Republicans are already hard at work to ensure that Portman is succeeded by a GOP senator. After the Ohio senator’s announcement, the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) released a statement.
Per the NRSC, the race to fill Portman’s seat has already begun; the GOP congressional group also made clear that the departing senator’s seat will not be filled by a Democrat in 2022.
Reactions from congressional Democrats
Democrats are giddy amid Sen. Portman’s choice to not seek re-election. A former chairman for the Ohio Democratic Party stated that the breaking news “changes everything” and also gives Democrats a chance to expand their Senate majority.
The congressional majorities are largely a make-or-break for the Biden administration. Hence, both Republicans and Democrats alike want their party in control. While the GOP seeks to serve as a check on the 46th president’s most radical reforms, Democrats want to help Biden pass as many liberal policies as possible.
Thank you for the spread sheet. And look at how many of them will be running for reelection in 2022. Two years isn't long enough to wipe out the memories of those of us who will be creating a blue wave. https://t.co/BVWRelfQZj
— Patricia L (@EducatorDrL) January 27, 2021
