Two Republican candidates from the eastern part of the state are teaming up to raise money for their campaigns against Democratic incumbents.

Businessman Jim Renacci, who is taking on freshman Rep. John Boccieri in the 16th district, and state Sen. Bob Gibbs, who is running against two-term Rep. Zack Space in the adjacent 18th district, established a joint fundraising committee, Gibbs-Renacci for Congress, and will split the proceeds evenly.

Matt Borges, a spokesman for Gibbs’ campaign, said it made sense for the two campaigns to join forces; Gibbs’ state legislative district takes in three counties from the 16th district that Renacci is seeking, he said, and one county from the 18th district.

The joint committee has already held its first fundraiser, in the 16th district community of Hinckley, northwest of Akron.

Renacci and Gibbs are running in crowded GOP primaries on May 4 but are the preferred candidates of the National Republican Congressional Committee.