Dave Yost Won't Run For Senate In Ohio In 2022

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost will not run for Senate, he announced Monday.

Yost was one of several prominent Ohio Republicans who emerged as possible successors to Sen. Rob Portman, who will not seek a third term in office. But Yost said he has no interest in becoming one of Ohio's two senators in Washington, D.C.

“After much consultation, thought and prayer, I have concluded that at this time I can best serve my state and my country in Columbus, not in Washington, and will stand for re-election as the Attorney General of the great State of Ohio in 2022," Yost said in a statement.

On Jan. 25, Portman announced he would not seek a third term in the Senate, despite widespread support from Republicans. His surprise declaration sparked a search for possible replacements.

So far, several well-known Ohio Republicans have declined to pursue Portman's seat. Rep. Jim Jordan and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted both intend to remain where they are (the U.S. House and Ohio Statehouse, respectively) and Yost will also not risk a Senate campaign.

Democrats are also looking for a challenger to win Portman's seat. One of the more popular suggestions for a candidate has been Rep. Tim Ryan, the northern Ohio Democrat who once challenged Nancy Pelosi for a leadership role in the U.S. House.

Portman's term expires in 2023, so there is still time for both parties to coalesce around their chosen candidates.