Octogenarian billionaire Leslie H. Wexner has been a Republican since college. He is no longer. Wexner has quietly quit the Ohio Republican Party, reportedly writing to his friends in politics to let them know and announcing his intents while speaking at the “Columbus Partnership and YPO Leadership Summit.”
Wexner has now branded himself as an independent and has stated that he will not support the “nonsense” of the Republican Party. It’s hard to pinpoint what he means by nonsense, but many believe President Donald Trump has been the catalyst for Wexner’s decision.
Last year, Trump’s insensitive comments after Charlottesville apparently incensed Wexner, who complained to his employees. Likewise, Trump’s trade tariffs could disrupt Wexner’s company, L Brands, which owns Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works. Meanwhile, the on-going Mueller investigation and allegations of collusion with Russia have maintained traction.
Wexner’s decision came shortly after former President Barack Obama swung through the key battleground state to give a speech. While Wexner didn’t cite Obama’s speech as the reason for quitting the Grand Old Party, he did have some kind words for the former President: “I was struck by the genuineness of the man; his candor, humility and empathy for others.”
For the Republican Party, Wexner’s decision comes at a crucial time. Currently, the GOP is bogged down in a competitive governor’s race, with polls showing Republican nominee Mike DeWine trailing Democratic nominee Richard Cordray by a few points (but generally within the margin of error). Meanwhile, Republican Troy Balderson barely edged out his Democratic opponent in a special election for Ohio’s 12th congressional district. The district has long been regarded as a safe district for the GOP.
Importantly, Wexner has hinted at increasingly bipartisan views in recent months. Ohio has long been a key battleground state, and the 2018 midterms will be no different. The loss of Wexner’s direct support could prove especially damaging for the Republican Party this year.
