President Donald Trump has officially endorsed entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy in the upcoming 2026 Ohio gubernatorial race. In a Truth Social post, Trump praised Ramaswamy as “Young, Strong, and Smart,” highlighting his commitment to conservative values and America-first policies. Trump also noted that he “competed against him” in the 2024 Republican primaries and now fully supports his run for governor.
Ramaswamy’s Rise in Republican Politics
Ramaswamy, a Cincinnati-born biotech entrepreneur, first gained national recognition during his 2024 presidential campaign, where he positioned himself as an anti-establishment conservative and a strong defender of Trump’s policies. Despite being a political outsider, he quickly became a major voice in the MAGA movement, advocating for deregulation, border security, and an aggressive stance against China. His campaign speeches focused on eliminating bureaucratic inefficiencies, restoring traditional values, and opposing what he called the “woke industrial complex.”
After withdrawing from the presidential race, Ramaswamy endorsed Trump and became one of his most vocal surrogates. He frequently appeared on conservative media outlets, campaigned in battleground states, and helped mobilize younger voters for Trump’s 2024 victory. Following the election, Ramaswamy was initially expected to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside Elon Musk but stepped away from the role to focus on his gubernatorial ambitions.
The Ohio Governor’s Race
The Ohio gubernatorial election is scheduled for November 3, 2026. Current Governor Mike DeWine is term-limited and cannot seek re-election. Ramaswamy joins a growing field of Republican candidates, including Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost and former school board president Heather Hill.
Trump’s endorsement could be a significant boost for Ramaswamy’s campaign, as Ohio remains a stronghold for the former president. In both 2016 and 2020, Trump won the state by wide margins, and his influence continues to shape Ohio’s Republican politics. Analysts suggest that securing Trump’s support could help Ramaswamy consolidate conservative voters and fend off primary challengers.
Ramaswamy’s Policy Vision
Ramaswamy’s campaign platform emphasizes education reform, economic investment, and reducing government inefficiencies. He has been a vocal advocate for universal school choice, performance-based pay for teachers, and parental rights in education. He also aims to attract new industries to Ohio, such as semiconductor manufacturing and biotech, positioning the state as a national leader in innovation.
On social issues, Ramaswamy has taken a firm stance against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, arguing that merit should be the primary standard in both education and the workforce. He also supports tougher immigration policies, aligning with Trump’s efforts to secure the southern border and crack down on illegal immigration.
Political Reactions and Future Outlook
Trump’s endorsement has already generated reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. Republican allies of Ramaswamy have celebrated the move, with some calling him a “Trump 2.0” candidate who could carry the MAGA agenda forward at the state level. Meanwhile, Ohio Democrats have criticized Ramaswamy as a political opportunist, arguing that his lack of government experience makes him unfit for the role.
With Trump’s backing and his rising influence within the Republican Party, Ramaswamy is expected to be a formidable candidate in the GOP primary. As the race unfolds, his ability to translate national political momentum into statewide electoral success will be closely watched.
