(COLUMBUS) - Ohio's race for governor is taking shape as Republican entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton announced their choices for lieutenant governor, adding two well-known political figures to an already high-profile contest.
Ramaswamy selected Ohio Senate President Rob McColley as his running mate, while Acton chose former Ohio Democratic Party Chair David Pepper. The 2026 race is open, as Republican Gov. Mike DeWine is barred from seeking reelection because of term limits.
Ramaswamy, a Cincinnati-based biotech executive, said McColley's legislative experience makes him a strong partner for advancing an aggressive conservative agenda.
Acton, a physician who became a prominent public figure during Ohio's early response to the COVID-19 pandemic, said Pepper brings practical governing experience and a problem-solving approach.
Pepper, 54, is a former Cincinnati City Council member and Hamilton County commissioner. During his time in local office, he led initiatives on foreclosure prevention, prescription drug discounts, earned income tax credits and balanced budgets while holding the line on property taxes, according to the campaign.
With both major candidates now rounding out their tickets, the contest for Ohio governor is expected to intensify in the months ahead.