Ohio Gubernatorial Candidate Amy Acton Denounces Anonymous Attack Ad Featuring Estranged Mother

POLICY WIRE — Columbus, Ohio — Dr. Amy Acton, the Democratic contender for Ohio governor, issued a sharp rebuke on Tuesday regarding an anonymous online advertisement that features her long-estranged mother labeling her a liar and questioning her mental stability.

The video surfaced overnight, arriving just two weeks before the upcoming election. Acton, who previously served as Ohio’s public health director, is currently locked in a competitive race against Republican billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy, a candidate who has benefited from over $120 million in outside spending.

The digital spot lacks the legally mandated disclosure tags required for television broadcasts, leaving its origin and funding sources unclear. While the video spread rapidly across social media, it remains unknown if Acton’s mother, Donna Arthur, received compensation for her participation.

Acton directly linked the campaign tactic to her opponent, stating that she refuses to normalize the behavior of someone who dismisses her childhood experiences. She noted that she was removed from her mother’s custody at age 12 due to severe abuse and neglect, including sexual assault.

Ramaswamy’s campaign spokeswoman, Connie Luck, did not confirm or deny involvement in the ad, stating only that Acton has serious issues with the truth that the public should consider. Acton’s brother, Philip Stearns, corroborated the candidate’s history, confirming they were removed from their mother’s home after their stepfather, Cledith Arthur, was indicted for raping Acton in 1978.

Court records confirm that Cledith Arthur was charged with the rape of his 12-year-old stepdaughter in July 1978 after being reported by Acton’s biological father. He remained a fugitive for years following his indictment and has since passed away.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)