Bernie Moreno, a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate from Ohio, is facing new allegations of failing to pay his employees, according to reporting from Cleveland.com.
The latest accusations involve a lawsuit filed by a former employee who claims Moreno refused to pay the agreed-upon wages. The lawsuit adds to a growing list of complaints from workers at Moreno’s car dealerships across Ohio, where he has been accused of unfair labor practices.
The Ohio Democratic Party has been quick to condemn Moreno, labeling him a “fat cat car dealer” who has consistently “screwed workers across Ohio.” The party’s statement highlights several instances where Moreno allegedly exploited his employees, painting a picture of a businessman who prioritizes profit over people.
In response to the allegations, Moreno’s campaign has denied any wrongdoing, dismissing the claims as politically motivated attacks.
Moreno, a wealthy businessman and political newcomer, has been positioning himself as a pro-business, anti-regulation candidate. His campaign has focused on reducing government oversight and promoting free-market principles. However, these latest allegations could undermine his appeal to working-class voters, who may view the accusations as evidence that Moreno is out of touch with the struggles of everyday Ohioans.
The Ohio Democratic Party has seized on the controversy, arguing that Moreno’s record as an employer disqualifies him from representing Ohio workers in the Senate. They have called for greater scrutiny of his business practices and urged voters to reject his candidacy.
Moreno’s campaign continues to press forward despite the mounting legal challenges. However, the ongoing lawsuits and accusations of wage theft are likely to be a persistent issue as the campaign progresses.