Vivek Ramaswamy Leans On Political Pro As Running Mate To Offset Lack Of Governing Experience

India-West News Desk

CINCINNATI, OH — GOP front runner Vivek Ramaswamy’s campaign is sharpening its case about governing Ohio, and it is leaning heavily on his choice of running mate to make that argument as a key endorsement now falls into place.

At a January 7 event in Cleveland introducing state Senate President Rob McColley as his pick for lieutenant governor, Ramaswamy emphasized what he wants from the partnership if he gets into office as Governor: a governing partner who understands the legislature and can help turn campaign priorities into law. Ramaswamy’s lack of any governing experience has been seen as a handicap.

That framing of the running mate pick gained new momentum this week after Ohio Governor Mike DeWine formally endorsed the ticket. The endorsement is notable for its timing. DeWine had so far held back in throwing his weight behind Ramaswamy.

DeWine highlighted McColley as a decisive factor, calling the choice of lieutenant governor the “first important decision a governor makes,” and describing McColley as a “strong, well respected leader in the General Assembly who brings geographic balance to the ticket.”

McColley also adds a regional dimension the campaign says is essential. A resident of Napoleon in northwest Ohio, he is meant to signal that a Ramaswamy administration would not be focused solely on urban and suburban areas.