About Me & Why I'm Running

About Me

My name is John Gatiss and I am a Democrat running for Westerville City Council. I’m a nearly 20-year resident of Westerville. Professionally, I’m a biochemist and pharmacist by training and an editor by trade. I have been volunteering in politics for over 15 years, and I have been a councilwatcher for nearly 8 years.

Until recently, I never seriously considered running for office. But public service, government service, is in my DNA. Both of my parents were on city council in my Michigan hometown at different points when I was growing up. 

Why I'm Running

With the dysfunction at the federal and state level, we need bold leaders in local government who will fight for improvements in quality of life, for good government, and for our future. I will fight for people, fight for transparency, and fight for our future. 

I have a long track record of fighting to elect progressive candidates, protect access to healthcare, end gerrymandering, pass a local nondiscrimination ordinance here in Westerville, and so much more.

In this critical moment, the best way I can fight for our shared values and protect people is by bringing my advocacy and activism into local government.