Born in Deaconess Hospital in 1967, I am a lifelong Clevelander.  I grew up in Slavic Village and Old Brooklyn, graduating from Berea High School, Cleveland State University, and Case Western Reserve University School of Law.  I’ve spent a career working to elect Democrats in Ohio, helping new democracies abroad as a foreign policy professional, and advocating for progressive candidates as a Youtube phenom and blogger in Ohio since 2004.

Transparency is the starting point of good government, whether you live in a former soviet republic, or in Cuyahoga County.  I’m running for Cuyahoga County Council to apply my expertise in keeping new democracies transparent to our own new democratic institution, from day one.  Sunshine is the best disinfectant, and Cuyahoga County’s new government needs a county councilor whose experience, skill, and top priority is transparency.

Can Tim Run?

If you’re not sure whether I can run for office because of my felony conviction, please read this legal opinion on the issue. The answer is yes – I can run for County Council, Mayor of Cleveland, Governor of Ohio, or President of the United States if I wanted to.  But let’s not get crazy here.

Is Tim related to Frank Russo?

No.  There are a lot of Russos in Cleveland, they’re not all related.  As far as I know, I am related to one Russo in Cleveland elected office – I’m a very distant cousin to County Common Pleas Judge Joseph D. Russo, who I’ve met twice in my life.  Frank Russo wouldn’t recognize me if I shoved my mom’s canoli into his face.

Want to know more?

Here’s a detailed timeline of Tim from birth to swearing in next January!