Vivek Ramaswamy’s Focus Moves Away From DOGE To THIS Race

Vivek Ramaswamy, former presidential candidate and DOGE co-leader, sets his sights on Ohio’s top job.

At a Glance

  • Vivek Ramaswamy is preparing to launch a bid for Ohio Governor
  • He has secured top political advisers from JD Vance’s team
  • Ramaswamy recently left the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) project
  • His campaign announcement is expected in mid-February
  • The 2026 Ohio Gubernatorial race is shaping up to be competitive

Ramaswamy’s Political Aspirations

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is gearing up for a new political challenge as he prepares to enter the Ohio Gubernatorial race. Following his departure from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a project he co-led with Elon Musk under President Trump’s administration, Ramaswamy is now setting his sights on state leadership.

Sources close to Ramaswamy’s campaign planning have indicated that he is expected to make his candidacy official in the coming weeks. “Expect Vivek to announce his candidacy in mid-February,” a source involved in the planning told NBC News. This move signals Ramaswamy’s commitment to pursuing elected office and his vision for Ohio’s future.

Ramaswamy is assembling a formidable campaign team, drawing talent from various political circles. He has secured top political advisers from Vice President JD Vance’s team, including Andy Surabian and Jai Chabria. Additionally, Tony Fabrizio, a pollster from Vance’s 2022 Senate bid, and Arthur Schwartz, an ally to Vance and Trump Jr., have joined Ramaswamy’s team.

“He’s leaving on good terms with Trump, Elon and the team,” a source familiar with Ramaswamy’s thinking said.

The campaign will also include veterans from Ramaswamy’s 2024 presidential run, such as Ben Yoho, Michael Biundo, and Chris Grant. This blend of experienced political operatives suggests a well-organized and strategic approach to the upcoming Gubernatorial race.

The 2026 Ohio Gubernatorial race is shaping up to be highly competitive. With term-limited Governor Mike DeWine set to leave office, several prominent Republicans are eyeing the position. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has already declared his candidacy for the GOP nomination, and state Treasurer Robert Sprague plans to enter the race.

Ramaswamy’s national profile and ties to Trump could give him an edge, but his limited experience on Ohio ballots may present a challenge. The former presidential candidate will need to leverage his business background and recent political experience to resonate with Ohio voters.

Vision for Ohio

In recent interviews, Ramaswamy has hinted at his vision for Ohio’s future. He emphasized the importance of federalism and states leading constitutional revival efforts. “When you’re talking about a constitutional revival, it’s not just done through the federal government, it’s done through federalism where states also lead the way so I’ll be saying more on that very shortly,” Ramaswamy stated.

His focus on economic growth, particularly in developing the Ohio River Valley into a key economic region, aligns with broader conservative goals of strengthening American economic power. Ramaswamy’s experience in the private sector and his recent role in government efficiency initiatives could shape his approach to state governance.

As Ramaswamy prepares to officially enter the race, Ohio voters will be watching closely to see how he translates his national political experience into a vision for state leadership. With a competitive field of candidates and high stakes for Ohio’s future, the 2026 gubernatorial race promises to be a closely watched contest in the Buckeye State.