In a significant political development, former President Donald Trump has thrown his weight behind Bernie Moreno, a candidate for the Ohio Senate. Trump lauded Moreno as a “successful political outsider” and the “perfect MAGA warrior” that the Senate needs.
Trump’s Endorsement Follows JD Vance’s Recommendation
The endorsement from Trump comes on the heels of a meeting at Mar-a-Lago on Friday, where Ohio Senator JD Vance, a staunch Trump supporter and long-time backer of Moreno’s Senate bid, urged the former president to publicly support Moreno. According to a source privy to the meeting, Trump agreed to endorse Moreno in the forthcoming days.
Moreno’s Battle in a Crowded Republican Primary
Moreno is currently embroiled in a competitive Republican primary, which also features Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. The ultimate goal is to unseat Senator Sherrod Brown, one of the two most vulnerable Democratic incumbents up for reelection next year.
Trump’s Cautious Approach to Endorsements for 2024 Races
Contrary to his approach during the 2022 midterm election cycle, where he issued a series of endorsements in state and local races, Trump is adopting a more measured strategy for the 2024 races. He had previously expressed his admiration for Moreno on social media and has met with him in person several times over the past few months.
Moreno’s Previous Senate Campaign
Moreno had previously launched an unsuccessful bid for the Senate in 2022. He invested millions of dollars from his personal wealth into his campaign before eventually withdrawing from the race and throwing his support behind one of his competitors, Vance.