Staff Reports
In a surprise move just three months before the Ohio Republican primary, the former and possibly future President Donald Trump announced his endorsement of Bernie Moreno for the U.S. Senate race in Ohio. Moreno hopes to unseat Democrat Sherrod Brown, and Ohio is considered a top pickup opportunity for Republicans in the 2024 elections. Trump praised Moreno as “a highly respected businessman” and “a successful political outsider,” highlighting his commitment to standing up to the “Fascist nut jobs” and “spineless RINOS” and fighting the “corrupt Deep State.”
Trump also issued a warning about Brown, labeling him as a “Liberal career politician” who votes 100% for President Biden’s “horrendous” policies. He emphasized Moreno’s dedication to putting “America First” and urged voters not to be fooled by Brown’s empty promises. According to Trump, Moreno is the candidate who will truly represent Ohio values and serve the country well.
Donald Trump endorses Bernie Moreno in the Ohio Senate race! @berniemoreno
Big news. Congrats to Bernie on earning the endorsement. Now time to win the trust of the people of Ohio, and I'm sure Bernie is up to the task! pic.twitter.com/puD87JYlT7
— J.D. Vance (@JDVance1) December 19, 2023
Moreno’s strong stance as an outsider and his support for Trump’s policies have been central to his campaign, and Trump’s endorsement only solidifies Moreno’s ties to the former president. Trump called on the Republican Party to unite behind Moreno’s campaign, stressing the importance of a “BIG victory” in what he deemed “the most important Election in American History.”
It’s worth noting that Moreno’s connection to Trump through Rep. Max Miller, who was endorsed by the former president and is now a congressman, adds another layer of support to Moreno’s campaign. Additionally, Moreno’s daughter is married to Rep. Miller, further linking him to the Trump circle.
Trump’s endorsement of Moreno comes earlier in the election cycle than his previous endorsements, indicating the significance of this particular race. Moreno expressed his gratitude for Trump’s endorsement, emphasizing his commitment to the “Pro-Trump, America First” agenda and calling for unity among Ohio Republicans to defeat Sherrod Brown.
In addition to Trump’s endorsement, Moreno has also garnered support from Sen. JD Vance and other Republican senators, ambassadors, former elected officials, local Republican parties, and conservative organizations. With multiple prominent endorsements and a competitive primary field, Moreno’s position in the polls and his name recognition are likely to see a significant boost.
The Ohio Senate race is currently considered a “Toss-Up,” and with Trump’s enduring popularity in the state, Moreno’s chances are expected to improve significantly. Trump’s decisive victory in Ohio in both the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections, coupled with his continued popularity, indicates a strong advantage for Moreno in the upcoming primary and potentially the general election.
