In 1995, FitzGerald was commissioned as a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and was assigned to the Organized Crime Task Force in Chicago.

FitzGerald's administration focused on a community-policing initiative and recession-based financial issues similar to those faced by local governments throughout the country.

[4] Upon assuming office, FitzGerald spearheaded a long list of reforms under the general rubric of "The Western Reserve Plan.

"[5] Key components were a strict code of ethics monitored by an inspector general,[6] shrinking the size of government, a sheriff community policing unit,[7] the largest college savings program in the nation,[8][9] the promotion of regional economic and service cooperation strategies,[10] and a significant economic development fund to promote job creation.

FitzGerald released a plan for state-funded universal preschool in addition to announcing his support for gay marriage.

[23] On December 10, Kearney stepped down from the ticket due to increasing controversy surrounding back taxes he and his wife owed.

[24] FitzGerald later selected Sharen Swartz Neuhardt, an attorney from the Dayton area, to be his running mate.

[25] On August 1, 2014, FitzGerald was asked to explain an October 13, 2012 incident in which he was found in a parking lot at about 4:30 am in a car with a woman, who was not his wife.