DaytonDailyNews.com

DAYTON — Three Republicans were endorsed Monday night to replace GOP legislators who will leave office next year because of term limits.

But it is not clear if the local party endorsements will head off a primary battle, particularly in the race for the 37th House district, a seat held by state Rep. John Husted, R-Kettering.

The Montgomery County Republican Party's central committee endorsed Kettering Council Member Peggy Lehner for the seat, but former state Rep. Don Mottley and Miami Twp. Trustee Deborah Preston said they are considering running in the March primary. They have agreed that only one of them will run, avoiding a three-way race, but have not decided which of them will withdraw.

Lehner said it is in the best interest of the party for people to get behind a single candidate early. In remarks prior to the vote, Lehner said she has the broadest, deepest and most recent experience in local and regional governance.

The central committee also endorsed Huber Heights City Council Member Seth Morgan for the 36th House seat now held by state Rep. Arlene Setzer, R-Vandalia, and endorsed Washington Twp. Trustee Terry Blair for the 38th House seat being vacated by state Rep. John J. White, R-Kettering.

Morgan was selected over German Twp. Trustee Greg Hanahan, who is also Miami Twp. administrator.

Blair was chosen over financial planner Tom Young, the only candidate who came to the night's meeting having been recommended by a screening committee set up by Party Chairman Greg Gantt.

Democrats plan to endorse candidates for the races in November or December, said Mark Owens, chairman of the county Democratic Party.