05/07/2026

May 5 Primary Sets Stage for High-Profile Statewide Contests

Ohio’s May 5 primary election set the stage for several closely watched November matchups, with clear nominees emerging in the state’s top races.

Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton will face off for governor, framing a contest that is expected to highlight contrasting approaches on taxes, economic policy, and affordability issues. In the U.S. Senate race, Sen. Jon Husted (R) and former Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) advanced without difficulty, setting up what is likely to be one of the most competitive and expensive Senate races nationally.

Down-ballot, former State Rep. Jay Edwards’ win over State Sen. Kristina Roegner in the Republican treasurer primary marked one of the few competitive statewide contests, signaling some division within the party’s electorate. No major statewide incumbents were defeated in the primary.

In legislative races, former State Rep. Craig Riedel narrowly defeated Rep. Jim Hoops in a Republican Senate primary. Hoops, a longtime legislative advocate on aging issues and a recipient of LeadingAge Ohio’s Public Service Award in 2025, was among the more notable incumbent losses. Two other sitting lawmakers - Sen. Andrew Brenner and Rep. Beth Lear - were also unsuccessful in bids to switch chambers, losing to primary challengers.

In congressional races, former state Rep. Derek Merrin emerged from a crowded Republican primary to again challenge longtime U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur in northwest Ohio, a race expected to draw national attention.

With primaries now settled, attention turns to the general election, where control of key offices - and the policy direction of the state - will be determined.

For more information on Ohio’s primary results, please reach out to Eli Faes at efaes@leadingageohio.org.