Amy Acton wins Ohio governorship, ending 20-year Republican hold

Dr. Amy Acton won the Ohio governor's race on Tuesday, defeating Vivek Ramaswamy to become the first woman elected to the state's top office.

The 60-year-old public health physician claimed victory over the Trump-backed Republican, who had spent more than $100 million against her. Acton is the first Democrat to hold the seat in 20 years. She succeeds Governor Mike DeWine, who is term-limited and likely retiring after 50 years in elective politics.

Acton campaigned on affordability and healthcare access, emphasizing her background as an Ohio native who spent part of her childhood homeless. She told supporters at her victory speech, "The healing begins today." She pledged to lower the temperature on Ohio politics and to work for all residents, regardless of how they voted.

Ramaswamy conceded in a speech where he expressed both hope and reservations about the country's future. He said he had serious concerns about the nation's direction but believed the country would continue to move upward. He told his supporters at a subdued watch party that he hoped to continue contributing to Ohio's prosperity.

The election drew national attention due to a controversial 60-second attack ad aired by Ramaswamy's campaign. The spot featured Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who called her daughter a liar. Arthur had lost custody of her children decades ago after her husband, their stepfather, was indicted for raping Acton as a child. The ad sparked bipartisan backlash, with five former Ohio governors and other politicians calling for it to be removed. The campaign pulled the spot from the air about a week before the vote.

Ramaswamy received significant financial and political support, including at least $5 million from Elon Musk and campaign stops by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Despite this backing, Acton's team argued that Ramaswamy was out of touch with voters dealing with high fuel prices and the cost of living. DeWine, who endorsed Ramaswamy, defended Acton's pandemic-era decisions while noting his support for the Republican candidate.

In the Republican primary, vehicle designer Casey Putsch drew nearly 18% of the vote. Putsch, who had criticized Ramaswamy, announced his intention to vote for Acton in the general election. The upset win marks a major shift for Ohio Democrats, who had previously considered the state firmly in Republican hands.