Donald Trump‘s influence looms large in Ohio‘s Republican Senate primary, even though his name isn’t on the ballot. The former president endorsed Bernie Moreno, a former car dealer and entrepreneur, setting the stage for a showdown with state Sen. Matt Dolan.
Recent polls indicate a close race between Moreno and Dolan, whom Trump labeled a “RINO” (Republican in name only).
The contest has drawn attention from high-profile figures like South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake, and Sen. JD Vance, emphasizing the significance of Trump’s endorsement.
However, even some of Trump’s staunch supporters are backing Dolan, citing his assistance during local crises.
The winner of the primary will face Sen. Sherrod Brown in a race that could sway control of the Senate. Both parties are poised to invest heavily in Ohio’s election, given its importance.
The primary’s intensity reflects the broader divide within the GOP between Trump loyalists and establishment Republicans. Dolan, backed by Gov. Mike DeWine and former Sen. Rob Portman, represents the latter, while Moreno aligns with Trump’s populist movement.
Despite Dolan’s surge, Moreno remains competitive, leveraging Trump’s endorsement and substantial self-funding for his campaign. Dolan, however, has invested heavily in advertising to define his agenda and distance himself from Trump’s persona.
The race has also attracted attention from outside groups, with a Democratic PAC launching a significant ad blitz to boost Moreno’s candidacy. Dolan’s resilience in a Democratic stronghold like Cuyahoga County underscores his potential strength in the general election.
With polls indicating a tight race, both candidates are vying for undecided voters in the final days of the campaign. The outcome will not only shape Ohio’s political landscape but also serve as a barometer for Trump’s enduring influence within the Republican Party.
