The Cincinnati Republican spoke in Cleveland Friday afternoon. Among his proposals was one that he maintains would jump-start both hiring, and spending.
Portman said "to spur immediate investment by employers and encourage consumption by employees; I support a one year payroll tax holiday. Beginning immediately.... for workers and employers on the first $50,000 of income."
Workers would still pay state income and Medicare taxes.
The former congressman and one time Director of the Office of Management and Budget is running against Democrats Jennifer Brunner and Lee Fisher, for the seat being vacated by the retiring Senator George Voinovich.