LaRose, Decorated Iraq War Veteran, Launches Bid for US Senate to Defend Conservative Values

LaRose is set to face a potentially fierce and costly primary against contenders Matt Dolan and Bernie Moreno. However, LaRose is anticipated to be a prolific fundraiser, which could give him an advantage in the race.

LaRose has been a leading proponent of a ballot measure that seeks to make it more difficult to amend the state constitution. This measure is seen as a response to a potential ballot initiative to enshrine abortion rights. Abortion rights groups have already submitted signatures to get the measure on the ballot, and Democrats hope this fight will mobilize their base ahead of the 2024 election.

LaRose and Dolan may face criticism from Republicans for their hesitance to fully embrace former President Donald Trump. LaRose previously criticized claims of election fraud without evidence, calling them "irresponsible." While Moreno is closely aligned with Trump, Dolan has been critical of him. LaRose has not endorsed a candidate in the 2024 presidential primary but has pledged to support the eventual GOP nominee.

Entering a crowded primary against Bernie Moreno and Matt Dolan, LaRose believes he has the strongest chance of defeating Sherrod Brown. Party leaders have encouraged LaRose to run, but the Senate campaign arm will not get involved in the primary. The Ohio Senate primary is expected to be a contentious battle, and polling indicates that LaRose would start with a double-digit lead.

LaRose may face questions about his loyalty to Trump and his tenure as Ohio's top elections official. While he was the only secretary of state Trump endorsed in 2022, a private recording has surfaced in which LaRose downplayed the power of Trump's endorsement. This could complicate his efforts to secure a Trump endorsement for his Senate bid.

Whoever emerges from the primary will face a formidable opponent in Sherrod Brown. Brown has successfully weathered Ohio's shift to the right and possesses strong fundraising abilities. LaRose's views on abortion and his support for a ballot initiative to raise the vote threshold needed to amend the state's Constitution may be used against him in a general election campaign. However, his self-proclaimed "pro-life" stance and support for Ohio's heartbeat bill may not significantly impact his chances in a general election.

Frank LaRose, a decorated Iraq War veteran and former state senator, has launched his bid for the US Senate to defend conservative values. With Ohio's increasing conservatism and Sen. Sherrod Brown's vulnerability, LaRose's candidacy presents a significant challenge. However, he faces a potentially contentious primary battle against Matt Dolan and Bernie Moreno. LaRose's ability to fundraise and navigate his relationship with former President Donald Trump will be crucial factors in his campaign. Ultimately, the primary winner will confront Sherrod Brown, who has proven his ability to withstand Ohio's rightward shift and possesses strong fundraising capabilities.