We're seeing movement in the race for the U.S. Senate seat that will be left open next year by Republican Rob Portman.

In just the past 24 hours, Democratic Candidate and Former State Health Director Amy Acton announced she would not make a bid for the position. And on the Republican side, Cleveland businessman Bernie Moreno announced he would join the race.

This makes three official candidates on the Republican side with several more considering a run. And on the democratic side, it's a wide-open field with Congressman Tim Ryan said to be the top prospect, but still not making an official announcement.

Political Analyst William Binning says on the Republican side Former State Treasurer Josh Mandel is likely the most recognizable candidate at this point, but thinks the Republican field is unsettled and more candidates will likely throw their names into the ring.
 
So far, Mandel will run against Former State GOP Chair Jane Timken, as well as Cleveland businessman Bernie Moreno, in a primary race.


"I don't think the Republicans are very comfortable with this field, they're not sure there is a stone winner in this field," said Binning. "I'm not sure his (Mandel's) lead will hold up as we go towards the primary."

On the Democratic side, with former State Health Director Amy Acton now out of the race, Binning believes this is Congressman Tim Ryan's opportunity.

"I think he was kind of waiting to see this moment, otherwise did he want to go into a primary against her?" questioned Binning. "She's a very attractive candidate, and now she's out of the race."

Congressman Ryan has not yet confirmed if he will throw his hat into the race. He has only said he is "seriously considering a run."

Ryan released this statement regarding Acton's decision:

"Dr. Acton is a dedicated public servant who has served Ohio honorably. I wish her the best of luck in her next endeavor which I'm sure will continue her legacy of kindness and justice for all Ohioans."

Amy Acton released the following statement regarding her decision:

"It has been a tremendous honor to be asked to consider a run for the U.S. Senate. Like many of you, I have a profound reverence for the office, and for those who have answered the calling to public service.  As such, I have given it my most thoughtful and deliberate consideration.

Please know I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from my fellow Ohioans, and from across the country. I especially wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to all who have worked quietly behind the scenes to help me consider this path.

While I am not entering the race for U.S. Senate, I recognize there is a genuine longing for a fresh approach to leadership that is honest, collaborative, and empowering.

Ohioans - do not accept anything less from your elected officials. Our leaders' words and actions matter.  We must set the bar higher.

Yet this moment in history calls on all of us, regardless of our politics, to address the pressing issues facing our families and communities. In the wake of the economic, racial, and health crises of 2020, what is at stake is nothing less than the heart and soul of our country. What kind of nation do we aspire to co-create? We must recognize the opportunity inherent in our mutual vulnerability, our undeniable interdependence, and our shared humanity.

Let our future honor the dignity of true public service and citizenship.  I know many of us are tired of the vitriol and hate. We are weary from the battle. No one has gone untouched and much has been exposed and revealed. Yet as we cautiously re-emerge this spring, we dare to hope that a new way is possible. The opportunity for repairing and reimagining is at hand: a rebirth for ourselves, our relationships, and for the institutions of our civil society. What happens next isn't the sole province of our elected officials. It is up to all of us. We must co-create an Ohio that ensures the enduring cultural values of kindness and justice for all.

Ohioans, it has been my privilege to witness your courage, determination, and resiliency. And your heartfelt compassion. Don't stop now. The leader we all wish we had is YOU. In all walks of civic life, we will demand equality of voice and representation. We will empower our citizens to vote and participate in community institutions by breaking down the barriers that block them. And we will build bridges across our differences and divides.

We will inspire a culture of commitment to one another.  

Together, may we act on kindness, not fear. Love, not hate.

Dr. Amy Acton"