Ohio governor race jolted by attack ad featuring Amy Acton’s mother
Ad prompts sharp condemnation
The ad features Acton’s estranged mother criticizing her and backing Ramaswamy. Its origins are unknown. Acton’s campaign and her brother denounced it as a “despicable low.” Stearns said Ramaswamy was trying to make political use of sexual abuse Acton experienced at age 12. He said the abuse was committed by the husband of their birth mother, who remained married to him until he died.
Ramaswamy campaign responds
Connie Luck, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy, did not answer whether his campaign paid for the ad. In a statement Tuesday, she said the campaign did not know what had happened between Acton and her mother.
Acton has discussed childhood
Acton told The Vindicator seven years ago that she last saw her mother at a courthouse after her mother was charged. She recalled trying to kiss her, but said her mother turned her cheek away. Her campaign says that court date was their last meeting.
Key points
- The attack ad’s origins and funding are unclear.
- The ad features Acton’s estranged mother criticizing her and backing Ramaswamy.
- Acton’s brother condemned the ad and accused Ramaswamy of exploiting her childhood abuse.
- Acton has led in polls over the last month.