Ohio Republicans have responded to a controversial campaign ad from Vivek Ramaswamy amid mounting criticism, according to CNN's live midterm election coverage. The ad, which aired in Ohio's governor race, features the estranged mother of Ramaswamy's opponent, Amy Acton, accusing her daughter of lying.
The spot has drawn sharp condemnation. CBC reported that Ramaswamy was criticized for what it described as a "revolting" ad centered on Acton's family. The BBC characterized the contest as having "turned ugly" over the attack ad, while WOSU Public Media reported that Acton issued a response to the spot and its accusations.
The backlash has also divided Republicans. Politico reported that Vice President JD Vance dismissed GOP criticism of the ad, telling critics to "stop whining." CNN's reporting focuses on how Ohio Republicans are reacting to the ad as the controversy continues.
The dispute places a personal family matter at the center of a statewide race during the midterm cycle, with reactions emerging from both parties and from within Republican ranks. Acton's own response, as reported by WOSU, adds her voice to the pushback the ad has generated.
What to watch next: whether Ohio Republicans publicly distance themselves from the ad, and how the controversy affects the governor's race as midterm voting continues.