Help us improve in just 2 minutes—share your thoughts in our reader survey.

Ohio's 11th Congressional District election, 2024

From Ballotpedia
Jump to: navigation, search
Ballotpedia Election Coverage Badge-smaller use.png

U.S. Senate • U.S. House • Congressional special elections • State executive offices • State Senate • State House • Special state legislative • Supreme court • Appellate courts • State ballot measures • Local ballot measures • Municipal • Recalls • All other local • How to run for office
Flag of Ohio.png


2026
2022
Ohio's 11th Congressional District
Ballotpedia Election Coverage Badge.png
Democratic primary
Republican primary
General election
Election details
Filing deadline: December 20, 2023
Primary: March 19, 2024
General: November 5, 2024
How to vote
Poll times: 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Voting in Ohio
Race ratings
Cook Political Report: Solid Democratic
DDHQ and The Hill: Safe Democratic
Inside Elections: Solid Democratic
Sabato's Crystal Ball: Safe Democratic
Ballotpedia analysis
U.S. Senate battlegrounds
U.S. House battlegrounds
Federal and state primary competitiveness
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2024
See also
Ohio's 11th Congressional District
U.S. Senate1st2nd3rd4th5th6th7th8th9th10th11th12th13th14th15th
Ohio elections, 2024
U.S. Congress elections, 2024
U.S. Senate elections, 2024
U.S. House elections, 2024

All U.S. House districts, including the 11th Congressional District of Ohio, held elections in 2024. The general election was November 5, 2024. The primary was March 19, 2024. The filing deadline was December 20, 2023. The outcome of this race affected the partisan balance of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 119th Congress. All 435 House districts were up for election.

At the time of the election, Republicans held a 220-212 majority with three vacancies.[1] As a result of the election, Republicans retained control of the U.S. House, winning 220 seats to Democrats' 215.[2] To read more about the 2024 U.S. House elections, click here.

In the 2022 election in this district, the Democratic candidate won 77.8%-22.2%. Daily Kos calculated what the results of the 2020 presidential election in this district would have been following redistricting. Joe Biden (D) would have defeated Donald Trump (R) 78.3%-20.7%.[3]

For more information about the primaries in this election, click on the links below:

Candidates and election results

General election

General election for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Shontel Brown defeated Alan Rapoport, Sean Freeman, Tracy DeForde, and Christopher Zelonish in the general election for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on November 5, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Shontel Brown
Shontel Brown (D)
 
78.3
 
236,883
Image of Alan Rapoport
Alan Rapoport (R) Candidate Connection
 
19.6
 
59,394
Image of Sean Freeman
Sean Freeman (Independent) Candidate Connection
 
2.0
 
6,107
Image of Tracy DeForde
Tracy DeForde (Independent) (Write-in)
 
0.0
 
27
Image of Christopher Zelonish
Christopher Zelonish (Independent) (Write-in) Candidate Connection
 
0.0
 
2

Total votes: 302,413
Candidate Connection = 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.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Shontel Brown advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on March 19, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Shontel Brown
Shontel Brown
 
100.0
 
61,573

Total votes: 61,573
Candidate Connection = 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 11

Alan Rapoport defeated James Hemphill and Landry Simmons Jr. in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on March 19, 2024.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Alan Rapoport
Alan Rapoport Candidate Connection
 
56.8
 
8,385
Image of James Hemphill
James Hemphill
 
22.7
 
3,350
Image of Landry Simmons Jr.
Landry Simmons Jr.
 
20.5
 
3,024

Total votes: 14,759
Candidate Connection = 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.

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Image of Alan Rapoport

WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "Former Mayor of Cleveland Heights, Ohio and attorney in general private practice for nearly 50 years. Graduate of Kenyon College and Case Western Reserve School of Law. Experienced foreign traveler who has visited 27 different countries."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


I support the Lower Energy Costs Act, which would increase domestic energy production, stop inflation, and make our country energy independent. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.


I support the Secure the Border Act of 2023, which would end "catch and release" and prevent invasions by criminals and terrorists. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.


I agree with Congressional Resolution 40, which condemned efforts to defund law enforcement agencies. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Ohio District 11 in 2024.

