Rosemary Oglesby-Henry
From Ballotpedia
Rosemary Oglesby-Henry (Republican Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent Ohio's 1st Congressional District. She declared candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled on May 5, 2026.[source]
Oglesby-Henry completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Rosemary Oglesby-Henry's career experience includes working as a nonprofit executive. She earned a bachelor's degree and a graduate degree from Mount St. Joseph University in 2013 and 2015, respectively.[1]
Oglesby-Henry has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- National Small Business Association
- ForbesBLK
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Bridge Program
- Minority & Inclusion Council, Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted
Elections
2026
See also: Ohio's 1st 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 1
Incumbent Greg Landsman and Lindsey Ferreira are running in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Ohio District 1 on May 5, 2026.
Candidate | ||
 | Greg Landsman | |
 | Lindsey Ferreira | |
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Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 1
Eric Conroy, Steven Erbeck, and Rosemary Oglesby-Henry are running in the Republican primary for U.S. House Ohio District 1 on May 5, 2026.
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Endorsements
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Campaign themes
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Rosemary Oglesby-Henry completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Oglesby-Henry's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Rosemary Oglesby-Henry, affectionately known as Ms. Rosemary, is a dynamic leader and community advocate with a track record of impactful service in Southwest Ohio. Raised in Avondale, she turned her personal challenges—becoming a teen mother—into a driving force to empower others. She founded Rosemary’s Babies Co., a 501c3 nonprofit that supports young parents aged 9-19, helping over 3,000 families achieve self-sufficiency.
A conservative leader, Ms. Rosemary graduated from Withrow High School then obtained her Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies, a Master’s in Organizational Leadership, and numerous certifications in human services, business, and leadership. As an award-winning CEO and educator, she has earned national recognition, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award and inclusion in the Ohio 500 Most Influential Leaders.
Her faith-driven leadership and pragmatic problem-solving approach led to the transformation of a blighted area into the Holloway House & Resource Center, a $2M health-focused facility for young mothers. As a passionate advocate for small business development, Ms. Rosemary has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs grow their businesses, fueling economic opportunity in Greater Cincinnati.
Ms. Rosemary is committed to empowering individuals through education, service, and policies that reduce government dependency while strengthening communities. Her career reflects a deep commitment to creating tangible solutions and lasting impact.- Rebuilding and Respecting the American Dream The American Dream still matters—but it needs leaders who understand the barriers to achieving it. Through lived experience, I know what it means to rise from struggle. I’m running to restore belief in a system that’s lost trust—and to ensure that every child, parent, and entrepreneur has a fair shot.
- Strengthening Our Ohio—From the Ground Up We believe in an Ohio built by us and for us. That means investing in grassroots businesses, uplifting nonprofits that are already filling the gaps, and empowering families and communities to thrive—not just survive. Real change starts locally, and it starts now.
- Leadership That Lives What It Leads This campaign isn’t about politics as usual. It’s about purpose-driven leadership rooted in experience, resilience, and service. Visit www.votemsrosemary.com to join a movement that reflects you—your values, your struggles, your future. Together, we’ll build an Ohio that works for all of us.
osemary Oglesby-Henry is a conservative leader with lived experience, not political ambition. She’s committed to strengthening Ohio’s families, small businesses, and nonprofits—those already filling the gaps government can’t. Her platform focuses on family values, faith, and restoring the American Dream. She supports school choice, small business growth, and community-led safety solutions. Rosemary believes in opportunity over dependency and leadership rooted in service. Visit www.votemsrosemary.com to join a movement that’s building a stronger Ohio—one family, one business, one purpose at a time.
Book: The Rose Who Blossomed Through Concrete Consequence VS Choice by Rosemary Oglesby-Henry
Film: The Crown
Film: The Kings Speech
Film: Pursuit of Happyness
An elected official in Congress must lead with integrity, purpose, and a deep respect for both the office and the people they serve. Leadership is not merely holding a title—it’s about character. That means demonstrating honesty, transparency, accountability, and respect in every action and decision.
A true leader listens before leading. They must be responsive to the needs of all constituents, not just select neighborhoods or interest groups, and must advocate for laws and policies that uplift the entire region—in this case, the growth and future of Southwest Ohio.
A true leader listens before leading. They must be responsive to the needs of all constituents, not just select neighborhoods or interest groups, and must advocate for laws and policies that uplift the entire region—in this case, the growth and future of Southwest Ohio.
