Source: Politics<\/p>\n
Retiring Sen. Rob Portman on Wednesday endorsed Jane Timken in the GOP Senate primary to replace him, backing the former Ohio Republican Party chair in a crowded race.<\/p>\n
Portman (R-Ohio) said in a statement that Timken is the \u201cbest candidate\u201d to advance GOP policies.<\/p>\n
\u201cJane is smart and hard working, and understands the needs of Ohioans,\u201d he also said. \u201cI am confident in her ability to win both the primary and the general elections, ensuring that this Senate seat remains Republican with a 50-50 Senate, and so much at stake.”<\/p>\n
Portman\u2019s endorsement comes after he announced last year that he would not be seeking reelection<\/a> for a third term. The race for the GOP nomination to replace him has grown into one of 2022’s most crowded<\/a>, featuring Timken, \u201cHillbilly Elegy\u201d author J.D. Vance, former state treasurer Josh Mandel, state Sen. Matt Dolan and investment banker Mike Gibbons.<\/p>\n Dolan, who had been vocal about wanting Portman\u2019s endorsement, said in a statement that he spoke with Portman Wednesday morning about him backing Timken.<\/p>\n \u201cHe made clear that his support for Jane Timken was predicated on personal friendship. I respect Rob\u2019s service, but each day more and more Ohio Republicans recognize the fact I am the only candidate with a record of conservative leadership that gets results for Ohio,\u201d Dolan said. \u201cThis seat in the Senate belongs to the people of Ohio, and as their next Senator I will work every day to put their needs and interests first.\u201d<\/p>\n