Image of Sean Freeman

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Independent

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "I’m the oldest of four children from the western suburbs of Chicago, raised in a Jesuit Catholic household that focused on building Men & Woman for & with Others. In my service experiences, including advocating for farmworker’s rights, feeding the homeless, meeting immigrants in Central America & at the border, and playing basketball and writing poetry with juveniles in detention centers, I have met people who want the same things as anyone else: to be able to work hard to provide for themselves and their families. I’m running because I am tired of the people with answers being ignored by people with power. Partisan politics has stood in the way of our collective advancement. It is time for a voice – independent from the parties, independent from corporate PAC money, and united with their community – to represent not only this district, but the United States of America. After college, I lived at home to save up for a duplex. For a moment during the Covid pandemic, I was my family’s breadwinner. I may be young, but a pandemic, an economic crash in 2008 and the talk of another crisis looming is enough to age you quickly. I excel at finding patterns, and I will find the most efficient ways to solve the problems we face with as few tax dollars as possible. When we treat others how we expect to be treated, we create the society this American Dream was built upon. I’m looking forward to learning more about what you need, and in turn, earn your vote to represent you."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


I’m running as an independent to pull us back together while each party pushes us further apart. This campaign faces an uphill battle, but my responsibility is to meet the needs of everyday Americans, not the needs of the political establishment.


In office, my goal is to make Election Day a Federal Holiday and institute opt-out voter registration to make it as easy as possible for citizens to exercise their right to vote. These policies should have been passed long ago. We’ll accomplish them now.


Technology and the internet have transformed our world at a drastic pace. Mostly for the better, but also for the worst. A congress with the average representative being nearly 60 years old is not positioned to be as swift and effective as we need them to be. I am capable of addressing the roots of these emerging technologies. Technology requires decisive action for our collective advancement. It also enables transparency. I will do everything I can to make Congress as visible as possible so we can learn how deals are made before they reach the House floor. This is how we will find out who holds the office for the people and who is there for themselves.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Ohio District 11 in 2024.

Image of Christopher Zelonish

Facebook

Party: Independent

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "My name is Chris Zelonish I have been an Ohio resident all of my life. I have been a hard worker since the age of 15 and since forth been involved in dozens of charity’s. My main passion is to help people. A very decent chunk of my family has been involved in politics and furthering the American dream and I find that it is now my turn to keep that dream alive."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


I am an America first American. I believe our country and our people must be taken care of first and foremost. Throughout history America has been a giver and I’m not saying we should stop but we need to take care of ourselves before we have nothing left to give.


There are many issues I am truly passionate about such as social security. I don’t believe that our parents and grandparents who have worked all their lives should be struggling to make it day to day. Throughout time taxes have devastated social security along with taking the funds dedicated for social security and transferring them to the general fund. This must stop I along with many Americans have faith in the American dream where you work hard start a family live and prosper with them after you will be able to support your self with funds you all pay into. Sadly in todays society when you retire that’s when the struggle begins.


Regardless of whether you are republican or democrat I believe we are all Americans. The most amazing thing is we all live together with different views or religions and we are accepted with no fears of repercussions. America is true harmony. Just because I have the republican tag on me does not mean that I wouldn’t fight for every single American no matter your age race political affiliation or religion. We are all one in this society.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for U.S. House Ohio District 11 in 2024.

Voting information

See also: Voting in Ohio

Election information in Ohio: Nov. 5, 2024, election.

What was the voter registration deadline?

  • In-person: Oct. 7, 2024
  • By mail: Postmarked by Oct. 7, 2024
  • Online: Oct. 7, 2024

Was absentee/mail-in voting available to all voters?

Yes

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot request deadline?

  • In-person: Oct. 29, 2024
  • By mail: Received by Oct. 29, 2024
  • Online: Oct. 29, 2024

What was the absentee/mail-in ballot return deadline?

  • In-person: Nov. 5, 2024
  • By mail: Postmarked by Nov. 4, 2024

Was early voting available to all voters?

Yes

What were the early voting start and end dates?

Oct. 8, 2024 to Nov. 3, 2024

Were all voters required to present ID at the polls? If so, was a photo or non-photo ID required?

N/A

When were polls open on Election Day?

6:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. (EST)

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

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.

Expand all | Collapse all

Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

I’m running as an independent to pull us back together while each party pushes us further apart. This campaign faces an uphill battle, but my responsibility is to meet the needs of everyday Americans, not the needs of the political establishment.

In office, my goal is to make Election Day a Federal Holiday and institute opt-out voter registration to make it as easy as possible for citizens to exercise their right to vote. These policies should have been passed long ago. We’ll accomplish them now.

