Vivek Ramaswamy’s Amy Acton ad makes a false – and sickening – argument

Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign released an ad featuring the former mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, who is now a physician and public health official. The ad depicts Acton's aging mother accusing her daughter of dishonesty, implying that she is lying about the sexual abuse she suffered as a child from Acton's stepfather. However, the ad fails to provide context or explanation for the estrangement between Acton and her mother, who also claims that her daughter is dishonest.

The ad's timing suggests desperation on the part of Ramaswamy's team, as they are likely reacting to unfavorable internal polls. However, the attack is not only morally reprehensible but also unconvincing. The ad implies that Acton is both lying about the abuse and mentally unfit for public office due to the trauma. This contradictory claim cannot hold up under scrutiny, as it suggests that someone who was sexually abused should be disqualified from holding political power.

Ramaswamy and his supporters have defended the ad, claiming it is simply pointing out a flaw in Acton's character. However, this defense is flawed and contradictory. The ad implies that being a victim of sexual abuse disqualifies someone from participating in politics, elevating the abuser above the victim. This perspective is both ignorant and dangerous, suggesting that the world should be divided into two categories: those who wield power and those who are powerless.

The reality is that many adults who experienced childhood sexual abuse, like Acton, have overcome their trauma and achieved great things. They have built fulfilling lives and continue to contribute positively to their communities. The ad's message that abuse makes someone unfit for power is not only false but also harmful to those who have survived such experiences.