Cincy Reporter

Dayton Right to Life recently endorsed gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci in his bid to unseat incumbent fellow Republican Gov. Mike DeWine.

"Dayton Right to Life is the pro-life leader in the Miami Valley, with constituents in over five counties," its executive director, Margie Christie said. "Voters count us to identify those candidates with a strong pro-life voice and record. For the gubernatorial race, we are proud to endorse Jim Rennaci. Mr. Renacci has been a strong supporter of life throughout his career and understands the importance of this issue among Ohioans. Dayton is the home to one of Ohio's most prolific abortionists, Martin Haskell, whose abortuary kills 50 babies every week. Mr. DeWine has had decades in office to protect the unborn in Dayton and across Ohio. Regrettably, his administration has been sorely ineffective."

Middleburg GOP and Cuyahoga Valley Republicans announced their endorsements of Renacci at the same time, according to a news release.

"We are confident Mr. Renacci will provide true pro-life leadership through his statewide appointments and policies," Dayton Right to Life Board Chair Gary Whitted said.

Renacci and his running mate, Joe Knopp, have already won the endorsements of several other Ohio Right to Life groups, including Warren County Right to Life, according to the Buckeye Reporter.

Renacci has previously stated that if elected, he will appoint an Unborn Child Advocate, which would be a "high priority position," the story said.

When he served as a congressman, Renacci co-sponsored the federal Heartbeat Protection Act, which would have prohibited doctors from performing abortions after determining that the baby had a heartbeat. The legislation failed to advance beyond the House.

Right to Life (RTL) is an organization dedicated to defending the lives of the unborn through education and legislation, its website states. There are more than 3,000 local RTL chapters in addition to 50 statewide affiliates and the national federation.     

DeWine will face off against Renacci in the May 3 GOP gubernatorial primary. The winner will go on to appear on ballots for the general election on Nov. 8.