Technology and the internet have transformed our world at a drastic pace. Mostly for the better, but also for the worst. A congress with the average representative being nearly 60 years old is not positioned to be as swift and effective as we need them to be. I am capable of addressing the roots of these emerging technologies. Technology requires decisive action for our collective advancement. It also enables transparency. I will do everything I can to make Congress as visible as possible so we can learn how deals are made before they reach the House floor. This is how we will find out who holds the office for the people and who is there for themselves.
I support the Lower Energy Costs Act, which would increase domestic energy production, stop inflation, and make our country energy independent. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.

I support the Secure the Border Act of 2023, which would end "catch and release" and prevent invasions by criminals and terrorists. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.

I agree with Congressional Resolution 40, which condemned efforts to defund law enforcement agencies. I differ with Shontel Brown, who voted "no" on it.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/ChristopherZelonish2024.jpeg

Christopher Zelonish (Independent)

I am an America first American. I believe our country and our people must be taken care of first and foremost. Throughout history America has been a giver and I’m not saying we should stop but we need to take care of ourselves before we have nothing left to give.

There are many issues I am truly passionate about such as social security. I don’t believe that our parents and grandparents who have worked all their lives should be struggling to make it day to day. Throughout time taxes have devastated social security along with taking the funds dedicated for social security and transferring them to the general fund. This must stop I along with many Americans have faith in the American dream where you work hard start a family live and prosper with them after you will be able to support your self with funds you all pay into. Sadly in todays society when you retire that’s when the struggle begins.

Regardless of whether you are republican or democrat I believe we are all Americans. The most amazing thing is we all live together with different views or religions and we are accepted with no fears of repercussions. America is true harmony. Just because I have the republican tag on me does not mean that I wouldn’t fight for every single American no matter your age race political affiliation or religion. We are all one in this society.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

There are so many ways in which simple rule changes can improve the lives of Americans. Requiring companies to post the final price for their products rather than tacking on fees as you proceed through the checkout, requiring goods made by prison labor to be labeled so shoppers are aware, directing the FCC to ban robocalls, allowing us to opt out of having our data collected by social media, incentivizing businesses to send less paper mail to people’s homes, and outlawing pharmaceutical drug commercials are just a few. Public policy that requires more time, but I am equally passionate about, are voting and election rights, improving healthcare and protecting our planet. I want to elaborate on more policy, but I am at my 'character limit.'
I am concerned about China, which I consider to be posing an existential threat to our nation. I also have a great interest in policies related to artificial intelligence and to agriculture. Finally, I have a great concern about growth of the administrative state and its too often unreasonable assumptions of federal authority.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/ChristopherZelonish2024.jpeg

Christopher Zelonish (Independent)

I have many areas to focus on between border security where true atrocities have come to play here in America. Along with social security where huge taxes have affected most people. Low income housing is also a big issue for me. People in a rough spot sometimes need help and the outcome is amazing. You will see less crime along with business expansion with that you will see more jobs.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Mr. Rogers. He perfected the balance of educating and entertaining, not only on practical matters with facts, but on the art of living. He captured attention and used it to describe how best to act in some of life’s most difficult and confusing circumstances. He moved mountains not with his fists and finances, but with his kindness & determination to create the best possible show for his listeners.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand I should clarify that while I see this book as a mirror image of a world we see more and more of today, the characters have shifted roles: There are many James Taggart’s in politics, as well as many more in the business world. Both must be met with John Galts, Dagny Taggarts, and Hank Reardens.
On Moderation: Defending an Ancient Virtue in a Modern World, by Professor Harry Clor
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Having a keen ear to constituents' needs, combined with the ability to create the most efficient, cost effective pathway to a broad solution. Through talking to over 6,000 citizens in District 11 last year alone, I witnessed people from all walks of life making the same, simple requests: we want safer communities, better schools, lower bills, and better transit options.

Each of these objectives boil down to more money in people’s pockets.

If you have a good paying job with upward mobility, why would you jeopardize it by committing crimes? Good paying jobs equates to safer communities. Safer, and now wealthier, communities lead to stronger property value. Stronger property values lead to larger property taxes, which are used to create better schools.

When people have someone willing to do what it takes to win for them in office, you don’t get leaders willing to sell out to companies like FirstEnergy, or ones who follow wherever the political winds are blowing. As someone who has never tolerated bullies, I won’t bend to those who offer me a sweet deal that sucker punches everyone else. I see working for the federal government as my way of standing up to the bullies who have seemingly taken over our country’s interests and priorities. I wish to reset our priority towards the people — the ones who select us to make the right call for us all.

