Chris Redfern was elected Chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party in December, 2005. Since his election, Chairman Redfern has focused on building an 88-county statewide Party with the capability to win in every part of Ohio.

Chairman Redfern's 88-county strategy has been recognized by the Democratic National Committee and dozens of national publications for its effectiveness. His hard work paid dividends on Election Night 2006 when the Ohio Democratic Party made history, shattering sixteen years of Republican rule and electing a Democratic U.S. Senator, Governor and Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, and State Treasurer. Democrats won at every level, including a seven seat pick up in the Ohio House of Representatives.

Chairman Redfern has also represented the families of the 80th Ohio State House District since 1999. His legislative district includes Erie County and most of Ottawa County including the Lake Erie Islands and the Western Basin of Lake Erie. Redfern is completing his fifth and final term as a legislator.

Since coming to the Ohio General Assembly, Chairman Redfern has advocated for fiscal discipline and tax fairness by pushing restraint in state spending and an equitable tax code that helps Ohio's families. He has also been a leader for environmental causes, working to protect Lake Erie from oil and gas drilling, and championing the recreational boating and fishing industries.

Chairman Redfern has served in various leadership positions within the House Democratic Caucus including Minority Leader from 2003 until early 2006. During his tenure as Leader, Redfern oversaw a 2004 election campaign that resulted in the gain of more Democratic House seats than at any time since 1982. He also served as the Caucus Chairman from 2002-2003.

Chairman Redfern has received several awards and distinctions including the 2003 Myrl H. Shoemaker Award, presented annually to a member of the Ohio Democratic Party who displays outstanding statewide service. He also was named the 2004 Citizen of the Year by the Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce. Redfern has been lauded by the Ohio Sea Grant Program for his work protecting Lake Erie and increasing funding for the Stone Laboratory on Gibraltar Island.

Redfern is active in several prominent national organizations including as Executive Committee member of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Vice-President of the Midwestern Region of the Association of State Democratic Chairs. Redfern’s energy and dedication have made him a prominent leader in state and national politics and a respected voice on legislative issues.

Before coming to the Statehouse, Chairman Redfern was an Ottawa County Commissioner – the youngest in the state when his term began in 1993. In that role, he focused on expanding the county's infrastructure, improving local services and economic development.

Chairman Redfern attended Bowling Green State University where he earned both a Bachelor’s Degree and then his Master’s Degree in state and local government. He received the BGSU Accomplished Graduate Award in 2004.

Chairman Redfern lives on Catawba Island with his wife Kim and their two Labrador Retrievers.