In an open challenge to the Ohio Democratic Party Chair, Trumbull County Democratic Chair Dan Polivka says "I will not be moved"

At a Tuesday news conference with many of the party faithful at his side, Polivka did not hold back in responding to State Chairman Chris Redfern insisting that Trumbull democrats abolish the secret ballot and hold another open vote, otherwise he'll proceed with actions to dismiss Polivka and levy sanctions on the local party. Polivka says as chairman he is obligated to follow the local party's constitution which explicitly calls for a secret ballot.

 "The insistence of denying Democrats a secret ballot is a ploy to hold precinct committee men and women captive to the whims of the chair and party leadership and under my leadership I'll not have it" Polivka said.

 Trumbull Democrats recently voted on whether to eliminate the secret ballot provision.

 "They now had a chance to vote to go back, which is what the state wanted,  but 98% said no, we're going to stay the way we are, we feel freer to vote our conscience" said former Trumbull County Commissioner, Anthony LaTell.

 In response to Congressman Tim Ryan saying that there are rules, even if we don't like them, Polivka said Ryan should be backing the party faithful who supported him.

 And Mr. Congressman should be fighting for the right to vote a secret ballot" said Polivka.

Polivka says he serves the local party membership and will defend to the very end their right to a secret ballot and challenges Redfern to "take your best shot."

 "I didn't pick this fight, but I won't be intimidated or bullied by this guy in Columbus" said Polivka.

 Efforts to reach Redfern and the ODP for comment were unsuccessful.