Education is the future of Ohio, U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan said.

Ryan was just one of six Democratic candidates who swarmed the Multicultural Center Monday as part of Gov. Ted Strickland’s bus tour.

The first candidate to address an audience of roughly 40 students and community members was Chris Mallin, candidate for county auditor. Vicki Kline, candidate for Portage County commissioner and Kathleen Clyde, candidate for state representative, followed Mallin.

Clyde introduced Ryan, who encouraged the audience to take advantage of early voting, which begins Tuesday. Mary Jane Trapp, candidate for Ohio Supreme Court, and Maryellen O’Shaughnessy, candidate for secretary of state, also spoke.

All candidates urged the audience to become educated on the issues and support the Democratic ticket.