Vivek Ramaswamy, the former presidential candidate and entrepreneur, is set to launch a bid for Ohio Governor, bringing his vision of economic growth and constitutional revival to the Buckeye State.
At a Glance
- Ramaswamy is expected to announce his candidacy for Ohio Governor in mid-February
- He has secured top political advisers from JD Vance’s team for his campaign
- Ramaswamy recently left his position at the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
- The Ohio Gubernatorial race in 2026 is anticipated to be competitive, with multiple GOP candidates
- Ramaswamy emphasizes the importance of federalism and states leading constitutional revival efforts
Ramaswamy’s Political Aspirations
Vivek Ramaswamy, the former biotech executive and presidential candidate, is gearing up for a new political venture. After his recent departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Ramaswamy is setting his sights on the Ohio Gubernatorial race. Sources close to the campaign planning have indicated that an official announcement is imminent.
The move comes as no surprise to political observers, as Ramaswamy has been hinting at his intentions to pursue elected office. In a recent interview with Fox News, he emphasized the importance of federalism and state leadership in driving constitutional revival. This aligns with his vision for Ohio’s future and his broader political aspirations.
Ramaswamy is not entering this race unprepared. He has assembled a powerhouse team of political advisers, drawing from the successful campaign of Senator JD Vance. Key figures joining Ramaswamy’s bid include Andy Surabian and Jai Chabria, both seasoned political operatives with deep ties to Ohio politics.
“Expect Vivek to announce his candidacy in mid-February,” a source involved in the planning said.
The campaign team also includes Tony Fabrizio, a pollster from Vance’s 2022 Senate bid, and Arthur Schwartz, an ally to both Vance and Donald Trump Jr. This blend of national and state-level experience positions Ramaswamy as a formidable candidate in what is expected to be a competitive primary.
The Road Ahead
The 2026 Ohio Gubernatorial race is shaping up to be a crowded field. With term-limited Governor Mike DeWine stepping down, several high-profile Republicans are eyeing the position. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has already declared his candidacy, and State Treasurer Robert Sprague is expected to enter the race.
“He’s leaving on good terms with Trump, Elon and the team,” a source familiar with Ramaswamy’s thinking said.
Ramaswamy’s national profile and ties to President Trump could prove advantageous, but his limited experience on Ohio ballots may present challenges. However, his recent work with DOGE and his vision for economic development in the Ohio River Valley could resonate with voters looking for fresh leadership and innovative ideas.
Ramaswamy’s campaign is expected to focus on economic growth, constitutional principles, and the role of states in driving national policy. His experience in both the private sector and recent foray into federal government efficiency could appeal to voters seeking a balance between fiscal conservatism and effective governance.
“When you’re talking about a constitutional revival, it’s not just done through the federal government. It’s done through federalism where states also lead the way so I’ll be saying more on that very shortly,” Vivek Ramaswamy said.
As Ramaswamy prepares to make his official announcement, all eyes will be on Ohio to see how voters respond to his unique blend of business acumen, political experience, and vision for the state’s future.
But questions remain, including: “Does he really want to do this or was he forced out of government by Trump and Elon?”
