Indian-Americans are drawing attention in key US elections, with candidates contesting high-profile gubernatorial and House races across the country. Their campaigns are putting the spotlight on the growing presence of the Indian-American community in American politics. From state-level leadership contests to congressional battles, these races are being closely watched as voters head to the polls in the 2026 US midterm elections.

The spotlight is on candidates including Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, who is running for governor of Ohio, and House Democrats Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Ami Bera and Suhas Subramanyam, who are seeking re-election. Other Indian-American contenders include Amish Shah in Arizona and Pia Dandiya in Florida. At least 57 Indian-American candidates are reported to be contesting offices across the US in these midterms.

Indian-Americans in key gubernatorial, House races across US

As the US heads into the 2026 midterm elections, the importance of the Indian diaspora and the political rise of Indian-origin leaders has assumed significance. The contest in Ohia is in focus as Vivek Ramaswamy’s victory would have an impact well beyond the state, with questions of identity, representation and belonging likely to become the centre of the American political conversation.&nbsp;Ramaswamy’s win would be both a milestone and a reminder for the Indian-American diaspora, though an individual politician’s success does not automatically translate into political influence for an entire community.&nbsp;Ramaswamy, the former Republican presidential candidate, has built his political identity around conservative principles, including limited government, deregulation and a critique of the “ideological excess” in American institutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;His political journey complicates the usual story of Indian Americans as a uniformly successful, largely Democratic-leaning minority.&nbsp;<h2>Representation beyond identity</h2>&nbsp;Ramaswamy's win would become another example of an American politician of Indian origin rising to a position of political authority and can challenge stereotypes.&nbsp;It could encourage young Indian Americans to see public office as an attainable ambition since representation matters, particularly in a country where immigrants and their descendants have to negotiate questions of identity, acceptance and national belonging.&nbsp;Indian Americans across the United States include Democrats, Republicans and independents, as well as voters whose political priorities range from immigration and education to healthcare, taxation, religious freedom and foreign policy.&nbsp;A candidate’s ancestry does not determine how every member of that community votes.&nbsp;<h2>A Hindu identity, an American campaign</h2>&nbsp;Ramaswamy’s public discussion of his Hindu background has also highlighted the distinction between religious identity and political ideology. His conservative positions may resonate with some voters, including some Indian Americans, while alienating others who disagree with his views on government, social policy or immigration.&nbsp;For Hindu Americans, his win could draw greater visibility for a religious tradition that is often poorly understood in mainstream debate.&nbsp;Electoral victories can expand the boundaries of representation, but they cannot resolve deeper social divisions by themselves. His success would also not end discrimination, anti-Asian prejudice or challenges faced by immigrants and religious minorities.&nbsp;<h2>What would his win mean for the diaspora</h2>&nbsp;The larger significance of Ramaswamy’s victory would lie in the growing normalisation of Indian-origin Americans and their place in American politics.&nbsp;Eventually, the strongest measure of progress is not simply whether an Indian American wins office, but whether the political system becomes more open to diverse voices.&nbsp;Ramaswamy’s victory would be his achievement first, and for the diaspora, it would be a moment of visibility and possibility.

Vivek Ramaswamy's win would become another example of an American politician of Indian origin rising to a position of political authority and challenging stereotypes. For Hindu Americans, his win could draw greater visibility for a religious tradition that is often poorly understood.

As the US heads into the 2026 midterm elections, the importance of the Indian diaspora and the political rise of Indian-origin leaders has assumed significance. The contest in Ohia is in focus as Vivek Ramaswamy’s victory would have an impact well beyond the state, with questions of identity, representation and belonging likely to become the centre of the American political conversation. Ramaswamy’s win would be both a milestone and a reminder for the Indian-American diaspora, though an individual politician’s success does not automatically translate into political influence for an entire community. Ramaswamy, the former Republican presidential candidate, has built his political identity around conservative principles, including limited government, deregulation and a critique of the “ideological excess” in American institutions. His political journey complicates the usual story of Indian Americans as a uniformly successful, largely Democratic-leaning minority. Representation beyond identity Ramaswamy's win would become another example of an American politician of Indian origin rising to a position of political authority and can challenge stereotypes. It could encourage young Indian Americans to see public office as an attainable ambition since representation matters, particularly in a country where immigrants and their descendants have to negotiate questions of identity, acceptance and national belonging. Indian Americans across the United States include Democrats, Republicans and independents, as well as voters whose political priorities range from immigration and education to healthcare, taxation, religious freedom and foreign policy. A candidate’s ancestry does not determine how every member of that community votes. A Hindu identity, an American campaign Ramaswamy’s public discussion of his Hindu background has also highlighted the distinction between religious identity and political ideology. His conservative positions may resonate with some voters, including some Indian Americans, while alienating others who disagree with his views on government, social policy or immigration. For Hindu Americans, his win could draw greater visibility for a religious tradition that is often poorly understood in mainstream debate. Electoral victories can expand the boundaries of representation, but they cannot resolve deeper social divisions by themselves. His success would also not end discrimination, anti-Asian prejudice or challenges faced by immigrants and religious minorities. What would his win mean for the diaspora The larger significance of Ramaswamy’s victory would lie in the growing normalisation of Indian-origin Americans and their place in American politics. Eventually, the strongest measure of progress is not simply whether an Indian American wins office, but whether the political system becomes more open to diverse voices. Ramaswamy’s victory would be his achievement first, and for the diaspora, it would be a moment of visibility and possibility.

Vivek Ramaswamy's win would become another example of an American politician of Indian origin rising to a position of political authority and challenging stereotypes. For Hindu Americans, his win could draw greater visibility for a religious tradition that is often poorly understood.

