Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy experienced a decline in prediction market odds following the release of a controversial video involving Amy Acton’s mother, his Democratic rival. Prediction market site Kalshi announced that Acton’s chances of winning rose to 76 percent, while Ramaswamy’s dropped to 26.8 percent by 4 p.m. ET. Similarly, Polymarket reported his odds fell to 22 percent by 4:19 p.m. ET.
The dip in Ramaswamy’s odds aligns with the circulation of a video clip on social media. In the video, Donna Arthur, claiming to be Amy Acton’s mother, accused Acton of dishonesty about her opponent and her past. “Amy has a serious problem; she is a liar,” Arthur said. The video surpassed 5 million views and was reposted over 9,000 times.
While these statements by Acton’s mother are allegations, without independent verification, published reports describe Acton’s childhood as unstable. Acton told Spectrum News that she was removed from her mother at age 12. Her parents divorced when she was 3, and she lived in about 18 homes before age 12, enduring a winter living in a tent.
The video’s production details remain unclear. Ramaswamy acknowledged his campaign’s role in its creation, stating that he desired the election focus to revolve around important issues for Ohioans. He accused Acton of evading those issues, noting her refusal to debate.
Acton’s campaign condemned the video, with representative Philip Stearns criticizing Ramaswamy for exploiting Acton’s history for political advantage. Newsweek sought comments from Ramaswamy’s campaign regarding the backlash.
Public and Political Reactions
As the video spread online, reactions emerged against Ramaswamy’s ad. Connie Luck, Ramaswamy campaign spokesperson, reiterated concerns over Acton’s honesty and criticized her debate avoidance. Ramaswamy urged for a debate on issues facing Ohioans.
Meghan McCain denounced the ad as “dastardly.” Lydia Mihalik expressed that some political boundaries should not be crossed. James Fishback declared Acton the winner based on recent events.
Sherrod Brown, a Democratic Senate candidate, condemned the ad, calling for others, including Jon Husted, to denounce it. Acton’s campaign released an ad featuring her brother defending Acton and questioning Ramaswamy’s suitability to lead.
Laura Loomer defended Ramaswamy and challenged the negative portrayal of him in prediction markets.
Polling Overview
Recent polls indicate Acton leading Ramaswamy. Cook Political Report and Sabato’s Crystal Ball rate the race as a toss-up. An ActiVote poll shows Ramaswamy slightly ahead with 51.4 percent to Acton’s 48.6 percent. A Marist poll places Acton ahead with 50 percent against Ramaswamy’s 43 percent. Bowling Green State University’s survey indicates Acton leading with 50 percent against 44 percent for Ramaswamy.
These figures reflect the dynamic nature of the electoral race as both candidates navigate their campaigns amidst controversy and shifting voter sentiments.
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