Ohio’s junior senator is speaking out for the first time about his decision to take his name out of the running for the Republican nomination for president in 2016. Statehouse correspondent Andy Chow reports.
Last month on election night—a large crowd of Ohio Republicans let out a loud cheer as U.S. Senator Rob Portman addressed the Party via Skype. It seemed to be an indication of the energy Portman could bring as a possible presidential contender.
But this week Portman announced that he will seek re-election for his Senate seat—scrapping thoughts of a presidential bid. Portman talked about his decision in a conference call with reporters.
Portman: “We have a great opportunity right now with a Republican Majority to move forward on a number of items.”
That list of items includes tax reform—boosting the economy—increasing American exports.
Portman had said he was considering running as he looked at the pool of possible Republican presidential candidates, which includes Gov. John Kasich. Portman now says that he’s confident that the GOP has a strong field to choose from.
