Incumbent Marcy Kaptur (D) and Derek Merrin (R) are running in the general election in Ohio’s 9th Congressional District

Incumbent Marcy Kaptur (D) and Derek Merrin (R) are running in the general election on Nov. 5, 2024, to represent Ohio’s 9th Congressional District.

Kaptur has represented the district since 1983 and is the longest-serving woman in Congress. Merrin serves in the Ohio House of Representatives. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R) and Donald Trump (R) endorsed Merrin in the primary. The Sandusky Register’s Tom Jackson said Kaptur “may be facing the toughest race of her career as she seeks re-election in a northern Ohio district that both sides believe they can win.” Erie County Republican Party chair Caleb Stidham said, “I think the worst mistake Republicans can make is underestimating Marcy Kaptur,” adding, “She’s a fierce competitor. She’s been around for 40 years for a reason. She knows how to campaign.”

Based on Q2 2024 reports filed with the Federal Election Commission, Kaptur raised $3.0 million and spent $0.7 million and Merrin raised $0.7 million and spent $0.3 million. To review all the campaign finance figures in full detail, click here.

Kaptur is running on her record in Congress, saying, “I could point to 1,000 things — voting for the automotive industry, not against it, voting for the steel industry, not against it.” Kaptur added, “People remember, they remember.” Kaptur’s campaign website lists jobs and the economy, Great Lakes restoration efforts, and energy and infrastructure as top priorities. Kaptur said, “I’ll continue working across party lines as an independent voice for northern Ohio, a place too often left behind by Washington and Columbus.”

Merrin said Kaptur has not delivered for the district while in Congress. “When the voters of Northwest Ohio cast their ballot this November, their choice will be clear: continue the ineffective status quo, or elect a real leader who will deliver tangible results,” Merrin said, adding, “Marcy Kaptur hasn’t done squat for the four decades she has served in Congress, and I look forward to bringing forth the meaningful change Northwest Ohioans have deserved for years.” Merrin described himself as a constitutional conservative and said, “I believe that the Constitution has laid the foundation for our country to be successful and we need to get back to following the Constitution as federal lawmakers.”