Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today issued the following statement regarding U.S. Senator George Voinovich’s decision to retire when his current term in the U.S. Senate is complete at the end of 2010.

“For more than four decades, George Voinovich has devoted his life to representing Ohio citizens at all levels of government. He has earned Ohioans’ trust and respect, and the legacy he leaves will live on for generations to come.

“In this critical time in the history of our state and nation, there is no question that Senator Voinovich will serve his remaining tenure as Ohio’s senior member of the U.S. Senate with the same vigor and dedication to our state that has characterized his entire time in office.

“I also am deeply grateful for the partnership and insight that Senator Voinovich has offered me during my time as governor and as a member of the U.S House of Representatives.  I wish George, Janet and the entire Voinovich family all the best, and I thank the senator for his honorable service to the State of Ohio.”