Indian-American entrepreneur and Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy has announced his candidacy for Governor of Ohio. Speaking at a rally, he emphasized his commitment to making Ohio a leading state in business, education, and economic growth. A strong supporter of former President Donald Trump, Ramaswamy highlighted his vision to position Ohio as a hub for innovation, from aerospace to semiconductors.
He pledged to make Ohio the best state for starting businesses, raising families, and providing quality education. Ramaswamy also expressed his goal of reducing bureaucratic red tape and fostering a culture of meritocracy and capitalism.
Additionally, he addressed his departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which he was initially set to co-head with Elon Musk. Reports suggested Musk pushed for his removal, particularly after Ramaswamy’s controversial remarks on H-1B visas. His comments, criticizing American culture for prioritizing mediocrity over excellence, reportedly frustrated some Republicans, leading to his exit.
Trump quickly endorsed Ramaswamy, praising his intellect and leadership. “VIVEK RAMASWAMY is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio. I know him well, competed against him, and he is something SPECIAL,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “He’s Young, Strong, and Smart! Vivek is also a very good person, who truly loves our Country. He will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio, will never let you down, and has my COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT!”
Responding to Trump’s support, Ramaswamy expressed gratitude. “I’m truly honored to have your endorsement. We’re behind you all the way & we will Make Ohio Great Again!” he posted.
Ramaswamy’s candidacy sets up a contentious Republican primary against Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, while former Ohio State football coach and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel is reportedly considering a bid. On the Democratic side, former Ohio health director Dr. Amy Acton has entered the race.
Yost wasted no time in attacking Ramaswamy’s commitment to the state. “We’ll see if he actually stays in—Mr. Ramaswamy quit on President Trump and DOGE on day one, he quit on Ohio and moved his company to Texas, and he quit his presidential campaign after a devastating fourth-place finish in Iowa,” Yost said in a statement.
Acton also criticized Ramaswamy’s past remarks, pointing to a controversial X post where he lamented America’s “veneration of mediocrity.” “It’s clear Vivek Ramaswamy doesn’t know the same Ohioans I do,” Acton stated. “Where he sees laziness and mediocrity, I see our strength, our grit, and our opportunity.”
The biotech entrepreneur has outlined a pro-business agenda, vowing to eliminate both income and property taxes and implement a policy requiring the removal of 10 regulations for every new one introduced. “It’s your money, not the government’s,” he asserted. “We want to be the top state in the country to be an entrepreneur.”
Ramaswamy is set to continue his campaign with stops in New Albany, Toledo, and Strongsville in the coming days as he seeks to build momentum for his 2026 gubernatorial bid.
