Portman, former opponent reunite

Associated Press

CINCINNATI

The 2010 opponents in Ohio’s U.S. Senate race had a cordial reunion Friday, with the defeated Democrat pointing to winner Rob Portman’s frequent mentions now as a possible Republican presidential running mate.

Former Ohio Lt. Gov. Lee Fisher heads CEOs for Cities, a group of business, political and civic leaders working together on urban issues, and he invited Portman to be the closing speaker Friday for a Cincinnati conference that drew nearly 300 people. He spoke glowingly of Portman’s credentials for a national ticket — the senator is often listed among the potential choices for presumptive GOP nominee Mitt Romney.

Fisher, who lost in a landslide in 2010, said Portman ran against him as “a conservative with common-sense ideas.” Though he still differs on issues, Fisher said, “I’ve always liked him and always respected him.”

Portman continued to play down the running mate speculation, and suggested to reporters that he doesn’t think the vice presidential candidate makes much of a difference in election victories.

“I don’t think people vote for vice president; they vote for president,” Portman said.

Asked about descriptions of him in vice president speculation as “boring,” he smiled and replied that he thinks that might be a description for someone in Washington who is “not out there throwing partisan jabs. ... I like to work across the aisle and get things done.”

Portman has repeatedly said he feels he is in the right place, as senator, to play a legislative role in seeking economic improvements.

“I think our economy is in tough shape,” Portman told the group. “I think it’s weaker even than the numbers indicate.”

He also urged group members to support legislative efforts to fight drug abuse, help freed convicts stay away from crime, and to improve energy efficiency.

“As a conservative, I am for conserving, and for efficiency,” he said.