RNC Research

Political Handicapper Larry Sabato Says That He Expected Kasich To Be Reelected, And The FitzGerald Campaign’s Unforced Errors Have Confirmed That Expectation. “‘We made an early bet on Gov. John Kasich, and everything I’ve seen kind of confirms it,’ said University of Virginia political-science professor Larry Sabato, who handicaps governors’ and other political races. Sabato’s Crystal Ball lists the 2014 race between the Republican Kasich and FitzGerald as ‘likely Republican.’” (Joe Vardon, “FitzGerald’s Path To Governor’s Office Looks Rocky Now, Experts Say,” The Columbus Dispatch, 12/12/13)

FitzGerald’s Campaign Was Badly Damaged When He Chose As His Running Mate State Sen. Eric Kearney, Who Owes $825,000 In Unpaid Taxes. “Kearney is no longer running for lieutenant governor because the attention generated by revelations of the $825,000 in unpaid taxes and penalties by him, his wife, and their Cincinnati publishing company that came to light made it impossible for FitzGerald to beat Kasich without making a change. That change was made Tuesday, but FitzGerald is left to hope the damage to his campaign that accumulated over Kearney’s 20-day candidacy will subside.” (Joe Vardon, “FitzGerald’s Path To Governor’s Office Looks Rocky Now, Experts Say,” The Columbus Dispatch, 12/12/13)

FitzGerald’s Selection Of Kearney Gives Voters The Impression That He Is Incompetent And Not Ready For Prime Time, Sabato Says. “‘It’s been amateur hour,’ Sabato said. ‘It’s rare to beat an incumbent in Ohio, and to beat an incumbent you almost have to do everything right. What FitzGerald has done here gives the early impression of incompetence, of not being ready for prime time.’” (Joe Vardon, “FitzGerald’s Path To Governor’s Office Looks Rocky Now, Experts Say,” The Columbus Dispatch, 12/12/13)

Sabato: “It’s Been Amateur Hour.” (Joe Vardon, “FitzGerald’s Path To Governor’s Office Looks Rocky Now, Experts Say,” The Columbus Dispatch, 12/12/13)