By Salma El-Sakka
Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is facing intense criticism over a campaign advertisement targeting his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, in the Ohio governor's race. The controversy escalated when Ramaswamy's former eighth-grade teacher, Michael Pogue, appeared at a campaign event in Cincinnati to protest the ad.
Former teacher protests at campaign event
Pogue, who taught Ramaswamy at Princeton Junior High School, held a banner reading "Shame on you, Vivek! I taught you better." He demanded a "full retraction and sincere apology" to Acton, telling the Cincinnati Enquirer that the attack hit home because he had taught many students who were raped.
Attack ad sparks bipartisan backlash
The 30-second spot features Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who lost custody of her children after her late husband was indicted for raping Acton when she was a child. Arthur calls her daughter a "liar" in the ad. The husband, Cledith Arthur, was never prosecuted before the couple fled the state. The ad has drawn condemnation from both parties, including Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine.
Endorsements lost and venue cancellations
Ramaswamy's campaign has lost major endorsements and seen venue cancellations following the ad's release. Over the weekend, The Plain Dealer, Ohio's largest newspaper, broke its policy against endorsing candidates in major races to back Acton, stating the ad "weaponizes the sexual abuse his opponent suffered as a child."
Trump and Vance defend Ramaswamy
Ramaswamy has defended the advertisement as "legitimate" and said he wants the race to focus on substantive issues. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have rallied to his defense, while Ramaswamy also highlighted a supportive reunion with his first-grade teacher, who praised his success.
Polls show tight race
With one week until Election Day, polls indicate a close contest in Ohio, underscoring the high stakes of the escalating feud.
