COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced on Friday, May 16, 2025, that he is suspending his campaign for governor, citing a desire to avoid division within his party and state. The decision was shared with supporters via email, marking a significant shift in Ohio’s political landscape.
In his message, Yost emphasized that his motivation for public service has always been rooted in doing “Big Good,” a principle guiding his work as attorney general. “It’s never been about me. Public service is in my blood… It’s why I decided to offer myself as a candidate for governor. It’s also why I am suspending my campaign today,” he wrote.
Reflecting on his recent travels across Ohio, Yost highlighted his renewed connection with the state’s resilient people, rich history, and economic vitality. However, he acknowledged the formidable challenge ahead, stating, “A steep climb to the nomination for governor has become a vertical cliff. I do not wish to divide my political party or my state with a quixotic battle over the small differences between my vision and that of my opponent. I am simply not that important.”
Yost expressed concern about the gubernatorial comeback attempt by Sherrod Brown, warning that progressive policies could jeopardize Ohio’s prosperity. “Our state has challenges ahead, but we are not Washington, D.C. Columbus needs re-engineering, not demolition. Sherrod Brown and the risky progressive ideas of his party will unwind all of the good that the last 15 years of Republican leadership has brought,” he noted.
The attorney general, whose term extends until January 2027, affirmed his commitment to continue serving Ohio. “I will continue to fight for Ohio and Ohioans during that time—and I suspect that this is not my final chapter. There is fire in my bones for justice,” he added. Yost also shared a personal note, urging supporters to place their faith in God rather than human leaders, quoting poet Eugene Peterson.
After consulting with trusted advisors, Yost thanked those who supported his campaign and those who offered prayers. “I am especially grateful to those who have pledged to climb the vertical cliff with me anyway, pitons and ropes,” he said.
The suspension leaves the gubernatorial race without one of its prominent contenders, shifting focus to the remaining candidates as the election cycle progresses. This leaves Vivek Ramaswamy with a clearer path in the Republican primary. Vivek is a President Trump-backed candidate who recently received an endorsement from the Ohio Republican Party.
