Vivek Ramaswamy Trails in Ohio Governor’s Race, Challenges Democratic Rival Over Debate Refusal
WASHINGTON — Indian-American Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is facing a competitive race in Ohio, with recent polls showing his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, holding an advantage as the former presidential candidate outlines proposals on taxes, criminal justice and education while criticizing her refusal to participate in debates.
Speaking Wednesday at a Columbus Metropolitan Club forum, Ramaswamy pledged to resume executions in Ohio, ease restrictions on handgun purchases by people younger than 21 and pursue a $4 billion reduction in property taxes.
The Republican nominee acknowledged that the state would not fully compensate school districts for revenue lost under his proposed property-tax cuts, according to Signal Ohio.
Ramaswamy also expressed support for the death penalty, departing from outgoing Republican Gov. Mike DeWine’s effective suspension of executions. He indicated that he would consider execution methods other than lethal injection.
On economic development, Ramaswamy proposed restricting new data centers to abandoned industrial properties and consolidating Ohio’s 14 public universities.
He said he wanted the gubernatorial contest to focus on policy rather than partisan confrontation, arguing that the election should be “not Democrat versus Republican bickering.”
Ramaswamy also criticized Acton’s decision not to participate in debates, saying he had never personally met his Democratic rival. He claimed that members of her campaign had prevented the two candidates from shaking hands, although that account has not been independently verified.
Acton announced in September that she would not participate in debates, citing personal attacks during the campaign, including AI-generated advertisements depicting her as an alcoholic.
Ramaswamy had accepted debate invitations from WLWT and CNN, but no debates are scheduled between the candidates.
Recent polling suggests a closely contested race, although two major surveys have shown Acton leading.
A CNN/SSRS poll conducted September 29 through October 5 found Acton ahead of Ramaswamy by 50% to 42%. A New York Times/Siena College survey conducted September 22 through October 1 placed Acton at 49% and Ramaswamy at 45%.
However, a co/efficient poll conducted October 5-6 showed Ramaswamy leading 45% to 43%, highlighting differences among recent surveys.
Ramaswamy has invested heavily in his campaign, contributing more than $36 million of his own money, including an additional $5 million reported earlier this month. A super PAC supporting his candidacy has also received substantial financial backing from a small group of billionaires, according to Signal Ohio.
His campaign has faced criticism over his position on data center development and his decision to retreat from an earlier “Ohioans-First” proposal that promised free electricity.
President Donald Trump has campaigned for Ramaswamy, holding a rally near Dayton, while Vice President JD Vance has also appeared on his behalf.
During a campaign appearance in Lima, Vance attacked Acton, telling supporters that Ohioans were “running against a crazy person.”
Ramaswamy, a biotechnology entrepreneur and the son of Indian immigrants, gained national prominence during his unsuccessful campaign for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024.
His bid for Ohio governor marks his latest attempt to secure elected office, with the November election approaching amid disagreements over taxes, energy development and the state’s political direction. (Source: IANS)
