Bernie Moreno, Republican U.S. Senate hopeful from Ohio, is charting his political journey on the claim of being a ‘political outsider’, a mantle reminiscent of former President Donald Trump. However, a closer look into Moreno’s past reveals a different narrative, with ties to key government boards – InnovateOhio and MetroHealth – which appear to have favored his blockchain enterprise, Ownum.

Moreno’s Insider Advantage

Before his political foray, Moreno was a part of the executive committee of InnovateOhio and served on the board of MetroHealth in Cleveland. Both entities demonstrated support for Moreno’s blockchain venture during his tenure. Such backing bore financial fruits, as evidenced when Moreno divested his Ownum shares, valued at a whopping $5 million minimum.

Political Contributions Under the Microscope

While Moreno’s monetary contributions to political campaigns of associates connected to these entities have come under scrutiny, his campaign has defended these actions. The campaign asserts that these donations did not influence Moreno’s appointments, and his business acumen rightfully earned him the positions he held.

Moreno’s Battle for the Senate Seat

As the Ohio Republican primary approaches, Moreno faces stiff competition from Secretary of State Frank LaRose and state Sen. Matt Dolan. The victor of this battle will challenge the incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown in the November elections. Brown, considered among the most vulnerable Democrats in the upcoming elections, is set to face a heated contest.