Russia’s Ukraine invasion makes waves in Ohio Senate race

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is bleeding into Ohio’s Senate GOP primary, and it’s highlighting divisions among Republicans over how to handle foreign alliances and threats from countries like Russia. 

The back-and-forth came between Republican candidates Jane Timken, Mike Gibbons and J.D. Vance. 

The exchange, in statements and on social media, underscored the differences between some Republicans who say the U.S. should make domestic issues its main focus and those who advocate a robust foreign policy against competitors like Russia.

Vance accused the other two candidates of “jumping on the America last bandwagon.” Timken, meanwhile, said Americans want leaders to “stand up to our enemies” and Gibbons’ campaign said Vance is “choosing to sling false accusations.” 

MANDEL-HARPER OHIO SENATE DEBATE GOES OFF THE RAILS IN CLEVELAND

After Russia sent troops into Ukraine Monday, Timken slammed President Biden’s “weak and feckless leadership” that “emboldened Russia” with a series of bad policies. 

“While I am 100% opposed to sending U.S. troops to Ukraine and believe intervening militarily would be a mistake, Biden must immediately impose sanctions and respond with strength,” Timken said. 

“I believe ‘America First’ means protecting American security interests at home and abroad, and a Russian-controlled Ukraine will directly impact energy prices, causing Ohioans to pay more at the gas pump, fuel food inflation, and further disrupt supply chains while sending a blaring signal to China, North Korea and Iran that America and our allies are vulnerable,” Timken added. 

Gibbons also said Russia needs to “be isolated politically and economically and face tough economic sanctions.” He added that President Biden’s “policy of appeasement has failed. His statement in January telegraphing a non-response to a ‘minor incursion’ by Russia into Ukraine sent a clear message of weakness to Vladimir Putin.”

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