GOP CONVENTION | Johnson says Trump inquired about winning Ohio without Kasich support

CLEVELAND — U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson and his wife met privately with Donald Trump two weeks ago to discuss manufacturing, the economy and Gov. John Kasich.

Johnson of Marietta, R-6th, said today that Trump asked him if he could win Ohio without the governor's support. The 15-minute discussion came before Trump spoke at a rally in St. Clairsville. Johnson was there with his wife, LeeAnn.

"He asked, 'Do I have to have John Kasich's support to win Ohio?'" Johnson said.

The congressman said he told Trump, "It certainly would help."

Kasich, a failed Republican presidential candidate, has refused to endorse Trump, the primary winner.

Meanwhile, when asked about the speech given at Monday's convention that had two passages very similar to a speech given by Michelle Obama at the 2012 Democratic National Convention, Johnson said, "I have not heard a word about it."