COLUMBUS, Ohio — Dave Yost announced he will resign as attorney general and take a private-sector job.
Earlier Thursday, Yost’s spokesperson did not confirm or deny the report when contacted by News 5, but half a dozen statehouse sources who wished to remain anonymous said Yost is expected to leave his job ahead of the November election.
News 5 attended an event today in hopes of speaking with Yost, but his spokesman, Steve Irwin, physically blocked News 5 reporter Morgan Trau several times when she attempted to speak with the attorney general in a public area.
The “surprise move” was first reported by the Columbus Dispatch and The Rooster, an Ohio political newsletter, and confirmed by News 5's Morgan Trau.
Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson thanked Yost for his public service.
"Attorney General Yost has dedicated his entire professional career to keeping people safe … wish him the best in everything that he's going to do," Wilson said.
On Thursday afternoon, Yost tweeted that he is taking a job with Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit law firm. He will be the firm's new vice president of Strategic Research and Innovation.
I begin a new chapter June 8 as VP of Strategic Research and Innovation at the Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit law firm that’s won 18 cases at SCOTUS in the last 15 years.I’ve been honored to serve Ohio, and will continue to fight for freedom! https://t.co/zTsTLdycAC
— Dave Yost (@DaveYostOH) May 7, 2026
Yost has served as attorney general since 2019.
Prior to that, he was the state auditor.
Yost’s political dreams of being governor evaporated in 2025, when the state GOP endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy. He suspended his campaign soon after, and has since kept a low profile. He is the only statewide Republican besides Gov. Mike DeWine who is not currently running for office.
Yost's folded and wrinkled resignation letter was short and to the point.
DeWine accepted his resignation with a handwritten note of "best wishes."
DeWine has the authority to appoint a new attorney general, with just six months until the general election.
Republican nominee for attorney general Keith Faber told News 5 that he looks forward to talking to the governor about the “best path forward.”
DeWine said he isn't making an appointment today and issued the following statement:
“I am grateful for Attorney General Yost’s long career in public service, from serving as Delaware County Auditor, Delaware County Prosecutor, Auditor of State, to Attorney General of Ohio. I wish him the best in his next endeavor.
Having served as Ohio Attorney General, I know how important this office is and the great work done by its employees. I will give the appointment of someone to serve as Attorney General thoughtful and deliberate consideration.”
According to DeWine, Yost's resignation is effective June 7.
