As Ohio’s primary election approaches, all eyes are on the key political races and candidates vying for their party’s nominations. With several high-profile races and a diverse field of candidates, the Buckeye State is sure to play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape for the 2022 midterm elections.

One of the most closely watched races in Ohio is the contest for the U.S. Senate seat, currently held by retiring Senator Rob Portman. On the Republican side, the primary field is crowded with candidates, including former state Treasurer Josh Mandel and former Ohio Republican Party Chair Jane Timken. Mandel, a vocal Trump supporter, has been touting his conservative credentials and has positioned himself as a strong defender of the former president’s agenda. Timken, on the other hand, has emphasized her business background and her experience in growing the Republican Party in Ohio.

On the Democratic side, the primary field is led by U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, who has been positioning himself as a champion for working-class Ohioans and a vocal advocate for labor rights. Ryan is facing competition from several other candidates, including Morgan Harper, a progressive activist and former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau official. The battle for the Democratic nomination is expected to be closely contested, with candidates vying to prove their electability and ability to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters in the general election.

In the race for Ohio governor, the Republican primary field is led by incumbent Governor Mike DeWine, who is facing a challenge from former U.S. Representative Jim Renacci. DeWine, a moderate Republican, has taken criticism from some in his party for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and for his support of certain public health measures. Renacci, a staunch Trump supporter, has been positioning himself as a conservative alternative to DeWine, highlighting his business background and his support for Trump’s policies.

On the Democratic side, the race for governor is less defined, with several candidates vying for the nomination. Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley has been campaigning on a progressive platform, emphasizing her support for policies such as Medicare for All and a $15 minimum wage. Whaley is facing competition from former Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley, who has highlighted his experience in governing a major city and his focus on job creation and economic development.

In addition to the high-profile U.S. Senate and governor’s races, Ohio is also home to several closely watched congressional races, as well as contests for state legislature and other statewide offices. With a diverse field of candidates and a range of issues at the forefront of voters’ minds, the primary election in Ohio is shaping up to be a crucial moment in shaping the future of the state’s political landscape.

As the primary election approaches, candidates are ramping up their campaign efforts, crisscrossing the state, and making their pitches to voters. With so much at stake, Ohio’s political races are sure to be closely watched by political observers and pundits across the country. The outcome of these key races could have far-reaching implications for the 2022 midterm elections and the future of Ohio’s political landscape. As voters head to the polls, they will have the opportunity to weigh in on the direction of their state and the candidates who will represent them on the national stage.