, carries a profound responsibility to represent the best interests of their constituents and the broader public. The core responsibilities are the creation and evaluation of laws that addresses the needs of the people they serve. This includes conducting thorough oversight of government agencies, ensuring transparency and accountability, and working to maintain the integrity of the government and its institutions. Elected officials are also responsible for listening to and engaging with their constituents, advocating for their rights, and striving to improve their well-being. Ultimately, those in office are entrusted with safeguarding and advancing the principles of democracy and the foundations of our nation, ensuring that the government remains responsive, proactive and just.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I often reflect on the kind of world my child will inherit and as a parent, I am profoundly driven by the future, particularly climate change and its effects for my child and all the children of our world. I want to leave a legacy of a nation where opportunities are boundless, where freedom is cherished, where informed choices and a clean healthy environment are the norm.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I was raised by a single mother in an extremely poor area. I understand what it is to worry about your next meal and if you will be able to afford a utility bill. I understand the importance of peace of mind that comes from having a parent not worried about making rent or buying food. Struggles are things I wish no one knew, but children are especially vulnerable in that regard. They should be able to grow in a safe and healthy world and know what it means to simply be a child.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. House of Representatives stands out as a distinct institution through its direct representation of the population, shorter two-year terms for members, more frequent elections, its constitutional role as the originator of revenue bills, and its ability to foster closer connections with local communities.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, but not significantly so. While prior government or political experience can be valuable to understanding of how the system works, it is more important for representatives to genuinely care about their communities and be responsive to their needs and concerns. Effective representation should prioritize a commitment to the well-being of the people over experience alone.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Over the next decade, the transition to clean energy stands out as the United States' most pressing challenge, exacerbated by misinformation, bad actors, and corrupt politicians. This pivotal shift is inseparable from combating climate change, addressing environmental crises, and reinvigorating the economy through green job creation. The difficulties lie not only in the technical and infrastructural aspects but also in dispelling misinformation, navigating political obstacles, and fostering a unified commitment to sustainability. Effectively addressing this challenge will not only propel us toward a greener, more sustainable future but also serve as a catalyst for overcoming broader issues such as economic inequality, healthcare access, and the need for responsible, accountable governance.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Two years may not be the ideal term length for representatives, as it often provides limited time to make substantial progress on complex and long-term issues. The short nature of these terms means that representatives must frequently focus on re-election campaigns, which can divert attention from enacting meaningful legislation and addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. A longer term could potentially allow representatives to work more effectively on important issues and reduce the constant pressures of re-election, leading to greater stability and the ability to pursue comprehensive, forward-thinking policies.

But it does afford the opportunity to hold ineffective leaders accountable, more quickly.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

There needs to be a great deal of consideration in deciding what they are, but term limits should exist.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

In a democracy, making fair and effective rules for everyone often means finding middle ground and working together. Compromise helps us do this. It encourages people with different opinions to cooperate, leading to better and longer-lasting solutions. It also helps prevent arguments and standstills that can make it hard to make decisions. Even though compromise might not make everyone super happy, it's a vital part of democracy and keeps our society working well.

On really important issues like stopping climate change, it doesn't mean we'll give up big goals. It just means we need to find ways that most people can agree on and make progress together.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

The practice of incrementally increasing budgets without thorough evaluation is not uncommon in government budgeting processes, and it can become a norm in some cases. This approach is often driven by various factors, including political considerations, the desire to maintain the status quo, and the challenges of conducting comprehensive program evaluations. However, while it may be common, it is not the most effective or efficient way to manage public finances. I would advocate for greater transparency, accountability, and evidence-based budgeting practices to ensure that resources are allocated more strategically and in line with desired policy outcomes.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The U.S. House of Representatives should use its investigative powers judiciously and responsibly to fulfill its constitutional role of oversight and to ensure transparency and accountability in government. These powers are vital for checking the executive branch, safeguarding the rule of law, and maintaining public trust.

To use these investigative powers effectively, it is important that the House remains fair, impartial, and focused on the well-being of the nation rather than being driven by partisan interests. Additionally, cooperation between the House and the Senate is essential to ensure the comprehensive examination of important issues.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Muskingum County Young Democrats.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Christian’s campaign website stated the following:

“	The Problems Profit Over People Corporations have spent billions of dollars perpetuating profitable lies. They have pushed misinformation to cloud public judgment, shaping narratives to delay important action and protect their interests, often at a heavy cost to all of us. Climate Change Climate change stands as one of the most significant challenges of our time, threatening our environment, economies, and societies. Its far-reaching impacts are already visible, from rising sea levels and extreme weather events to declining biodiversity and disrupted agricultural patterns. Addressing this crisis requires immediate and collective action Misinformation/Cyber Attacks Misinformation has the dangerous power to turn friends into enemies, eroding trust and understanding by spreading false narratives and divisive ideas. These issues undermine the very fabric of our communities, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and fact-checking in our interactions and a new kind of experience in congress. Freedom Transitioning Soldiers Back Home I know firsthand how difficult coming home can be after the military. I want to institute programs to ensure our former soldiers have everything they need to thrive when they get home. These programs will focus on mental health support, career training, and assistance in transitioning to civilian life. Our goal is to honor their service by ensuring a smooth and successful transition back into society. The 2nd Amendment As a former FFL holder and a responsible gun owner, I firmly believe in safeguarding our Second Amendment rights. But, it's evident that certain weaknesses in the enforcement of our current regulations enable individuals with malicious intent to harm others, and it's imperative that we address these vulnerabilities in a responsible manner. I do not support a ban. Reproductive and Healthcare Rights It is not freedom to tell women what they can do with their own bodies. It is not freedom to tell us which medicines we can take. True freedom encompasses the right to make personal health decisions without undue interference. Limiting these choices under the guise of policy or law not only infringes upon personal liberties but also undermines the fundamental principles of self-determination and autonomy. Jobs and Fair Wages Agriculture Ohio has always been a proud farm state. With new technologies, farming methods, and crop diversity Ohio can increase crop yields and food security for the nation. I support right to repair. Internet Access Others have been saying it for years - but I think it is time to act. Closing loopholes and not accepting excuses is the way we get rural broadband to our homes in Ohio to build careers. We must remove obstacles and bring information technology to our district. Research and Innovation Hubs The future requires we grow our technologies. I want to see Ohio on the forefront of those efforts. From smart cities to clean energy and food independence, we can have it all. Energy Independence Invest in Renewable Energy By investing in wind, solar, hydro-electric, and beyond we create long lasting, high paying jobs for Ohioans while ensuring energy independence, clean air and clean water for generations to come. Community Based Power Projects Lower energy bills and create local jobs by encouraging community owned and operated micro-grids. We ensure a safer, more reliable energy source for everyone. Promote Efficiency Keep your money in your wallet. Less demand for energy means having to produce less energy. By teaching the importance of conservation we lower costs and ensure we can all have a healthy home. Protecting Our Families Capping Gas Wells Once the epicenter of America's oil and gas exploration, it is estimated that the state could have 100,000 abandoned oil and gas wells that put Ohio citizens at risk - many in district 12. These repairs will create jobs and protect families. Increase Education and Training Increased funding to public and trade schools to teach the jobs of the future. Job security feels like it is at an all time low. Having strong unions and strong training programs will ensure we stay on top. Healthcare Ensuring access to affordable healthcare is paramount to protecting our families and our society, providing us with essential medical services and peace of mind. Most of us are one serious illness away from bankruptcy.	”
—Jerrad Christian’s campaign website (2024)

Campaign finance summary

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Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

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Jerrad Christian campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2026*	U.S. House Ohio District 12	Candidacy Declared primary	$2,909	$6,179
2024*	U.S. House Ohio District 12	Lost general	$1,353,921	$1,342,523
Grand total			$1,356,830	$1,348,702
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

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Candidate

U.S. House Ohio District 12

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Footnotes

[show]

Ohio's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Jon Husted (R)

Bernie Moreno (R)

Representatives

District 1

Greg Landsman (D)

District 2

David Taylor (R)

District 3

Joyce Beatty (D)

District 4

Jim Jordan (R)

District 5

Bob Latta (R)

District 6

Michael Rulli (R)

District 7

Max Miller (R)

District 8

Warren Davidson (R)

District 9

Marcy Kaptur (D)

District 10

Michael Turner (R)

District 11

Shontel Brown (D)

District 12

Troy Balderson (R)

District 13

Emilia Sykes (D)

District 14

David Joyce (R)

District 15

Mike Carey (R)

Republican Party (12)

Democratic Party (5)