President Trump called for Ohio voters to support Rep. Steve Stivers, R-Ohio, in a special election next Tuesday even though he is not on the ballot.
The president tweeted at his supporters Thursday afternoon to vote for Stivers, the chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, “on Aug 7th.” However, the only election in Ohio next Tuesday is the special election to replace former Rep. Pat Tiberi, who resigned from Congress in January.
“Congressman Steve Stivers of Ohio has done a fantastic job as Chairman of the @NRCC. He is a great Congressman who is tough on crime & borders & an inspiration to our Military & Vets. Big on 2nd Amendment,” Trump tweeted.
“Get out and vote for Steve on Aug 7th,” Trump tweeted. “He has my full & total endorsement.”
Minutes later, Trump deleted the tweet.
Stivers ran unopposed in the May 8 primary and will face Democrat Rick Neal in November.
Stivers, who represents parts of Columbus and the surrounding area in Ohio’s 15th Congressional District, is helping to lead the House GOP’s push to retain the House in November, including by supporting Republican Troy Balderson in Tuesday’s special election over Democrat Danny O’Connor.
“The Chairman is flattered,” an NRCC official told the Washington Examiner in response to the tweet. “But it’s all about Troy Balderson on Tuesday.”
Trump is slated to hold a rally in support of Balderson on Saturday.
