Vivek Ramaswamy Launches Campaign for Ohio Governor After Departing DOGE

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Vivek Ramaswamy, the biotech entrepreneur and former GOP presidential candidate, is set to announce his candidacy for governor of Ohio this evening. The Cincinnati native’s decision marks a swift pivot after stepping down from President Donald Trump‘s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a post he held alongside tech billionaire Elon Musk.

The announcement comes on the heels of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost entering the race to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Mike DeWine, a position that could draw several other GOP contenders. Ramaswamy aims to position himself as a leading choice in the Republican primary set for 2026. He plans to kick off his campaign in Cincinnati and follow with events in major Ohio cities including Columbus and Toledo.

Ramaswamy, who previously sought the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, withdrew his campaign in support of Trump after garnering national recognition. His entry into the governor’s race reflects his growing alignment with Trump’s policies despite the absence of an official endorsement from the former president.

During his brief tenure with DOGE, Ramaswamy faced challenges as DeWine considered who would fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Vice President JD Vance. Ramaswamy had initially expressed interest in the Senate appointment but later shifted focus to his gubernatorial ambitions.

“Vivek Ramaswamy played a critical role in helping us create DOGE. He intends to run for elected office soon, which requires him to remain outside of DOGE,” transition spokesperson Anna Kelly stated. “We thank him immensely for his contributions.”

As he prepares for the gubernatorial campaign, Ramaswamy has been actively engaging potential supporters across Ohio. He has made appearances at various events, securing endorsements from prominent figures, including Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose, who expressed his support via social media.

Despite attracting notable endorsements, Ramaswamy faces competition within the GOP primary. Yost’s campaign adds to the pressure, as political analysts consider his standing among voters. Additionally, former Ohio State University football coach Jim Tressel is contemplating entering the race, which could complicate Ramaswamy’s path.

“If he decides to run for governor, he will have my full support,” LaRose remarked, signaling a growing base of support for Ramaswamy. His entry into the race in a state where Trump won by 11 percentage points could amplify the MAGA influence in Ohio.

Born to Indian immigrants and raised in Cincinnati, Ramaswamy’s journey into politics is underscored by his prior ventures in business. He founded Roivant Sciences, targeting pharmaceutical gaps left by larger companies, and later co-founded Strive Asset Management, which espouses an anti-woke investment philosophy.

Ramaswamy’s political platform has been heavily influenced by his books, including “Woke, Inc.” and “Truths: The Future of America First,” where he articulates a vision of conservative values and pushes back against what he terms cultural decline.

With political dynamics shifting in Ohio, Ramaswamy’s challenge will be demonstrating his capability to resonate with a more traditional electorate while maintaining his outsider image. The competition and political landscape will likely intensify as the primaries approach.