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By Alexis Levinson Posted at 1:31 p.m. on Jan. 23

Portman is a Republican from Ohio. (CQ Roll Call File Photo)

Ohio Democrats are expecting a crowded primary to challenge Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, in 2016, and the recent announcement by Cincinnati City Councilman P.G. Sittenfeld may have accelerated its formation.

The 30-year-old Sittenfeld announced Thursdaythat he would get into the race. Democrats describe him as a charismatic and a rising star within the party, but his early announcement speaks to the fact that this local office holder has hurdles to raise his name recognition and ample cash for a federal race. And other Democratic candidates wont let him do that for too long without any competition.

Its the starting gun for sure, said Ohio Democratic strategist Steve Fought. They cant let anybody out there unimpeded in clear water.

There are a number of contenders who have expressed interest.

Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, told CQ Roll Call in early December that he was considering it, and said Thursday that it was still very much on the table. In interview in the Speakers Lobby, Ryan said he would make a decision in the next month.

Ive got a seven-month-old baby at home that Im completely enamored with, and everything else is not as interesting as he is, Ryan, 41, explained. So thats kind of my big decision now, do I want to be away from home over these precious first year or two.

Ryan said he had spoken to Sittenfeld a few times, calling him a great guy, a great candidate, great young leader. But Ryan said he thought hed be in a stronger position than the City Councilman if he enters the race.

I think we have a lot of support around the state in a lot of the different interest groups that support Democrats, and weve been raising money nationally now for awhile, and we would try to bring that all to bear on the Senate race, he added.

Read more from the original source:
Several Ohio Democrats Considering Senate Primary