Amy Acton's Past Relationships Scrutinized in Ohio Governor Race

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Amy Acton, the presumptive Democratic nominee for Ohio governor, married her son's high school track coach months after both she and the coach ended their previous marriages. The events, which were previously discussed in Bexley, Ohio, are receiving renewed attention as Acton campaigns against Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy.

Why it matters

Personal histories often become focal points during political campaigns, particularly in closely contested races. The scrutiny of these details can influence voter perception and potentially impact campaign narratives.

The details

Acton, 60, is a physician and formerly served as Ohio's director of Public Health under Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, gaining public recognition during pandemic press conferences. Acton's marriage to Eric Acton, 64, followed separate divorces. Amy Acton's divorce from Douglas Beech was finalized in June 2008, after the couple separated four months prior, citing 'irreconcilable differences.' Eric Acton's divorce from Barbara Davis-Acton was finalized in February 2010, after Davis-Acton filed in May 2009, stating they were 'incompatible' and had lived 'separate and apart' for one year. The timeline coincided with Amy Acton's son's participation on the cross country team at Bexley High School, where Eric Acton was the coach. Eric Acton resigned from his coaching position, citing a need for 'more time for myself,' according to the Columbus Dispatch.

• Amy Acton's divorce from Douglas Beech was finalized in June 2008.
• Eric Acton's divorce from Barbara Davis-Acton was finalized in February 2010.
• Amy and Eric Acton married on July 2, 2010.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Ramaswamy campaign declined to comment on the matter, but as the election draws nearer, this past scrutiny could affect voters' decisions in the Ohio gubernatorial race.