Republican Ohio gubernatorial nominee Vivek Ramaswamy has secured the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, a major backing from the state’s law enforcement community as he campaigns for governor in the November election.
Ramaswamy announced the endorsement in a social media post, thanking Ohio’s police officers and the FOP after the organization met with both candidates before making its decision.
“Beyond grateful to have the backing of Ohio’s police officers and the FOP, after they met with both candidates & made their choice,” Ramaswamy said.
He described the endorsement as “a big deal & a monumental endorsement,” highlighting the FOP’s role as the largest union representing police officers in Ohio.
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“Grateful for the support of law enforcement across Ohio. We’re behind you all the way as we restore law & order in our communities and proudly back the blue,” Ramaswamy said.
The Ohio Fraternal Order of Police announced endorsements for Republican candidates in all statewide races this November, according to WLWT. The endorsement gives Ramaswamy support from a major law enforcement organization as he prepares for the general election.
Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur and former Republican presidential candidate, won the Republican nomination for governor in the May 2026 primary. He is running with Ohio Senate President Rob McColley as his lieutenant governor candidate.
The gubernatorial race is expected to be closely watched as Ramaswamy seeks to succeed Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, who is barred from seeking a third consecutive term.
Ramaswamy has made public safety and law enforcement a central part of his political messaging, frequently emphasizing his support for police officers and a tougher approach to crime.
The FOP endorsement comes after the organization conducted a process involving the Republican candidates, with Ramaswamy saying the group met with both candidates before selecting him.
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The backing could provide an important boost to Ramaswamy’s campaign as he seeks to consolidate Republican support ahead of the November election.
Ramaswamy’s political profile rose nationally during his 2024 presidential campaign, when he emerged as one of the youngest candidates in the Republican primary. After ending his presidential bid, he endorsed Donald Trump.
If elected, Ramaswamy would become Ohio’s first Indian American governor.
The Republican nominee will face Democratic candidate Amy Acton in the Nov. 3 general election. The contest will determine who succeeds DeWine as Ohio’s next governor.
With the FOP endorsement, Ramaswamy is seeking to strengthen his law-and-order credentials and appeal to voters concerned about public safety, while continuing to build a broad coalition ahead of the November vote.