Vivek Ramaswamy’s Campaign Faces Backlash After Video Controversy

Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy experienced a sharp decline in prediction market odds following the release of a controversial video. This video involved Amy Acton’s estranged mother and stirred significant backlash.

Prediction Market Impact

Kalshi, a prediction market site, reported a rise for Amy Acton with a 76% chance of winning the governor’s seat. Ramaswamy’s odds dropped to 26.8% by 4 p.m. ET, a record low. Polymarket mirrored these findings, reporting a drop to 30%, with further decline to 22% by 4:19 p.m. ET.

Controversial Video Involvement

The controversy erupted from a video shared on social media, featuring a woman claiming to be Amy Acton’s mother, Donna Arthur. She alleged that Acton lied about her life and her opponent. Arthur declared, “My daughter is a liar” and asked viewers not to support Acton’s candidacy.

The video has gone viral, with over 5 million views and 9,000 reposts. Acton’s campaign responded citing her removal from her mother at age 12, highlighting her turbulent childhood. Local reports support this, noting she lived in 18 different homes by age 12.

Ramaswamy’s Acknowledgement

Ramaswamy admitted his campaign produced the video, suggesting that Acton avoids substantive debate on state issues. He expressed his willingness to engage in debates, contrasting with Acton’s alleged reluctance.

Reactions from Both Sides

Responses varied; Ramaswamy’s campaign spokesperson, Connie Luck, asserted Acton’s pattern of dishonesty. Conservative commentator Meghan McCain criticized the ad as improper, while Ohio’s Development Director, Lydia Mihalik, emphasized maintaining decency in political discourse.

Other political figures, like James Fishback and Sherrod Brown, condemned the video as inappropriate. In response, Acton’s campaign released an ad featuring her brother defending her and criticizing Ramaswamy.

Support and Dissent

Laura Loomer, a conservative influencer, defended Ramaswamy, labeling opposition as “fake news.” Meanwhile, polling remains mixed with Acton leading in several, although some show Ramaswamy slightly ahead.

The dynamic between Acton and Ramaswamy exemplifies the contentious nature of this gubernatorial race, with sharp divides in opinions and support following recent events.