Vivek Ramaswamy Launches Ohio Governor Campaign with Elon Musk's Endorsement

Vivek Ramaswamy officially launched his campaign for Ohio Governor, pledging bold policy reforms such as work requirements for Medicaid and merit-based pay for public school educators. The 39-year-old biotech entrepreneur entered the 2026 Republican primary on Monday, declaring, “I am honoured to officially announce my candidacy to serve as the next Governor of Ohio.” Ramaswamy’s decision to run follows the unexpected exit of Jon Husted, the presumed frontrunner, who accepted an 

appointment to the U.S. Senate.  Ramaswamy first gained national recognition during the 2024 presidential race, where he sought the Republican nomination before dropping out and endorsing Donald Trump. He later co-chaired the Department of Government Efficiency initiative alongside Elon Musk at Trump’s request. Following Ramaswamy's announcement, Musk endorsed him on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Good luck, you have my full endorsement!” Musk shared a clip of Ramaswamy’s announcement, further solidifying his support. Ramaswamy, speaking to a crowd at his campaign kickoff, said, “I spent most of last year working tirelessly to help send Donald Trump back to the White House because it was a fork in the road for the future of the country.”

Vivek Ramaswamy Announces Candidacy for Ohio Governor with Trump’s Full Endorsement

Vivek Ramaswamy has officially launched his campaign for Ohio Governor, promising bold changes to Medicaid and welfare by reinstating work requirements. Ramaswamy also vowed to eliminate income and property taxes while introducing a merit-based pay system for teachers and school administrators across the state. Reflecting on Ohio's past economic dominance in glass, rubber, and steel production, Ramaswamy envisions revitalizing the state's economy through industries like semiconductor manufacturing, nuclear energy, biotechnology, and cryptocurrency.

The Indian-American entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate made his announcement after stepping down from President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Speaking at his campaign launch, Ramaswamy said, “I am honored to officially announce my candidacy to serve as the next Governor of Ohio,” adding that Ohio’s best days are still ahead. He emphasized the need for leadership to revive the state's conviction, echoing Trump's message of American renewal.

Ramaswamy faces competition from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, who has also announced his candidacy to succeed Governor Mike DeWine, and Amy Acton, the former Ohio health director, who is running as a Democratic candidate. Despite the competition, Ramaswamy promised to make Ohio the top state in the U.S. for raising a family, providing world-class education, and growing businesses. His plan includes shredding excessive regulations, with a commitment to rescind at least ten regulations for every new one implemented during his administration.

In a significant show of support, President Donald Trump endorsed Ramaswamy, praising his youth, intelligence, and love for the country. Trump posted on Truth Social, saying, "Vivek is something SPECIAL… He will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio, will never let you down, and has my COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT!"