Republicans in Ohio's 9th Congressional District are increasingly concerned that former Immigration and Customs Enforcement Deputy Director Madison Sheahan could jeopardize their opportunity to unseat Democratic Rep. Marcy Kaptur in November.

The Toledo-area district became more Republican-leaning after redistricting, and Kaptur narrowly won reelection there by less than 1% in 2024. Sheahan, a Curtice native and Ohio State University graduate, resigned from her ICE post in January 2026 to enter the crowded Republican primary. Her campaign emphasizes her role in President Donald Trump's immigration enforcement efforts, including raids that sparked protests in major cities.

Sheahan's tenure at ICE drew scrutiny after immigration officials killed two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, during operations in Minneapolis, prompting protests and a policy recalibration by the Trump administration. She resigned shortly after Good's death but before Pretti's. Her primary opponents have seized on these incidents, questioning her accountability and leadership.

State Rep. Josh Williams accused Sheahan of leaving "in the middle of a scandal that happened under her watch." Air Force veteran Alea Nadeem said ICE issues "come up a lot" while door-knocking and divide even some Republicans, calling for better training to craft a stronger GOP message. Former state Rep. Derek Merrin, who lost to Kaptur in 2024, is also in the five-way primary.

Ohio GOP strategists voiced fears that Sheahan's hardline stance appeals to primary voters but could prove toxic in the general election. "Primary issues that help you win are a two-edged sword," said strategist Terry Casey. Bob Clegg, another strategist, predicted Kaptur would exploit Sheahan's record, noting her weaker local ties compared to opponents.

Sheahan's campaign dismissed the attacks as "false narratives and baseless attacks," arguing they insult Ohioans who support border security. She has aired TV ads featuring herself in tactical gear, branding as MAGA, and pledging to put "America first." Her cash on hand stood at $67,000 in mid-April, far behind Kaptur's $3.1 million.

No public polls are available for the May 5 primary, now just two days away. Lucas County GOP Chair Barbara Orange expressed surprise at Sheahan's late entry and questioned whether her national experience suits the district.

The race represents a key pickup opportunity for House Republicans defending a slim majority. A weakened nominee emerging from the primary could hand Kaptur an advantage in the fall.