Trump defends Ramaswamy ad with Acton's estranged mom after bipartisan criticism

President Donald Trump defended a controversial campaign ad by Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy after widespread bipartisan criticism. The ad features Ramaswamy’s Democratic rival Amy Acton’s estranged mother, Donna Arthur, who says Acton has “lied her entire life.” Trump’s defense came Thursday as the backlash spread across political lines. The dispute centers on personal allegations presented in campaign advertising during Ohio’s gubernatorial race. Trump and Ramaswamy appeared together at an election rally at the Covelli Centre in Youngstown, Ohio, on Oct. 12, 2026. The story is being updated as more reaction develops.