I am prepared to let you inside Capitol Hill to show you how the sausage is made, and most importantly, show you who prevents or deters good ideas from working. There are so many bright and talented people in this country working to build a better tomorrow. If you allow me to do it, my job is to raise the voices and power of the builders, while wrangling in those who wish to harm our collective advancement for their own interests.
Honesty, integrity, professionalism, and above all, courtesy.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/ChristopherZelonish2024.jpeg

Christopher Zelonish (Independent)

The most important trait for an elected official should always be to make all Americans lives better. Also to further the pursuit of happiness.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

I do not enjoy the spotlight. As counterintuitive that may seem, it is true. Through how I was raised, the people I have met, from the experiences I have lived, I have learned from and appreciated humanity – from dining in nice restaurants with people I don’t like, to sharing a meal and heartfelt conversation with the homeless under an overpass – to traveling from a migrant town in Florida, to the U.S. border, to El Salvador. Now, I recognize what I am called for. I do not seek this position for the fame, but for the ability to positively affect this nation I owe my life to.

I recognize that I am striving for what others believe is impossible. However, my friends have noted in everything from ‘friendly competitions’ to tests of the mind, body and spirit, I possess an iron will. I fully intend to be the next OH-11 congressman.

We are at a critical juncture. In my personal experiences, when family, friends, and strangers are in need of something to hope for, I have provided. No matter where my journey leads, I live for a better way in a better world, where we all Live Free.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/ChristopherZelonish2024.jpeg

Christopher Zelonish (Independent)

I believe I am qualified because I care about people and I want to make live better. I want there to be a good future for generations to come. I believe there is too much corruption in politics now and it needs to end.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Get meaningful legislation passed that improves the lives of the most possible Americans, current and future. And, in the meantime, raise the voices and resources of the many making life better for our communities every day.
A member of Congress owes a loyalty to constituents and a dedication to improving their lives, while protecting their health, safety, and welfare.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

That I left our country better than I inherited it.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

I was a Paperboy from 6th through 8th grade. That job is where I got my first paycheck… for $2.10.
I stocked shelves in the family grocery store at various times over a period of almost 10 years.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Running for office as an Independent with a full time and a part time job.

My race, my sexuality, my creed and my birth in this great nation have given me a lot of advantages, purely by luck. This luck provides me the responsibility to offer people the same privileges I have enjoyed.

Nonetheless, luck can only go so far. What I lack in finances, I make up for in my desire and ability to learn from others and apply their findings for a better world for all. I know I am not the smartest person in this District, but I am the one willing to put my hat in the ring for the job that must be done.

More independents will need to be in office, but first, in order for others to run, they need to see someone do it to know it’s possible. I am the oldest in my family. I am used to giving things a try, especially when it needs to be done. This race is no different.
The variety of backgrounds and talents found there is absolutely amazing. No other institution of which I am aware can compare with it. As a C-Span viewer, I have seen how that makes for often intelligent discussions of serious issues. I am hopeful I will be afforded the opportunity to participate in such discussions.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Good experience is the best experience. My time working with non-profits and banking institutions, being with children, juveniles, farmworkers, migrants, students, elders and the homeless, along with people in the corporate and music worlds and the local bars, provide me with the experience I need to create the best rules for all of us to prosper. Most congressional representatives today spend their time fundraising, on the phone or at the hotel restaurant, on the jet or in the suite. I, out of necessity, spend my time at the house parties, the concerts, the markets, local restaurants and the sporting events with various groups and individuals in the community who can help me tackle a problem through their wisdom. Good ideas exist everywhere in everyone. When I am elected, I plan on dancing with the ones who brought me.
Yes I do. Previous experience in government instructs how to work with others to create and implement programs. And experience in politics instructs how to understand what motivates not only elected officials but also the many employees working directly or indirectly with them.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Climate change is why I am running for office. We have been running on borrowed time for the last century, playing with a very delicate ecosystem to our own collective disadvantage. This issue MUST be dealt with swiftly, or else we will experience a world unlike anything we have ever experienced.

Simultaneously, the rise of technologies, particularly AI, are beasts we have created. While they are very new phenomena, they have completely transformed our world, and continue to do so at a rapid pace.

In order to properly tackle both climate change and the meteoric rise in technology dependence, we must be communicative and collaborative to a point we have not yet reached as a human race. It will take our entire planet to stop global warming. Luckily enough, technology has given us the ability to communicate with the entire human race, at once. For the first time. Ever. AI might be the weapon we can utilize to correct our past climate mistakes and set us on a course to prosperity.

