Ramaswamy, originally involved in President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), withdrew from his federal position to pursue state-level impact.
He and Elon Musk co-led DOGE after Trump's November 2024 reelection, where they aimed to streamline federal operations. Ramaswamy left his federal role as the new presidential term began in January.
After departing from DOGE, Ramaswamy announced that his political future would best be served at the state level, where real change can be implemented. This decision led him to formally enter the Ohio governor's race on February 15, marking his first foray into elected office.
The Appeal of DOGE’s Principles in Ohio
Although not the entirety of his platform, Ramaswamy has expressed clear intentions to bring some aspects of DOGE's efficiencies and deregulatory measures to Ohio, aiming to make government operations more streamlined. In a recent interview, he emphasized the need for this shift, hoping to inspire other states by example.
However, Ramaswamy emphasizes that while his gubernatorial plans inherit some DOGE philosophies, they are not a direct translation of his work under Trump. He believes that the principles of effective and efficient governance can benefit Ohio, particularly in education.
One of Ramaswamy’s major campaign themes includes enhancing meritocracy in education by proposing merit-based compensation for teachers.
He argues that this approach will attract and retain high-quality educators, transforming Ohio into a hub for educational excellence.
"The best teachers deserve to be paid much more than they are right now, and yet they’re not, because there’s no meritocracy in compensation," Ramaswamy stated, suggesting that these reforms could draw the nation's top educators to Ohio.
Dave Yost, serving as Ohio's Attorney General since 2019, presents formidable competition with his gubernatorial campaign already well funded and his platform echoing concerns similar to DOGE’s efficiency focus. Yost, who recently announced his run for governor, has raised close to $2.5 million for his campaign.
Yost has been an advocate for efficiency in government similar to the principles espoused by DOGE, often phrasing his past initiatives as preemptively adopting DOGE's reforms. "DOGE before DOGE was cool," Yost remarked, highlighting his long-standing commitment to similar reforms.
Yost Questions Ramaswamy’s Commitment
The Attorney General has been vocal about his skepticism regarding Ramaswamy's shifting political goals.
Having observed his brief stints in various high-profile roles, Yost questions whether the gubernatorial position is merely a "consolation prize" for Ramaswamy after other aspirations.
"He has wanted, over the last year, to be president, to have a Cabinet spot, to be co-leader of DOGE. The governor of Ohio is not a consolation prize. … My concern is that what he seems to do best is to quit," Yost expressed, casting doubt on Ramaswamy's resolve and suitability for the governorship.
Yost also contrasts his experience with Ramaswamy's newer entry into politics, highlighting the difference in their capabilities.
"It’s the difference between somebody who can give a speech and somebody who can do a job. I just candidly think I’m much better prepared to bring bold leadership to Ohio," he stated, underlining his preparedness and experience.