Vivek Ramaswamy conceded the Ohio gubernatorial race to Democrat Amy Acton after a closely contested election, revealing that his attempt to personally congratulate his rival ended with a voicemail message.
Acton’s victory marks a significant political shift in Ohio, bringing an end to years of Republican dominance in the governor’s office. Despite the defeat, he offered his congratulations and expressed hope for Ohio’s future under the incoming governor. Acton emerged victorious with 50.7% of the vote against Ramaswamy’s 46%, with 81% of ballots counted when the Republican announced his concession. She becomes the first woman elected governor of the state and the first Democrat to win the position since Ted Strickland’s victory in 2006. She will also succeed Republican Governor Mike DeWine, under whom she previously served as the state’s health director during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Acton will become the first woman to serve a full elected term in the position Although Nancy Hollister briefly held the governor’s office for 11 days in 1999 following George Voinovich’s departure for the US Senate.
“It was a tough race,” he said, adding that it had been “bitter at times in both directions. “I wish her well to lead this state to hopefully greater heights in the future,” Ramaswamy said.
