Bernie Moreno, the Republican nominee for Senate in Ohio, brings a mix of family wealth and political connections from both the United States and Colombia to his campaign. He started from owning a single car dealership in Cleveland and emerged as Donald Trump’s choice for the influential state. Moreno’s family history includes a long line of political figures in Colombia and significant wealth in their home country.
Bernie Moreno has portrayed himself as a political outsider and an immigrant who achieved the American Dream through hard work. He contrasts himself with his Democratic rival, Sen. Sherrod Brown, by highlighting his humble beginnings and criticizing Brown’s privileged background. Moreno’s family emphasizes the sacrifices made by his parents to provide a better future for their children in the United States.
If elected, Bernie Moreno would rank among the wealthiest senators, with an estimated net worth ranging from $25.5 million to $105.7 million. His business ventures in luxury car dealerships and blockchain technology have contributed to his fortune. Moreno faced scrutiny during the Senate primary regarding a prank involving his email account on an adult website, but he retained Trump’s support and secured a speaking slot at the Republican National Convention.
The Moreno family’s journey began when Bernie’s parents moved to the U.S., where his father pursued a surgical residency. Bernie Moreno himself became a U.S. citizen at 18, after his family relocated to Florida. His brother, Luis Alberto Moreno, served in various cabinet positions in Colombia and had influential roles in fostering relations between the U.S. and Latin America.
In addition to his political ambitions, Bernie Moreno’s family members have supported his Senate campaigns financially. His daughter is married to Rep. Max Miller, who previously worked for Trump’s administration. Bernie Moreno’s cousin, Luis Andrade, faced accusations related to dealings with the Brazilian company Odebrecht, known for a corruption scandal in Latin America. Andrade maintains his innocence and has cooperated with U.S. authorities in investigating Odebrecht’s activities in Colombia.
Bernie Moreno’s family background, business success, and political connections create a dynamic narrative for his Senate candidacy in Ohio. His journey reflects his immigrant roots and aspiration to contribute to American politics, drawing attention to his campaign in a competitive political landscape.
