Lake County County Commons Pleas Court Judge Jeff Ruple has defeated challenger Ron Graham for the position. Jeff Ruple (Submitted) Meanwhile, Carl DiFranco has defeated Beth Knezevich for county Clerk of Courts and will replace Faith Andrews. Also, incumbent Republican Lake County Recorder Becky Lynch fended off Democrat challenger Anne Denny. According to unofficial final results from the Lake County Elections Board, Ruple won 49,580 to 39,216 in the Nov. 5 election. The term commences on Jan. 6, and the position has an annual salary of $163,792. Common Pleas Court judges in Ohio serve a term of six years. “It is essential for all litigants—whether in criminal or civil cases—to feel that their voices are heard,” Ruple said answering a News-Herald questionnaire in the run-up to the election. “I make it a priority to listen carefully, fostering trust in the judicial process and my commitment to community engagement has continued as a judge. I will continue my outreach efforts to help the public better understand our legal system.” Ruple also said he has not had any of the cases he presided over reversed by the Court of Appeals. Carl DiFranco (Submitted) In the Clerk of Courts race, unofficial final results showed DiFranco won 66,835 to 47,885. The position carries a four-year term starting Jan. 6, and the annual salary is $101,823. DiFranco said improving the work climate for clerk employees is high on his list and promised a different approach to the position. “I want to thank the citizens of Lake County for their support and confidence they have shown in me,” DiFranco said. “I will continue to work hard every day that justice is done here. My opponent ran a great race and will continue serving our community with dignity.” Becky Lynch (Submitted) In the Recorder’s race, Lynch won 67,895 to 47,106, according to unofficial final results from the county Elections Board. The position carries a term of four years and pays an annual salary of $86,513 for 2025. Lynch will begin her next term Jan. 6. “I will serve our veterans with our state issue veteran I.D. cards and record their DD214 (certificate/document of release or discharge from active duty) free of charge, preserving it for them in the county records,” she wrote answering a News-Herald questionnaire. “I will keep budgeting conservatively and saving the people’s money with strong, sensible leadership.”