In Ohio this week, Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, a Cincinnati-born biotech entrepreneur, announced his candidacy for governor. His campaign was immediately bolstered by an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who praised Ramaswamy as “something SPECIAL” and lauded his character and capabilities on his Truth Social platform. Trump’s endorsement characterized Ramaswamy as “Young, Strong, and Smart” and asserted his confidence in Ramaswamy’s prospects as a future governor of Ohio.
The quick show of support from Trump intrigued political commentators in Ohio, given the timing. Historically, Trump’s endorsements have typically come closer to election day, but this endorsement came over a year in advance. Political consultant Robert Clegg speculated that Trump’s early backing might be a strategic move to influence current and potential candidates. Among those potentially affected are Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, who is also pursuing the Republican nomination, and Jim Tressel, a former Ohio State Buckeyes football coach whose political ambitions are currently uncertain.
Clegg expressed surprise at the early endorsement, suggesting Trump might aim to avoid a contentious primary in Ohio. In past elections, Trump often delayed his endorsements, such as during Ohio’s 2022 U.S. Senate race, where his endorsement of JD Vance came just 19 days before the primary, a move that helped clinch Vance’s path to the nomination and later to a general election victory.
In contrast, Trump’s recent pattern is showing early support, as seen with his endorsement of Bernie Moreno for Senate well ahead of the primary, a decision that aided Moreno’s primary and general election victories. Now, Trump’s backing aims to boost Ramaswamy’s gubernatorial campaign, despite questions surrounding Ramaswamy’s limited experience in Ohio politics.
In preparation for his run, Ramaswamy has enlisted experienced advisers, including those who helped Vance’s Senate campaign. He also garnered national conservative endorsements, including Utah Senator Mike Lee, though Trump’s support could be a crucial advantage. However, past mixed results of Trump’s gubernatorial endorsements introduce an element of uncertainty.
In a notable political shift, Jon Husted, previously seen as a frontrunner for governor, moved to a Senate appointment, which some speculate was influenced by Trump’s anticipated support for Ramaswamy. The quick succession of these events has stirred speculation about the political landscape and future candidacies in Ohio.
Zawistowski, a prominent figure in Ohio’s Tea Party movement, remarked that Husted couldn’t likely compete against a well-endorsed and financed candidate like Ramaswamy. Zawistowski suggested that Tressel’s entrance as Lt. Governor presents an alternative for establishment Republicans, should Yost’s campaign falter.
Attorney General Dave Yost, faced with term limits, wasted no time in casting doubt on Ramaswamy’s reliability. In a statement questioning Ramaswamy’s past political ventures, Yost highlighted Ramaswamy’s brief tenure with Trump’s administration and his presidential campaign decisions.
Yost’s campaign, supported by Buckeye Freedom Fund, initiated a negative mail campaign, accusing Ramaswamy of policies traditionally opposed by conservative voters, noting his past support under President Biden’s administration regarding military service. Ramaswamy’s camp rebuffed these attacks, emphasizing their solid conservative endorsements.
The involvement of Jim Tressel has added a dynamic element to the gubernatorial race. Known for his roles in football and academia, Tressel potentially brings a fundraising edge linked to Ohio State alumni and fans. Zawistowski remarked on the challenge posed by Tressel’s institutional appeal, recognizing his influence in Ohio politics.
With Trump’s endorsement stirring support, some foresee increased voter mobilization across parties to hedge Ramaswamy’s candidacy. Zawistowski hints at a strategy behind Trump’s early endorsement, aiming to solidify Ramaswamy’s standing and curtail opposition efforts in the Republican primary.
