This is yet another open Republican-held seat that is high on both parties’ target lists. By the time incumbent Gov. John Kasich leaves office in January of 2019, Republicans will have held the governorship for 24 of the last 28 years. In the era of Trump, Democrats believe they have a shot at breaking Republicans’ streak. In the weeks leading up to the May 8 primary, there was a great deal of movement on the Democratic side, as candidates have dropped out of the race or stepped back to join a ticket in the Lieutenant Governor’s slot. Former director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Richard Cordray won the Democratic nomination with 62 percent to 23 percent for former U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich, while four other candidates split 15 percent. State Attorney General Mike DeWine easily defeated Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor, 60 percent to 40 percent. This contest is in the Lean Republican column, but it is very likely to end up in Toss Up as the race progresses.
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