Bill Clinton campaigns for Ohio Dem Gov. Strickland, says he’s not to blame for weak economy

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Bill Clinton stumps for Ohio’s Democratic governor

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Former President Bill Clinton has told Ohio residents office holders might not get credit from voters in November’s midterm elections “if people don’t feel better” about the economy.

Clinton was in Cleveland and Columbus on Tuesday to campaign for Democratic Gov. Ted Strickland. He says the incumbent shouldn’t be blamed for the lagging economy. He told residents in Cleveland: “Give us two more years.”

Clinton headlined rallies before the first debate between Strickland and Republican challenger John Kasich (KAY’-sik), a former congressman and Fox News commentator.

Clinton blames Republican policies for the poor economy. He says Strickland has laid the foundation for a recovery in Ohio and deserves a second term.

The Republican National Committee says Clinton’s pitch reminds voters of what it calls the “big-government, tax and spend” policies of Democrats.

Associated Press writer Thomas J. Sheeran contributed to this report from Cleveland.