Republican Ohio treasurer drops out of US Senate race
CINCINNATI — Republican Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel announced Friday he is dropping his second bid to unseat Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, citing his wife’s health.
Mandel’s decision came in an open letter to friends and family and leaves Cleveland banker Mike Gibbons for now as the leading Republican candidate. Brown, who defeated Mandel in 2012, is seeking a third term in a swing state race likely to be crucial to Democratic hopes of regaining a Senate majority in November’s elections.
Mandel stated in his letter that his wife, Ilana, has a health issue that will require him being there for her and their three children. He calls the decision “difficult … but it’s the right one.” He didn’t offer details on her condition, but wrote: “Understanding and dealing with this issue is more important to me than any political campaign.”
A message seeking comment was left Friday for Mandel.