Because of its manufacturing prowess, Ohio’s economy was once key to the nation’s success as a whole, making it one of the most important states in presidential elections for almost a century. Not only has the state been viewed as key to electoral college math, but it produced seven presidents, earning it the nickname “Mother of President.”

Years and years of failed trade policies in the age of globalization, however, have eroded the state’s manufacturing base. As the jobs left, so did the people. Over time, Ohio has been gradually losing electoral votes, along with its importance in presidential elections.

For one day, however, Ohio will once again be the center of the political universe Thursday Oct. 14, as the Coalition for a Prosperous America hosts an Ohio Senate Candidates Forum. Click here to register.

With the upper chamber hanging in the balance, the U.S. Senate race in Ohio could determine whether or not Democrats remain in the majority or if Republicans can wrestle control away.

Beginning at 9:45 a.m. at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio (1989 Front Street ), Democrat Lee Fisher will field questions from the audience on trade issues and discuss his vision for jobs, trade and economic recovery.

Republican candidate, Rob Portman, has been invited, although his attendance has not been confirmed.

In Ohio, there may not be an issue of higher importance than that of trade. The failed policies of the federal government have proved to be devastating to the nation’s manufacturing base.

In fact, a new study by Manufacturers’ News Inc. found that over the past two years alone, Ohio has lost 119,801 manufacturing jobs along with 1,077 manufacturing businesses.

Every sector of the manufacturing industry has experienced job loss in the past two years. Each and every part of the state has been affected as well. Each region of the state has experienced double-digit job loss in terms of percentage in the past two years.

Anyone representing Ohio in the U.S. Senate, must understand these issues, and present a plan to remedy the problems.

The Ohio Senate Candidate Forum should provide each candidate the opportunity to do just that.

If you would like additional information about the event, you can visit TradeReform.org or contact Sara Haimowitz, CPA Development Coordinator, at (413)-341-3166 or sara@prosperousamerica.org. If you would like to RSVP for the free event, and possibly have the chance to have your questioned asked, you can register here.

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