Strickland announces Senate bid Wednesday

COLUMBUS — Ex-Gov. Ted Strickland will announce Wednesday that he is a candidate for the 2016 U.S. Senate seat, sources confirmed today.

The Vindicator first exclusively reported on Jan. 30 that Strickland, a Democrat, had told close political allies and high-level national donors that he was running for the position.

The newspaper also reported Feb. 17 that Strickland was actively soliciting campaign contributions. He raised about $125,000 to $150,000 a day earlier and has likely raised more than $500,000 by now.

Dennis Willard, who is serving as Strickland’s spokesman, declined to comment today.

But sources close to Strickland said the former governor would have an official announcement Wednesday that he was running next year for the seat currently held by Republican Rob Portman, who will seek a second six-year term in 2016.

Strickland said Feb. 9 he would “make a decision” by the end of this month.

State and national Republicans have criticized Strickland on a variety of issues — primarily accusing him of not supporting coal or gun rights — since the Jan. 30 report.

Cincinnati Councilman P.G. Sittenfeld announced Jan. 22 he would seek the Democratic nomination for Senate next year and is raising money and has put together a campaign team.

For the complete story, read Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com