New Times Square Billboard Urges New Yorkers to Move to Ohio

A new advertisement in Times Square, which launched Monday, prompts New Yorkers to “escape” Zohran Mamdani and relocate to Ohio.

This campaign, featuring digital billboards, is financed by “Vivek Super PAC – Victors, Not Activists,” which backs Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican candidate for governor in Ohio.

Costing $50,000, the ad portrays Ramaswamy, who is 39, as a foil to the 33-year-old Mamdani, a socialist who recently clinched the Democratic primary for mayor of New York City. Interestingly, both politicians share Indian roots and have emerged as significant figures in their respective parties.

The billboard challenges viewers with, “Are you worried about Zohran? Ohio is waiting for you!”

Andys Lavian, the chief strategist for the super PAC, mentioned that New Yorkers should consider moving to a state that is “pursuing conservative pioneers committed to freedom and prosperity for all.”

“Mamdani is dragging New York City down further into what we see as work-killing socialist tyranny, while Vivek is poised to rejuvenate freedom, inspire American dreams, and elevate Ohio,” Lavian remarked.

He added, “We felt this ad was necessary to highlight two politicians symbolizing vastly different paths for our country’s future. For New Yorkers enjoying freedom and prosperity, we’re ready to welcome you in Ohio.”

This billboard campaign will be featured in Times Square throughout the week.

Mamdani, 33, won the Democratic primary last month and is favored to succeed in the general election.

Incumbent mayor Eric Adams, who is running as an independent, faces off against Mamdani, similar to the situation with former governor Andrew Cuomo.

Despite its affordable living conditions, Ohio has been noted as the 20th most popular state for New Yorkers moving there, according to Census Bureau data from 2022.

The Pro-Ramaswamy Super PAC has accumulated $17 million to support his run for governor in 2026.

Ramaswamy has recently gained visibility as a candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. At one point, he was placed third in polls heavily influenced by President Trump.

There will be limited public votes leading up to the governor’s race next November, but a recent survey indicates Ramaswamy has taken a significant lead in the GOP field, with a commanding 50% margin.

Mamdani’s campaign has not yet provided any comments regarding the advertisement.