Amy Acton responds to 'despicable' Ohio attack ad

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton has vehemently denounced a recent Ohio attack ad featuring her estranged mother, calling the advertisement "despicable." The ad, produced by the campaign of her Republican opponent Vivek Ramaswamy, features Acton's mother, Donna Arthur, who makes claims that Acton has lied about her difficult childhood, including experiencing homelessness and sexual abuse. Acton asserts that her mother is unwell and being exploited for political gain.

Acton and her brother were removed from their mother's custody at age 12 after their stepfather was indicted for raping Acton. Acton has not had contact with her mother since a courtroom interaction in 1978, and her accounts of childhood hardship, including living in a tent and the abuse she suffered, are corroborated by court records and past media reports.

The controversial ad, which initially circulated online without proper disclosure of its origin, has drawn bipartisan criticism, with some prominent Republicans, including current Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, urging its removal. Despite the backlash, the Ramaswamy campaign confirmed its responsibility for the ad and committed to a multi-million dollar promotional push. Reports suggest the ad's release has influenced public opinion, potentially shifting the Ohio governor's race in Acton's favor ahead of the November 3 general election.