Wagoner was originally mentioned as a potential successor to state Senator Randy Gardner late in 2007.
However, his move to the Ohio Senate was expedited when Congressman Paul Gillmor unexpectedly died.
Wagoner is active in the community serving on many boards and commissions, including the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation, the National Statuary Collection Commission, Kids Unlimited, Valentine Theater, and the Great Lakes Maritime Museum.
In the summer of 2017, Wagoner announced his intention to run for Lucas County Republican Party Chairman.
[3] On February 7, 2018 Wagoner supporters filed 276 petitions to run as candidates for the Lucas County Republican Central Committee.