Ohio Senate Showdown: Moreno Backers Outspend Brown by a Staggering $67M

The Ohio Senate race between Republican Bernie Moreno and Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown has seen a dramatic shift in funding, with outside PACs backing Moreno outspending those supporting Brown by $67 million.

This influx of cash is fueling a close race that could decide the Senate majority.

Moreno up 2 pts in Ohio after Fairshake puts $34 million into the race. The numbers are turning in Moreno’s favor. #standwithcrypto https://t.co/3KuNYBSsbo

— Jeff Tiller (@tillerx_) September 26, 2024

PAC Spending Powers Moreno’s Campaign

According to recent data, pro-Moreno PACs have spent nearly $90 million on the race, while pro-Brown groups have contributed $22.5 million.

Defend American Jobs, a crypto-backed PAC, leads the charge for Moreno with $35 million, while the Senate Leadership Fund has spent $20 million. In contrast, Brown’s main ally, WinSenate PAC, has spent around $20 million on attack ads.

Btw, this isn’t like, a small % of Moreno’s political identity. 99% of the many, many Moreno ads I’ve already seen focus on 1 issue & 1 issue only, & that issue is….

Women’s sports??

Imagine not only putting all your eggs in one basket, but putting them in THAT basket 🥴 https://t.co/migqPakaM9

— Maria is voting YES ON ISSUE 1! (@MariaBruno01) September 25, 2024

Despite trailing in PAC support, Brown’s campaign has a significant fundraising edge, collecting $53 million compared to Moreno’s $15 million.

The financial backing from these PACs is helping to narrow the polling gap, with some surveys showing Moreno pulling ahead.

Key Issues at Play

Moreno’s campaign focuses on immigration and the economy, while Brown emphasizes reproductive rights—a key issue since Ohio voters passed an amendment protecting abortion access in 2023.

Moreno has faced backlash over his remarks on abortion, potentially swaying suburban women voters.

Tight Polls Signal a Toss-Up Race

Recent polls show the race as a toss-up. FiveThirtyEight’s polling aggregate gives Brown a narrow 2.4-point lead, while other polls show Moreno slightly ahead.

With Ohio’s race classified as a toss-up by the Cook Political Report, both parties view this contest as pivotal in determining control of the Senate.

Key Insights

• PACs supporting Moreno have spent $90 million, compared to $22.5 million for Brown.
• Brown leads in fundraising with $53 million raised versus Moreno’s $15 million.
• Polls show a tight race, with some indicating a slight lead for Moreno.