Former Ohio Health Director Dr. Amy Acton Announces Run for Governor in 2026

Dr. Amy Acton is the first democrat to announce a run for Governor of Ohio.

The former Ohio Health Department Director, who became famous during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, announced on Tuesday that she will seek the Democratic nomination in the 2026 Primary.

She resigned from her position as Ohio Health Director on June 11, 2020 after Republican state legislators introduced bills intended to limit her emergency powers.

Dr. Amy Acton released the following statement after filing papers to run for Governor of Ohio:

“I grew up in Youngstown under difficult circumstances. I remember what it was like to feel hungry, worry about where I would sleep, and how I would stay warm. At times I felt invisible–and I know that so many Ohioans feel the same way.

“My entire career I’ve been listening to Ohioans, whether it was working with the Governor or as a doctor, and I’ve developed a deep connection with people across our state. People share their struggles with me and how hard they work to keep up with the cost of groceries, childcare, healthcare, and other expenses. They feel left behind and like no one cares.

“I’m a doctor, not a politician. I solve problems by bringing people together regardless of party to find solutions. So unlike most of our leaders I know the answer to moving our state forward isn’t giving politicians more power, it’s giving people more freedom.

“Today, I filed papers to run for Governor because I refuse to look away from Ohioans who are struggling while self-serving politicians and special interests take our state in the wrong direction. It’s time to give power back to the people and our communities. It’s time for a change.

“I believe we can build an Ohio where our people have a little breathing room–an Ohio where your zip code doesn’t determine success. An Ohio that empowers local communities, not politicians. An Ohio with good-paying jobs, safe neighborhoods and thriving businesses where people can raise their families, age with dignity, and lead a happy and healthy life.

“I look forward to spending these next few months talking with you about the challenges you face and the dreams you have for your families. Together we will build the Ohio we know is possible.”

Dr. Acton invites you to learn more and join her campaign by visiting www.actonforgovernor.com.

Republican Governor Mike DeWine is term-limited.

So far on the Republican side, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has plans to run for the position.

Current Lt. Governor Jon Husted is considered to be the front-runner to be appointed to fill the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Vice President-Elect J.D. Vance, who will be inaugurated on January 20.

Governor DeWine must announce his pick by that date.