WAYNESVILLE — Former Mayor Charles W. Sanders, the self-proclaimed Comeback Kid, has a serious rematch ahead of him.

        In November, he will face U.S. Rep. Rob Portman, R-Terrace Park, in the 2nd District race for the third consecutive time.

Sanders

        Mr. Sanders, 54, former mayor of Waynesville, won the district's Democratic primary Tuesday, defeating Roy Mitchell of Dayton and Tony Stephens of Piketon.

        “We need to discuss issues that matter to working men and women whose futures depend on the outcome of this election,” Mr. Sanders said.

        Last November, Mr. Sanders was defeated for Waynesville mayor after being recalled in November 2000. He was turned out mainly over controversy about his allegation that local police used racial profiling. They denied it.

        Although reapportionment has moved Mr. Sanders' home from the 2nd to the 3rd District this year, residency isn't required.

        “It was an effort by the Republican Party to neutralize me politically,” he said. “I am Waynesville's Comeback Kid. I have something to contribute. Candidates who win have to run at least three times to establish a name. I believe this time is going to be a charm.”

        The job won't be easy. In 2000 and 1998, Mr. Portman was re-elected with 74 percent and 71 percent of the vote.

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