Richard Cordray continues to consolidate support for his run for Ohio governor, as another former Democratic rival drops out of the race and backs his campaign.
Dayton mayor Nan Whaley appeared with Cordray on Friday, announcing plans to end her governor bid and endorse Cordray. Whaley is running for re-election as Dayton mayor this year.
Whaley joined the race wanting to spur job growth, improve education, and focus the state’s fight against heroin. She says Corday is a progressive and innovative leader.
Our state needs progressive and innovative leaders at the helm and @RichCordray is a champion for everyday people who has stood up to the big banks, payday lenders and special interests. He's ready to fight for Ohioans – for good-paying jobs, health care and a better future pic.twitter.com/9BhE7EyOF2
— Nan Whaley (@nanwhaley) January 12, 2018
Earlier this week, former U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton left the race to become Cordray's running mate for lieutenant governor. Cordray, the former director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, has run on a platform of economic “kitchen table issues,” including jobs, health care and education.
Whaley's departure leaves one woman among remaining Democratic gubernatorial contenders. Former state lawmaker Connie Pillich, retiring Ohio Supreme Court Justice William O'Neill and state Sen. Joe Schiavoni are still in the race. Former U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich has officially launched his governor campaign as well.
On the Republican side, Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Mary Taylor also are running, and both have taken on running mates - Secretary of State Jon Husted and Cincinnati businessman Nathan Estruth, respectively. U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci dropped out of the governor race this week to launch a Senate campaign instead.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