Strong leadership, alongside quick & adaptive policymaking, are essential for us to keep the scales of AI proliferation in our favor so that we can harness the technology, and not allow it to harness us.
The single greatest challenges will be posed by China. It no longer can regarded as a mere competitor. It is an adversary in every meaningful respect. Challenges will occur in many areas -- economic, military, and even a contest of ideas. The future for our grandchildren will be determined by how these challenges are resolved during the next decade.
No. I think four year terms would make more sense. A two year term means that representatives almost never stop working on their next election. That necessarily distracts them.
I believe we already have a method for term limits in the form of elections. That said, I believe elections must be made more potentially competitive. Incumbents are protected too much by how districts are defined. And they have too many financial advantages, making competition with them less possible. Reforming present arrangements would be difficult to agree upon and even more difficult to implement. But I think efforts at reform should be made.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Ohio’s 11th District's uniquely diverse community has an illustrious history of strong representation, from the pioneer Louis Stokes, to the trailblazing Stephanie Tubbs Jones, to the ironwoman Marcia Fudge. I look forward to following in their footsteps to deliver for the great people of this district. Additionally, while not a US representative, former Cleveland mayor Mike Johnson is a newer role model of mine. Before he was even in the job, he worked out a deal with Cleveland’s streetcar services to keep the costs low for the consumers while keeping the streetcars running. He expertly fought for the people, while not isolating the streetcar operators. Instead, Johnson showed these wealthy businessmen the importance of their customers in the bigger picture of a city on the rise. Today, Mayor Johnson presides over our downtown, taking in all that is good and bad, and constantly reminding us a better, more equitable path is possible.
Henry Clay. He had principles and was eloquent. But he knew how to compromise. I do not agree with all of his ideas and positions, but I admire his talents.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

I have heard many individual stories, but it is our collective stories that influence me the most: Cleveland is one of the poorest big cities in America with a 50% child poverty rate. Many residents, even adults, struggle with reading. We have 14,000 non-profits, and yet, face homelessness, food deserts and lasting affects of redlining.

Despite these challenges, we have strong people who maintain resilient communities with uncommonly strong bonds. These stretch across our district, providing a vibrant web of connections that make the greater Cleveland area an incredible place to live.

In many ways, Cleveland is the story of our nation: people working hard to supply for themselves, their families and communities – who have been sold bills of goods by ‘leaders’ who do not match the heart, soul and strength of the people they represent.

There are thousands of living examples of true leaders in this district. They get up everyday to fight for what they know is right, even without support they deserve. I aim to change that story – from working in spite of power, to unleashing power into the hearts and minds of the most dedicated civil servants. This will create the district we desire.
I am Jewish and I met recently with members of the Arab-American community. While we had major areas of disagreement, I found some of the arguments I heard to be persuasive. And that caused me to edit some of the comments on my campaign web site. I was reminded that being receptive to the opinions of others absolutely is required of any public servant.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

Abe Lincoln was willing to be around people he enjoyed the company of, but disagreed with. President Lincoln was willing to give in on smaller issues, but held fast on beliefs he felt in his core—ALL men and women are created equal through the government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Spirited debate is necessary, with a basis in trust and humanity, for both parties to get closer to the truth.

If we have good policy available, like concrete actions for our immigration system or Transparency for our Corporations or Accountability for our Social Media – we must move forward. Both parties this last year derailed good policy for political leverage. It’s a disgrace to the position they are assigned.

Most legislation is passed through omnibus bills, or “everything everywhere all at once” bills. These bills make compromise the currency of the land, which is great for lobbyists and individual agendas, but bad for the growth of our nation’s success.
Compromise absolutely is necessary. It is unreasonable to assume otherwise. But it will require election of those with a talent for seeking consensus about difficult matters. As a Council President in a municipality, I had the support of all Republican and Democratic members because I was able to lead and forge such consensus. If elected, I plan to join the Problem Solvers Caucus, where I hope to find like minded members from both sides of the political aisle who know how to compromise.
It would allow me to question public policy as it relates to reduction of the amount of public debt. Our country cannot continue acting as if printing and borrowing money are the answers to all problems.
It should engage in oversight of the two other branches of the federal government. And it should engage in oversight of its own activities.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

I do not believe I will have a choice in which committee I am assigned, given my party and it being my first term. I’m excited to impact whichever committee I’m assigned to.

If I had to choose, however: Energy and Commerce Education and Workforce Homeland Security, and

Budget are at the top of my list.
The federal government is not involved in any small matters. I would gladly serve on ANY committee of Congress. Since I would have no seniority, I might not have much choice of committee. But if I did, I would prefer a committee that deals with foreign policy.
Image of https://s3.amazonaws.com/ballotpedia-api4/files/thumbs/100/100/sfreeman.jpg

Sean Freeman (Independent)

It is essential to understanding how we can reign in over-spending on issues, and cut away at our national debt.