US Midterms 2026: What would Ramaswamy’s win mean for the Indian diaspora

As the US heads towards the November 3 midterm elections, Ohio has emerged as a closely watched battleground, with Republican Vivek Ramaswamy facing Democrat Amy Acton in a contest that could test the limits of the Republican Party’s dominance in the state. The race to succeed term-limited Governor Mike DeWine is not just about who occupies the governor’s office. It is also a test of President Donald Trump’s political influence, the power of campaign spending and Democrats’ ability to regain ground in a state that has increasingly leaned towards Republicans.&nbsp;With advertising spending and commitments reportedly reaching $248.2 million by late October, the contest is on course to become the most expensive gubernatorial election in Ohio’s history. Yet the financial advantage enjoyed by Ramaswamy and Republican-aligned interests has not eliminated uncertainty. Several October polls have shown Acton narrowly ahead, while others have put Ramaswamy in front, leaving the race competitive as election day approaches. The main question is whether Ramaswamy can convert his national profile and substantial campaign resources into a victory, or whether Acton can build a coalition capable of delivering a Democratic breakthrough.<h2>Ramaswamy’s national profile: An advantage with risks</h2>Ramaswamy rose to national prominence during the 2024 Republican presidential primaries. His entrepreneurial background, conservative positions and close alignment with Trump have given him significant visibility within the Republican movement. His campaign has emphasised government reform, deregulation and conservative policy changes. His national profile can help attract financial support and mobilise Republican voters, while his association with Trump strengthens his appeal among the party’s core supporters.&nbsp;However, national recognition does not automatically translate into statewide support. Ramaswamy must persuade voters that his political priorities can address everyday concerns, including household costs, education, healthcare and employment. His relationship with Trump is also a double-edged sword. Ramaswamy’s challenge is to make the election about his plans for Ohio rather than simply his national political identity.<h2>Acton’s opportunity: Public service and affordability</h2>Acton, a physician and former director of the Ohio Department of Health, became a prominent public figure during the COVID-19 pandemic while helping shape Ohio’s public-health response under DeWine. Her campaign has focused on affordability, healthcare and education, issues that can resonate across party lines. Her public-service experience offers a contrast to Ramaswamy’s business background and national political profile.&nbsp;However, her pandemic-era record also presents a vulnerability. Conservative critics have challenged public-health restrictions, giving Ramaswamy an opportunity to question her decisions and judgment. Acton must defend her record while demonstrating that her experience prepares her to address the state’s wider challenges. Her electoral strategy depends on attracting independents, moderate Republicans and voters who may have supported Trump in presidential elections but are willing to consider a different candidate for governor. If she can make the contest about economic security and effective state government, she could weaken the influence of national partisan divisions.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-trump-says-venezuela-could-maybe-someday-soon-become-51st-us-state-calls-venezuelan-oil-shipment-a-gift-1793146799249">US midterms 2026: Trump says Venezuela could ‘maybe someday soon’ become 51st US state, calls Venezuelan oil shipment a ‘gift'</a><h2>Record spending: Can money decide the race?</h2>The financial scale of the contest is one of its defining features. According to figures reported by NBC4 and AdImpact Politics, advertising spending and commitments had reached approximately $248.2 million by late October, including around $204.2 million associated with Ramaswamy and $44 million with Acton. These figures include advertising activity beyond the candidates’ own campaigns, including outside groups.&nbsp;The disparity gives Ramaswamy and Republican-aligned interests a substantial advantage in reaching voters, defining the candidates and responding to attacks. But money does not automatically translate into votes. Advertising can influence perceptions, particularly when voters are undecided, but its effectiveness can diminish when audiences have already formed strong opinions.&nbsp;<h2>Negative campaigning and a historic first</h2>The contest has also become increasingly contentious. A controversial advertisement featuring Acton’s estranged mother drew scrutiny because of its personal nature and the family dispute behind it. Attacks can influence voters when they raise credible questions about a candidate’s record, but excessively personal advertising can distract from policy issues and potentially alienate undecided voters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ramaswamy must weigh the benefits of aggressive messaging against the risk of a backlash, while Acton must respond without allowing controversy to overshadow her campaign priorities. The election also carries historical significance. If Acton wins, she would become the first woman elected governor of Ohio. Nancy Hollister briefly served as governor for 12 days in 1998 after George Voinovich left office, but she was not elected to the position in her own right. An Acton victory would therefore represent a symbolic milestone and a major breakthrough for Democrats in a state where Republicans have dominated recent statewide and presidential contests.

Ohio Governor Election 2026: Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton battle over spending, the economy and Ohio's political future as a historic first looms

As the US heads towards the November 3 midterm elections, Ohio has emerged as a closely watched battleground, with Republican Vivek Ramaswamy facing Democrat Amy Acton in a contest that could test the limits of the Republican Party’s dominance in the state. The race to succeed term-limited Governor Mike DeWine is not just about who occupies the governor’s office. It is also a test of President Donald Trump’s political influence, the power of campaign spending and Democrats’ ability to regain ground in a state that has increasingly leaned towards Republicans. With advertising spending and commitments reportedly reaching $248.2 million by late October, the contest is on course to become the most expensive gubernatorial election in Ohio’s history. Yet the financial advantage enjoyed by Ramaswamy and Republican-aligned interests has not eliminated uncertainty. Several October polls have shown Acton narrowly ahead, while others have put Ramaswamy in front, leaving the race competitive as election day approaches. The main question is whether Ramaswamy can convert his national profile and substantial campaign resources into a victory, or whether Acton can build a coalition capable of delivering a Democratic breakthrough. Ramaswamy’s national profile: An advantage with risks Ramaswamy rose to national prominence during the 2024 Republican presidential primaries. His entrepreneurial background, conservative positions and close alignment with Trump have given him significant visibility within the Republican movement. His campaign has emphasised government reform, deregulation and conservative policy changes. His national profile can help attract financial support and mobilise Republican voters, while his association with Trump strengthens his appeal among the party’s core supporters. However, national recognition does not automatically translate into statewide support. Ramaswamy must persuade voters that his political priorities can address everyday concerns, including household costs, education, healthcare and employment. His relationship with Trump is also a double-edged sword. Ramaswamy’s challenge is to make the election about his plans for Ohio rather than simply his national political identity. Acton’s opportunity: Public service and affordability Acton, a physician and former director of the Ohio Department of Health, became a prominent public figure during the COVID-19 pandemic while helping shape Ohio’s public-health response under DeWine. Her campaign has focused on affordability, healthcare and education, issues that can resonate across party lines. Her public-service experience offers a contrast to Ramaswamy’s business background and national political profile. However, her pandemic-era record also presents a vulnerability. Conservative critics have challenged public-health restrictions, giving Ramaswamy an opportunity to question her decisions and judgment. Acton must defend her record while demonstrating that her experience prepares her to address the state’s wider challenges. Her electoral strategy depends on attracting independents, moderate Republicans and voters who may have supported Trump in presidential elections but are willing to consider a different candidate for governor. If she can make the contest about economic security and effective state government, she could weaken the influence of national partisan divisions. Also Read: US midterms 2026: Trump says Venezuela could ‘maybe someday soon’ become 51st US state, calls Venezuelan oil shipment a ‘gift' Record spending: Can money decide the race? The financial scale of the contest is one of its defining features. According to figures reported by NBC4 and AdImpact Politics, advertising spending and commitments had reached approximately $248.2 million by late October, including around $204.2 million associated with Ramaswamy and $44 million with Acton. These figures include advertising activity beyond the candidates’ own campaigns, including outside groups. The disparity gives Ramaswamy and Republican-aligned interests a substantial advantage in reaching voters, defining the candidates and responding to attacks. But money does not automatically translate into votes. Advertising can influence perceptions, particularly when voters are undecided, but its effectiveness can diminish when audiences have already formed strong opinions. Negative campaigning and a historic first The contest has also become increasingly contentious. A controversial advertisement featuring Acton’s estranged mother drew scrutiny because of its personal nature and the family dispute behind it. Attacks can influence voters when they raise credible questions about a candidate’s record, but excessively personal advertising can distract from policy issues and potentially alienate undecided voters. Ramaswamy must weigh the benefits of aggressive messaging against the risk of a backlash, while Acton must respond without allowing controversy to overshadow her campaign priorities. The election also carries historical significance. If Acton wins, she would become the first woman elected governor of Ohio. Nancy Hollister briefly served as governor for 12 days in 1998 after George Voinovich left office, but she was not elected to the position in her own right. An Acton victory would therefore represent a symbolic milestone and a major breakthrough for Democrats in a state where Republicans have dominated recent statewide and presidential contests.

