Representative Roy Klopenstein represents the 82^nd Ohio House District which includes Paulding, Putnam, and Van Wert counties. He was elected in November 2022 and is serving his first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. Prior to his election to the Ohio House, he served as a Paulding County commissioner for the past ten years. He also operates a family farm in Paulding County.

Q: What inspired you to run for office?

A: I was quite content where I was serving as commissioner and farming with my sons. When Representative Reidel decided not to run again there were a number of people that encouraged or asked me to consider serving in that role. The 82nd district is a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family and our strong values are something we wish to preserve and protect. I want the same opportunity for our children and grandchildren that we have had.

Q: How did your previous jobs/ experiences prepare you to serve as a legislator?

A: Serving as Paulding County Commissioner the past ten years was an excellent education and preparation for the Ohio legislature. I have also had the opportunity to farm the past forty plus years with first my dad and brother and now the next generation with our son. Being in business, employing people serving on local, county and state boards was also good experience.

Q: What are the most important things you are currently hearing from constituents in your district?

A; While campaigning the most frequently asked questions were on abortion, jobs, inflation, and government overreach in healthcare, personal freedom and responsibility, government bureaucracy, pretty much in that order.

Q: What does it mean to you to represent a rural district?

A: We have so many wonderful things living in a rural district that we all want to preserve. From our small town festivals to our quality schools, to just the help your neighbor attitude is something big cities wish they had. The quiet peaceful communities is one reason why we love it so much.

Q: What do you believe is the most pressing issue for soybean

farmers right now? How do you plan to address it?

A: Cost of production and inflation are forefront now, but long term regulation, open and fair trade regulations, immigration and labor, and consumer education. My preference is just get government out of the way, but we unfortunately know that probably is not reality. Working together on issues with OSA and other farm groups is the path forward. Communication is key, between us as farmers, between us as consumers, and between as constituents.

Q: What can Ohioans expect from your bills this year?

A: As I write this, the dust is not settled from a contentious speaker election, yes here in Ohio. I am an optimist, I am a farmer, good things will happen. Stay tuned.

Q: Anything else you’d like to add?

A: Thanks for the work you do on behalf of Ohio farmers and soybeans growers.

Representative Roy Klopenstein represents the 82^nd Ohio House District which includes Paulding, Putnam, and Van Wert counties. He was elected in November 2022 and is serving his first term in the Ohio House of Representatives. Prior to his election to the Ohio House, he served as a Paulding County commissioner for the past ten years. He also operates a family farm in Paulding County.