Questions, answered
What voters ask about Michael.
Straight answers, on the record. If yours isn't here, ask the campaign directly.
Who is Michael J. Hovis?
Michael J. Hovis is a Gulf War veteran (Ohio National Guard), the retired Chief of Police of Bazetta Township, the owner of Hovis Construction, and a two-term Bazetta Township Trustee. He is the Republican nominee for Trumbull County Commissioner in the November 3, 2026 general election.
What office is Michael Hovis running for, and when is the election?
He is running for Trumbull County Commissioner in Ohio. The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. For registration deadlines, early and absentee voting dates, and your polling location, check VoteOhio.gov or the Trumbull County Board of Elections.
What are his top priorities?
Six priorities: run the county like a business, taxpayers first, property tax relief, a full public accounting of the $38 million in federal ARP funds, fixing the 911 center, and jobs and economic growth.
Who has endorsed Michael Hovis?
The editorial boards of both of Trumbull County's major newspapers, the Tribune Chronicle and The Vindicator, endorsed Michael J. Hovis for Trumbull County Commissioner in 2026.
Did he win his primary?
Yes. Michael J. Hovis won the 2026 Republican primary for Trumbull County Commissioner 53 to 47.
What experience does he have managing public money?
As a two-term Bazetta Township Trustee he balanced township budgets and managed public employees. As a police chief he ran a department and its budget. As the owner of Hovis Construction he has won more than $10 million in competitively awarded government contracts.
Where can I meet Michael in person?
He shows up across Trumbull County, including the Trumbull County Fair (July 14–19, 2026, in Cortland) and the Warren Farmers Market on Fridays. The events page lists what's coming up.
How do I volunteer for the campaign?
Sign up on the volunteer page. Five fields: your name, email, phone, town, and how you'd like to help (yard sign, doors, calls, or hosting). Someone from the campaign reaches out directly.
How do I donate, and are there rules?
Use the donate page. Ohio law prohibits corporate contributions. Donations must come from individuals who are US citizens or permanent residents. The campaign committee is Friends of Michael J. Hovis, and it does not accept corporate checks.
What does a county commissioner do?
Ohio counties are governed by a three-member Board of Commissioners. Commissioners adopt the county budget, approve contracts and spending, and oversee county services and facilities, which is why Michael's campaign centers on budget discipline and accountability.
Paid for by Friends of Michael J. Hovis