Ohio Gubernatorial Race Tightens
A recent survey from Bowling Green State University reveals a close contest in Ohio’s gubernatorial race between Republican Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton. The poll indicates that voters are nearly evenly split, with Democrats slightly ahead by just one percentage point—48% for Acton compared to 47% for Ramaswamy.
When respondents were asked about their preferences for the 2026 governor’s race specifically, Acton, who previously served as the Director of the Ohio Department of Health, had a three-point lead over Ramaswamy, garnering 48% support to his 45%. Interestingly, a majority of those surveyed—62%—believe Ramaswamy will ultimately win, while only 36% expressed confidence in Acton securing a victory.
The survey also covered the Senate race, which is similarly competitive. Republican Jon Husted holds a slight three-point edge over former Senator Sherrod Brown, with support at 48% versus 45%. Moreover, when respondents shared their predictions about the Senate outcome, 53% leaned toward Husted, while 45% favored Brown.
In terms of pressing issues, the economy and inflation topped the concerns among respondents, followed by government corruption, healthcare, threats to democracy, and immigration.
Notably, 61% of Ohioans surveyed feel the country is on the wrong track, and 52% share similar sentiments about Ohio’s direction. In terms of economic conditions, 44% indicated that their financial situations have worsened—either somewhat or significantly—while only 17% feel that things have improved.
This poll was conducted from September 1 to 10, 2026, with 1,000 likely Ohio voters participating and a margin of error of +/- 4%. This narrow margin adds uncertainty to both the gubernatorial and Senate races.
Acton has remarked that Ohio is “ground zero” in the national political landscape. She has also chosen not to debate Ramaswamy, with her campaign manager arguing that doing so would elevate a figure they view as spreading unfounded claims.
Meanwhile, the Cook Political Report currently categorizes the Senate race as a tossup.
