Ramaswamy torches Dem rival over ‘outrageous’ COVID-19 claim: ‘Spewing lies’
Ohio Democratic gubernatorial nominee Amy Acton has drawn criticism from Republican rival Vivek Ramaswamy after referring to COVID-19 mortality rates as having reached 50% during the pandemic. Ramaswamy called the claim “outrageous” and accused her of repeating falsehoods to defend decisions made during Ohio’s lockdown period, making the dispute a focal point in the governor’s race.
The report says Acton made the remarks in a September 2025 interview, apparently referring to the early stages of the pandemic. Her opponents argue that the figure exaggerates COVID-19’s overall fatality rate, while Acton’s comments appear intended to stress the uncertainty and perceived severity facing public-health officials at the time.
- Acton’s COVID mortality claim sparked criticism from Ramaswamy.
- Ramaswamy says the 50% figure is false and inflammatory.
- The row centres on Ohio’s pandemic-era restrictions.