Ohio's costly 2026 governor race pits Vivek Ramaswamy against Amy Acton, testing GOP strength as Acton eyes a historic breakthrough

Ohio governor election 2026: Record campaign spending, tight polls and a historic first make Ramaswamy vs Acton a race to watch

With just two weeks left for the US midterms 2026, the campaigning has taken a sharp turn, with candidates across the country accusing rivals of going easy on child predators. As per an NBC News report, more than 500 House, Senate and gubernatorial ads this cycle have focused on disgraced financier, convicted sex trafficker, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and have used the phrases "child predator," "predator" or “paedophile,” according to AdImpact, which tracks campaign advertising. That is roughly two per cent of all tracked ads. As per the reports, candidates across the board have ramped up the attacks sharply this month in nearly every competitive state.Democrats and allied groups back nearly three in four of these spots. Many tie directly to the release, or the refusal to release, of files connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats have hit Republicans for voting against making more information public or for accepting donations from people whose names appeared in unredacted documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act.Note: A name in those files did not mean the person had committed a crime.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-us-midterm-bribe-5-000-dividend-1-2-trillion-promise-fiscal-hawks-and-the-voters-who-want-the-cheque-but-don-t-expect-it-1792228505050">US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it?</a><h2>Texas leads the spending</h2>No state has put more money behind these ads than Texas, where upward of $38 million has been spent in the fiercely contested Senate race and more than $8 million in two House races.Democrat James Talarico, a state lawmaker, has hammered Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton over a plea deal his office offered a Waco man charged with sexually abusing a boy. In one campaign spot, Talarico walks through a warehouse as the words "NEVER GIVEN AN EPSTEIN-STYLE DEAL" flash behind him. "I've never given a sweetheart deal to a pedophile," he says in the ad.The case centres on former Waco attorney Adam Hoffman, who faced life without parole on felony charges of continuous sexual abuse of a young child. His trial ended in a mistrial in June 2025, and Paxton's office offered a plea deal and one day in jail. Prosecutors wrote to a state lawmaker that the deal was "a difficult decision" because the boy did not wish to testify again. Hoffman ultimately served 29 days."There is an infinite number of ways you can say and explain with evidence that this guy is a corrupt loser," a Democratic strategist close to the campaign said of Paxton. "But this one is so clear, and it gets people's attention, and it's just right in your face on tape, and it just happened."<h2>Why now</h2>The wave comes at a cultural moment of heightened attention on alleged paedophiles. The recent months saw huge discourse on the so-called Epstein files, with widespread anger over the botched release of the documents surrounding the case by Trump's administration. The heavily redacted files left much to be desired and were slammed for outing information, including compromising pictures of the victims.Additionally, online "pedophile hunter" shows have grown in popularity, building on the QAnon conspiracy theory that claimed Donald Trump was fighting a cabal of pedophile elites.An upcoming movie, "Primetime," starring Robert Pattinson as Chris Hansen, host of the defunct NBC show "To Catch a Predator," also contributed to the attention. It follows the 2025 documentary "Predators," which examined the legacy of that programme.One national GOP strategist told NBC that the tactic is less about ideology and more about dragging down an opponent's favourability to keep voters away from the polls. But the strategist also pointed to a wider societal focus, suggesting the ads may be "meeting an American cultural moment", adding, "In a way that's kind of grim."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-mamdani-factor-how-nyc-s-mayor-could-influence-the-november-2026-midterm-elections-1791622472019">US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans</a><h2>Kansas, Ohio and Iowa</h2>Texas is one of at least six states where more than $10 million has been spent on such ads. Kansas, Ohio and Iowa have seen the most Epstein and paedophilia-related spots in their Senate races.In Kansas, both candidates accuse the other of being soft on child predators. Republicans are targeting Democrat Adam Hamilton, a pastor, over a child sex abuse scandal at his church camps, citing two instances of a volunteer attempting to assault campers. Hamilton denies any cover-up but says he would respond differently now. The Kansas City Star, which reviewed court records, reported that church officials found an internal investigation inconclusive, did not report the first allegation to police, and allowed the volunteer, Scott Preston Moore, to return to camp the next year. The church later reported Moore to police after a second allegation and barred him from working with children.Hamilton has fought back on air, accusing his opponent, Sen. Roger Marshall, of "lying" and saying his church "reported incidents involving a volunteer to law enforcement and then cut ties with him." His ad also notes that Hamilton "later helped get this predator convicted," pointing to Moore's 2013 conviction.Hamilton is also hitting Marshall for voting against the release of the Epstein files. Last September, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer offered an amendment to a defence bill ordering the files' release, and nearly every Republican voted to table it. Marshall called the vote a "political stunt."The Senate later passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent.Marshall adviser Alex Degrasse said the senator "has always supported the release," including the unanimous consent vote last November that Trump signed. That second vote came after Trump permitted Republicans to support release after months of resistance. Trump had a years-long friendship with Epstein but denies wrongdoing.<h2>The Ramaswamy-Acton ad controversy</h2>Also adding fuel to the fire is an ad by Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor, in Ohio. The controversial ad features the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, casting her daughter as a liar.The ad centres on paedophilia and dates back nearly 50 years, when Acton, then 12, accused her stepfather of sexual assault. Court records show the man was indicted on a rape charge. Acton said in 2019 she last saw her mother at a hearing during the 1978 case. Her brother, Phillip Stearns, released a statement pointing to the "sexual abuse Amy endured at 12 years old from our birth mother's husband," saying the siblings were removed from custody after the arrest.Several Republicans, including in Ohio, have criticised the ad or called for it to be pulled. Trump on Thursday encouraged Ramaswamy to lean into it, while Vice President JD Vance said Republicans needed to "stop whining" about it.In North Carolina, Cooper's campaign has gone after his opponent, former RNC chairman Michael Whatley, for appointing Harvey West, a convicted sex offender and long-time party fundraiser, to a state party committee. West claims he did not commit the crimes and pleaded guilty to avoid a stiffer sentence, The Associated Press reported. A Whatley spokesperson, DJ Griffin, instead said Cooper "failed at his most basic job to protect our kids and keep North Carolinians safe."The ads come as voters have recoiled at the Epstein files and rank corruption as a top issue. A June Quinnipiac survey found 38 per cent of voters said the Epstein investigation was important to their vote.

