Trump Backs ‘Hillbilly Elegy’ Author Vance in Ohio Primary

  • Ex-president’s backing could decide a close GOP Senate race
  • Contest had been defined by candidates showing fealty to Trump

JD Vance during a campaign event in Huber Heights, Ohio.

Photographer: Gaelen Morse/Bloomberg
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Donald Trump endorsed venture capitalist and “Hillbilly Elegy” author JD Vance in the crowded May 3 Republican primary for U.S. Senate in Ohio, offering support that could decide a close race in a key election for determining control of the chamber in November.

Trump endorsed Vance despite the candidate’s previous comments criticizing the former president and a last-minute push by Republican officials in Ohio urging Trump to stay out of the race.