Politics · India Bureau
Trump-backed Indian-American Ramaswamy defeated in Ohio governor's race
Vivek Ramaswamy, the Indian-American entrepreneur who received support from US President Donald Trump, has lost Ohio's gubernatorial election to Democrat Amy Acton. The 41-year-old businessman secured over 45 per cent of votes while Acton, 60, claimed victory with just over 51 per cent to become Ohio's first female governor.
LSN India ·
Ramaswamy conceded defeat gracefully on Tuesday evening, acknowledging the closely fought nature of the race. "It was a tough race. It was bitter at times in both directions," he told supporters in Ohio, adding that all involved should support Acton's incoming administration. The billionaire entrepreneur also expressed gratitude to his family members for their backing throughout the campaign.
The defeat marks a setback for the Indian-American businessman despite considerable institutional support and strategic resources mobilized for his campaign. Ramaswamy had enlisted top political strategists from his own team and that of Vice President JD Vance to guide his gubernatorial bid, according to reports.
Ramaswamy had invested substantially in the race, pumping more than USD 36 million in personal loans into his campaign coffers. The entrepreneur had previously made an unsuccessful bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, positioning himself as a Trump alternative before eventually backing the incumbent president.
Acton's victory in Ohio represents a significant Democratic win in a traditionally competitive state and establishes her as the state's first woman governor.