Ohio Governor Candidates Reveal Stark Financial Divide

Vivek Ramaswamy reports over $1.1M in income, while Amy Acton discloses just 62 cents in interest

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:55pm

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A highly abstract, fragmented painting in warm earth tones and cool blues, depicting the Ohio state capitol building in a fractured, geometric style that evokes a sense of political and economic turmoil.The contrasting financial profiles of the Ohio gubernatorial candidates reflect the state's economic divides and the competing visions they offer voters.Youngstown Today

Financial disclosure reports filed by the leading candidates for Ohio governor, Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton, reveal a stark contrast in their personal wealth and income. Ramaswamy, a 40-year-old billionaire entrepreneur, reported over $1.1 million in dividends and capital gains in 2025, while Acton, a 60-year-old medical doctor, disclosed just 62 cents in interest from her checking account.

Why it matters

The financial disclosures provide insight into the candidates' backgrounds and potential conflicts of interest, as Ohio voters weigh their choices for the next governor. Acton's working-class roots and Ramaswamy's vast wealth have become central themes in the campaign, highlighting the economic divide between the two frontrunners.

The details

Ramaswamy's filing lists over 130 sources of income and more than 100 investment holdings worth at least $1,000 each, including stakes in companies like Blackberry, Halliburton, and his own venture capital fund Narya Capital. In contrast, Acton's report shows just one business, Dr. Amy Acton, LLC, and 121 investments, including holdings in tobacco companies Philip Morris International and Imperial Brands.

  • The financial disclosure reports were filed on Monday as required by state law.
  • The November election will determine the next governor of Ohio, replacing Republican Mike DeWine.

The players

Vivek Ramaswamy

A 40-year-old billionaire entrepreneur who reported over $1.1 million in income in 2025 from dividends and capital gains on his multi-million dollar portfolio of stock holdings.

Amy Acton

A 60-year-old medical doctor who previously served as Ohio's state health department director and is now a full-time candidate, disclosing just 62 cents in interest from her checking account.

David Pepper

Acton's running mate, who disclosed holding more than 360 different investments worth at least $1,000, reflecting his family's background in business and philanthropy.

Rob McColley

Ramaswamy's running mate, a sitting state senator who reported his $122,000 Senate salary as the highest disclosed range, along with less than $10,000 from private legal work and investments.

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What they’re saying

“My opponent will remind you on a daily basis that I'm a billionaire. I will tell you I was not born a billionaire. I was not born a millionaire. I was not born an anything-aire.”

— Vivek Ramaswamy, Gubernatorial Candidate

“You know, you don't make money while you're running for governor.”

— Amy Acton, Gubernatorial Candidate

What’s next

The November election will determine the next governor of Ohio, replacing Republican Mike DeWine.

The takeaway

The stark financial divide between the two leading Ohio gubernatorial candidates highlights the economic disparities in the state and the differing backgrounds and priorities of Ramaswamy and Acton as they compete for the governorship.