The 2026 race for Ohio governor is shaping up to be a nail-biter. A new poll commissioned by the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT) shows Democrat Dr. Amy Acton statistically tied with Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, though Acton holds a significant edge in voter favorability and key demographics.

The survey, conducted by Hart Research among 800 likely Ohio voters, found Acton leading Ramaswamy by one point — 46% to 45% — well within the poll’s margin of error. Despite Republicans outnumbering Democrats among respondents (49% to 41%), Acton performed strongly with independent voters (+21), suburban residents (+13), and women (+14).

Acton, who served as Ohio’s director of public health under Gov. Mike DeWine during the COVID-19 pandemic, earned a +14 net favorability rating statewide. Ramaswamy, by contrast, posted just +1, dragged down by -14 among independents.

Acton’s COVID-19 record boosts support

The poll also found that Acton’s handling of Ohio’s pandemic response — once considered a political liability — could instead be an asset. Nearly half of voters (47%) said they feel more favorable toward her after being reminded of her role leading Ohio through the early pandemic response. Even when presented with criticisms of her mitigation measures, 43% still reacted more favorably, compared to 40% less.

“There were no easy decisions during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Shari Obrenski, president of the Cleveland Teachers Union and OFT’s first vice president. “Cynical pundits have claimed Ohio voters will hold this against her, but this data shows there are just as many, if not more, voters who are grateful and more likely to support her because of her leadership.”

Ramaswamy faces skepticism on policy

Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and 2024 GOP presidential candidate, has faced criticism from labor and education groups for supporting the elimination of Ohio’s income tax and for proposals to curtail collective bargaining for teachers.

“Our members are very concerned about Vivek Ramaswamy’s extreme views,” said Melissa Cropper, president of the OFT. “This polling shows our members are not alone in seeking a candidate who will lift up Ohio workers and communities instead of one focused on tearing us down.”

The data also suggests Ramaswamy’s message is struggling to resonate beyond his party base. Despite high name recognition and an eight-point GOP advantage in sample makeup, the Republican candidate failed to secure a clear lead.

A test of Ohio’s political balance

For Acton, the poll underscores her potential to appeal to voters across party lines. Kevin Dalton, president of the Toledo Federation of Teachers, said the findings reflect that bipartisanship and a focus on public education could be key themes in the campaign.

“When voters learn more about Amy Acton, including her record of bipartisanship, her support for public education, and her personal journey working her way out of poverty and putting herself through college and medical school, she gains support,” Dalton said.

As the 2026 election cycle begins to take shape, both candidates are expected to court suburban and independent voters who could decide the outcome of what’s already shaping up to be one of the nation’s most closely watched gubernatorial races.

“This latest poll is yet another piece of evidence that Ohioans know Dr. Amy Acton is the best candidate to fight back against billionaire Washington insider Vivek Ramaswamy and finally bring much needed relief to families across the state who are struggling with rising costs,” said Philip Stein, campaign manager for Ohioans for Amy Acton. “Amy’s difficult upbringing and career as a doctor provide the perfect contrast with Vivek Ramaswamy as he flies around Ohio in his private jet calling Ohioans lazy, refusing to release the Epstein files, and pushing a special interest agenda that will make life even more unaffordable.”