Democrat Amy Acton defeated Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election, becoming the first woman elected governor of the state. A physician and former Ohio health director, Acton rose to prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. She campaigned on healthcare, affordability, education and government accountability.

Democrat Amy Acton is set to make history after defeating Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election. Projected to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Mike DeWine, Acton is poised to become the first woman elected governor of Ohio.

A physician and public health expert, Acton entered the gubernatorial race with a background in healthcare administration and public service. She rose to national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she served as director of the Ohio Department of Health and helped oversee the state's initial response to the crisis.

Her victory over Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, marks a significant political development in a state where Republicans have held the governor's office for years.

Early Life And Education

Born Amy Leigh Stearns on February 16, 1966, Acton grew up in Youngstown, Ohio. She has spoken publicly about a difficult childhood marked by her parents' divorce, frequent relocations, neglect and abuse. She has described moving approximately 18 times before turning 12 and spending a winter living in a tent at a campground.