Vivek Ramaswamy, a well-known biotech entrepreneur from Cincinnati, launched his campaign for Ohio governor on Monday, vowing to implement transformative policies such as work requirements for Medicaid and merit-based pay for educators. Ramaswamy, aged 39, began his campaign in his hometown, entering the 2026 Republican primary following Jon Husted’s departure to accept a U.S. Senate appointment.
Previously, Ramaswamy had sought the Republican presidential nomination in 2024 but withdrew in favor of Donald Trump, who later selected him to co-chair an efficiency initiative alongside Elon Musk. With near-billionaire status, Ramaswamy has emphasized his connections to Trump, seeking key endorsements and financial support for his gubernatorial run. Trump expressed his support on social media, describing Ramaswamy as exceptional and fully endorsing him for the Ohio governorship.
In his announcement speech, Ramaswamy reflected on his efforts to ensure Trump’s return to the presidency, a pivotal moment for the nation’s future. He declared his intention to bring prosperity back to Ohio by revitalizing industries such as semiconductor manufacturing and biotechnology. Expressing a strong belief in Ohio’s potential, Ramaswamy declared, “Ohio can lead the way again.”
He faces competition from other Republican candidates, including Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Heather Hill, a Black entrepreneur from Appalachia. Dr. Amy Acton, noted for her role during the COVID-19 pandemic, is running on the Democratic ticket. As Ohio has increasingly leaned Republican, the candidates will vie for control in a state that has become reliably red, supporting Trump by significant margins in recent elections.
If elected, Ramaswamy aims to “end the war on work” by reinstating work criteria for welfare programs and eliminating certain taxes. He also seeks to embody a new kind of political leadership, bypassing the lengthy governmental career typically required for such offices. Instead, he hopes to follow in the footsteps of leaders like Vice President JD Vance, who successfully transitioned from business to politics with Trump’s backing.
While current Governor Mike DeWine overlooked Ramaswamy for a Senate appointment, opting instead for Husted, Ramaswamy has secured endorsements from figures like Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and Republican Secretary of State Frank LaRose. Meanwhile, Yost, who joined the race amid rumors of Ramaswamy’s candidacy, issued a statement acknowledging the competitive nature of the governor’s race.
This gubernatorial contest will test whether Ramaswamy’s business acumen and close ties to Trump can replicate similar successes in Ohio’s state government arena. The outcome may set a precedent for political newcomers seeking high office based largely on private-sector achievements.