WESTLAKE, Ohio — Ohio Senate Republican candidate Bernie Moreno defeats three-term Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown in a stunning upset, clinching another key seat in restoring control of the Senate to Republicans. Gave.
With 91% of votes counted, Mr. Moreno received 50.5% of the vote and Mr. Brown received 46.1%.
The race was called on November 5th at approximately 11:30 p.m.
Mr. Moreno's victory in Ohio further cemented the state's evolution from a battleground state to a burgeoning Republican stronghold.
It's also a devastating blow to Brown, who was one of the last handful of Democrats in Congress from a state once known as a stronghold of the party's Blue Dog wing.
On the campaign trail, Moreno's message emphasized the economy, security and immigration, appealing to the state's rural and suburban voters who are dissatisfied with the economy and the direction of the country under President Biden.
While Donald Trump had a wide lead over Kamala Harris in the presidential race, the battle between Moreno and Brown has become even more intense, with both Senate candidates trailing 1-2 in the polls in the final months of the campaign. They are fighting for the points lead.
Mr. Brown has come under intense scrutiny over his voting record and frequent alignment with Mr. Biden's embattled Democratic Party's policies, a record that Mr. Moreno and his allies have often gleefully brought up.
Despite having deep campaign funds and a fervent support base in urban areas such as Cleveland and Columbus, Brown struggled to counter the “establishment” label his opponents applied to him.
Republicans are preparing to take control of the Senate in January, and both parties are bracing for a contentious session in 2025.
