Ohio Republicans Racing Storm Clouds

In a case that is still unfolding, Noe is suspected of swindling the state workers compensation fund. His lawyer said $11 million is missing. A grand jury also charged him with illegally funneling $45,400 to Bush's reelection campaign. Members of Taft's staff have admitted borrowing money from Noe or using his Florida Keys vacation home.

After the scandal broke, DeWine donated $8,000 in Noe campaign contributions to children's hospitals.

Ney, who represents central Ohio, is suspected of performing official actions in return for favors -- including a golf trip to Scotland, meals and sports tickets -- from former Washington GOP lobbyist Jack Abramoff and an associate. Abramoff and the associate, Michael Scanlon, have pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges. Ney denies doing anything improper.

"It's really the environment that gives DeWine a problem," said one Republican adviser in Ohio who asked not to be identified. "Ohioans have not been happy for a long time with the direction of the state, and they're not happy with the direction of the country, either."

Richard Urbansky, who works behind the counter at Medina Auto Parts, is the kind of voter both sides will court. He described the Senate race as a "tough call" and said he is waiting for the candidates to define themselves.

"The economy around here is scary," said Urbansky, 49, mentioning Ford Motor Co.'s closing its plant in nearby Lorain. "Health care. It has gone up. The war. We can't stay there forever. Get it finished and get out."

Brown, who contends his voting record is "right in the mainstream of Ohio," predicted an intense Democratic grass-roots effort and "a lot of passion on our side that you won't see on their side."

DeWine has no illusions.

"When I first ran for office," DeWine said, "I beat a Democratic incumbent for county prosecutor. I came back in 1980, and I beat a Democratic incumbent state senator. When I ran in 1994 for Senate, I had a three-way Republican primary where I was outspent by a million dollars. I've had tough races."