JR Majewski, a controversial congressional candidate, confirmed that he will be dropping out of the Ohio House Republican race.
Majewski, an Air Force veteran, already mulled ending his bid earlier this week, just days after early voting started in Ohio, but solidified his decision in a post on Saturday.
He shared the announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter, where he blamed the “deep state” and said that former President Trump did not ask him to end his bid.
“While I know I would win, and have a great shot in the general election now that my record was cleared, it is inevitable that the Deep State will do whatever it takes to fight against me,” Majewski said. “Even going as far as attacking my family and once again accusing me of stolen valor.”
Majewski said the “best way” for him to fight for the people “who feel as if their voices are being ignored by the DC Elite” is to “dedicate” his energy to backing Trump in his 2024 presidential race.
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Majewski was the GOP nominee in 2022 when he was endorsed by Trump, but his campaign fell into an irreversible downturn after it was revealed he lied about serving in combat in Afghanistan. He also faced backlash after using an ableist slur during a podcast appearance in February.
After joining the race last April, hoping to unseat Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), he dropped out in May, citing his mother’s health. Majewski later rejoined the race.
The Ohio GOP primary is slated for March 19. The District has leaned Democratic in the past, but the new congressional map changed the prospects, giving the GOP a better opportunity to challenge Kaptur’s seat.