Dr. Amy Acton will be Ohio’s next governor, defeating her Republican opponent Vivek Ramaswamy in a heated race that has gained national attention in recent weeks over a controversial attack-ad against the Democrat.

On Tuesday evening, AP called the race for Acton, who previously served as the director of the state’s health department during the COVID-19 pandemic, reporting that she won 50.8% of the vote with 86% of votes counted. Ramaswamy, who was backed by President Donald Trump, earned 45.9% of the vote, according to AP.

Acton’s victory marks the first time in two decades that Ohioans have elected a Democrat to the governorship. It represents a significant blow to Republicans, who initially liked their chances in a state that the President won by double digits in the 2024 election.

Ramaswamy attack ad sparks widespread controversy

The race, which was an open battle since current Republican Gov.…