Vivek Ramaswamy’s Ohio campaign faces criticism for extensive out‑of‑state travel

Republican gubernatorial nominee Vivek Ramaswamy has spent roughly 39% of the 2026 calendar year outside Ohio, according to federal flight records. His travel itinerary includes multiple private‑jet trips to locations such as the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos, Greece, Portugal and a July 4‑day visit to Paris and Geneva, prompting scrutiny over his presence in the state during the campaign.

Political analysts note that the Ohio governor’s race, once considered a safe Republican hold, has tightened dramatically. Recent polls show Ramaswamy and Democratic challenger Amy Acton dead‑locked at about 47% each, and the Cook Political Report has reclassified the contest as a toss‑up. Critics argue that the candidate’s out‑of‑state trips, especially the Fourth of July Paris trip, have hurt his standing with Ohio voters despite his Trump endorsement and substantial campaign spending.