Jeffrey Epstein has been dead for years, but his name is back at the centre of America's political battle. With candidates increasingly accusing rivals of protecting child predators, the controversy over his files is shaping a fierce new wave of US midterm attack ads.

With just two weeks left for the US midterms 2026, the campaigning has taken a sharp turn, with candidates across the country accusing rivals of going easy on child predators. As per an NBC News report, more than 500 House, Senate and gubernatorial ads this cycle have focused on disgraced financier, convicted sex trafficker, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and have used the phrases "child predator," "predator" or “paedophile,” according to AdImpact, which tracks campaign advertising. That is roughly two per cent of all tracked ads. As per the reports, candidates across the board have ramped up the attacks sharply this month in nearly every competitive state. Democrats and allied groups back nearly three in four of these spots. Many tie directly to the release, or the refusal to release, of files connected to Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats have hit Republicans for voting against making more information public or for accepting donations from people whose names appeared in unredacted documents released under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Note: A name in those files did not mean the person had committed a crime. Also read | US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it? Texas leads the spending No state has put more money behind these ads than Texas, where upward of $38 million has been spent in the fiercely contested Senate race and more than $8 million in two House races. Democrat James Talarico, a state lawmaker, has hammered Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton over a plea deal his office offered a Waco man charged with sexually abusing a boy. In one campaign spot, Talarico walks through a warehouse as the words "NEVER GIVEN AN EPSTEIN-STYLE DEAL" flash behind him. "I've never given a sweetheart deal to a pedophile," he says in the ad. The case centres on former Waco attorney Adam Hoffman, who faced life without parole on felony charges of continuous sexual abuse of a young child. His trial ended in a mistrial in June 2025, and Paxton's office offered a plea deal and one day in jail. Prosecutors wrote to a state lawmaker that the deal was "a difficult decision" because the boy did not wish to testify again. Hoffman ultimately served 29 days. "There is an infinite number of ways you can say and explain with evidence that this guy is a corrupt loser," a Democratic strategist close to the campaign said of Paxton. "But this one is so clear, and it gets people's attention, and it's just right in your face on tape, and it just happened." Why now The wave comes at a cultural moment of heightened attention on alleged paedophiles. The recent months saw huge discourse on the so-called Epstein files, with widespread anger over the botched release of the documents surrounding the case by Trump's administration. The heavily redacted files left much to be desired and were slammed for outing information, including compromising pictures of the victims. Additionally, online "pedophile hunter" shows have grown in popularity, building on the QAnon conspiracy theory that claimed Donald Trump was fighting a cabal of pedophile elites. An upcoming movie, "Primetime," starring Robert Pattinson as Chris Hansen, host of the defunct NBC show "To Catch a Predator," also contributed to the attention. It follows the 2025 documentary "Predators," which examined the legacy of that programme. One national GOP strategist told NBC that the tactic is less about ideology and more about dragging down an opponent's favourability to keep voters away from the polls. But the strategist also pointed to a wider societal focus, suggesting the ads may be "meeting an American cultural moment", adding, "In a way that's kind of grim." Also read | US midterm elections: Why Zohran Mamdani's influence could become a headache for Democrats and Republicans Kansas, Ohio and Iowa Texas is one of at least six states where more than $10 million has been spent on such ads. Kansas, Ohio and Iowa have seen the most Epstein and paedophilia-related spots in their Senate races. In Kansas, both candidates accuse the other of being soft on child predators. Republicans are targeting Democrat Adam Hamilton, a pastor, over a child sex abuse scandal at his church camps, citing two instances of a volunteer attempting to assault campers. Hamilton denies any cover-up but says he would respond differently now. The Kansas City Star, which reviewed court records, reported that church officials found an internal investigation inconclusive, did not report the first allegation to police, and allowed the volunteer, Scott Preston Moore, to return to camp the next year. The church later reported Moore to police after a second allegation and barred him from working with children. Hamilton has fought back on air, accusing his opponent, Sen. Roger Marshall, of "lying" and saying his church "reported incidents involving a volunteer to law enforcement and then cut ties with him." His ad also notes that Hamilton "later helped get this predator convicted," pointing to Moore's 2013 conviction. Hamilton is also hitting Marshall for voting against the release of the Epstein files. Last September, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer offered an amendment to a defence bill ordering the files' release, and nearly every Republican voted to table it. Marshall called the vote a "political stunt." The Senate later passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent. Marshall adviser Alex Degrasse said the senator "has always supported the release," including the unanimous consent vote last November that Trump signed. That second vote came after Trump permitted Republicans to support release after months of resistance. Trump had a years-long friendship with Epstein but denies wrongdoing. The Ramaswamy-Acton ad controversy Also adding fuel to the fire is an ad by Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor, in Ohio. The controversial ad features the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, casting her daughter as a liar. The ad centres on paedophilia and dates back nearly 50 years, when Acton, then 12, accused her stepfather of sexual assault. Court records show the man was indicted on a rape charge. Acton said in 2019 she last saw her mother at a hearing during the 1978 case. Her brother, Phillip Stearns, released a statement pointing to the "sexual abuse Amy endured at 12 years old from our birth mother's husband," saying the siblings were removed from custody after the arrest. Several Republicans, including in Ohio, have criticised the ad or called for it to be pulled. Trump on Thursday encouraged Ramaswamy to lean into it, while Vice President JD Vance said Republicans needed to "stop whining" about it. In North Carolina, Cooper's campaign has gone after his opponent, former RNC chairman Michael Whatley, for appointing Harvey West, a convicted sex offender and long-time party fundraiser, to a state party committee. West claims he did not commit the crimes and pleaded guilty to avoid a stiffer sentence, The Associated Press reported. A Whatley spokesperson, DJ Griffin, instead said Cooper "failed at his most basic job to protect our kids and keep North Carolinians safe." The ads come as voters have recoiled at the Epstein files and rank corruption as a top issue. A June Quinnipiac survey found 38 per cent of voters said the Epstein investigation was important to their vote.

