Derek Merrin
Derek Merrin is a former Ohio state representative who won the Republican primary for Ohio's 9th Congressional District on May 5, 2026. He narrowly lost to Rep. Marcy Kaptur in 2024 by 2,382 votes and is seeking a rematch.
- Party: Republican
- Office sought: U.S. House of Representatives
- State: OH
- Current office: Former Ohio State Representative
Incumbency status: challenger
Residence: Monclova Township, OH
Biography
Derek Merrin served in the Ohio House of Representatives. He ran for Ohio's 9th Congressional District in 2024, losing to Democratic incumbent Marcy Kaptur by just 2,382 votes. Republicans used mid-decade redistricting to make the district more favorable. He won the Republican primary on May 5, 2026, and will face Kaptur in a rematch.
Professional background
Former Ohio state representative
Public service
Ohio House of Representatives