Why Trump’s Support for Ramaswamy in the Ohio Governor Race Could Prevent a Bitter Primary Battle

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Just as the sun was setting on Vivek Ramaswamy’s launch for governor in Ohio, President Donald Trump shared his support on social media. Trump described Ramaswamy, a successful entrepreneur from Cincinnati, as “something SPECIAL,” praising him as “Young, Strong, and Smart!”

Trump expressed confidence in Ramaswamy’s ability to lead, stating he will “never let you down” and has his “COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT.” This early endorsement caught the attention of many in Ohio politics. Observers noted that Trump is getting involved in races much earlier than before, as he has previously waited closer to election dates.

Political strategist Robert Clegg speculated that this quick endorsement could send a message to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, who is also seeking the Republican nomination, or to Jim Tressel, the new Lieutenant Governor and former Ohio State football coach, whose political future is uncertain.

“It’s really early for an endorsement like this,” Clegg said. “I thought we’d see something in the fall or even next year. Maybe Trump wants to avoid a tough primary battle in Ohio.”

In earlier races, Trump had waited until just before the elections to endorse candidates. For instance, he supported J.D. Vance only 19 days before the last primary, helping Vance secure the nomination. Ramaswamy’s case is different; his early campaign is now bolstered by Trump’s backing, which is vital since he faces skepticism about his experience in political office.

Ramaswamy, who previously ran for the GOP presidential nomination, has also gathered influential advisors and received endorsements from notable figures, including Utah Senator Mike Lee. Yet, Trump’s endorsements don’t always guarantee success. While they helped some candidates, like Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, they didn’t help others, like Arizona’s Kari Lake.

Tom Zawistowski from Ohio’s tea party movement believes that Trump’s endorsement changed the game for other candidates. He suggested that Jon Husted, who was expected to run for governor, took a Senate appointment instead because he couldn’t compete against Ramaswamy with Trump’s support.

Yost has started to question Ramaswamy’s reliability, pointing out his previous departures from campaigns and states. He openly welcomed Ramaswamy to the race, speculating whether he would last long.

The Buckeye Freedom Fund, a super PAC supporting Yost, is already targeting Ramaswamy, accusing him of siding with some Democratic views. Meanwhile, Ramaswamy’s campaign has dismissed these attacks as desperate attempts from opponents with lesser support.

Zawistowski noted that Tressel is well-connected and could attract significant financial backing from alumni and fans, hinting at his potential to raise considerable funds for a campaign. He suggested that moderate Republicans and Democrats might be drawn to Tressel rather than the Democratic candidate, Amy Acton, in the next primary.

The quick endorsement from Trump may be a strategic move to rally support behind Ramaswamy and prevent dissent during the primaries.

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