Bernie Moreno

Bernie Moreno. Bernardo "Bernie" Moreno is a Colombian-born American businessman and politician. A member of the Republican Party, he gained prominence in Ohio politics following a successful career in the automotive retail sector. Moreno was the Republican nominee in the 2024 U.S. Senate election in Ohio.

Early life and education

Bernardo Moreno was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and immigrated to the United States with his family as a child, settling in South Florida. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and history. During his time at the university, he developed an interest in business and entrepreneurship. His early experiences as an immigrant significantly influenced his perspectives on the American Dream and economic opportunity.

Business career

Moreno's professional career began in the automotive industry. He initially worked for the Hertz Corporation before becoming a franchisee for the Mercedes-Benz dealership network. He founded the Bernie Moreno Companies, which grew to encompass a portfolio of luxury automotive dealerships across the Midwestern United States, including in Cleveland and Columbus. His business ventures expanded into technology, including investments in blockchain and ventures related to Bitcoin. He was an early advocate for the technology in the region. Moreno sold his automotive group in 2017 to focus on other ventures and public service.

Political career

Moreno first entered the political arena in 2021, launching a campaign for the United States Senate seat being vacated by retiring Senator Rob Portman. He competed in the Republican primary, facing candidates including J.D. Vance and Josh Mandel. After a competitive race, he withdrew from the contest and endorsed the eventual primary winner, J.D. Vance, who went on to win the general election against Tim Ryan. In 2023, Moreno announced his candidacy for the other Ohio Senate seat, held by Democrat Sherrod Brown. He won the Republican primary in March 2024, defeating Matt Dolan and Frank LaRose, and secured the party's nomination to challenge Sherrod Brown in the 2024 United States Senate election in Ohio.

Political positions

Moreno identifies as a conservative and aligns with the America First movement. He is a strong supporter of former President Donald Trump, emphasizing policies related to border security, including support for the construction of a wall along the Mexico–United States border. On economic issues, he advocates for lower taxes, deregulation, and energy independence, often supporting the fracking industry. He is a critic of what he terms "woke" corporate and educational policies. Regarding foreign policy, he has expressed a skeptical view of U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war, prioritizing domestic issues. His stance on technology and cryptocurrency regulation is generally pro-innovation and market-driven.

Electoral history

In the 2022 Republican primary for U.S. Senate, Moreno finished third behind winner J.D. Vance and Josh Mandel before withdrawing late in the race. In the 2024 Republican primary for U.S. Senate, Moreno won a three-way contest, defeating Ohio State Senator Matt Dolan and Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose. The primary was notably influenced by an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. This victory set up the general election matchup against incumbent Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown in November 2024. Category:1967 births Category:Living people Category:American people of Colombian descent Category:Businesspeople from Ohio Category:Republican Party (United States) candidates for United States Senate from Ohio Category:University of Michigan alumni