Former Ohio Department of Health Director, Amy Acton, officially announced her run for governor on Tuesday, becoming the first Democrat to enter the race to replace term-limited Republican Governor Mike DeWine.
In her candidacy statement, Acton, a doctor by training, emphasized her problem-solving approach, saying, “I’m a doctor, not a politician. I solve problems by bringing people together, regardless of party, to find solutions. Unlike many leaders, I understand that moving Ohio forward isn’t about giving more power to politicians but giving more freedom to the people.”
Acton’s announcement reflected her desire to address the struggles of Ohioans, especially amid the influence of politicians and special interests. “I refuse to look away from Ohioans who are suffering while politicians and special interests steer our state in the wrong direction. It’s time to give power back to the people and our communities. It’s time for change,” she declared.
Acton gained widespread recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for her leadership as the state’s health director, with her press briefings receiving praise for their clarity and guidance. However, she also faced backlash from some Ohioans who opposed the restrictions put in place to curb the virus’s spread. Despite this, Acton continued to serve as a health adviser to Governor DeWine before resigning from her post.
Potential Democratic challengers to Acton’s candidacy include Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo and former U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, among others.
On the Republican side, possible contenders include Lt. Gov. Jon Husted and Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, though the appointment of a successor to fill Vice President-elect JD Vance’s Senate seat could impact the GOP primary race.
Ohio has become a challenging political environment for Democrats in recent years. In 2022, Tim Ryan lost his Senate bid to Vance after Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) retired. Former President Trump won Ohio by an 11-point margin in 2020, extending his victory from 8 points in 2016.
The last time Ohio elected a Democrat for governor was in 2006, when former Gov. Ted Strickland (D) won the seat before losing his reelection bid to Republican John Kasich.