As a CEO, bridge-builder, and lifelong learner with degrees in organizational leadership and business, I bring a unique blend of skills and experience that prepare me to serve effectively in public office. My professional background has taught me how to lead diverse teams, manage complex projects, and build partnerships across different communities and interests—all critical qualities for effective governance. I am a problem solver who listens carefully, communicates clearly, and works tirelessly to find common ground. Beyond my formal education, I proudly embrace my inner nerd—I love to read, learn, and stay informed about the world around me. This passion for knowledge keeps me sharp and ready to tackle new challenges with innovative ideas. Together, my leadership experience, academic training, and curiosity make me well-equipped to represent the people of Southwest Ohio with integrity, vision, and dedication.
Members of Congress shoulder a responsibility far greater than simply casting votes. Their role encompasses seven core duties:
Representation – Serving as the voice of their constituents in national debates.
Legislation – Crafting and supporting laws that address pressing national challenges.
Oversight & Investigation – Ensuring transparency and accountability within government agencies.
Management – Leading ethical, efficient, and responsive congressional offices.
Politics – Navigating political landscapes to drive substantive change.
Collaboration – Building consensus and working across the aisle to achieve shared goals.
Leadership – Setting a vision, motivating civic action, and earning public trust.
Effective public servants approach these responsibilities with strategic clarity—setting priorities, executing plans, and delivering measurable, community-centered results. Yet above all, they must deeply understand the people and places they represent. Insight into local economic conditions, cultural values, and lived experiences is essential to informed and empathetic policymaking.
My legacy will be defined by changing policies to better support teen parents who choose to embrace parenthood. Too often, young parents and their children face stigma, limited resources, and barriers that make it difficult to succeed both as caregivers and as individuals pursuing education and careers. I am committed to creating a system that uplifts these young families—providing access to quality childcare, education, healthcare, and job training—so young people and their children can build strong foundations for their futures. By advocating for compassionate, practical policies, I want to ensure that teen parents and the young people they raise are not left behind but empowered to thrive. This is about more than policy; it’s about honoring the courage and potential of young parents and investing in the future of our communities.
One of the first historical events I clearly remember was the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986, when I was in elementary school. Though I was around 7 or 8 years old, I vividly recall my teacher rolling a bulky television on a cart into the classroom so we could all watch the launch together. We were filled with excitement and hope as the countdown began—but then, tragically, the shuttle exploded just moments after liftoff. That heartbreaking moment left a lasting impression on me. It taught me early on about the risks and sacrifices that come with progress and exploration, and the courage it takes to keep striving even when faced with setbacks. That lesson in resilience and hope has stayed with me ever since, inspiring me to face challenges with determination and to work toward a brighter future for all.
My very first job might have been babysitting for my Godmother, who had adopted several children. But at age 15, I took a big step and landed a position as a call center agent doing radio research surveys—a real milestone for me. Back then, there were no high-tech computers or online applications. I remember filling out a paper application by hand and showing up for my in-person interview dressed in my best suit because I knew the importance of representing myself well. I was hired on the spot. When they called me back to set my schedule, I told them I had to go to school. The woman on the other end was surprised by my maturity. Since the company couldn’t terminate me due to my age, they allowed me to work weekends. That job not only taught me responsibility and professionalism early on, but it also gave me the chance to help spoil my niece and nephew—something that made all the hard work worth it. These early experiences shaped my work ethic and commitment to serving others, values I carry with me every day.
Pride and Prejudice has always been my favorite book because it beautifully captures the strength, intelligence, and resilience of its characters—especially Elizabeth Bennet. Like Elizabeth, I believe in the power of standing firm in your principles while remaining open to growth and understanding. The story reminds me that true leadership requires both confidence and humility, as well as the courage to challenge societal expectations and barriers. Just as Elizabeth navigates complex relationships with grace and wit, I strive to lead with clarity, compassion, and a commitment to justice. Pride and Prejudice is more than a classic novel to me—it’s a timeless lesson in integrity, perseverance, and the importance of knowing your own worth.
If I could be any fictional character, I would be Jean Grey—the Phoenix. Like Jean, I believe in the power of transformation and rising stronger through challenges. The Phoenix symbolizes resilience, rebirth, and an unstoppable force for good—qualities I strive to embody as a leader. Jean Grey’s journey shows that true strength comes not just from power, but from the courage to face inner struggles and use that energy to protect and uplift others. She reminds me that even in the face of overwhelming odds, we can ignite change and inspire hope. That spirit of renewal and fierce dedication is the kind of leadership I aim to bring to my community every day.
