Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has officially dropped out of the 2026 governor’s race, a move that all but guarantees biotech entrepreneur and conservative firebrand Vivek Ramaswamy a clear path to the Republican nomination.
Yost, long considered a top contender, announced his withdrawal after it became clear that momentum was squarely behind Ramaswamy—who not only secured the Ohio Republican Party’s endorsement but also received the backing of President Donald Trump. In a message to supporters, Yost acknowledged that the race had shifted from a “steep climb to a vertical cliff,” and said his decision was about protecting party unity ahead of a high-stakes general election.
Ramaswamy, a Cincinnati native and former GOP presidential candidate, has energized Ohio’s Republican base with a bold, unapologetically America First agenda. Since launching his campaign earlier this year, he’s made school choice, parental rights, and economic revitalization central pillars of his platform. He’s also vowed to eliminate the state income tax, promote nuclear energy, and position Ohio as a national leader in biotech manufacturing.
With Yost out of the way, Ramaswamy’s only remaining primary opponent is Morgan County businesswoman Heather Hill, who trails significantly in polling and fundraising. Meanwhile, speculation continues over whether Lt. Governor Jim Tressel—the former Ohio State football coach—will enter the race, though no formal announcement has been made.
On the Democrat side, former state health director Dr. Amy Acton has already launched her campaign, pushing a progressive healthcare and climate agenda. Other potential challengers being floated include former Senator Sherrod Brown and former Congressman Tim Ryan, both of whom would bring national name recognition but carry heavy political baggage in a state that’s shifted decisively red.
The 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election is shaping up to be a defining moment for the state’s future—and with Yost stepping aside, Vivek Ramaswamy now stands as the GOP’s clear frontrunner in a race that could redefine conservative leadership in the Midwest.
The post Ohio AG Exits Governor’s Race, Clearing Path for Vivek Ramaswamy to Clinch GOP Nomination appeared first on Real News Now.
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