Ohio Governor Denounces Ramaswamy Campaign Ad Featuring Dr. Acton's Estranged Mother
Controversial advertisement sparks official review and reignites debate over campaign tactics and personal history in Ohio's gubernatorial race.
Sarah Connor
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine denounced a controversial political advertisement linked to Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign.
The advertisement features Donna Arthur, Dr. Acton's mother, who calls her daughter a liar and implies mental health struggles.
Dr. Acton's campaign revealed her stepfather faced charges for raping her as a child. This led to her and her brother's removal from their mother's custody. Police and court records confirm Cledith Arthur's arrest and charge for the rape of his 12-year-old stepdaughter in July 1978, with the abuse allegedly occurring from December 1976 to April 1978.
The advertisement broadcasts online and on television, backed by an estimated $4 million spend. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose stated his office reviews complaints about the ad, which may have lacked a required disclaimer.
LaRose's office claims the ad may have initially aired without a legally required disclaimer, failing to inform viewers who paid for it. Critics from both political parties warned the tactic could backfire on Republicans.
I would not have run that ad.
Jon Husted stated, "I would not have run that ad." Vice President JD Vance, a former senator for Ohio, defended Ramaswamy, calling the GOP backlash "whining."
Despite the controversy, Governor DeWine declined to drop his endorsement of Ramaswamy in the governor's race. Republicans have held Ohio since 2010. Donald Trump won the state by more than 11 points in the last presidential election.
A VoteHub poll, released on Thursday, suggested Acton led Ramaswamy by 1% before the ad's release. MK Pritzker announced a $500,000 donation to Acton's campaign. Amy Acton has refused to debate Vivek Ramaswamy.