MIDDLETOWN, Ohio (AP) — Ohio's Democratic senator has rallied with southwest Ohio steelworkers to highlight President Barack Obama's help for the U.S. auto industry.
Sherrod Brown tells steelworkers in Middletown that plants and jobs have been saved across Ohio.
Brown supported the auto bailout, and points to General Motors' recent decision to invest in northeast Ohio plants to build the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze. The AK Steel plant in southwest Ohio produces some of the steel for the car.
Brown had spoken out for AK Steel workers during a yearlong lockout that ended in 2007.
Recent polls show the first-term senator leading against Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel. The Republican candidate plans to be in Cincinnati on Thursday to talk to chamber of commerce officials.
