Cincy Reporter

Ohio gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci has vowed to appoint an administration official to pro-life issues if elected governor. 

"I have been crystal clear and consistent on my commitment to protecting the sanctity of life and protecting the voiceless victims of abortion," Renacci said according to the press release. "As governor I will lead the fight for the unborn by appointing an official to serve in the role of Unborn Child Advocate. This needs to be a high priority position, not like the weak political gestures we've seen in the DeWine administration."

He also announced that he has chosen Joe Knopp to run with him as Lt. Governor. Knopp is a conservative Christian and the director of the movie "Unplanned."

"One of the many reasons I am running with Joe Knopp is his unshakeable faith in God and his fearless stance against abortion," Renacci said. 

The film "Unplanned" follows the true story of Abby Johnson, who worked as a Planned Parenthood clinic director. However, when Johnson took part in an actual abortion procedure for the first time, she quit her job and joined the pro-life movement.

DeWine has signed pro-life legislation during his time in office, including Senate Bill 157, which requires doctors to provide life-saving care to babies who are born alive during attempted abortions, according to CNN News.

In 2020, over 20,605 abortions were performed Ohio, according to the Ohio Department of Health.

Renacci is a businessman and former U.S. representative for the 16th congressional district running against DeWine, a fellow Republican, in the 2022 GOP gubernatorial primary on May 3.

DeWine, 74, was Kasich's choice to replace him as Ohio governor in 2019. He is one of the longest-serving public officials in state history, having been in elected office for 41 years. That includes stints in the Ohio State Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate and as Ohio attorney general and Ohio lieutenant governor.