AG Yost drops out of governor's race

State of play: Ramaswamy earned the state party endorsement in early May and already has President Trump's backing, a blow for other would-be Republican contenders in a state Trump handily won three times.

What he's saying: The "steep climb to the nomination for governor has become a vertical cliff," Yost wrote.

• "I do not wish to divide my political party or my state with a quixotic battle over the small differences between my vision and that of my opponent. I am simply not that important."

Between the lines: Yost's term runs until early 2027, but he hinted something else could follow.

• "I will continue to fight for Ohio and Ohioans during that time — and I suspect that this is not my final chapter."

What we're watching: If Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel joins the race.

• The former Buckeyes football coach and Youngstown State University president joined Gov. Mike DeWine's administration in February and is considering a run, the Dispatch recently reported.

In the meantime, only Ramaswamy and Morgan County businesswoman Heather Hill are contesting the GOP nomination.

• Amy Acton, the former state health director, is running on the Democratic side.

Note: This story has been updated with details from Yost's statement to supporters.