# 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.

## Key facts

- Party: Republican
- Office sought: U.S. House of Representatives
- Current office: Former Ohio State Representative
- State: OH
- District: 9
- Race: Ohio's 9th Congressional District 2026
- Incumbent status: challenger
- Residence: Monclova Township, OH
- Race rating: Toss-up
- Campaign website: https://www.merrinforohio.com

## 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.

## Background

- Professional background: Former Ohio state representative
- Public service: Ohio House of Representatives

## Opponents in this race

- [Marcy Kaptur](https://transparencyreport.io/candidates/marcy-kaptur-oh9-2026.md) — Democratic

## Sources

- Republican Derek Merrin projected to win Ohio's 9th — CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/ohio-9th-district-republican-primary-results-derek-merrin-marcy-kaptur/
- OH-09 2026 — Cook Political Report: https://www.cookpolitical.com/house/race/483821
- Headshot identity source — Derek Merrin: https://www.derekmerrin.com/

Last updated: 2026-07-13T23:19:27.907Z

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Source: Transparency Report — https://transparencyreport.io/candidates/derek-merrin-oh9-2026
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