One instance of the need for transparency, outside of our military spending, is California’s spending on homelessness. It has reached $24 Billion since around 2019, but apparently, the spending hasn’t been monitored. Homelessness is a crucial issue we must tackle, and California is a state willing to try policy that other states could then adopt. Now, however, no one knows what programs worked and which ones didn't because the funds were not tracked. Meanwhile, homelessness in California has increased.

Every American understands the importance of balancing their own budget. This essential skill is seemingly lost on our political leaders.

We have learned that giving the poor in our nation $3,000 - $3,600 can decrease our collective poverty by HALF in just two years. These are the types of solutions that should be celebrated and firmly instituted, because they do a massive amount of good for as little cost as possible!
Both absolutely are essential in order to maintain public confidence in government and in the persons they elect to represent them.



Campaign finance

Name Party Receipts* Disbursements** Cash on hand Date
Shontel Brown Democratic Party $1,418,292 $926,301 $855,814 As of December 31, 2024
James Hemphill Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Alan Rapoport Republican Party $84,766 $84,766 $0 As of November 27, 2024
Landry Simmons Jr. Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Tracy DeForde Independent $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Sean Freeman Independent $22,551 $22,551 $0 As of December 31, 2024
Christopher Zelonish Independent $0 $0 $0 Data not available***

Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2024. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

* According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee."
** According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election.
*** Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

General election race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

  • Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
  • Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
  • Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.[4]
  • Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.[5][6][7]

Race ratings: Ohio's 11th Congressional District election, 2024
Race trackerRace ratings
November 5, 2024October 29, 2024October 22, 2024October 15, 2024
The Cook Political Report with Amy WalterSolid DemocraticSolid DemocraticSolid DemocraticSolid Democratic
Decision Desk HQ and The HillSafe DemocraticSafe DemocraticSafe DemocraticSafe Democratic
Inside Elections with Nathan L. GonzalesSolid DemocraticSolid DemocraticSolid DemocraticSolid Democratic
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal BallSafe DemocraticSafe DemocraticSafe DemocraticSafe Democratic
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

Ballot access

The table below details filing requirements for U.S. House candidates in Ohio in the 2024 election cycle. For additional information on candidate ballot access requirements in Ohio, click here.

Filing requirements for U.S. House candidates, 2024
State Office Party Signatures required Filing fee Filing deadline Source
Ohio U.S. House Major party 50 $85.00 12/20/2023 Source
Ohio U.S. House Minor party 25 $85.00 3/18/2024 Source
Ohio U.S. House Unaffiliated 1% of the vote cast for governor in the district in the last election $85.00 3/18/2024 Source

District analysis

Click the tabs below to view information about voter composition, past elections, and demographics in both the district and the state.

  • District map - A map of the district in place for the election.
  • Competitiveness - Information about the competitiveness of 2024 U.S. House elections in the state.
  • Presidential elections - Information about presidential elections in the district and the state.
  • State party control - The partisan makeup of the state's congressional delegation and state government.


Below was the map in use at the time of the election. Click the map below to enlarge it.

2023_01_03_oh_congressional_district_011.jpg
See also: Primary election competitiveness in state and federal government, 2024

This section contains data on U.S. House primary election competitiveness in Ohio.

Ohio U.S. House competitiveness, 2014-2024
Office Districts/
offices
Seats Open seats Candidates Possible primaries Contested Democratic primaries Contested Republican primaries % of contested primaries Incumbents in contested primaries % of incumbents in contested primaries
2024 15 15 2 61 30 6 8 46.7% 4 30.8%
2022 15 15 1 67 30 8 10 60.0% 6 42.9%
2020 16 16 0 67 32 11 11 68.8% 10 62.5%
2018 16 16 2 82 32 12 11 71.9% 8 57.1%
2016 16 16 1 59 32 5 5 31.3% 4 26.7%
2014 16 16 0 47 32 6 6 37.5% 5 31.3%

Post-filing deadline analysis

The following analysis covers all U.S. House districts up for election in Ohio in 2024. Information below was calculated on 2/12/2024, and may differ from information shown in the table above due to candidate replacements and withdrawals after that time.

Seventy candidates filed to run for Ohio's 15 U.S. House districts, including 28 Democrats and 42 Republicans. That was 4.7 candidates per district, the most since 2018.

