Former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown has officially launched his campaign to reclaim a U.S. Senate seat in Ohio for the 2026 midterm elections. Brown is challenging incumbent Republican Jon Husted, who was appointed to replace JD Vance. Brown lost his Senate seat in the 2024 election by 3.6 points, in a state that has leaned Republican, with Kamala Harris losing Ohio by 11.2 points in the same cycle. Brown's campaign emphasizes a pro-working-class message aimed at Ohio voters, seeking to capitalize on potential midterm backlash against Republicans. The race has drawn attention from political analysts, with the Cook Political Report adjusting its outlook following Brown's entry. In the first 24 hours after announcing his bid, Brown raised $3.6 million, including $600,000 to a joint fundraising committee. If successful, Brown would need to defend the seat again in 2028, potentially running three times in six years and raising substantial campaign funds. The 2026 Ohio Senate race is viewed as a pivotal contest that could influence control of the U.S. Senate.