Indian-American entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has officially entered the race for Ohio Governor, weeks after resigning from President Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
“I am honoured to announce my candidacy to serve as the next Governor of Ohio,” Ramaswamy said. “President Trump is reviving our conviction in America. We need a leader here at home who will revive our conviction in Ohio.”
I am honored to officially announce my candidacy to serve as the next Governor of Ohio. pic.twitter.com/HFIR3dLspe
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) February 24, 2025
Emphasising his deep ties to the state, he added, “I’m running to lead the great state where I was born and raised, where my wife Apoorva and I are raising our two sons—a state whose best days are still ahead.”
His entry sets up a competitive Republican primary against Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, with other GOP contenders expected to join. On the Democratic side, former Ohio health director Amy Acton has also announced her candidacy.
Ramaswamy pledged to make Ohio the best state for raising families, educating children, and growing businesses. He promised to cut regulations, stating, “For every new regulation my administration enacts, we will eliminate at least ten existing ones.”
Trump, Elon Musk endorse Ramaswamy
Ramaswamy’s campaign received a major boost with a strong endorsement from President Trump.
“VIVEK RAMASWAMY is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio. I know him well, competed against him, and he is something SPECIAL,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“He’s young, strong, and smart! Vivek truly loves our country. He will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio and has my COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT!”
Ramaswamy expressed gratitude for Trump’s support, responding, “I’m truly honoured to have your endorsement. We’re behind you all the way & we will Make Ohio Great Again!”
DOGE chief and billionaire Elon Musk also backed Ramaswamy in a post on X – “Good luck, you have my full endorsement!”
Good luck, you have my full endorsement! https://t.co/HfuiunGLs4
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 25, 2025
Ramaswamy’s Split from DOGE
After Trump appointed him to co-lead the DOGE alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk following the U.S. presidential election, Ramaswamy’s role became uncertain as Trump’s inauguration approached.
Reports suggested tensions between Ramaswamy and Musk, along with his controversial social media posts on American cultural values and disagreements over H-1B visas, led to his departure.
Ramaswamy was also considered for a U.S. Senate appointment when Governor Mike DeWine weighed replacements ahead of Vice President JD Vance’s swearing-in. Trump reportedly encouraged Ramaswamy to pursue the role, and discussions were held with DeWine, according to CNN sources.
