Indian-American businessman and former Republican presidential contender Vivek Ramaswamy has officially announced his candidacy for the Governor's office in Ohio. His bid comes only weeks after he left his position in President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
"I am pleased to officially announce my candidacy to become the next Governor of Ohio," Ramaswamy declared. "President Trump is bringing back America's confidence, and we need a leader here in Ohio to do the same for our state."
He went further to affirm his strong affiliation to Ohio by stating, "I am proud to run for governor of a wonderful state in the center of the greatest nation on the planet—the state in which I was born and grew up, the state in which my wife Apoorva and I are raising our two young boys. Ohio's best days are ahead of it."
Ramaswamy's candidacy joins a crowded Republican field that also includes Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, who announced his candidacy to succeed current Governor Mike DeWine. The Democratic Party has introduced former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton as a candidate.
Describing his vision for the state, Ramaswamy promised to make Ohio the best place to have a family, offer high-quality education, and facilitate business development.
“We will eliminate every unnecessary regulation in this state. Under my leadership, for every new regulation introduced, at least ten existing ones will be repealed before it takes effect,” he declared during a campaign speech.
Trump Backs Ramaswamy’s Candidacy
Ramaswamy’s campaign received a major boost with an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.
"VIVEK RAMASWAMY is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio. I know him well, competed against him, and he is something SPECIAL," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.
"He's young, strong, and smart! Vivek is also a fantastic person who really loves our country. He will be an outstanding Governor of Ohio, never let you down, and has my COMPLETE AND TOTAL.
To show appreciation, Ramaswamy replied, "I'm really honored to have your support. We're with you all the way, and we will Make Ohio Great Again!"
Elon Musk, the tech tycoon, also pledged his support for Ramaswamy's 2026 gubernatorial run. "Good luck, full endorsement from me!" Musk shared on X. Ramaswamy replied fervently, saying, "Thanks, Elon. Let's roll!"
Ramaswamy's Political Journey
After the U.S. presidential elections, Trump had promoted Ramaswamy to head the DOGE with Tesla CEO Elon Musk. His position in the cost-saving agency, however, remained in doubt as Trump's inauguration approached.
It is reported that there were tensions between Ramaswamy and Musk that led to his exit. Also, his vocal opinions on social media, where he seemed to denounce elements of American culture, and his differences with hardline Republicans regarding H-1B visa policies, created controversy.
Ramaswamy's name had also come up when Governor DeWine was weighing a replacement for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Vice President JD Vance's swearing-in. Trump had encouraged Ramaswamy to seek the appointment privately, and sources indicated that he had spoken with the governor.
DeWine ultimately selected Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted for the role, which led Ramaswamy to ramp up his bid for the 2026 gubernatorial election.
Born and raised in Cincinnati, Ramaswamy is a Hindu family of Indian immigrants. He is a Harvard University graduate with a degree in biology and went on to earn a law degree from Yale University. He is married to Dr. Apoorva Tewari, a surgeon, and has two children.
