John Kasich is an American writer, former U.S. Representative, and two-term governor of Ohio who has long been recognized as a pragmatic and moderate voice in American politics. Known for his fiscal conservatism, bipartisan approach, and willingness to challenge party lines, Kasich played a prominent role in national politics for several decades.
Beyond his government career, Kasich has also established himself as an author, commentator, and policy advocate. Since stepping away from elected office, he has focused on writing, media appearances, and public speaking, where he continues to influence political discourse in the United States.
This article explores what John Kasich is doing now, how his post-political career has developed, and where he stands in 2025 as a public figure and commentator.
Congressional Career and Political Rise
John Kasich began his political career in the late 1970s, first serving in the Ohio State Senate and then being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982. Representing Ohio’s 12th congressional district, he served for nine terms until 2001.
During his time in Congress, Kasich became known for his work on budgetary matters. As chairman of the House Budget Committee, he was instrumental in the passage of the 1997 Balanced Budget Act, which contributed to the first federal budget surplus in decades. His fiscally conservative but socially moderate platform set him apart from many of his Republican colleagues.
Kasich also gained a reputation for working across the aisle, a quality that would later define his governorship and post-congressional commentary.
Governorship of Ohio
After a break from elected office, Kasich returned to politics in 2010 when he was elected Governor of Ohio. He served two terms from 2011 to 2019. As governor, Kasich focused on job creation, education reform, and tax policy. His administration oversaw significant economic growth and reductions in the state’s unemployment rate.
Although a Republican, Kasich frequently pushed back against his party’s more extreme positions. He accepted Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act and advocated for criminal justice reform, positions that earned him both praise and criticism.
By the end of his second term, Kasich had built a reputation as a results-driven leader who prioritized pragmatism over party loyalty.
2016 Presidential Campaign and National Recognition
John Kasich ran for the Republican nomination for President of the United States in 2016. While his campaign was ultimately unsuccessful, he distinguished himself as a centrist alternative to more hardline candidates. His focus on unity, optimism, and problem-solving earned him national attention and a dedicated base of support.
He was the last major challenger to Donald Trump in the primary race and refused to endorse him after securing the nomination. This refusal cemented his role as a moderate Republican voice willing to stand apart from party leadership when necessary.
Kasich’s presidential run elevated his public profile, leading to new opportunities in media and public discourse.
What Is John Kasich Doing Now?
As of 2025, John Kasich is no longer in elected office but remains a highly active and visible public figure. His current focus is on writing, media commentary, and policy advocacy. He regularly appears as a political contributor on major news networks, including CNN and MSNBC, where he offers analysis on current events, governance, and bipartisan cooperation.
Kasich has also authored multiple books since leaving office. His works address topics such as civic responsibility, moral leadership, and personal faith. His most recent publications blend political insight with philosophical reflection, appealing to a wide audience interested in practical, ethical governance.
In addition to media work, he participates in public speaking engagements across the country, particularly at universities, think tanks, and leadership conferences.
Writing Career and Published Works
John Kasich’s writing career has flourished since his departure from public office. His books reflect his commitment to public service, ethical leadership, and personal values. Titles such as Two Paths: America Divided or United and It’s Up to Us: Ten Little Ways We Can Bring About Big Change present his views on restoring civil discourse and finding common ground in divided times.
These books serve both as political commentary and motivational literature. They emphasize individual responsibility, humility in leadership, and the importance of community engagement.
Kasich continues to write regularly, contributing opinion pieces to national publications on issues such as democracy, fiscal policy, mental health, and the future of bipartisan collaboration.
Media Contributions and Political Commentary
In the years following his governorship, Kasich has established himself as a respected media commentator. His appearances on cable news channels often focus on national policy, the direction of the Republican Party, and the state of American democracy.
Unlike many former politicians, Kasich uses his platform to promote nuance and dialogue rather than partisanship. He often criticizes both extremes of the political spectrum and urges Americans to find shared values amid ideological divisions.
His role as a commentator has positioned him as a steadying voice in an often-polarized media environment, appealing to viewers across political lines.
Public Speaking and Civic Engagement
John Kasich continues to travel across the U.S. as a keynote speaker, delivering talks on leadership, unity, and civic engagement. He frequently speaks at universities, nonprofit organizations, and leadership forums.
His speeches emphasize the need for integrity in public service and the importance of listening, even when opinions differ. Kasich often draws on his personal and political experiences to offer practical insights on how individuals and communities can contribute to societal improvement.
Through these engagements, he aims to inspire a new generation of leaders grounded in values, compromise, and resilience.
Advocacy for Political Reform
Kasich remains involved in nonpartisan efforts to reform American politics. He supports initiatives aimed at reducing polarization, protecting democratic institutions, and encouraging electoral fairness. He has expressed support for ranked-choice voting, independent redistricting commissions, and campaign finance transparency.
He also participates in panels and working groups focused on preserving democratic norms and strengthening voter confidence. His advocacy extends to promoting civics education and community involvement at the grassroots level.
Though no longer running for office, Kasich continues to shape the policy conversation through activism and coalition-building.
Is John Kasich Returning to Politics?
As of 2025, John Kasich has not announced any plans to run for political office. While he remains open to public service in various forms, he has repeatedly stated that his focus is on thought leadership and influencing public dialogue rather than pursuing electoral campaigns.
He is occasionally mentioned as a potential third-party candidate or as someone who could support centrist movements, but no formal political plans have been confirmed.
Kasich appears content with his current role—advocating for reform, educating the public, and writing about issues that matter to him and to the future of the country.
FAQs
Who is John Kasich?
John Kasich is an American writer, former U.S. Representative, and two-term governor of Ohio. He is known for his bipartisan approach to politics and has remained active as a commentator and author since leaving office.
What is John Kasich doing now?
He is currently focused on writing, political commentary, public speaking, and civic advocacy. He appears regularly on news networks and contributes to national conversations on democracy and reform.
Did John Kasich run for president?
Yes, he ran for the Republican nomination in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. He was the last major candidate to oppose Donald Trump in the primaries.
Is John Kasich planning to return to politics?
As of 2025, there are no confirmed plans for him to run for office. He is focused on nonpartisan political reform and public education through writing and speaking.
What books has John Kasich written?
His books include Two Paths: America Divided or United, It’s Up to Us, and several others that focus on leadership, civic responsibility, and moral decision-making in politics.