Ohio’s Republican Party has thrown its full weight behind Vivek Ramaswamy for governor with a landslide 60-3 endorsement vote — a move that crushes GOP competition and signals a Trump-aligned consolidation of power ahead of the 2026 election. Ramaswamy Surges With Early Endorsement Backed by Trump In a bold and controversial move, the Ohio Republican Party endorsed businessman and America First firebrand Vivek Ramaswamy for governor — a full year before the primary. Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou left no doubt about who’s steering the ship, proclaiming, “We support President Donald Trump, and we support Vivek Ramaswamy for governor.” With Trump’s personal endorsement already in place, this move locks in GOP infrastructure, donors, and momentum behind Ramaswamy, effectively shutting down the primary before it begins. Donald Trump Jr. summed it up: “These are not ordinary times. We have a country to save… and we need Vivek in Ohio.” Yost and Hill Blindsided as GOP Closes Ranks Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost — once considered a top contender — now faces an uphill climb. Despite a solid conservative record, his campaign was blindsided by the closed-door decision. His team is regrouping, but insiders say the party’s stamp of approval on Ramaswamy may have shut the door on any serious challenge. BREAKING The Ohio Republican Party has ENDORSED Vivek Ramaswamy for governor… pic.twitter.com/1JXijBgvwx — American AF (@iAnonPatriot) May 9, 2025 Heather Hill, a grassroots candidate from Morgan County, and even potential names like Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, now face a rigged battlefield with little hope of winning donor or volunteer support. “The people of Ohio deserve a choice, not a premature coronation,” said a Yost spokesperson. Party Unity or Primary Power Grab? While the vote was nearly unanimous, not everyone is cheering. Critics blasted the secretive process and lack of transparency, accusing party leaders of steamrolling the primary and silencing voter choice. Still, the overwhelming 60-3 margin shows most Ohio GOP leaders are embracing a unified front in line with Trump’s America First movement. It was an absolute honor and privilege for Tracy and I to have Our next Ohio Governor in our home. Vivek endorsed me in my campaign when he had nothing to gain. Loyalty goes both ways. His ethical code aligns with my moral compass. Our vision aligns with the future of Ohio and… pic.twitter.com/iwt5N5CUsR — Tim O'Hara (@timoharaforohio) May 1, 2025 By locking in early behind Ramaswamy, Ohio Republicans are betting big on a political outsider with national name recognition and deep pockets. Whether that gamble pays off in the general election — likely against Democrat Amy Acton — will test the strength of Trump’s influence in the Buckeye State. But for now, one thing is clear: the Ohio GOP has made its choice, and his name is Vivek. Sources: Ohio Republican Party Clears the Way for Vivek to Be Swept Into Governor’s Mansion – PJ Media Ohio GOP paves the way for Ramaswamy’s gubernatorial bid – POLITICO