Mandel, 31, from Lyndhurst, made his announcement via a polished six-minute video on his campaign Website, www.joshmandel.com, followed by a Statehouse press conference.

"I am answering the call from Ohioans for new energy and fresh ideas in state government," Mandel said. "They want honest, principled leaders to watch over their tax dollars."

Mandel is in his second term representing the 17th House District in the Cleveland area. He previously was a member of Lyndhurst City Council. He earned a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University and a law degree from Case Western Reserve University.

Mandel's video, titled An American Story, heavily emphasizes his Iraq experience as well as his family history of military service.

He faces a very different American story in Boyce, who was appointed treasurer by Gov. Ted Strickland earlier this year to fill out the unexpired term of Treasurer Richard Cordray, who was elected attorney general.

Boyce, 37, overcame early childhood tragedy. He was 7 when his father was murdered. Boyce and two siblings were raised by their single mom who worked multiple jobs to keep food on the table. Boyce previously served on Columbus City Council.

ajohnson@dispatch.com