Lucas County Democrats publicly called out Rep. Marcy Kaptur last week. The group criticized her for a campaign ad that highlighted her vote against “transgender ideology in schools.” This move has put the Ohio Democrat in a difficult spot with voters on both sides of the aisle.
The Ad and the Rebuke
The local party shared their complaint on Facebook on September 22, 2026. They claimed the ad used “hurtful language and references to ‘trans ideology.” Kaptur explained that she sided with Republicans to exclude transgender ideology from schools, asserting that parents understand their children’s needs best. She added that boys should not play in girls’ sports.
Lucas County Democrats responded with a sharp statement. Andrew Tobias, a group leader, wrote on X that this harmful ad is characteristic of Derek Merrin and the Republicans. The party told the Daily Signal they are “disappointed and ashamed” that the campaign used such rhetoric.
GOP Sees Chaos in the Democratic Party
Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou noticed the story immediately. He spoke to the Daily Signal about the situation. “Marcy Kaptur has been in office for four decades and being rebuked by her own party shows you the chaos associated with that campaign,” he said. Triantafilou stressed that she has been in Washington too long.
Triantafilou also posted on X about the “stunning development.” He noted his past role as Hamilton County GOP chairman. He argued that the issue of boys playing in girls’ sports is universally unpopular.
Kaptur Stands by Her Record
The Kaptur campaign defended her actions in a statement to the Daily Signal. Spokesperson Kylie Blitzer said, “Marcy supports parents having more insight into their children’s education.” She explained that Kaptur believes parents and local coaches should set the rules for sports.
Blitzer added that the opponent is “desperate to change the subject.” The congresswoman’s team insists she is simply taking a stand for parents. This dispute highlights the tension within the party as the election nears. No deal has been made to remove the ad, and the race remains hotly contested.
