Cincy Reporter

Ohio GOP gubernatorial candidate Jim Renacci has pledged to be an advocate for the rights of the unborn and has received the official endorsement of multiple pro-life groups across the state.

Cincinnati Right to Life recently announced its endorsement of Renacci in his bid to unseat incumbent Gov. Mike DeWine, according to a press release from the candidate's office. Renacci and running mate Joe Knopp have already been endorsed by several other pro-life groups.

"Our endorsement is a vote of confidence you are committed to protecting the lives of innocent human beings … We trust that you will be a leader for life," Cincinnati Right to Life President Jack Hart said.

Renacci and Knopp have already won the endorsements of several other Ohio Right to Life groups, including Warren County Right to Life, as reported by the Buckeye Reporter. Renacci previously said that if elected, he will appoint an unborn child advocate, which would be a high-priority position. 

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 a fetus has a heartbeat. The legislation failed to advance beyond the House.

Dayton Right to Life recently announced its endorsement of Renacci and Knopp, according to the Cincy Reporter.

“I continue to offer thanks for these citizen-based groups for their support," Renacci said, according to the press release. "It is truly an honor and shows the voters of Ohio are ready for a change, and the Renacci/Knopp ticket will be that change."

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

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