Ohio Governor DeWine appoints Jon Husted to Senate, Leaving Ramaswamy behind

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has chosen his lieutenant governor, Jon Husted, to fill the state’s vacant Senate seat, passing over entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Two anonymous sources confirmed the decision, with DeWine expected to formally announce Husted’s appointment at a press conference later today. Husted, a Republican closely aligned with DeWine’s institutionalist approach, has long been considered a likely contender to succeed DeWine as governor in 2026. His appointment to the Senate now reshapes the political landscape for that race. “He’s a serious guy for very serious times,” one source said of Husted, emphasizing his deep familiarity with Ohio’s political and policy landscape. Husted brings a wealth of experience to the role. Before serving as lieutenant governor, he was speaker of the Ohio House and secretary of state. He will hold the Senate seat until a special election in 2026. Ramaswamy, a billionaire entrepreneur and co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), made a last-minute push for the Senate seat. Despite previously signaling interest in running for governor in 2026, he “lobbied like hell” for the Senate appointment, a source familiar with DeWine’s deliberations said. “It was bizarre,” the source added, describing Ramaswamy’s overtures as misaligned with DeWine’s vision. Ramaswamy’s platform, characterized by populist and isolationist rhetoric during his brief presidential campaign, starkly contrasts with DeWine’s internationalist outlook. The governor’s discomfort with the party’s recent shift toward isolationism likely played a role in his decision. The Senate seat became vacant after J.D. Vance resigned following his swearing-in as vice president. Husted’s selection as senator is expected to ripple through Ohio’s political scene, altering calculations for the 2026 gubernatorial race. Ramaswamy is anticipated to refocus his efforts on policy initiatives at DOGE and prepare for a gubernatorial run, with an announcement expected in the coming weeks, according to two individuals familiar with his plans. Husted’s appointment aligns with DeWine’s preference for steady, experienced leadership, solidifying the governor’s influence in shaping Ohio’s future political direction.