Derek Merrin Wins GOP Primary in Ohio's 9th District, Sets Up Rematch With Kaptur

Derek Merrin won the Republican primary in Ohio's 9th Congressional District on Tuesday, CBS News projected. The victory sets up a rematch against longtime Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur in one of the year's most contested House races.

Kaptur, the longest-serving woman in Congress, has held the seat since 1983.

Merrin, a former state representative, challenged Kaptur in 2024 but lost by about 2,400 votes. That margin fell just above the threshold for an automatic recount, and officials did not call the race until two weeks after Election Day.

Northwestern Ohio's 9th District was redrawn in October 2025, producing a more Republican-leaning seat ahead of November's general election. Republicans hope the change forces Kaptur's toughest reelection fight yet as they work to hold the House. The Cook Political Report rates the district a toss-up.

The National Republican Congressional Committee has targeted the 9th District for a flip. In January, it said Republicans are poised to turn OH-09 red and retire out-of-touch career politician Marcy Kaptur. Kaptur should go ahead and start cleaning out her office now.

Merrin defeated four other GOP contenders in the primary: state Rep. Josh Williams, former Immigrations and Customs Enforcement official Madison Sheahan, health care data scientist Anthony Campbell and Air Force veteran Alea Nadeem.

Sheahan entered the race late and drew attention for her ICE role. She won endorsements from former Ohio State University coach Urban Meyer and MAGA supporter Ted Nugent but failed to build momentum in the crowded field.

Williams, 41, told CBS Toledo affiliate WTOL that Kaptur has been in Congress longer than he has been alive. Both Williams and Merrin highlighted their conservative records and long involvement in the district.