Derek Merrin Wins Ohio GOP Primary, Will Challenge Rep. Marcy Kaptur
Former state Rep. Derek Merrin defeated his GOP primary opponents and will face longtime Democratic incumbent Marcy Kaptur in November’s general election for Ohio’s 9th Congressional District.
TOLEDO, OHIO — Former state Rep. Derek Merrin secured Ohio’s 9th Congressional District Republican primary victory Tuesday and will challenge Democratic U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur in the November 3 general election, according to Associated Press projections from the May 5 primary.
The matchup sets up a rematch between Merrin and Kaptur, who has represented Ohio’s 9th congressional district since 1983, making her the longest-serving woman in congressional history. Merrin previously lost a close race to Kaptur during the 2024 election.
Election results will remain unofficial until certified by election officials later this month.
Merrin Touts Fresh Leadership Message
“Northwest Ohio is ready for fresh new leadership,” Merrin said in a news release. “That’s why we are going to defeat Marcy Kaptur this November. After decades in Washington, she’s part of the problem—not the solution. Our campaign offers a clear alternative: new leadership, a focus on lowering costs, supporting law and order, and putting Northwest Ohio first. Tonight is the beginning.”
Merrin served four terms as an Ohio state representative for the Toledo district from 2016 to 2025. His primary victory advances him to what promises to be a competitive general election contest in the northwest Ohio district.
Additional Primary Winners Announced
The Ohio Capital Journal also reported that Eric Conroy and Carey Coleman won their respective Ohio congressional primary races Tuesday, though specific details about their districts and opponents were not immediately available.
The 9th Congressional District encompasses parts of northwest Ohio, including portions of Toledo and surrounding communities. Kaptur’s long tenure in Congress has made her one of the most senior members of Ohio’s delegation to Washington.
General Election Ahead
With primary season concluded, attention now turns to the November 3 general election. The Merrin-Kaptur race represents one of several competitive congressional contests expected across Ohio this year.
Merrin’s campaign appears focused on positioning him as an agent of change against Kaptur’s extensive Washington experience. His message emphasizes economic concerns and law enforcement support as key priorities for northwest Ohio voters.
The general election campaign will likely center on contrasting visions for the district’s representation, with Merrin highlighting his state legislative experience and Kaptur emphasizing her decades of federal service and seniority in Congress.
