The governor's office wants to appoint an African-American to become state treasurer, according to Cuyahoga County Treasurer Jim Rokakis.

Rokakis told PolitickerOH.com late Monday that he's not interested in being appointed by Gov. Ted Strickland to replace Richard Cordray as treasurer. However, Rokakis heard from "somebody close" to Strickland that the appointee will be black.

"I have heard from the beginning that this was going to be a demographic pick. I have been hearing from the beginning that this is a pick that would go to an African-American," Rokakis said.

Strickland's office said it will not comment on speculation about the treasurer appointment.

Among the names Rokakis heard being mentioned as possible African-American treasurer picks are Columbus City Councilman Kevin Boyce and Montgomery County Recorder Willis Blackshear.

Previously considered, Rokakis said, were former U.S. Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory and former Warrensville Heights Mayor Marcia Fudge. Mallory has withdrawn himself from consideration, Tubbs Jones died in September, and Fudge was elected to fill her seat.

Rokakis said he told Strickland's chief legal counsel Kent Marcus this summer that he was not interested in the position. Rokakis said he hopes whoever the appointee is has an understanding of what the treasurer does and can hold the seat in the 2010 election.

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