‘Indian running cover for a Jew’: Internet reacts to Vivek Ramaswamy defending Democratic rival Amy Acton

Republican Ohio governor candidate and Indian-American leader Vivek Ramaswamy defended his Democratic rival Amy Acton after a social media post attacked her Jewish religion.

The exchange took place on X, where a social media user mocked both candidates in Ohio: “Ohio is cooked. Your choices for Governor are the Jewish covid lady and Vivek. Heads they win tails you lose.”




Ramaswamy responded to the comment and called it anti-American: “There’s a lot wrong with my Democrat opponent, but her Jewish faith isn’t on the list. Back off, anti-American."

The post surprised some users, given the political rivalry between the two candidates before the 2026 Ohio governor race.

Social media response:

• An Indian running cover for a jew. What else is new?
• Conservatism means conserving white Christian mostly Protestant identity. You sound more like a Democrat when you say our values unite us not the race.
• You are in no position to tell anyone who is or is not an American.
• Did you just say anti American? I know you didn't. It's just an idea remember? A facade.
• Zionist is though...which both of you are.

Acton is a Democrat who previously served as director of the Ohio Department of Health and became a known public figure during the Covid-19 pandemic, when she helped lead the state’s response. She has said her priority is supporting working families.

Meanwhile, Ramaswamy is a Republican businessman and ex-DOGE lead, who has secured the endorsement of the Ohio Republican Party and has built strong backing among party leaders.

Polling suggests a tight race. An Emerson College survey found Acton on 46 per cent support and Ramaswamy on 45 per cent.