Jeffrey Epstein has been dead for years, but his name is back at the centre of America's political battle. With candidates increasingly accusing rivals of protecting child predators, the controversy over his files is shaping a fierce new wave of US midterm attack ads.

US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million

President Donald Trump has once again lashed out at a journalist, this time targeting NBC News correspondent Monica Alba after she questioned his support for a campaign advertisement by Vivek Ramaswamy that has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor of Ohio, released a new advertisement this week featuring the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton. In the advertisement, Acton's mother says she does not trust her daughter and claims she ‘lies about her past’.&nbsp;The advertisement does not mention allegations that Acton's stepfather, who is now deceased, sexually abused her when she was a child. According to the Associated Press, her stepfather was charged with raping her but failed to appear at a court hearing and was declared a fugitive. Acton's brother said that he and his sister were removed from their mother's custody at the time, while their mother continued living with their stepfather.<h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">YIKES 😳 Trump snaps at a reporter asking him about why he's dismissing sexual abuse allegations 👇

WOMAN REPORTER: Do the sexual abuse allegations mean nothing to you, sir?

TRUMP: Wait. Wait! Wait wait wait. Slow down. Who are you with?

REPORTER: NBC, sir. But they are very serious sexual abuse allegations

TRUMP: Quiet! Isn't she a fresh person? You're a horrible little reporter, aren't you?&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://x.com/atrupar/status/2113648411324907968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Speaking about the advertisement on Friday, Trump defended its use, saying, “A mother is saying, ‘Don’t put my daughter there because she’s a terrible person and she’s a liar. Why shouldn’t somebody use that?” Alba then questioned Trump about the allegations of sexual abuse. “But do the sexual abuse allegations mean nothing to you?” she asked. Trump continued speaking as Alba pressed him on the issue. “Who are you with?” he asked her. “I am with NBC sir,” she responded. “One of the worst networks you have,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-trump-revises-canada-tariffs-as-susan-collins-faces-tight-re-election-race-in-maine-1792793072406">US midterms 2026: Trump revises Canada tariffs as Susan Collins faces tight re-election race in Maine</a>&nbsp;As Alba continued asking about the sexual abuse allegations, Trump told her, “Quiet.” “Isn’t she a fresh person? You’re a horrible little reporter, aren’t you?” Trump said. Trump then defended the advertisement by comparing the situation to his own relationship with his mother. “If my mother said bad things about me, do you think the Democrats would put it up? I think so. But my mother thought I was wonderful.”&nbsp;He looked up in the air and said, “Thank you, Mom.” Referring to Acton's mother, Trump said, “She said her daughter is a disaster. Her daughter is a liar. And she felt she had a obligation. I should be so lucky to have an ad like that.” He subsequently challenged Alba over her questioning. “Why wouldn’t you listen to a mother that says that? Why? Miss NBC, why wouldn’t you, listen.” Alba responded, “She stayed with her stepfather.” “I don’t know anything about her stepfather,” Trump said.

Donald Trump clashed with NBC reporter Monica Alba over his support for Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign ad targeting Ohio Democratic nominee Amy Acton

President Donald Trump has once again lashed out at a journalist, this time targeting NBC News correspondent Monica Alba after she questioned his support for a campaign advertisement by Vivek Ramaswamy that has drawn criticism from both Democrats and Republicans. Ramaswamy, the Republican nominee for governor of Ohio, released a new advertisement this week featuring the estranged mother of his Democratic opponent, Amy Acton. In the advertisement, Acton's mother says she does not trust her daughter and claims she ‘lies about her past’. The advertisement does not mention allegations that Acton's stepfather, who is now deceased, sexually abused her when she was a child. According to the Associated Press, her stepfather was charged with raping her but failed to appear at a court hearing and was declared a fugitive. Acton's brother said that he and his sister were removed from their mother's custody at the time, while their mother continued living with their stepfather. Watch the video here

Trump clashed with NBC reporter Monica Alba after she questioned his support for Vivek Ramaswamy's controversial ad targeting Amy Acton in Ohio

'You’re a horrible little reporter, aren’t you?': Trump snaps at NBC reporter questioning his support for Ramaswamy's campaign ad

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (Oct 21) defended a controversial attack ad by Republican Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign against his Democratic rival in the Ohio governor's race. The ad calls Democrat Amy Acton a "liar" and features her estranged mother, Donna Arthur, disputing Acton's account of a childhood she says involved a period of homelessness and sexual abuse. Arthur, whom Acton says she has not seen since 1978, urges Ohioans not to vote for her daughter.Acton has said she was sexually abused by her stepfather when she was 12. Her mother stayed with the stepfather, who was charged with rape but fled the state and was never tried. He died in 2004. Acton's brother has supported her account.The ad initially appeared on social media on Tuesday without identifying its source, but Ramaswamy's campaign later accepted it was behind the spot and was spending $4 million to promote it. You can watch the ad here:Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vivek-ramaswamy-ad-featuring-amy-acton-s-estranged-mother-turns-sexual-abuse-into-political-talking-point-sparks-backlash-ahead-of-vance-ohio-visit-1792551414959">'Despicable low': Ramaswamy turns sexual abuse into 'political talking point'; ad featuring Acton's estranged mother sparks backlash | Watch</a><h2>Vance brushes aside the blowback</h2>Vance, campaigning with Ramaswamy and Republican US Senator Jon Husted on Wednesday, brushed aside the criticism. "Vivek Ramaswamy had the audacity to run a TV commercial which calls it out like it is and calls Amy Acton a liar," said Vance, who rose to fame on his own story of childhood neglect in Ohio."And my message, ladies and gentlemen, is very simple. Whatever you think about any of the TV advertisements, focus on the substance and focus on the facts."<h2>A 'disgusting attack'</h2>Acton's brother, Philip Stearns, has previously labelled Ramaswamy's ad as a "desperate, disgusting attack." Acton campaign spokesperson Addie Bullock said Ramaswamy's decision to promote the ad was "both despicable and entirely predictable."As the backlash built on Tuesday, Ramaswamy's campaign spokesperson Connie Luck issued a statement saying: "We don't know what happened between Amy and her mother ... but we know that Amy Acton is a serial fabulist."Ramaswamy also faced a heckler at a campaign event in Westerville, who shouted, "She was 12 years old," apparently referring to the abuse claims. Conservative commentator Meghan McCain called the ad "dastardly," writing on X that it "never should have been created."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thinking-of-you-nancy-pelosi-becomes-the-latest-target-of-suspicious-white-powder-letters-1792638681634">'Thinking of You...': Nancy Pelosi becomes the latest target of suspicious white powder letters</a><h2>The market turns on Ramaswamy</h2>Ramaswamy's chances had already been slipping on the prediction market Polymarket, but after the ad was released, his odds dropped to just 22 per cent. Acton meanwhile held a 79 per cent chance of winning as of Wednesday afternoon, a dramatic shift from a year ago when Ramaswamy stood at 71 per cent and Acton at 30.Opinion polls show Acton with a narrow lead over Ramaswamy, and analysts said the scandal could cement her position as the favourite. A Marist Poll conducted before the ad was released had Acton at 50 per cent among likely voters to Ramaswamy's 43.

JD Vance has defended Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign ad making light of the sexual assault of his rival Amy Acton. He says voters should focus on the facts and not what is being called a 'disgusting attack'. Meanwhile, as per Polymarket, the Republican's odds have collapsed to 22 percent.

US Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday (Oct 21) defended a controversial attack ad by Republican Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign against his Democratic rival in the Ohio governor's race. The ad calls Democrat Amy Acton a "liar" and features her estranged mother, Donna Arthur, disputing Acton's account of a childhood she says involved a period of homelessness and sexual abuse. Arthur, whom Acton says she has not seen since 1978, urges Ohioans not to vote for her daughter. Acton has said she was sexually abused by her stepfather when she was 12. Her mother stayed with the stepfather, who was charged with rape but fled the state and was never tried. He died in 2004. Acton's brother has supported her account. The ad initially appeared on social media on Tuesday without identifying its source, but Ramaswamy's campaign later accepted it was behind the spot and was spending $4 million to promote it. You can watch the ad here: Also read | 'Despicable low': Ramaswamy turns sexual abuse into 'political talking point'; ad featuring Acton's estranged mother sparks backlash | Watch Vance brushes aside the blowback Vance, campaigning with Ramaswamy and Republican US Senator Jon Husted on Wednesday, brushed aside the criticism. "Vivek Ramaswamy had the audacity to run a TV commercial which calls it out like it is and calls Amy Acton a liar," said Vance, who rose to fame on his own story of childhood neglect in Ohio. "And my message, ladies and gentlemen, is very simple. Whatever you think about any of the TV advertisements, focus on the substance and focus on the facts." A 'disgusting attack' Acton's brother, Philip Stearns, has previously labelled Ramaswamy's ad as a "desperate, disgusting attack." Acton campaign spokesperson Addie Bullock said Ramaswamy's decision to promote the ad was "both despicable and entirely predictable." As the backlash built on Tuesday, Ramaswamy's campaign spokesperson Connie Luck issued a statement saying: "We don't know what happened between Amy and her mother ... but we know that Amy Acton is a serial fabulist." Ramaswamy also faced a heckler at a campaign event in Westerville, who shouted, "She was 12 years old," apparently referring to the abuse claims. Conservative commentator Meghan McCain called the ad "dastardly," writing on X that it "never should have been created." Also read | 'Thinking of You...': Nancy Pelosi becomes the latest target of suspicious white powder letters The market turns on Ramaswamy Ramaswamy's chances had already been slipping on the prediction market Polymarket, but after the ad was released, his odds dropped to just 22 per cent. Acton meanwhile held a 79 per cent chance of winning as of Wednesday afternoon, a dramatic shift from a year ago when Ramaswamy stood at 71 per cent and Acton at 30. Opinion polls show Acton with a narrow lead over Ramaswamy, and analysts said the scandal could cement her position as the favourite. A Marist Poll conducted before the ad was released had Acton at 50 per cent among likely voters to Ramaswamy's 43.

JD Vance has defended Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign ad making light of the sexual assault of his rival Amy Acton. He says voters should focus on the facts and not what is being called a 'disgusting attack'. Meanwhile, as per Polymarket, the Republican's odds have collapsed to 22 percent.

'Had the audacity...': Vance defends Ramaswamy's attack ad on Amy Acton as Polymarket odds for Republican's Ohio governor bid crash to 22%

A new campaign ad featuring the estranged mother of Democratic candidate for Ohio governor Amy Acton has sparked uproar ahead of the US midterm elections. In the ad, Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, whose husband was accused of raping Acton when she was a child, says, "It's not easy for a mother to say this, but Amy was a serious problem. She is a liar; she lies about her past." &nbsp;Acton's campaign and her brother have denounced the ad which also defends her GOP opponent Vivek Ramaswamy as a "despicable low"<h2>'A pathetic excuse for a man'</h2>Acton's brother, Philip Stearns, lashed out at Ramaswamy in response: "It's not surprising that Vivek Ramaswamy has stooped to such a despicable low as to attempt to turn the sexual abuse Amy endured at twelve years old from our birth mother's husband into a political talking point."<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HVExB6aXMAIy5y4?format=jpg&amp;name=small" alt="Image"></figure>He said that after their stepfather, Cledith Arthur, was arrested and charged, he and Acton were removed from the Arthurs' custody and lived with their father. "Our birth mother stayed married to Amy's rapist until he died," Stearns said. "This desperate, disgusting attack reveals exactly who Vivek Ramaswamy is at his core, a pathetic excuse for a man who is willing to hurt anyone as long as it gets him what he wants."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Vivek Ramaswamy is not fit to lead. Watch our new ad. https://t.co/EhWNMdFjjH&mdash; Dr. Amy Acton (@amyactonoh) <a href="https://x.com/amyactonoh/status/2112639257655279780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-items-are-done-but-no-signature-how-the-us-midterms-could-decide-the-india-us-trade-deal-1792223135218">'Big items are done' but no signature: How US midterms could decide the India-US trade deal</a><h2>Vivek Ramaswamy takes credit for controversial ad</h2>Ramaswamy told reporters Tuesday (Oct 20) that it was "an ad from our campaign," reports The Columbus Dispatch. He defended the content of the ad, saying: "Every person who appears to know her the best have told voters not to vote for her but to vote for me instead."

<blockquote class="twitter-video" data-status="hidden">BOMBSHELL:

Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton’s own mother urges voters not to vote for her daughter. 

“My name is Donna Arthur and I’m Amy Acton’s mother. I worked at Children and Family Service Association, building one of the first two sexual abuse programs in America.

I love my daughter, but when I saw her lying about her opponent—and it’s not easy for a mother to say this—but Amy has a serious problem. 

She is a liar. She lies about her past. She says she grew up living in a tent. None of that is true. She’s lied her entire life.

My daughter needs help, and she can’t help you if she needs help herself. People can change, but first they have to tell the truth, and my daughter still isn’t doing that.

Don’t vote for people who lie. Don’t let her become your governor. If you think she’ll make your life better, you’re fooling yourself. It will only get worse.”

That’s one hell of an October surprise.&mdash; Walter Curt (@wcdispatch) <a href="https://x.com/wcdispatch/status/2112388948563554668?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Notably, this is not the first such ad by the Ramaswamy campaign. The Republican candidate's backers have previously launched other personal attacks against Acton, who has been leading in polls over the last month. Other aspects of Acton's personal life have also resurfaced during the election, including an incident when police were called to her home in 2019 during what was characterised as a domestic dispute.<h2>The ad's murky origins</h2>The origins of the ad, which circulated on social media on Monday (Oct 19) night, were initially unclear. It lacks the mandatory disclosure of who paid for and authorised the commercial. It has not aired on TV or cable but has spread widely on social media.Connie Luck, a spokesperson for Ramaswamy, said in a statement on Tuesday, “We don't know what happened between Amy and her mother, who first spoke out about Amy in 2020, but we know that Amy Acton is a serial fabulist who has some serious problems with the truth that the public needs to be aware of before deciding who to entrust as governor.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-us-midterm-bribe-5-000-dividend-1-2-trillion-promise-fiscal-hawks-and-the-voters-who-want-the-cheque-but-don-t-expect-it-1792228505050">US Midterms: Trump doubles down on $5,000 dividend as economists call it a 'half-baked political scheme'. Can a Republican win guarantee it?</a><h2>Estranged mother, years of abuse: Acton's past made campaign issue</h2>Acton, who served as the state's public health commissioner under GOP Gov. Mike DeWine during the pandemic, has previously talked about being abused by her now-deceased stepfather. According to court records provided by the campaign, in 1978, Arthur was charged with raping Acton, when she was between 10 and 12 years old. He entered a not guilty plea."In the courthouse after they were charged, I went to give her a kiss, and she just turned her cheek away," Acton told The Vindicator seven years ago. "That was the last time I ever saw her." According to her campaign that court date was the last time Acton saw her mother.Her mother and her stepfather, released on bond, left Ohio without facing charges, the news site said. Warrants were issued for Cledith Arthur's arrest at least twice in the next few years, according to court records. Donna and Cledith Arthur lived in Pennsylvania until Cledith's death in 2004.<h2>'Will absolutely backfire': Reaction mounts as Vance heads to Ohio</h2>With Vice President Vance headed to Ohio to campaign for Ramaswamy, CNN commentator Van Jones says the GOP candidate is putting the VP in a "terrible position" with the new ad.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With Vice President Vance headed to Ohio to campaign for Vivek Ramaswamy, @VanJones68 says the GOP candidate is putting him in a &quot;terrible position&quot; with the new ad featuring Amy Acton's estranged mother. https://t.co/QPeZdWOzdv&mdash; Kaitlan Collins (@kaitlancollins) <a href="https://x.com/kaitlancollins/status/2112725439617585469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2026</a></blockquote>
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On AC360, Alyssa Farah Griffin called it "the most disgusting ad I've seen," saying anyone behind it "should be ashamed," and that Ramaswamy's decision to stand by it rather than denounce it "says all you need to know about his character." She predicted it "will absolutely backfire," noting the ad was only on social media, where no disclosure is required. "They seem to know exactly what they did. It's very clear she'd not even spoken to the mother in decades."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Alyssa Farah Griffin slams a controversial new ad from Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy as &quot;the grossest ad I can think of&quot; warning it &quot;will absolutely backfire&quot; and &quot;anyone behind it should be ashamed.&quot; https://t.co/qWAGMGyeOB&mdash; Anderson Cooper 360° (@AC360) <a href="https://x.com/AC360/status/2112714626504720593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 21, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Journalist Gretchen Carlson agreed: "Weaponising childhood sexual assault never works." She said the ad says more about Ramaswamy than Acton. "This is going to be more about him than it is about Acton." Asked whether a loss in Ohio would end Ramaswamy's political career, the panel said this race "was probably his to lose," and that "the more people see Vivek Ramaswamy, the less they like."