In 2022, the first election after the number of Congressional districts in Ohio decreased from 16 to 15 following the 2020 census, 4.5 candidates ran. In 2020, when the state still had 16 Congressional districts, 4.2 candidates filed per district. In 2018, 5.1 candidates filed.

The total number of candidates who ran for the U.S. House in 2024 was also higher than any other year this decade besides 2018, when 82 candidates ran. 

Two districts—the 2nd and the 6th—were open, meaning no incumbents filed to run. That was more than in 2022, when only one district was open, and 2020, when none were.

Rep. Bill Johnson (R), the incumbent in the 6th District, resigned on Jan. 21 to assume the presidency of Youngstown State University. A special election to fill Johnson’s seat took place place on June 11.

Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R), the incumbent in the 2nd district, retired from public office. Eleven candidates—one Democrat and 10 Republicans—ran to replace Wenstrup, the most candidates who ran for a district in 2024.

Fourteen primaries—six Democratic and eight Republican—were contested. That was the fewest contested primaries since 2016, when 10 were. Between 2014 and 2022, an average of 17 primaries were contested.

Three incumbents faced primary challengers, a decade-low. The three incumbents—Reps. Bob Latta (5th), Warren Davidson (8th), and David Joyce (14th)—were Republican.

Democratic and Republican candidates filed to run in all districts, meaning none were guaranteed to either party.

Partisan Voter Index

See also: The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

Heading into the 2024 elections, based on results from the 2020 and 2016 presidential elections, the Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district was D+28. This meant that in those two presidential elections, this district's results were 28 percentage points more Democratic than the national average. This made Ohio's 11th the 24th most Democratic district nationally.[8]

2020 presidential election results

The table below shows what the vote in the 2020 presidential election would have been in this district. The presidential election data was compiled by Daily Kos.

2020 presidential results in Ohio's 11th based on 2024 district lines
Joe Biden Democratic Party Donald Trump Republican Party
78.3% 20.7%

Inside Elections Baselines

See also: Inside Elections

Inside Elections' Baseline is a figure that analyzes all federal and statewide election results from the district over the past four election cycles. The results are combined in an index estimating the strength of a typical Democratic or Republican candidate in the congressional district.[9] The table below displays the Baseline data for this district.

Inside Elections Baseline for 2024
Democratic Baseline Democratic Party Republican Baseline Republican Party Difference
76.9 21.9 R+54.9

Presidential voting history

See also: Presidential election in Ohio, 2020

Ohio presidential election results (1900-2020)

  • 12 Democratic wins
  • 19 Republican wins
Year 1900 1904 1908 1912 1916 1920 1924 1928 1932 1936 1940 1944 1948 1952 1956 1960 1964 1968 1972 1976 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008 2012 2016 2020
Winning Party R R R D D R R R D D D R D R R R D R R D R R R D D R R D D R R
See also: Party control of Ohio state government

Congressional delegation

The table below displays the partisan composition of Ohio's congressional delegation as of May 2024.

Congressional Partisan Breakdown from Ohio
Party U.S. Senate U.S. House Total
Democratic 0 5 5
Republican 2 10 12
Independent 0 0 0
Vacancies 0 0 0
Total 2 15 17

State executive

The table below displays the officeholders in Ohio's top four state executive offices as of May 2024.

State executive officials in Ohio, May 2024
Office Officeholder
Governor Republican Party Richard Michael DeWine
Lieutenant Governor Republican Party Jon Husted
Secretary of State Republican Party Frank LaRose
Attorney General Republican Party Dave Yost

State legislature

Ohio State Senate

Party As of February 2024
     Democratic Party 7
     Republican Party 26
     Other 0
     Vacancies 0
Total 33

Ohio House of Representatives

Party As of February 2024
     Democratic Party 31
     Republican Party 66
     Other 0
     Vacancies 0
Total 99

Trifecta control

The table below shows the state's trifecta status from 1992 until the 2024 election.

Ohio Party Control: 1992-2024
No Democratic trifectas  •  Twenty-six years of Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 00 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Governor R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R D D D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R
Senate R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R R
House D D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R D D R R R R R R R R R R R R R R

District history

The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2018.

