Acton defeats Ramaswamy in Ohio gubernatorial race

• She overcame President Trump's endorsement of Ramaswamy in a state Trump has won three times.

The big picture: The victory marks a rapid political ascent for Ohio's former health director, whose prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic made her a household name — and a target of criticism from conservatives.

• Acton, a physician who has never held elected office, campaigned on affordability, public education and health care.
• She contrasted her priorities with Ramaswamy's promises of deregulation and conservative reforms in education and business.

Yes, but: Acton will take office in January facing a Republican-controlled General Assembly that could complicate her efforts to deliver on campaign promises.

Follow the money: Ramaswamy and his allies vastly outspent Acton in the historically expensive race, pouring more than $100 million into advertising that targeted her professional decision-making and personal judgment.

• The candidates never debated after Acton declined to participate, citing Ramaswamy's personal attacks.

In the campaign's final weeks, Ramaswamy spent $4 million on an ad featuring Acton's estranged mother, who accused her daughter of lying about her childhood.

• The ad sparked bipartisan condemnation and exposed divisions within the GOP. Historical records and Acton's brother corroborated her account of childhood sexual abuse.
• Vice President Vance defended Ramaswamy, while Republican Sen. Jon Husted said he would not have run the ad.