WATCH: Trump defends Ramaswamy's attack ad against Acton amid bipartisan criticism

On Thursday, US President Donald Trump endorsed a Republican candidate's attack ad that featured the Democratic rival's estranged mother, who was unjustly accused of sexual abuse by the Republican's candidate. Vivek Ramaswamy released the ad targeting Amy Acton, accusing her of being a "disaster who lies, cheats, and steals." Trump praised the ad as "so good" and blamed the media for a coordinated attack to undermine Ramaswamy's chances in the Ohio governor's race.

The controversial ad has sparked criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, including the current Ohio governor, Mike DeWine, who called the advertisement "wrong" and urged its removal. Ramaswamy's wife, Arthur, revealed in the ad that her husband had been charged with raping the Democratic candidate as a child. However, DeWine and Acton have dismissed the allegations, stating that they were not aware of the abuse claims.

Acton, 60, expressed her disappointment in Trump's endorsement, stating that if her brother's allegations were true, she had no right to run for governor of Ohio. Trump, on the other hand, defended the ad, arguing that Acton was "fair game" and that he was unaware of the abuse allegations. The attack ad has added to the bitter political climate as voters approach the November 3 US midterms, where numerous governors, senators, and House of Representatives representatives are up for election.