Trump defends Vivek Ramaswamy’s Acton attack ad despite bipartisan backlash

WorldPolitics
23 Oct 2026 • 4:36 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump defends Vivek Ramaswamy’s Acton attack ad despite bipartisan backlash

  • President Donald Trump defended Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy for running a controversial attack ad featuring opponent Dr. Amy Acton’s estranged mother.
  • The ad features Donna Arthur calling her daughter a liar, despite Acton not speaking to her mother in decades following childhood abuse and custody loss.
  • Trump praised the video as very powerful on Truth Social, encouraged Ramaswamy to keep airing it, and criticized Republicans like Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for opposing it.
  • Acton’s campaign denounced the ad as a despicable low, while critics from both political parties warned the tactic could backfire on Republicans.
  • Ramaswamy defended the ad as legitimate and accused Acton of avoiding debates on substantive issues ahead of the November 3 gubernatorial election.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved