Ohio GOP slams Dems' opposition to governor's budget

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Ohio's Republican Party chairman is taking aim at Democrats for opposing the governor's proposed budget, while trying to remain neutral on the two-year state spending blueprint.

Republican Chairman Bob Bennett told reporters Thursday that the state party is neither endorsing nor opposing the GOP governor's budget. He said he liked the budget's overall thrust, but declined to take a position on specific pieces of the proposal.

Bennett wouldn't say where he stood on Gov. John Kasich's tax overhaul or push to expand Medicaid. He said he wanted to let the Legislature debate them.

The Ohio GOP has created a website to counter Democratic attacks on the budget and highlight votes opposing certain policies.

Some Democrats have praised the Medicaid expansion.

Ohio's Democratic Party chairman planned to respond Thursday afternoon.