Candidates for Boehner’s seat to vie in forums

Associated Press

WEST CHESTER, Ohio

Much of the crowded field wanting to succeed John Boehner in his western Ohio district will take part in two forums today.

Organizers said most of the 17 candidates plan to be at sessions at two Miami University centers in Butler County. There are 15 Republicans running in the March 15 primary, when voters will choose nominees both for a June 7 special election to fill Boehner’s term and for the general-election race for the next Congress.

Jason Kershner, vice president of government affairs for the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber that’s among the organizers of today’s first forum, said there’s a lot of interest and excitement about the 8th District race and the wide choice of candidates.

Open House seats have been rare in recent years in Ohio, and he said the race takes on extra significance after the region lost the clout of being represented by the U.S. House speaker.

Among the Republicans running are state Sen. Bill Beagle, of Tipp City, and state Rep. Tim Derickson, of Hanover Township, near Hamilton. Army veteran and businessman Warren Davidson has picked up some conservative endorsements including backing from the Club for Growth. Teacher J.D. Winteregg, who challenged Boehner last election, is running again.