Baby Shark
Rise Above It All by Unsecret, Mike Mains
Rise Above It All by Unsecret, Mike Mains
The greatest struggle in my life—and the foundation of my success—has been setting ambitious goals that many might see as unattainable and holding steady until those goals are achieved. I know firsthand that no one wants to fail, and I’m aware that young people are watching every step of the way. This determination has been a powerful lesson in resilience, teaching youth how to face challenges with strategy and courage. But I also recognize that this drive can sometimes create stress and pressure, especially for those who find it hard to manage setbacks. That’s why I believe leadership is not just about pushing forward—it’s about lifting others up, balancing high expectations with empathy and support. My journey has taught me to lead with both grit and grace, inspiring others to believe that while the path may be tough, success comes to those who stay committed without losing sight of their well-being.
What makes the U.S. House of Representatives a uniquely powerful and essential institution in our democracy is its direct connection to the people and its ability to craft policies that create immediate, tangible impact. Unlike other branches of government, the House was designed to be the most responsive to public needs—members are elected every two years, ensuring they remain closely tied to the evolving concerns of their districts. One of the most valuable qualities of the House is its committee structure, which allows representatives to specialize in key policy areas—such as education, healthcare, the economy, and national security—and shape legislation that addresses real problems. As a member of Congress, this means having the ability to not only help write and influence policies but also to see the results firsthand in the communities you serve. Whether it's workforce development, family support programs, or small business growth, members of the House can track how federal initiatives play out on the ground, allowing for more targeted oversight and smarter solutions. This level of proximity between lawmaking and lived experience creates a powerful feedback loop—constituents raise concerns, policies are developed, and representatives remain accountable for the outcomes. That’s the strength of the House: it’s a place where national policy meets local reality, and where leaders with the right heart and focus can truly deliver results. When done right, it’s not just lawmaking—it’s problem-solving rooted in service.
While I recognize that government and political experience can be beneficial, I firmly believe that it is not the only path to effective public service. Leadership is not confined to titles or tenure—it’s defined by vision, accountability, and the ability to deliver results. My experience as a nonprofit founder and community leader has shown me that the qualities that truly matter in a representative are a deep commitment to learning, strong communication skills, the willingness to listen, and the courage to lead with integrity. These are the qualities that build trust and produce meaningful outcomes. In many cases, those outside of the traditional political system bring fresh perspectives, practical problem-solving skills, and a stronger connection to the everyday challenges facing families and small businesses. I believe that when you lead with purpose, remain open to growth, and put people over politics, you are fully equipped to serve. Experience matters—but so do empathy, innovation, and the heart to do what’s right.
Over the next decade, the United States will face some of its most defining challenges—challenges that demand urgent, innovative, and accountable leadership. One of the most pressing issues is our aging workforce, which threatens to leave critical gaps in industries that fuel our economy and public infrastructure. At the same time, we face a growing generation of young adults who, through no fault of their own, are often unprepared or underqualified for high-demand fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Without targeted education and workforce development, we risk falling behind in global innovation. Compounding these concerns is a steady decline in the number of Americans qualified for military and public safety service, often due to chronic health conditions or physical unfitness. Our national security and local safety systems rely on strong, capable personnel—and that pipeline is shrinking. Underlying it all is the broader issue of declining national health. Rising rates of obesity and preventable diseases are not only burdening families and healthcare systems, but also weakening our economic productivity and military readiness. These issues are not isolated—they are interconnected, and they demand a strategic, bipartisan response grounded in prevention, opportunity, and community investment. If we want to preserve the American Dream for future generations, we must invest now in the health, skills, and security of our people.
Two years may not seem like a long time to serve in Congress, but it was intentionally designed that way by the Founders to ensure that members of the U.S. House of Representatives stay directly accountable to the people they represent. In many ways, this two-year term is a strength—not a weakness—because it keeps representatives grounded in the current needs and concerns of their districts. It demands urgency, focus, and responsiveness. However, the challenge is that governing effectively takes time. Building coalitions, advancing legislation, and seeing long-term results often extend beyond a single term. That’s why it’s critical that voters elect leaders who come into office prepared, focused, and ready to lead on day one. The question isn’t just whether two years is enough—it’s whether the person elected can make the most of those two years by working efficiently, listening intently, and driving results. As a leader from outside of the political establishment, I understand the value of time and the importance of acting quickly without compromising quality or integrity. If given the opportunity to serve, I will treat every day in Congress as an opportunity to deliver—not just promises, but tangible progress for the people of Southwest Ohio. And if I do the job well, the voters will have the chance to renew that trust every two years. That’s the beauty of our democracy: it demands performance, accountability, and connection with the people—every step of the way.
