A leading Christian lobbyist in Ohio has endorsed Hindu entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy in the state’s gubernatorial race, choosing him over Christian Attorney General Dave Yost.
Aaron Baer, president of the Center for Christian Virtue, publicly backed Ramaswamy, citing his dedication to family values and education reform, particularly his support for merit-based pay increases for teachers. While acknowledging that some Christians might hesitate to support a non-Christian candidate, Baer described Ramaswamy’s candidacy as a unique opportunity. He encouraged Christians to step beyond their usual political comfort zone and shared that he has personally told Ramaswamy, “I pray he comes to know Jesus.”
Baer’s endorsement is particularly notable as it sidelines Yost, a longtime ally of the Center for Christian Virtue, known for advocating religious release time in public schools and opposing abortion rights.
During his 2024 presidential run, Ramaswamy voiced opposition to abortion but did not endorse a national ban. He also criticized Ohio Republicans for failing to offer an alternative proposal before voters approved a constitutional amendment protecting abortion rights, arguing that conservatives missed an opportunity to present a stronger counterproposal.
Ramaswamy has been proactive in engaging with Christian organizations, including addressing the Center for Christian Virtue’s 2024 gala. At the event, he humorously pointed out the contrast, saying, “This is the Center for Christian Virtue, and you want your keynote speaker to be a Hindu.”
Welcoming Baer’s endorsement, Ramaswamy called it “one of my most important endorsements.” He reiterated his alignment with Christian conservatives on key policy issues and expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Baer and other faith leaders to advance family values and religious freedom in Ohio.
