Ohio Gov. John Kasich’s presidential campaign believes it is “ahead of schedule” after having won zero states in the 2016 presidential primary.
In a memo from chief strategist John Weaver on Tuesday night, the Kasich campaign sought to spin its losses into positives for the governor.
“Less than two weeks ago, Governor Kasich was dead last in Michigan polling with support in the single digits and at half the level of Senators Cruz and Rubio. Tonight, Governor Kasich surged to an unexpectedly strong finish,” Weaver wrote. “Our campaign has always said that as the race goes deeper into the calendar and the field narrows, Governor Kasich’s positive message and proven record will begin to break through. The outcome in Michigan tonight means our campaign is ahead of schedule.”
Donald Trump won the Michigan primary on Tuesday, according to early projections, and Kasich is battling Texas Sen. Ted Cruz for a second place finish.
The Kasich campaign described the governor’s performance in Michigan as a “springboard” into the March 15 nominating contests when Republicans will vote in Ohio. The governor has repeatedly said he will win the Buckeye State.
Kasich also delivered a celebratory speech in Ohio on Tuesday night touting his loss in Michigan as a success.
