Ramaswamy should drop ad featuring Acton's mom, GOP governor says, as Vance accuses critics of "whining"
Updated on: October 22, 2026 / 5:48 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Ohio GOP Governor Mike DeWine has called for Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign to remove an ad featuring Democratic opponent Amy Acton's mother, who calls Acton a liar.
- DeWine stated the ad is 'deeply, deeply troubling,' particularly with knowledge of Acton's past abuse allegations.
- Vice President JD Vance previously dismissed criticism of the ad, telling fellow Republicans to 'stop whining' and focus on winning the election.
- Ramaswamy's campaign defended the ad, asserting Acton's mother is speaking out about lies, not abuse.
- Amy Acton expressed disappointment in Ramaswamy's campaign tactics, calling the ad a new low.
- Former President Trump initially claimed ignorance of the ad but later criticized DeWine for opposing it, calling the ad 'very powerful' and emphasizing the mother's negative statements about Acton.