Republican candidate airs attack ad featuring Democrat's estranged mother

Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy released an attack ad against Democratic rival Amy Acton on October 21, during Ohio's 2026 governor's race. The ad features Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who claims her daughter has lied about her past.

Acton was removed from her mother's care at age 12 because of serious abuse and neglect. Her stepfather was charged with raping her in 1978, then fled and died as a wanted man. Acton says she has not spoken to her mother since that year.

Ramaswamy confirmed the ad is from his campaign and said his team is spending four million dollars to broadcast it across Ohio. Acton called the ad "despicable" and noted she has never attacked Ramaswamy's family.