Stefanik Withdraws Endorsement of Ohio Candidate Riedel Over Trump Criticism

Riedel's Criticism of Trump in Leaked Audio Leads to Loss of High-Profile Republican Support

Elise Stefanik, the chair of the House Republican conference, has withdrawn her endorsement of Craig Riedel, a Republican candidate in Ohio's 9th congressional district race, due to his criticism of former President Trump.
Riedel was heard in a leaked audio recording making mildly critical comments about Trump, calling him 'arrogant' and expressing dislike for his communication style.
Following the leak, Riedel quickly endorsed Trump, but several high-profile Republicans, including Stefanik and Rep. Max Miller, pulled their support.
Riedel's main opponent in the primary is J.R. Majewski, who lost to the incumbent, Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur, in 2022 after his military record was questioned.
Stefanik's withdrawal of support highlights the importance of loyalty to Trump within the Republican party, as the party seeks to win the crucial swing seat in Ohio.