Mike DeWine was lieutenant governor until 1994, when he was first elected to Congress. He lost by a large margin in 2006, and he alienates the base with his pro gun control stance. I doubt that he would be able to win even the primary, let alone the election.
I think this is the first time we agree on something. DeWine is finished and his old boss George Voinovich might be as well. John Kasich is the clear candidate for Governor. He almost ran in 2006 but was talked out of it to give Blackwell a shot. Considering Strickland's approvals are low right now Kasich could have a chance of winning. His reformer image will help as well particulary among Independents and his conservative views will rally the base. I would rate that race as Weak Dem Hold for now b/c Strickland isn't in real trouble yet and incumbents rarely lose but this will definately be one of the Marquie races.
Bob Portman should do one of three things.
1. Run for the Senate in 2010 if Voinovich retires
2. Primary Voinovich which could be easily done since Voinovich is weak and is attaching himself to the autobailout which could fail or not pass(like McCain suspending campaign to help pass Housing Bailout only to have that version fail).
3. If Voinovich is determined to hand the seat to Tim Ryan and Portman doesn't want to primary him then he should wait till 2012 and face Sherrod Brown.
