Vivek Ramaswamy is gearing up to declare his candidacy for the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial race with key advisors from the political campaigns of Vice President JD Vance and former President Donald Trump aligning to support his run.

Ramaswamy, a successful biotech entrepreneur and former GOP presidential contender, is preparing for a competitive race for Ohio governor with a team of seasoned political strategists by his side, as Fox News reports.

Sources indicate that Ramaswamy will announce his candidacy in mid-February, presenting himself as a contender to succeed the term-limited GOP Gov. Mike DeWine. His campaign has drawn in top political figures, including Vice President JD Vance's advisors, Andy Surabian and Jai Chabria.

These key political advisors will be instrumental in mounting a strong challenge against other GOP hopefuls, including Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. The collaboration comes following Ramaswamy's endorsement of Trump after an earlier presidential bid of his own.

The connection between Vance and Ramaswamy is long-standing, as the two have been acquaintances since their days at Yale Law School. It was no surprise to insiders when top strategists from Vance's circle decided to join forces with Ramaswamy in the gubernatorial race.

Yost, Ramaswamy Set for Political Showdown

Yost officially declared his candidacy for governor, ensuring a high-profile contest between him and Ramaswamy. Yost has enlisted experienced campaigners, including a former Trump campaign member, to strengthen his team.

In addition to Vance's trusted aides, Ramaswamy's campaign team includes Republican strategists with impressive track records.

Tony Fabrizio and Arthur Schwartz, among others, have joined the effort alongside veterans from Ramaswamy's presidential campaign, such as Ben Yoho, Mike Biundo, and Chris Grant.

Florida Sen. Rick Scott has publicly thrown his support behind Ramaswamy’s run for governor. In a social media post, he emphasized Ramaswamy's dedication to bring change and "save our country," further bolstering the candidate’s credibility among conservative circles.

Strategic Alliances and Political Dynamics

Recently, Vance vacated his position as a U.S. senator to assume his role in the Trump administration. This transition prompted the appointment of Ohio's Lt. Gov. Jon Husted to Vance’s former Senate spot, further shaping the state's political landscape.

Meanwhile, Ramaswamy is strategically leveraging his business expertise and leadership background as part of his gubernatorial narrative.

Supporters, including Mehek Cooke, have highlighted his potential to shake up Columbus politics in a manner similar to aspirations seen in the wider picture of Washington.

The anticipated gubernatorial contest has garnered considerable attention, partially due to Ramaswamy's established credentials as a multimillionaire businessman and former presidential candidate. His track record and connections have positioned him as a formidable candidate to watch.

Public Sentiment and Political Endorsements

Yost's campaign emphasizes his commitment to Ohio's citizens. In his announcement, he expressed his dedication to serving the people of Ohio, underscoring his roots and connection to the state.

The assistance of notable figures like Justin Clark, known for his role in past competitive races, adds a significant strategic layer to Yost’s gubernatorial ambitions. Analysts view the matchup between Ramaswamy and Yost as a reflection of deeper political tensions and opportunities within Ohio’s GOP framework.

Ramaswamy's recent public statements supporting H-1B visas, along with Elon Musk's backing, have sparked mixed reactions within Trump's base. While some welcome this pro-business stance, others are hesitant about its alignment with the broader MAGA ideology.

Implications for Ohio's Political Future

Ultimately, this race sets the stage for a pivotal political battle in Ohio's future. Ramaswamy's entry into the gubernatorial arena has infused the race with excitement and unpredictability, compelling observers and voters to closely monitor developments.

Key figures from previous high-profile campaigns are likely to influence the tactics and strategies employed by both Ramaswamy and Yost. As the date for Ramaswamy's official announcement approaches, political analysts and constituents alike are poised to assess the impact of these heavyweights on Ohio's governance landscape.