9News has learned exclusively that former Republican Congressman Rob Portman will run to succeed Ohio Senator George Voinovich.
"I plan to announce that tomorrow when I have a more formal announcement with my family around me, but yes, I do intend to run," Portman said Tuesday.
On Monday, Voinovich announced his intention not to run for a third term in 2010.
Portman's name immediately surfaced on a list of potential Republican candidates.
Portman said that interest in his candidacy from around the state was encouraging.
"I'm very excited about it. My family's excited about it. i think it's the right time to try and help our state. I have been humbled by the support I've found around the state as I've made calls since Senator Voinovich made his decision," added Portman.
