COLUMBUS, Ohio — Senate candidates JD Vance and Tim Ryan are both using their final days on the campaign trail to connect with voters.
Vance, the Republican candidate, traveled the state and stopped in Columbus to speak to some of his grass-root supporters. He was joined by South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham, who would take Bernie Sanders' place as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee if Republicans took back power.
Vance said border control, inflation and energy independence are at the top of his list if elected.
“The average Ohio family is paying six thousand dollars more a year for the things that they need today compared to when Joe Biden took over,” said Vance. “That’s the effect on groceries, on gas, on home prices, on heating and utilities.”
His promise to cut spending and secure the borders brought out central Ohioans like Bill Diehl. Diehl is retired and said it’s getting harder and harder to get by.
“I'm actually going month to month, just barely making it,” said Diehl. “Luckily I had a great job and have retirement (money) that way, but I can’t live off of just social security.”
Tim Ryan, the Democrat candidate, hosted hundreds of central Ohioans for a campaign rally. He was accompanied by singer Dave Matthews and former Cleveland Browns quarterback, Bernie Kosar.
Denise Walker was in attendance and brought her son Mason Gastesi. She said it’s important that people exercise their right to vote and that her kids know exactly who and what they’re voting for.
“I want to make sure that we elect people that connect with our values and what we believe in,” said Walker. “I’ve always told my children to get involved and be part of making a difference and speak up for your community.”
That is just what her son is doing when talking to his peers.
“This matters,” said Gastesi. “It actually has an impact on people's lives, so it's something to pay attention to.”
Election Day is two weeks away, but both candidates are pushing their supporters to vote early. Early voting can take place in person at your local Board of Elections or you can request an absentee ballot by November 5th.