Republicans Call Out Vivek Ramaswamy Over Amy Acton Ad

Republicans condemn Vivek Ramaswamy's ad targeting Amy Acton's past abuse claims.

Oct 21, 2026

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Republicans Call Out Vivek Ramaswamy Over Amy Acton Ad

Republicans condemn Vivek Ramaswamy's ad targeting Amy Acton's past abuse claims.

In brief

Republicans condemn Vivek Ramaswamy's ad targeting Amy Acton's past abuse claims. Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash after airing an ad featuring Amy Acton's mother calling her a liar about her childhood. Originally reported by Newsweek.

Republican Criticism of Ad

Amy Acton, Democratic candidate for Governor of Ohio, in Columbus, Ohio, Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy on S

Prominent Republicans criticized Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy over an attack ad featuring Amy Acton's mother.

“A number of prominent republicans have criticized ohio gubernatorial candidate vivek ramaswamy and his campaign over an attack ad featuring the estranged mother of his democratic rival, amy acton.”

Ad Content and Claims

The ad claims Amy Acton lied about growing up in a tent and has a history of lying throughout her life.

“She lies about her past. She says she grew up living in a tent. None of that is true. She’s lied her entire life.”

Background on Amy Acton

Amy Acton, former Ohio Department of Health director, faced childhood sexual abuse and homelessness, with her family living in a tent.

“Acton, former director of the ohio department of health, has been open about facing sexual abuse and homelessness during her childhood.”

Campaign Response

Campaign Response

Ramaswamy's campaign called Acton a serial fabulist with serious problems with the truth.

“We know that amy acton is a serial fabulist who has some serious problems with the truth that the public needs to be aware of before deciding who to entrust as governor.”

Acton's Campaign Response

Acton's brother criticized Ramaswamy for turning childhood sexual abuse into a political talking point.

“This desperate, disgusting attack reveals exactly who vivek ramaswamy is at his core, a pathetic excuse for a man who is willing to hurt anyone as long as it gets him what he wants.”

Cross-Party Backlash

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, left, argues a point with businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, right, between Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, center, during a Republican

The ad drew criticism from Republicans, including former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley and Democratic strategist Paul Begala.

“Just seeing what we tried to tell everyone back then. He’s a bad guy. It’s a shame he continues to get away with it.”

Columbus Dispatch Endorsement

The Columbus Dispatch editorial board endorsed Acton over Ramaswamy, calling the ad 'revolting and unsettling'.

“It should go without saying that sexual violence against children should not be politicized or taken as lightly as ramaswamy appears to take it.”

Republican Defections

Some Republicans, including Casey Putsch, crossed party lines to support Acton.

“I’m a republican, but i’m crossing party lines to vote for amy and end vivek’s political future in america.”

Polling Impact

Polling Impact

Polls show Ramaswamy's lead has shrunk, with Acton now a 79 percent favorite on prediction markets.

“Acton has soared to a 79 percent favorite on polymarket, up from 72 percent a week ago and a trailing 49 percent back in august.”

Election Timeline

Ohio voters will choose a new governor on November 3 with early voting starting October 6.

“Early in-person voting began october 6, along with absentee voting. Absentee ballot applications must be received by the county boards of elections by october 27.”

The big picture

Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash after airing an ad featuring Amy Acton's mother calling her a liar about her childhood.

Read the original on Newsweek

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