POLITICS

Acton names Pepper; Ramaswamy selects McColley for lieutenant

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

60-Second Summary

COLUMBUS, Ohio. Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton named former Ohio Democratic Party chair David Pepper as her running mate Wednesday, announcing him at an affordability-focused event. Pepper, a lawyer and former Cincinnati city councilman and county commissioner, led foreclosure prevention and local tax initiatives, according to campaign statements. Republican Vivek Ramaswamy selected Ohio Senate President Rob McColley as his lieutenant governor pick the same day. Both campaigns said the choices add governing experience to outsider-led tickets and advance themes of affordability and integrity as they prepare for the 2026 election. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

About this summary

This 60-second summary was prepared by the JQJO editorial team after reviewing 11 original reports from Daily Mail Online, Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer, FOX19 WXIX TV, WEWS, WCPO, https://www.cleveland19.com, 2 News Nevada, WKYC 3 Cleveland, Cleveland, http://www.wtol.com and WOUB Public Media.

Timeline of Events

Both major-party candidates announced running mates on the same Wednesday.
Acton introduced David Pepper publicly at an affordability-focused event in Columbus area.
Ramaswamy introduced Rob McColley at a campaign event emphasizing governance and efficiency.
Outlets reported backgrounds, prior offices, and campaign rationales for each selection.
Both tickets planned statewide campaigning and messaging shifts ahead of the 2026 election.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

Amy Acton’s campaign gained operational experience, political networks, and a prominent Democratic organizer in David Pepper to bolster outreach and messaging ahead of the 2026 campaign.

Who Impacted

Opposing campaigns and incumbents may face amplified scrutiny on corruption and affordability after Acton emphasized anti-corruption and cost-of-living themes during the joint announcement.

Expert Opinion