Can you say media circus? The race for Ohio’s 9th District seat in the US House or Representatives may have just become the three-ring variety. The state’s loss of a seat resulting from the 2010 Census has already pitted incumbent Democrats against one another – and now, on the Republican side, conservative icon Joe “The Plumber” Wurzelbacher is jumping into the race.
One of the Democratic candidates has figured in presidential political as well, but as a candidate, not a pivot point in a debate. That would be Dennis Kucinich (D-OH), one of the most liberal members of the House.
He is being pitted against Marcy Kaptur (D-OH) in one of the incumbent v. incumbent battles that is the inevitable result of a population shift resulting in the loss of representation in the US Congress.
Wurzelbacher’s papers went to the Federal Election Commission on Friday 10/7/11, and they indicate that he is personally serving at treasurer for committee “Joe for Congress 2012.”
Wurzelbacher, who was not a licensed plumber despite his nickname, has been using his 2008 notoriety to fuel a career as an author and motivational speaker, according to The Hill.
The Ohio 9th is in the northern portion of the state, running from Cleveland to Toledo.
RBR-TVBR observation: In the case of Joe, it is probably more accurate to say he is a political creation rather then a media creation – in the 2008 presidential election the two candidates sparred over him and he became almost a mascot of the McCain-Palin ticket.
Since then, Wurzelbacher has held media posts and has done many things to try to capitalize on the fame that fell into his lap. He may have a tough row to hoe in a battle for Ohio Nine, but if nothing else, it will get his name back out there again.