2022

See also: Ohio's 11th Congressional District election, 2022

General election

General election for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Shontel Brown defeated Eric Brewer in the general election for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on November 8, 2022.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Shontel Brown
Shontel Brown (D)
 
77.8
 
167,722
Image of Eric Brewer
Eric Brewer (R)
 
22.2
 
47,988

Total votes: 215,710
Candidate Connection = 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.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Shontel Brown defeated Nina Turner in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on May 3, 2022.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Shontel Brown
Shontel Brown
 
66.3
 
44,841
Image of Nina Turner
Nina Turner
 
33.7
 
22,830

Total votes: 67,671
Candidate Connection = 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 11

Eric Brewer defeated James Hemphill in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on May 3, 2022.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Eric Brewer
Eric Brewer
 
57.6
 
8,240
Image of James Hemphill
James Hemphill Candidate Connection
 
42.4
 
6,062

Total votes: 14,302
Candidate Connection = 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.

2020

See also: Ohio's 11th Congressional District election, 2020

General election

General election for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Marcia Fudge defeated Laverne Gore in the general election for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on November 3, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Marcia Fudge
Marcia Fudge (D)
 
80.1
 
242,098
Image of Laverne Gore
Laverne Gore (R)
 
19.9
 
60,323

Total votes: 302,421
Candidate Connection = 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.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Marcia Fudge defeated Tariq Shabazz, Michael Hood, and James Jerome Bell in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on April 28, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Marcia Fudge
Marcia Fudge
 
90.5
 
70,379
Image of Tariq Shabazz
Tariq Shabazz Candidate Connection
 
3.6
 
2,813
Image of Michael Hood
Michael Hood Candidate Connection
 
3.4
 
2,641
Image of James Jerome Bell
James Jerome Bell Candidate Connection
 
2.5
 
1,963

Total votes: 77,796
Candidate Connection = 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 11

Laverne Gore defeated Jonah Schulz and Shalira Taylor in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on April 28, 2020.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Laverne Gore
Laverne Gore
 
47.3
 
4,589
Image of Jonah Schulz
Jonah Schulz Candidate Connection
 
41.5
 
4,027
Image of Shalira Taylor
Shalira Taylor
 
11.2
 
1,083

Total votes: 9,699
Candidate Connection = 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.

2018

See also: Ohio's 11th Congressional District election, 2018

General election

General election for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Marcia Fudge defeated Beverly Goldstein in the general election for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on November 6, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Marcia Fudge
Marcia Fudge (D)
 
82.2
 
206,138
Image of Beverly Goldstein
Beverly Goldstein (R) Candidate Connection
 
17.7
 
44,486
 Other/Write-in votes
 
0.0
 
36

Total votes: 250,660
(100.00% precincts reporting)
Candidate Connection = 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.

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11

Incumbent Marcia Fudge advanced from the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on May 8, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Marcia Fudge
Marcia Fudge
 
100.0
 
65,905

Total votes: 65,905
Candidate Connection = 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 11

Beverly Goldstein defeated Gregory Dunham in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 11 on May 8, 2018.

Candidate
%
Votes
Image of Beverly Goldstein
Beverly Goldstein Candidate Connection
 
52.5
 
7,017
Image of Gregory Dunham
Gregory Dunham
 
47.5
 
6,336

Total votes: 13,353
Candidate Connection = 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.



See also

Ohio 2024 primaries 2024 U.S. Congress elections
Seal of Ohio.png
Ballotpedia Election Coverage Badge.png
CongressLogosmall.png
Ohio congressional delegation
Voting in Ohio
Ohio elections:
2024202320222021202020192018
Democratic primary battlegrounds
Republican primary battlegrounds
U.S. Senate Democratic primaries
U.S. Senate Republican primaries
U.S. House Democratic primaries
U.S. House Republican primaries
U.S. Congress elections
U.S. Senate elections
U.S. House elections
Special elections
Ballot access

External links

Footnotes

  1. A majority in the U.S. House when there are no vacancies is 218 seats.
  2. These figures include the seat of Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who resigned on Nov. 13, 2024, after winning re-election.
  3. Daily Kos, "Daily Kos Elections' 2020 presidential results by congressional district, for new and old districts," accessed September 15, 2022
  4. Inside Elections also uses Tilt ratings to indicate an even smaller advantage and greater competitiveness.
  5. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Nathan Gonzalez," April 19, 2018
  6. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Kyle Kondik," April 19, 2018
  7. Amee LaTour, "Email correspondence with Charlie Cook," April 22, 2018
  8. Cook Political Report, "The 2022 Cook Partisan Voting Index (Cook PVI℠)," accessed January 10, 2024
  9. Inside Elections, "Methodology: Inside Elections’ Baseline by Congressional District," December 8, 2023


Senators
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
Bob Latta (R)
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
Republican Party (12)
Democratic Party (5)