US Sen. Portman praises Kasich, but doesn't endorse him for president

WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Rob Portman praised the work John Kasich has done as Ohio governor, but isn’t endorsing him – or anyone else – for president.

“I think he’d be a great candidate,” Portman said today about Kasich, a fellow Republican. “He’s trying to make that decision.”

Portman said Kasich’s experience in the U.S. House and as governor makes him a strong candidate. “He’s got a record that’s unparalleled,” Portman said.

The senator said Kasich’s time as governor of Ohio "is the key” to making him a strong candidate.

When pressed if he was going to endorse Kasich, however, Portman said he’s running next year and has a lot of friends running or planning to run for president and he’s not getting into the “endorsement game.”

Kasich is in New Hampshire today and Friday campaigning with an announcement about his presidential candidacy expected in the coming weeks.

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