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Balance of Power: The Politics, Policies and People

2018 was a big election year in Ohio. Republicans held onto all five statewide executive offices including governor and super majorities in both the Ohio House and Senate. But there were a few bright spots for Democrats, among them the reelection of U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown and the election of two Democrats to the Ohio Supreme Court.With election 2018 over, the focus now shifts to governing. Stay connected with the latest on politics, policies and people making the decisions at all levels affecting your lives.

Portman Says Ohio's U.S. Senate Race is Drawing Lots of GOP Interest Now That Mandel Is Out

Ideastream Public Media | By Mark Urycki

Published January 9, 2018 at 6:49 PM EST

Republicans inside and outside Ohio are pushing their favorite candidates to jump into the U.S. Senate race to challenge incumbent Democrat Sherrod Brown. The field opened when Josh Mandel dropped out.

Republican Senator Rob Portman had endorsed the Ohio treasurer.

In a call with reporters, Portman says he’s been hearing from people wanting to jump in.

“I would assume there would be a lot of people who jump in. I’m trying to think how many people have called me the last few days. I think its five different people said they might be interested that either texted or called me. So I think it’ll be a spirited primary.”

Portman says author J.D. Vance is “looking into it“ and gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci is “definitely looking into it.” A spokesman for Renacci told the Cincinnati Enquirer that the congressman is waiting for President Trump to invite him to run.