Mark Hanni Faces Republican Primary Challenge for 7th District Court of Appeals
Mark Hanni, a current judge on the 7th District Court of Appeals, is facing a challenge from David 'Chip' Comstock Jr. in the upcoming Republican primary. Hanni, who cannot seek re-election to his current seat due to age restrictions, is running for a different seat on the same court, currently held by Democrat Judge Cheryl Waite. The 7th District Court of Appeals, which covers Mahoning and seven other southeastern Ohio counties, has seen significant changes under Hanni's tenure. He implemented reforms that improved the court's efficiency, moving it from last to first place in statewide rankings. Comstock, a long-time attorney and fire district chief, aims to restore public trust in the judiciary and enhance public understanding of the judicial system. He proposes initiatives like holding court sessions in local high schools to engage students and improve legal education.