Bernie Moreno

Bernie Moreno is a Republican U.S. Senator from Ohio who was elected in November 2024 and assumed office on January 3, 2025. Born in Bogotá, Colombia, in 1967, Moreno immigrated to the United States with his family at age five and became a U.S. citizen at 18. He attended the University of Michigan, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1989. Following graduation, he began his career in the automotive industry, working as an analyst for Saturn Corporation and later managing dealerships in New England. In 2005, Moreno moved to Ohio after purchasing a Mercedes-Benz dealership in North Olmsted, which he expanded into the Bernie Moreno Companies, one of the largest dealership groups in the country. He later pivoted to the technology sector, co-founding the blockchain company ChampTitles and leading initiatives like Blockland Cleveland to establish the region as a high-tech hub. His business career earned him recognition for entrepreneurship and civic involvement, including service on several university and regional boards. Moreno successfully campaigned for the U.S. Senate in 2024, defeating incumbent Sherrod Brown. As the first Hispanic person elected to represent Ohio in the U.S. Senate, he took office as a junior senator and became the state’s senior senator shortly after following the resignation of JD Vance. During his tenure, he has served on committees including Foreign Relations, Armed Services, and Homeland Security.

Moreno’s policy agenda emphasizes economic growth through reduced government spending, deregulation, and tax reforms such as eliminating taxes on tips and overtime. On immigration, he advocates for increased border security, including the construction of a southern border wall and the end of birthright citizenship for children of immigrants who entered the country illegally. He supports American energy independence by prioritizing oil, gas, coal, and nuclear power while opposing federal electric vehicle mandates. Regarding healthcare, Moreno has stated he does not intend to repeal the Affordable Care Act but seeks to improve it to lower costs while maintaining protections for pre-existing conditions. His foreign policy is characterized by strong support for Israel and opposition to the Iran Nuclear Deal. On social issues, he has expressed support for common sense restrictions on abortion, such as a 15-week federal limit.