Vivek Ramaswamy has officially launched his campaign for governor of Ohio, as confirmed by Fox News Digital. The venture capitalist and former presidential candidate submitted the necessary paperwork, including a Designation of Treasurer form, to the Ohio Secretary of State’s office on Friday. This filing marks the formal registration of his campaign committee, named "Vivek Ramaswamy For Ohio," and is a prerequisite for any candidate looking to make expenditures or receive contributions.
Ramaswamy’s entry into the race has been anticipated for some time, especially since current Governor Mike DeWine is ineligible to seek re-election after taking office in 2019. The gubernatorial election is scheduled for 2026, and Ramaswamy has been hinting at his intentions to run for several months.
His campaign filing comes shortly after his departure from President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he played a significant role in its establishment. Ramaswamy’s exit was explained by a spokesperson, who noted that his ambitions for elected office necessitated his departure from the initiative. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to DOGE and indicated that he would soon share more about his plans for Ohio.
Ramaswamy’s political journey has not been without controversy. His support for H-1B temporary worker visas sparked a divide among Trump supporters, particularly between him and Tesla CEO Elon Musk. Despite this, Ramaswamy remains committed to aiding Trump’s agenda and aims to make a significant impact in Ohio.
In recent weeks, Ramaswamy has garnered endorsements from prominent Republican leaders, including Senators Mike Lee and Marsha Blackburn. Blackburn praised Ramaswamy for his leadership potential, stating that Ohio would benefit from his governance. Lee expressed confidence in Ramaswamy’s ability to win the gubernatorial race and positively influence the state.
As Ramaswamy prepares for his campaign, he is expected to focus on key issues that resonate with Ohio voters, leveraging his business background and previous political experience. His commitment to the Republican Party and its initiatives will likely play a crucial role in his strategy as he seeks to position himself as a leading candidate for the state’s highest office.