Ohio’s gubernatorial race has been stirred by a $4 million US campaign featuring the estranged mother of Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s Democratic opponent, Amy Acton. The controversial advertisement, unveiled by Ramaswamy’s team, has drawn bipartisan criticism for delving into Acton’s troubled past. As the election nears, the video is expected to remain a focal point, with Democrats condemning it as a desperate tactic.
Over 676,000 Ohioans have already cast their votes before the Nov. 3 midterms, making this one of the most closely watched state campaigns. The ad, which alleges Acton’s mother, Donna Arthur, referred to Acton as a “liar” and hinted at mental health issues, has raised concerns due to its personal nature. Arthur lost custody of her children after Acton was sexually assaulted by her stepfather, leading to a strained relationship between Acton and her mother.
Despite the backlash, Ramaswamy’s spokesperson, Connie Luck, clarified that Acton’s mother was not compensated for her participation in the ad. The video, which will be distributed online and on television, did not initially disclose its funding source, sparking initial confusion about its origins.
In response to the ad, Acton’s campaign released a statement from her brother, Philip Stearns, underscoring the family’s traumatic history. Stearns criticized Ramaswamy for exploiting their past, emphasizing Acton’s resilience in protecting him from abuse during their childhood. The Columbus Dispatch condemned the ad as “revolting and unsettling,” while notable Republicans, including Donald Trump Jr. and Laura Loomer, endorsed the video.
Despite the mixed reactions, some Republicans, such as Meghan McCain and Dan Hauser, disapproved of the ad, calling it unethical. Casey Putsch, a former Republican primary candidate, announced his support for Acton following the ad’s release, denouncing Ramaswamy’s tactics. Meanwhile, JD Vance, a former Ohio senator, refrained from passing judgment on the ad, emphasizing broader political concerns over its appropriateness.
Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur of Indian descent, is vying for his first public office. Having withdrawn from the 2024 presidential race to endorse Donald Trump, he now seeks the Ohio governorship. Despite his previous endeavors in government efficiency initiatives, Ramaswamy faces scrutiny over the controversial advertisement as the election approaches.