Assets: Hails from Ohio, a crucial tossup state. Senator since January 2011, also former House member. Served as budget director and US trade representative under President George W. Bush. Smart debater. Well-liked by members of both parties. Good rapport with Romney. Loyal campaigner for Romney. Has a net positive rating among home-state voters. In a close race, has potential to tip Ohio to Romney.
Negatives: Bland persona. Elite background like Romney. Service in Bush White House ties him to economic failures of that period, even though he served relatively short period. Links to Bush would dampen enthusiasm of conservative activists.
