Democrat Amy Acton Wins Ohio Governor's Race

Democrat Amy Acton was elected governor of Ohio on Nov. 3, defeating Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, according to an Associated Press race call. NPR reported that Acton is the first woman elected governor of Ohio.

Fox 8 reported that Acton led Ramaswamy 50 percent to 46 percent. NPR also reported that her win is the first time in two decades that Ohioans have elected a Democrat as governor.

Ramaswamy is a biotech entrepreneur who was backed by President Trump in the race. The New York Times reported that he made a fortune in pharmaceutical start-ups, which are young companies building new drugs.

Acton is a former state health director. Republican Gov. Mike DeWine appointed her early in his first term, and she resigned from the post in June 2020. During the campaign she backed a statewide child tax credit and medical debt forgiveness.

In late October, the Ramaswamy campaign aired an attack ad featuring Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur. In the ad, Arthur called Acton a "liar." NPR reported that Arthur lost custody of Acton when Acton was 12, over the alleged sexual assault of Acton by Arthur's husband, who was Acton's stepfather.

Republicans, including DeWine, criticized the ad. Trump and Ramaswamy defended it.

10TV reported that more than $100 million was spent against Acton in the race.

Acton will take office as governor in January. Republicans hold a majority in the Ohio legislature.