Last week, the Athens County Democratic Party officially announced the resignation of Bill Bias as Democratic leader, making way for Athens City Auditor, Kathy Hecht.
Bias, whose term runs through the end of February, said he intends to fundraise for other Democratic candidates, such as Athens Law Director Patrick Lang in his campaign for Ohio’s 15th Congressional District for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Bias has an extensive resume of involvement in Athens, including 20 years of public service in Athens. He had served as an At-Large, treasurer and president of Athens City Council as well as serving as Athens County Democratic Party Chairman since January 2010.
Currently vacating in the Florida Everglades, Bias said he wants to take more time off to travel and be with his family.
“At 60 years old, I want to take some time off and travel. With the upcoming election year, this is probably the last time I’ll be able to do it.”
In addition, Bias expressed his distaste with the Republican Party in Athens.
“In Athens County, the Republican party has become pretty insignificant and has made it tough for me to have any fun in politics,” said Bias.
Although Bias said the Republicans offer little political opposition, both he and Hecht stressed that 2012 is a crucial year because of the presidential elections in November.
While Hecht’s temporary term as Democratic Party Chair lasts only two months, she said she anticipates serving as both Athens City Auditor and Democratic Chair long after Bias’ unfinished term is complete.
“I don’t feel that there will be any other challengers after the two months is over,” said Hecht.
Bias is also preparing for his campaign as Athens County Treasurer against Libertarian candidate, Ibrihim Allasaf, a senior attending Ohio University.
Current Democratic Treasurer, Javon Kittle Cooper previously announced that she does not plan on seeking re-election.
Bias said he feels “pretty confident” about the election.
The new treasurer does not take office until 2013.
Hecht supports Bias’ campaign, saying that she has “full faith” in Bias and that “he should win handily.”
