Ramaswamy done at DOGE, Ohio gubernatorial campaign launch expected early next week: sources

Former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is stepping down from his role at President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, according to a source close to the multimillionaire biotech entrepreneur. Ramaswamy, who was appointed by Trump alongside Elon Musk in November, is expected to launch a campaign for Ohio governor next week.

With Ohio Governor Mike DeWine term-limited and unable to seek re-election in 2026, the field is open for new candidates. DeWine recently announced that Lt. Gov. Jon Husted would fill the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by former Sen. JD Vance. This move has prompted Ramaswamy to shift his focus towards a gubernatorial campaign.

Ramaswamy, who gained popularity during his presidential bid in 2023, campaigned on an “America First 2.0” agenda and was a strong supporter of Trump. He dropped out of the presidential race after a fourth-place finish in the Iowa caucuses and quickly endorsed Trump, becoming a key surrogate on the campaign trail.

His departure from the DOGE initiative allows Musk, Trump’s top donor and ally, to take the lead without having to share the spotlight. The decision comes after Ramaswamy and Musk faced backlash from some of Trump’s supporters for their support of H-1B temporary worker visas for highly skilled workers from foreign countries.

Ohio, once a key battleground state, has shifted towards the Republican party in recent years. Ramaswamy’s potential run for governor could further solidify the state’s red status in future elections.

As Ramaswamy prepares to launch his campaign for governor, the political landscape in Ohio is set for a new chapter. His focus on government efficiency and America First policies may resonate with voters in the state, setting the stage for an interesting race ahead.