The 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election, set for November 3, 2026, features a historic matchup between Republican entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Democrat Amy Acton, as incumbent Governor Mike DeWine is term-limited and cannot seek a third consecutive term. Following the May 5 primary, Ramaswamy secured the GOP nomination with running mate Rob McColley, while Acton ran unopposed for the Democratic nomination, choosing David Pepper as her running mate. If elected, Ramaswamy would make history as Ohio's first Asian American and billionaire governor, as well as the first Hindu governor in the United States. Acton, a former state health director, would become the first woman and the first Jewish governor elected in Ohio. The race carries significant political weight, as Democrats have not won Ohio's governorship since 2006, and the winner will be inaugurated on January 11, 2027. Additionally, Libertarian Don Kissick is also on the general election ballot, adding a third-party option to the contest.