As the Ohio House of Representatives commenced its new 24-month session, Cincinnati’s representative was absent, even though he had already recorded the lowest attendance over the past two years.

Storm Disruptions Delay Denson’s Swearing-In

Bond Hill Democrat Sedrick Denson was scheduled to be sworn in alongside the other elected representatives of the Ohio House. ‘I was delayed by the storm’s disruptions. By the time I went to obtain my Certificate of Election, the Hamilton County Board of Elections had closed due to the severe weather,’ he explained. The Certificate of Election is a requirement for being sworn in.

Record of Missed Sessions: A Closer Look at Denson’s Attendance

His absence drew attention, as he had missed nearly a third of all House voting sessions in 2023 and 2024, according to the House Clerk’s attendance records. The logs show he was absent for nearly 30 regular assemblies and two summits organized by the National Black Conference of State Legislators.

Sedrick Denson Defends His Leadership Despite Absences

In his defense, he stated that he takes his work seriously. ‘I’m a hands-on leader who ensures that all my constituents’ needs are addressed, and I take my responsibilities as a leader very seriously,’ he said.

Sedrick Denson was re-elected to the Ohio House in 2024 with 69% of the vote, and records show that his absence from the sessions began shortly thereafter. It was reported that he missed a crucial voting session in December while traveling with his family. The session was significant, as numerous bills and policy issues were discussed that day

Denson has missed several critical sessions, including the one where lawmakers voted to endorse President Joe Biden’s candidacy for re-election. He has missed a total of 28 sessions, according to records maintained by the House Clerk

Lawmakers in the Ohio House are paid approximately $71,100 a year, along with additional allowances. Representatives who take on leadership roles receive extra perks. Sedrick Denson is not the first to have a high rate of absenteeism in House sessions. Republican Mike Loychik, who served from January 4, 2021, to December 31, 2022, also faced criticism for his absences.

Records show that most Representatives have zero absences, with many missing only a single session over the course of two years.

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