The Hill reports:
Sen. Rob Portman’s (R-Ohio) campaign launch has been among the most impressive of the nascent cycle.
Portman banked nearly $3 million in the first quarter of the year, bringing his total cash on hand to $8 million.
The Hill also emphasizes his success saying:
In February, Portman announced the support of 500 elected Republican officials across the state.
Portman also has the backing of dozens of Ohio state legislators, GOP county chairmen and members of the state central committee. Earlier on Wednesday, the Portman campaign released a list of 190 people that will serve as county chairmen on his campaign, spanning all 88 Ohio counties.
This displays a successful campaign and a major reason for Portman’s challengers to be concerned.
And with division on the riseamong Ohio Democrats in the primary, there’s even more reason for national Democrats to worry.
Cook Political Report also highlights Senator Portman’s distinct advantage:
Portman has been focused on issues that matter to Ohio voters and has a string of accomplishments on which to run. He has also been a strong fundraiser and his campaign as probably the most developed of any Senate incumbent this cycle.
It’s clear that Senator Rob Portman is in a strong position to win.