McEwen ran against DeWine's son, correct? He carried more votes than the son.
My honest assessment is that Taft, Voinovich and DeWine are radioactive to conservatives in Ohio. Ohio would be in real trouble, if not for Blackwell. Because of Blackwell turnout DeWine MIGHT turn out enough votes to win re-election, but it isn't given. Conservatives want an alternative. It would be a tough fight, but if you get alternative media working a grassroots momentum McEwen could toss DeWine out in a primary. The hostility to that filibuster deal they made is still very raw and will remain so, enough to make him vulnerbale to challenge.
I totally agree with your analysis of Ohio politics.
I can't wait to cast my vote for Blackwell.
True and true.