Politics
JUST IN: Trump Issues Endorsement In Key Toss-Up Race
President Donald Trump has endorsed Eric Conroy in the Republican primary for Ohio’s 1st Congressional District, a closely-watched toss-up seat ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Ohio’s 1st Congressional District encompasses much of Cincinnati and surrounding areas in southwest Ohio. According to the Cook Political Report’s Partisan Voter Index, the district carries a D+3 rating heading into the 2026 elections, reflecting a slight Democrat lean based on the outcomes of the 2024 and 2020 presidential races.
The district is currently held by Rep. Greg Landsman, a Democrat, who has been in office since 2022. Following recent redistricting, the seat is viewed as competitive, with both parties investing resources in the race.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced his endorsement in the crucial race after weeks of speculation.
“It is my Great Honor to endorse America First Patriot, Eric Conroy, who is running to represent the wonderful people of Ohio’s 1st Congressional District. He is running against Greg Landsman, a true Radical Left Extremist who does not represent the Values of Southwest Ohio and the Great City of Cincinnati,” the president posted on Truth Social.
He went on to describe Conroy as “one of the strongest Republican Candidates in the Country, whereas the current Congressman, Greg Landsman, is a weak Radical Left Democrat, who puts our Country, and Safety, LAST.”
Trump further praised Conroy for his service in the U.S. Air Force and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) prior to entering politics. “In Congress, Eric will work hard to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Advance American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our Border SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment,” the president continued, adding that Conroy has his “Complete and Total Endorsement.”
Thank you, President Trump!
It's an honor to earn your support in the race for Ohio's 1st Congressional District. I look forward to joining you in Washington to cut reckless spending, slash red tape, secure our borders, and defend conservative values for Southwest Ohio… pic.twitter.com/j17HA147Vh
— Eric Conroy (@TheEric42) April 14, 2026
Conroy, a Cincinnati native, grew up on the city’s west side and graduated from Elder High School. He attended the U.S. Air Force Academy, graduating near the top of his class, and served on active duty as a captain in special operations intelligence units. After leaving the Air Force, Conroy worked as a case officer with the Central Intelligence Agency, where he participated in high-risk intelligence operations overseas.
He has cited his background in national security and intelligence as central to his candidacy, emphasizing a focus on issues such as border security, economic growth, and support for law enforcement and veterans
Conroy is one of several candidates vying for the Republican nomination in the closely-watched district.
RELATED: Trump Rescinds Endorsement, Backs Primary Challenger To GOP Rep. After Tariff Vote
