Trump heads to Ohio as Ramaswamy ad stirs fight over custody history

President Donald Trump is scheduled to hold a campaign rally in Chillicothe, Ohio, on Wednesday. The stop arrives less than a week before Election Day amid rising tension in the state's governor's race.

The controversy centers on a viral attack ad released by the campaign of Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. The commercial features the estranged mother of Democratic opponent Dr. Amy Acton calling her daughter a liar. Critics argue the video leaves out key details regarding Acton's childhood. Acton and her brother were removed from their mother's custody after Acton's stepfather was charged with sexually abusing her.

Acton responded to the ad at a recent campaign event. “My opponent has chosen to exploit my childhood to save his struggling campaign, but it’s not going to work,” Acton said.

Lawmakers from both parties have criticized the spot, including Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine. Ramaswamy defended the decision to air the commercial, arguing voters should hear the allegations directly. Trump has also supported the ad, stating, “The mother said terrible things. Anybody seeing that would say, no way I’m voting for her.”

Recent polling suggests Democrats are gaining ground in Ohio. The race for the U.S. Senate seat is also competitive. Republican Sen. Jon Husted faces a challenge from Democrat Sherrod Brown. Brown is attempting a political comeback after losing his Senate seat in 2024 to Trump endorsed candidate Sen. Bernie Moreno.

The rally in Chillicothe will draw attention to the outcome of the Senate race, which could determine which party controls the chamber.