Midterms: Trump und Republikaner streiten über Wahlkampfvideo in Ohio

In the race for Ohio Governor, a disputed campaign video has sparked controversy between President Donald Trump and his Republican allies. Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy sought to portray Democratic opponent Amy Acton's mother as a liar, featuring her in one of his campaign videos. This move drew harsh criticism across party lines.

Acton had spoken about having experienced abuse in her childhood during her own gubernatorial campaign. Consequently, she was depicted as having been raped by her mother's then-partner. Her mother, Donna Arthur, had lost custody of Acton since then. She stated in Ramaswamy's campaign video that Acton had a "serious problem." "She is a liar, and she lies about her past."

Acton's campaign team called the appearance a "despicable" campaign and countered with a statement from Acton's brother, Philip Stearns. He described the video as "despicable" and confirmed that Acton was sexually abused at the age of twelve. Her stepfather confirmed that her biological mother remained married to her rapist after he was arrested and they were taken from her care.

Current Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, called the campaign "extremely, extremely questionable" and urged Ramaswamy's campaign team to remove it. Other Republicans also spoke out against the video. Shortly after, President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, urging Ramaswamy to stick with the video to show what Acton's mother had to say.

Governor DeWine called Ramaswamy "incapable" and "unloyal." "I only wish the mothers of my opponents were as brave as to come forward and declare that their son or daughter is a liar." On November 3rd, mid-term elections are taking place in the United States, including many gubernatorial races.