COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a historic victory speech delivered to more than 1,000 cheering supporters at the Hilton Columbus Downtown on Tuesday night, Governor-elect Dr. Amy Acton declared victory in the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial contest, pledging to bridge political divides and usher in a new era of leadership for the Buckeye State.
“This win is for every Ohioan who longs for public servants again—who solve problems instead of make them, who do not mistake kindness for weakness,” Acton said. “And because of your hard work, Ohio has chosen unity and decency over division and hate. The healing begins today.”
Acton, a former director of the Ohio Department of Health who gained national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, defeated Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy following an intense two-and-a-half-year campaign. Addressing voters across the state, Acton emphasized a message of broad unity.
“The campaign is over,” Acton proclaimed. “I want to make something very clear to the people of Ohio: I will be a governor for all Ohioans. My promise to Ohio—to those who voted for me and those who did not—I will work with anyone and everyone, as I always have, to make life better for Ohioans.”
Honoring DeWine’s Legacy and Striking a Bi-Partisan Tone
In a notable moment during her address, the Democratic Governor-elect paid tribute to her former boss, outgoing Republican Governor Mike DeWine, with whom she worked closely as state health director.
“I am incredibly proud of the work I did with Governor DeWine, and I look forward to continuing his work and steadfast commitment to fight for Ohio’s kids,” Acton told the crowd. She added that she looks forward to working collaboratively with members of both parties in the Ohio General Assembly to ensure a smooth transition.
Focusing heavily on economic pressures facing working families, Acton pointed to rising costs of groceries, gasoline, and utilities. “People in this state are struggling. They’re working harder than they ever have, but there’s no more breathing room,” she said. “For me, this isn’t about party. This is about making life better for everyone.”
A Personal Journey from Youngstown to the Executive Residence
Reflecting on her upbringing in Youngstown, Acton shared personal details of overcoming childhood abuse, neglect, and poverty, attributing her success to community members, teachers, and mentors who supported her along the way.
“As a child, experiencing abuse and neglect, I never could have imagined I would be standing up here, the next Governor of Ohio,” Acton said. “This win is for all of us—all of the scrappy kids who have been overlooked, underestimated, or counted out. This is my promise to Ohio: No one will ever be unseen by me.”
Acton offered heartfelt thanks to her running mate, Lieutenant Governor-elect David Pepper, as well as her husband Eric, her children, her campaign team, and her brother, Phil, who joined her on the campaign trail to speak publicly about their shared childhood experiences.
Warning corporate special interests against overreaching, the Governor-elect delivered a firm message as she concluded her speech: “To those who want to exploit our state—do not underestimate this scrappy kid from Youngstown. And do not underestimate the people of Ohio.”
“Tonight, one journey is coming to an end. But a new chapter for Ohio is beginning,” Acton said. “Tonight, let’s celebrate. Tomorrow, let’s get to work.”
