US President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy in Ohio, describing him as a “very good friend” and praising his business background, conservative policies and commitment to the state. The endorsement came during a campaign rally in Youngstown as the candidates prepare for the November 3 gubernatorial election.
Addressing supporters at the Covelli Centre, Trump recalled his rivalry with Ramaswamy during the 2024 Republican presidential primary, when the biotechnology entrepreneur eventually withdrew from the race and endorsed Trump. The president praised Ramaswamy’s intelligence and commitment to Ohio while urging voters to support his candidacy.
“He’s a very smart guy and he’s a very good guy. And he loves — he loves this state,” Trump said.
The president also launched a sharp attack on Democratic candidate Amy Acton, a physician and former Ohio state health director. Trump criticized her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing her of supporting school closures and restrictions on businesses. He also claimed that her policies threatened gun ownership rights.
In an effort to mobilize Republican voters, Trump warned that Ohio could face serious consequences under Democratic leadership. He urged supporters to back Ramaswamy and Republican Senator Jon Husted, invoking Minnesota as an example of what he described as the dangers of Democratic governance.
Speaking before Trump took the stage, Ramaswamy outlined a conservative policy agenda focused on immigration enforcement, tax reductions, education reform and economic growth. He pledged to pursue an agenda that would place him among the most conservative governors in Ohio’s history.
“I will be the most conservative governor this state has ever seen in our history because we deserve it,” Ramaswamy said.
The Republican candidate also highlighted Ohio’s history of industrial development and technological innovation, referencing astronauts Neil Armstrong and John Glenn, along with aviation pioneers Orville and Wilbur Wright. He promised to strengthen the state’s economic competitiveness, attract new businesses, retain young professionals and lower electricity costs for households.
Immigration and cultural issues featured prominently in Ramaswamy’s remarks. He pledged to end sanctuary-city policies, criticized diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, opposed transgender women competing in women’s sports and defended fossil fuels against what he characterized as excessive climate-related restrictions.
Emphasizing his family’s immigrant background, Ramaswamy said his parents had immigrated to the United States legally and argued that compliance with immigration law should be a fundamental requirement for entering the country.
Returning to the stage later in the rally, Ramaswamy thanked Trump for his endorsement and criticized Acton for allegedly refusing to debate him. He also promised to work closely with the White House to attract investment, expand employment opportunities and increase wages across Ohio.
“I will be a governor who proudly works with the President of the United States of America to bring more dollars into Ohio, to bring higher-paying jobs to Ohio, to put more money in your pockets,” he said.
Ramaswamy also spoke about his responsibilities as the father of three young children, describing the United States as the country where he most wanted to raise his family. His remarks sought to connect his economic and political priorities with the aspirations of Ohio families.
The election will determine who succeeds Republican Governor Mike DeWine, who cannot seek another term because of term limits. Ramaswamy’s campaign is built around tax cuts, economic expansion, conservative social policies and closer cooperation with the Trump administration.
However, the Republican faces a competitive contest. According to the MS NOW–FiftyPlusOne polling average cited in the campaign report, Ramaswamy trails Acton by approximately four percentage points. Trump’s appearance underscores the importance of national Republican support as the campaign enters its final weeks.
The race is expected to focus on economic conditions, public services, immigration, education and the candidates’ competing visions for Ohio’s future. While Trump’s endorsement could help energize Republican voters, the final outcome will depend on how effectively both campaigns translate their messages into support at the ballot box.