Term limits are an important opportunity for constituents to evaluate the real impact their elected officials have made while in office. Just like any job, public service is a contract between leaders and the people they serve—if you are successful, hardworking, and delivering results, voters will renew your mandate. But term limits also recognize a simple truth: as society evolves, the longer someone stays in office, the further they can become removed from the changing needs and priorities of their community. Fresh perspectives and new voices are essential to keeping government responsive and effective. Term limits encourage accountability and prevent career politics from clouding judgment or creating complacency. They ensure that elected officials remain focused on serving the people, rather than entrenching themselves in power. Ultimately, term limits protect the integrity of our democracy by giving constituents the power to regularly decide if their leaders deserve to continue representing them or if it’s time for new leadership to rise.
Condoleezza Rice has always inspired me—not just because of her historic accomplishments, but because of the grace, strength, and intellect she brought to every room she entered. As a Black woman navigating spaces that weren’t always built for her, she led with quiet power and unshakable purpose. What resonates with me most is her belief in preparation, excellence, and service above self. She didn't seek the spotlight; she earned respect through substance and strategic thinking. Like her, I believe that leadership is about more than holding a title—it’s about being a lifelong learner, a clear communicator, and someone who rises above noise to focus on real results. Her path from Birmingham to the White House reminds me that barriers can be broken when you lead with conviction, discipline, and a deep commitment to the greater good. I see in her a reflection of the kind of leader I strive to be: informed, principled, courageous—and always willing to listen before leading.
In essence, compromise in government is both necessary and complex. It is the foundation of a functioning democracy—bringing together diverse perspectives to achieve progress. However, compromise can also be messy, slow, and, at times, disappointing. Too often, it results in watered-down solutions that satisfy political agendas rather than solving real problems. As a business leader, I’ve learned that true progress comes from focusing not on party politics, but on people. When policies are centered around the needs of constituents—not special interests or partisan talking points—the path to compromise becomes clearer and more productive. In business, you don’t succeed by ignoring your customers; you succeed by listening, adapting, and delivering results. Government should work the same way. When we focus on what families, workers, and communities actually need—strong schools, safe neighborhoods, affordable healthcare, and good-paying jobs—compromise becomes a tool to refine solutions, not dilute them. I believe in principled negotiation: holding firm to your values while finding common ground that moves the nation forward. We must lead with empathy, integrity, and a willingness to listen—not just to each other in Congress, but to the people we represent. That’s how we rebuild faith in government—by proving it can work for everyone, not just the loudest or most powerful voices. As your representative, I will always advocate for solutions that reflect the voices of Southwest Ohio, and I will work across the aisle without ever compromising on the core values of honesty, dignity, and service.
The Constitution gives the House the power to originate all revenue bills, and I see that as a key responsibility to ensure tax policy truly serves the people. If elected, I would use this authority to push for fair, transparent, and accountable budgeting—making sure every dollar raised supports real needs like education, workforce development, and public safety. As a nonprofit leader, I understand how to manage resources wisely. I will fight for tax policies that ease the burden on working families and make sure our communities actually benefit from the money they invest in government.
I would use Congress’s investigative power to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within government programs that affect everyday families in Southwest Ohio. Our communities deserve transparency—taxpayers have the right to see exactly how their money is being spent and to hold government accountable for delivering real results. Oversight is not a political tool; it’s a responsibility to protect public trust and ensure that federal dollars support local schools, public safety, healthcare, and job growth. By shining a light on inefficiency and corruption, we can make government work better, smarter, and more honestly for the people we serve.
House Committee on Education and the Workforce
House Committee on Ways and Means
House Committee on Energy and Commerce
Financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental to restoring trust between elected officials and the people they serve. Leadership is not about wielding power for personal gain or political advantage—it is about stewardship of the public’s hard-earned resources. Every dollar spent by government belongs to the taxpayers, and those taxpayers deserve to know clearly and openly how their money is being used. Just as a family budgets carefully to provide for their needs, government budgets should reflect the priorities of the communities it serves, investing in programs that deliver real, measurable results. Hidden spending, waste, and lack of oversight erode faith in public institutions and undermine the American Dream. As your representative, I commit to fighting for transparency at every level of government—pushing for easy-to-access spending reports, strengthening oversight mechanisms, and supporting protections for whistleblowers who expose corruption. I believe that accountability is not a partisan slogan but a moral obligation; it means demanding honesty from all agencies and contractors and ensuring that public programs are managed efficiently and ethically. Like a monarch who carries the weight of her nation with humility and resolve, I approach this responsibility with dignity and respect for the office I hold. I will work tirelessly to make government’s actions visible and understandable to every Ohioan, because transparency empowers citizens and fosters a government that truly serves its people. Together, we can end the era of unaccountable elites and build a government worthy of our trust—one that manages public funds wisely, delivers results for families and businesses, and protects the promise of opportunity for the next generation.
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Campaign finance summary
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.
See also
2026 Elections
External links
Footnotes
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)
