Vivek Ramaswamy, a notable figure in the biotech industry and previous presidential candidate, is set to announce his candidacy for the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial race. The campaign will officially commence on February 24 in his hometown, Cincinnati, signaling the start of a pivotal political journey.
Choosing Cincinnati’s CTL Aerospace Inc. as the venue for his official launch, Ramaswamy aims to showcase his commitment to Ohio’s burgeoning industries. Following the Cincinnati event, he plans to travel to New Albany, near Columbus, to engage with local business leaders at Axium Packaging.
On February 25, Ramaswamy’s campaign trail will continue to Toledo’s Glass City Center, followed by a gathering at The Local Bar in Strongsville, a suburb near Cleveland. This strategic tour underscores his focus on connecting with voters across key regions in Ohio.
Ramaswamy will compete in the Republican primary to replace the term-limited Governor Mike DeWine, a race already featuring significant candidates like Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and Heather Hill, former MLK Commission member. Jon Husted, a former lieutenant governor, recently exited the race after accepting a U.S. Senate position previously held by Vice President JD Vance, a personal acquaintance of Ramaswamy from their Yale Law School days.
Despite lacking traditional political experience, Ramaswamy has already bolstered his campaign with endorsements from influential Republican figures including Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Treasurer Robert Sprague. These endorsements are pivotal as they lend credibility and support to his burgeoning political platform.
His campaign strategy involves speaking engagements at 30 Republican dinners across Ohio, from March 3 to May 22. These events are strategically placed to maximize voter engagement and introduce his vision for Ohio's future to a broader audience.
Overall, Ramaswamy’s entry into the gubernatorial race adds a dynamic element to Ohio’s political landscape. As he seeks to bridge the gap between innovative entrepreneurship and political leadership, his campaign will undoubtedly be one to watch closely.