The Mahoning County Republican Party is calling for the resignation of Clerk of Courts, Michael Ciccone."

The party says Ciccone has displayed a quote "lengthy pattern of behavior that has eroded public trust". An emergency meeting of the party will be set to consider a formal resolution demanding Ciccone's resignation.

"The actions attributed to Mr. Ciccone have caused significant harm to public confidence and brought disrepute upon the office he occupies and the Mahoning County Republican Party," the post stated.

"The clerk of courts is part of our judicial system, and from what we heard over the past nine months from judges, bailiffs, and people within, attorneys, we thought the party should take a strong stance, republican or democrat, it's unacceptable," said Tom McCabe, chair of the Mahoning County Republican Party executive committee.

McCabe says the Mahoning County Republican Party's stance is firm, that Michael Ciccone needs to step aside. This comes just days after deputy clerk of courts, and chief of staff Jennifer Ciccone was fired.

"What came out the other night, the allegations, the language he used, where these things happened. It's not becoming of a public official and a public servant," said Mahoning County Commissioner Geno DiFabio.

Both McCabe, and DiFabio didn't specify as to what the allegations were but said it doesn't represent the views of the Republican Party.

Ciccone has since responded to the call for his resignation, issuing a statement Sunday addressing any allegations:

"Over the past several weeks, personal matters have unfortunately entered the public sphere.
While these challenges have been difficult for me and my family, I want to assure the residents
of Mahoning County that the operations of the Clerk of Courts Office continue uninterrupted and
remain my top priority.


Recently, I made the decision to terminate the employment of Jennifer Ciccone, who served as
Chief Deputy and Chief of Staff in the Clerk’s Office. This decision was based on internal
personnel matters and made in the best interest of the office and its effective operation.


In response, Jennifer has made a number of serious allegations and shared private
communications—some of which were reportedly recorded without consent. She has also
indicated an intent to pursue legal action. While I respect everyone’s right to due process, I will
not engage in litigation through the media or social platforms.


I do, however, feel it is necessary to address one specific public claim: The allegation that I
engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a current employee is categorically false. I have
been faithfully married to my wife, Emily, for seven years, and at no time have I engaged in an
extramarital relationship.


Meghan Hanni was hired to a supervisory role within the Auto Title Department based solely on
her professional qualifications, which include significant experience with BMV operations, auto
title work, and customer service. Since joining the office, she has played a key role in stabilizing
a department that faced challenges when I assumed office.


I was also surprised and disappointed that both Republican and Democratic Party leaders
publicly called for my resignation without ever reaching out to speak with me directly. Let me be
clear: I will not tender my resignation. I remain committed to the responsibilities I was elected to
carry out by the people of Mahoning County.


As part of my commitment to building a strong, capable team, I am also proud to note that my
administration has prioritized inclusive hiring practices. Over the past ten months, we have
welcomed several qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds. The Clerk’s Office remains
dedicated to selecting the best candidates—regardless of race, religion, gender, or background.
I understand that public trust is essential. I remain fully committed to leading the Clerk’s Office
with professionalism, transparency, and integrity."

 

According to the Mahoning County Republican Party Facebook Page, they plan to hold an emergency meeting to consider for a resolution demanding Michael Ciccone's resignation.