Ohio’s Secretary of State, Frank LaRose, has been activated to serve with the Ohio Army National Guard, as confirmed by his office. Despite this commitment, LaRose continues his obligations as the state’s chief elections officer.
At 46, LaRose boasts a robust history in military service. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1998 after graduating from Copley High School and spent nearly a decade on active duty. Initially part of the 101st Airborne Division, he advanced to the 19th Special Forces Group, earning the prestigious Green Beret.
His career includes deployments to Kosovo, Iraq, and a significant counter-narcotics mission along the U.S.-Mexico border. LaRose achieved the rank of sergeant first class and was awarded the Bronze Star for his outstanding service in combat during his Iraq deployment.
After a 12-year hiatus, he rejoined military service in March 2021, later transferring to the Ohio Army National Guard in January 2026 to reconnect with his former special forces unit. His recent activation has been publicly announced.
Details regarding the specific assignment, location, and duration of his duty remain undisclosed at this time.
A spokesperson, identified as Kindel, reassured the public about the continuity within the Secretary of State’s office. They confirmed, according to Ohio’s Revised Code Section 111.04, that the assistant secretary would step in if needed, although this has not been necessary as LaRose continues to fulfill his responsibilities.
LaRose, who was first elected in 2018, is currently unopposed in the Republican primary and is preparing to seek a third term in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
