Jo Ann Davidson was appointed Chair of the Ohio Casino Control Commission by Governor John Kasich for her extensive leadership in local and state government as well as her track record of being a strong advocate for the people of Ohio. Davidson came to public service in 1967 after winning a seat on the Reynoldsburg City Council. In 1980, she was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives.

During her 20 year legislative career Davidson advocated for welfare reform and played a major role in the deregulation of electricity in the state. In 1995, her fellow representatives selected her as the Speaker of the Ohio House. She was the first woman to hold this position and remained as speaker until leaving the House of Representatives in 2000.

Over the past decade, Davidson has formed her own consulting firm, JAD and Associates, advising on a broad range of issues involving public policy development and analysis, strategic planning and political campaigns. In January 2005, she was elected Co-Chair of the Republican National Committee. She also remains active with various board positions and charity organizations.

Davidson has served on the board of trustees of The Ohio State University, Franklin University, and The University of Findlay. She holds honorary Doctor of Law degrees from Ohio University and Capital University, an honorary degree in Government Leadership from The University of Findlay, and an honorary Doctor of Public Administration degree from The Ohio State University.

Davidson's term expires on February 21, 2014.