Acton fundraising matches Ramaswamy as Democrats see hope in Ohio polling
Democrat Amy Acton narrowly overtook her Republican challenger, Vivek Ramaswamy, in Ohio’s gubernatorial race based on recent campaign finance reports and polls, though Ramaswamy initially led in fundraising. Acton raised approximately $10.58 million, primarily from Ohioans, with over 100,000 donations, while Ramaswamy raised about $10.29 million, including roughly $25 million of his own contributions, from donors in Ohio, California, Texas, and Florida. Recent polls show a tight race, with Acton leading by a one-point margin in one survey and by 3 points in another, with small differences in favorability ratings. Ohio’s voting history favors Republicans, and outside groups have already started spending heavily in anticipation of a costly fall campaign. Acton emphasizes issues like affordability and healthcare, whereas Ramaswamy focuses on tax cuts, deregulation, and school choice, as both seek to succeed term-limited Gov. Mike DeWine.
Democrat Amy Acton narrowly surpassed her Republican competitor, Vivek Ramaswamy, on the fundraising front in the Ohio gubernatorial race, as some polls show the former state health director with a slight edge over the billionaire entrepreneur.
Ramaswamy hit the ground running with a massive fundraising lead over Acton, but campaign finance reports documenting donations through June show the Democrat has made strides and managed to inch ahead of Ramaswamy in recent polls.
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According to campaign reports filed with Ohio’s secretary of state, Acton has raised $10.58 million in 2026, while Ramaswamy has raised $10.29 million.
Of the donations, Acton’s funding primarily came from Ohioans, as roughly 100,556 donations came from within the state. Ramaswamy, on the other hand, received more than 10,000 individual donations from four different states: Ohio, California, Texas, and Florida.
The funding does not include Ramaswamy’s personal contributions to his campaign, roughly $25 million, making him a state record setter. Acton has raised just under $16 million since announcing her candidacy in early 2025.
The improved financial picture coincides with polling that suggests the race remains highly competitive.
Recent polling from Fox News found that Acton holds a narrow 1-point lead over Ramaswamy. The poll also found that 46% of respondents had a favorable opinion of Acton, another slight advantage compared to Ramaswamy’s 45% favorability rating.
Another poll conducted by AARP found a slightly wider margin, with Acton leading Ramaswamy 47% to 44%.
Republicans continue to enter the general election with structural advantages. Ohio has not elected a Democratic governor since 2006, and President Donald Trump, who endorsed Ramaswamy, carried the state comfortably in each of his three presidential campaigns.
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Outside groups are already signaling that they expect an expensive fall campaign. Earlier this month, a super PAC backing Ramaswamy announced a $25 million statewide advertising campaign attacking Acton, suggesting Republicans are concerned that Democrats hold some edge in the race.
Acton has centered her campaign on affordability, healthcare costs, and lowering everyday expenses, while Ramaswamy has campaigned on tax cuts, reducing regulations, and expanding school choice. The two are vying to succeed Gov. Mike DeWine (R-OH), who is term-limited.
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