(Barbara J. Perenic/The Columbus Dispatch, via Associated Press)
Mike Carey, a coal industry lobbyist endorsed by former President Donald Trump, is the winner of the Republican primary in Ohio’s 15th Congressional District. Carey won with a plurality of the vote, receiving 37% of the total share and 11,931 more votes than the second-place candidate, Jeff LaRe.
The seat opened in May following an announcement from Republican Rep. Steve Stivers that he is retiring to pursue a job in the private sector. The traditionally Conservative district covers the suburbs of Columbus, as well as portions of southeastern Ohio.
Carey’s significant victory over a crowded primary field showcases Trump’s enduring influence on the Republican Party. The former president issued several statements in support of Carey, and a Trump-aligned PAC poured $350,000 into the race. “Tonight Republicans across Ohio’s 15th Congressional District sent a clear message to the nation that President Donald J. Trump is, without a doubt, the leader of our party,” Casey remarked in his victory speech. “I am proud to deliver this win to advance his America First agenda.”
Carey is favored to win the general election on November 2 against state Rep. Allison Russo, who won the Democratic nomination with 84.2% of the vote.
By: J. DebBaruah
