Voinovich Done, Portman to Run

As Gossip Cbus first reported, Senator George Voinovich will not seek reelection in 2010. Voinovich has informed donors and staff of his decision. He will formally announce his retirement at a Monday afternoon news conference.

Potential Republican replacements are already maneuvering, according to several sources. While Rob Portman has decided to run, Mike Dewine and Mary Taylor are undecided. Portman aides, including prospective campaign manager PJ Wenzel, were said to be seeking supporters, as a means to an uncontested primary.

Potential Democratic replacements are equally busy. While Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher and Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner appear to be the strongest candidates, Congressman Zack Space may also run. The two term representative, who replaced now imprisoned official Bob Ney, is, according to sources close to him, seeking advice from party leaders.

After resigning as Lieutenant Governor, Voinovich defeated Dennis Kucinich and served as Mayor of Cleveland from 1980-1989. He then defeated Anthony Celebrezze and served as Governor from 1990-1998. Elected Ohio’s 59th Senator, he served as junior senator until 2006. Since 2007, he has served as Ohio’s senior senator.

Portman commenced his political career, serving first as an Associate White House Council and then as White House Office of Legislative Affairs Director under President George H.W. Bush. From 1993-2005, Portman served as Ohio’s 2nd district Congressman. He resigned that office and became United States Trade Reprentative on May 17, 2005. He then finished his second White House stint as Office of Management and Budget Director. He resigned that office on June 19, 2007.