Ohio Governor Race Features Attack Ad With Candidate’s Mother
A 60‑second video shows Amy Acton’s estranged mother calling her a liar, sparking backlash from both sides.
Key facts
- A 60‑second video featuring Amy Acton’s estranged mother Donna Arthur calling her a liar was released during the Ohio governor race.
- The video urges Ohio voters to vote against Acton and claims she lies about her past.
- The Ramaswamy campaign said it does not know who produced the spot but called Acton a serial fabulist.
- Amy Acton’s brother Philip Stearns condemned the ad and blamed Ramaswamy for its creation.
- The ad’s origin remains unclear, with no confirmation from the Ramaswamy campaign.
A 60‑second video appeared online on 20 October 2026. It shows Amy Acton’s estranged mother Donna Arthur calling her a liar and urging Ohio voters to vote against her.
The Ramaswamy campaign said it does not know who produced the spot. It added that it views Acton as a serial fabulist who has serious problems with the truth.
Amy Acton’s brother Philip Stearns issued a statement condemning the ad. Stearns blamed Ramaswamy for the video and called the campaign a despicable low.
Donna Arthur is estranged from Acton because she remained married to Acton’s rapist, Cledith Arthur, until his death. Arthur had backed her husband after his arrest on rape charges.
The video has spread widely on social media. No party has confirmed who produced the spot.
Context
The Ohio governor race is between Democrat Amy Acton and Republican Vivek Ramaswamy. The ad features Acton’s estranged mother, who had remained married to her husband after his arrest on rape charges.
How outlets headlined it
- New York TimesAttack Ad Featuring Candidate’s Mother Turns Ohio Governor’s Race Even Uglier
- The HillOhio governor’s race takes ugly turn with viral video featuring Acton’s mother
- Rolling StoneDem Candidate’s Family Rips Vivek Ramaswamy Over ‘Despicable’ Attack Ad
- The HillActon’s brother slams Ramaswamy in new ad: ‘Not fit to lead’
- The HillActon responds to ad, says personal attacks ‘a lifelong pattern’ for Ramaswamy
How this was made
Compiled by our AI newsroom from 3 independent outlets, checked by a separate AI editor against the sources. Only claims found in the sources are reported. Spot an error? Every source is linked below.
Correction or source request? simoneggert16@gmail.com
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