Trump-backed Republican businessman Bernie Moreno has denied Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, a fourth term on NBC News projects. Moreno’s throwing away of a U.S. Senate seat is likely a fatal blow to Democrats’ bid to retain control of the chamber.
Moreno is a car dealer and blockchain technology entrepreneur with no experience in elected office. Five years ago, according to emails obtained by NBC News, Moreno bashed former President Donald Trump “like a ‘crazy’ and a ‘maniac’ in correspondence with a national Republican fundraising consultant seeking donations.” His public comments also implied that he was not a Trump fan. But he turned himself into a MAGA acolyte, and he extensively promoted Trump’s support in his Republican primaries. He also declined to say whether he believes the false claim the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.
Moreno has defeated a Democrat once known as the ultimate Rust Belt whisperer, and his election may complete Ohio’s transformation from a key state to a Republican stronghold. Brown has held his seat since 2006, and his position was of great importance to Democrats as Trump ushered in a new Republican streak in the state, winning it by about 8 points in both 2016 and 2020.
Moreno survived Brown’s attempts to take him down with ads highlighting his controversial views on abortion. Moreno said at a town hall in September that older women who worry about abortion are “a little crazy.” And he has called for national legislation restricting abortion.
Moreno is poised to be a team player in the Senate, with instructive MAGA positions on everything from immigration to “wokeness” to restoring “election integrity.” His victory is a huge loss for Democrats because he could play a potentially decisive role in the next administration’s legislative options.
This is a development story. Check back for updates.
This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
