Vivek Ramaswamy, a prominent biotech entrepreneur from Cincinnati, has officially launched his campaign for governor of Ohio. This announcement came shortly after he left his position at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at the beginning of Trump’s latest term. Ramaswamy’s candidacy was unveiled at CTL Aerospace, surrounded by supporters proudly displaying “Vivek for Ohio” signs and donning pro-Trump gear.
President Donald Trump is backing Ramaswamy, expressing his endorsement on social media platform X. Trump praised him as a “Young, Strong, and Smart” individual who genuinely loves America and would make an excellent governor.
With degrees from Harvard and Yale, Ramaswamy has a solid educational background, coupled with significant achievements in the investment and biotech industries.
Ramaswamy became nationally recognized with his book “Woke Inc: Inside Corporate America’s Social Justice Scam,” released in 2021. His presidential campaign was marked by a set of core beliefs, prominently featuring statements like “God is real” and “there are two genders,” as outlined in his 2024 publication “Truths: The Future of America First.” As a gubernatorial candidate, he aims to revive Ohio’s economy by spearheading a new industrial revolution.
Among his economic plans, Ramaswamy is determined to eliminate income tax, emphasizing that people’s earnings belong to them, not the government. He also intends to reduce property taxes, arguing that land ownership should not feel like a government lease.
Additionally, Ramaswamy wants to reinstate work requirements for Medicaid and welfare, aiming to foster independence among Ohioans.
In the education sector, Ramaswamy promises to support a variety of schooling options, including homeschooling, alongside public, private, and charter schools. He plans to implement merit-based pay for teachers and school administrators, making Ohio the first state to adopt such a system.
Ramaswamy’s competition in the Republican primary includes Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and businesswoman Heather Hill.
On the Democratic side, Dr. Amy Acton, known for her role during the COVID-19 pandemic, is in the race. Ohio’s political landscape has been favorable to Republicans, with Trump securing significant victories in the state in the past three elections. The GOP also holds a supermajority in the state legislature, which could influence the upcoming gubernatorial contest.
There is speculation around former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel potentially entering the race. Recently appointed as lieutenant governor by Mike DeWine, Tressel remains non-committal about running for governor. His candidacy could represent a faction of the Ohio Republican Party less aligned with Trump.
At Ramaswamy’s rally, supporter Randall Porter expressed his interest in Ramaswamy’s libertarian-leaning views. Porter is keen to see how Ramaswamy plans to address the issues facing Ohio. He also mentioned that DeWine’s strategic moves might be aimed at preventing Ramaswamy from gaining the governor’s seat.
Ramaswamy’s recent comments on social media regarding H-1B visas and American culture stirred some controversy. He criticized the culture for valuing mediocrity over excellence, referencing TV shows as an example. According to Ramaswamy, societal priorities should shift to celebrate academic achievements over social accolades.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost quickly responded to Ramaswamy’s gubernatorial announcement with skepticism. Yost highlighted Ramaswamy’s past decisions to leave various roles, including his presidential campaign and DOGE. Despite this, Ramaswamy has garnered endorsements from notable Ohio Republicans like State Treasurer Robert Sprague and Secretary of State Frank LaRose.
With the gubernatorial race heating up, Ramaswamy’s vision for Ohio involves bold economic and educational reforms. His pro-business stance and commitment to conservative values resonate with many Ohioans.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Ramaswamy’s campaign will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.