A new Ramaswamy ad features Amy Acton's estranged mother calling her a "liar," sparking fury as her brother calls it a "despicable low" over the sexual abuse she endured. With Vance heading to Ohio, critics say the ad will backfire. Scroll down for all you need to know.

A new campaign ad featuring the estranged mother of Democratic candidate for Ohio governor Amy Acton has sparked uproar ahead of the US midterm elections. In the ad, Acton's estranged mother, Donna Arthur, whose husband was accused of raping Acton when she was a child, says, "It's not easy for a mother to say this, but Amy was a serious problem. She is a liar; she lies about her past." Acton's campaign and her brother have denounced the ad which also defends her GOP opponent Vivek Ramaswamy as a "despicable low" 'A pathetic excuse for a man' Acton's brother, Philip Stearns, lashed out at Ramaswamy in response: "It's not surprising that Vivek Ramaswamy has stooped to such a despicable low as to attempt to turn the sexual abuse Amy endured at twelve years old from our birth mother's husband into a political talking point." He said that after their stepfather, Cledith Arthur, was arrested and charged, he and Acton were removed from the Arthurs' custody and lived with their father. "Our birth mother stayed married to Amy's rapist until he died," Stearns said. "This desperate, disgusting attack reveals exactly who Vivek Ramaswamy is at his core, a pathetic excuse for a man who is willing to hurt anyone as long as it gets him what he wants."

A new Ramaswamy ad features Amy Acton's estranged mother calling her a "liar," sparking fury as her brother calls it a "despicable low" over the sexual abuse she endured. With Vance heading to Ohio, critics say the ad will backfire. Scroll down for all you need to know.

'Despicable low': Ramaswamy turns sexual abuse into 'political talking point'; ad featuring Acton's estranged mother sparks backlash | Watch

Republican gubernatorial nominee from Ohio, Vivek Ramaswamy, is making an economic and government-reform pitch to voters: phase out the state income tax, sharply reduce property taxes and pursue Medicaid fraud aggressively.&nbsp;Ramaswamy’s proposals are central to his campaign against Democratic nominee Amy Acton as voters prepare to choose Ohio’s next governor on Nov. 3. The former presidential candidate is aiming to turn his outsider status into a mandate for sweeping changes to the state’s tax and spending policies.&nbsp;Ramaswamy is promising to eliminate Ohio’s individual income tax entirely over time.He proposes to start by eliminating the state tax on capital gains in his first two-year budget and then phasing out the broader income tax over eight to 10 years.&nbsp;He reasons that a zero-income-tax Ohio would attract businesses, investment and workers, putting the state in the company of states such as Florida and Texas. Ramaswamy claims that economic growth, combined with reductions in bureaucracy and spending would cover up the revenue loss via tax cuts.&nbsp;However, the proposal raises some key questions. Researchers estimate that 55.6% of the benefit from eliminating the capital-gains tax would go to Ohioans earning more than $1 million annually. By contrast, residents earning less than $100,000 would receive 7.3% of the benefit.Ramaswamy himself is a billionaire and would benefit substantially from the elimination of the tax.&nbsp;Ramaswamy initially called for eliminating property taxes altogether, but later adopted a more immediate proposal: rolling property taxes back to approximately their pre-pandemic levels and then limiting their future growth.&nbsp;&nbsp;Property taxes help finance public education, police, fire services and other local operations and analysts warn that a rollback would result in significant revenue losses.&nbsp;The proposal comes as homeowners across Ohio have faced rising property-tax bills following increases in property valuations.&nbsp;Tax and policy experts question whether cutting bureaucracy alone could generate enough money to replace billions in local revenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Medicaid is the third major pillar of Ramaswamy’s campaign. More than 3 million Ohioans receive Medicaid coverage, which cost $34.2 billion in fiscal year 2024.&nbsp;Ramaswamy says the state should pursue suspected fraud more aggressively and simplify Medicaid administration to identify improper spending.&nbsp;Ramaswamy asserts that fraudulent providers increase costs for legitimate Medicaid recipients and taxpayers.He has made prosecution of Medicaid fraud a prominent campaign message, promising to make enforcement a statewide priority.&nbsp;The issue has gained additional attention amid investigations and reports involving alleged fraud by Ohio health-care providers.

Vivek Ramaswamy reasons that a zero-income-tax Ohio would attract businesses, investment and workers, putting the state in the company of Florida and Texas, and claims that economic growth, combined with reductions in bureaucracy and spending would cover up the revenue loss via tax cuts.

Republican gubernatorial nominee from Ohio, Vivek Ramaswamy, is making an economic and government-reform pitch to voters: phase out the state income tax, sharply reduce property taxes and pursue Medicaid fraud aggressively. Ramaswamy’s proposals are central to his campaign against Democratic nominee Amy Acton as voters prepare to choose Ohio’s next governor on Nov. 3. The former presidential candidate is aiming to turn his outsider status into a mandate for sweeping changes to the state’s tax and spending policies. Ramaswamy is promising to eliminate Ohio’s individual income tax entirely over time. He proposes to start by eliminating the state tax on capital gains in his first two-year budget and then phasing out the broader income tax over eight to 10 years. He reasons that a zero-income-tax Ohio would attract businesses, investment and workers, putting the state in the company of states such as Florida and Texas. Ramaswamy claims that economic growth, combined with reductions in bureaucracy and spending would cover up the revenue loss via tax cuts. However, the proposal raises some key questions. Researchers estimate that 55.6% of the benefit from eliminating the capital-gains tax would go to Ohioans earning more than $1 million annually. By contrast, residents earning less than $100,000 would receive 7.3% of the benefit. Ramaswamy himself is a billionaire and would benefit substantially from the elimination of the tax. Ramaswamy initially called for eliminating property taxes altogether, but later adopted a more immediate proposal: rolling property taxes back to approximately their pre-pandemic levels and then limiting their future growth. Property taxes help finance public education, police, fire services and other local operations and analysts warn that a rollback would result in significant revenue losses. The proposal comes as homeowners across Ohio have faced rising property-tax bills following increases in property valuations. Tax and policy experts question whether cutting bureaucracy alone could generate enough money to replace billions in local revenue. Medicaid is the third major pillar of Ramaswamy’s campaign. More than 3 million Ohioans receive Medicaid coverage, which cost $34.2 billion in fiscal year 2024. Ramaswamy says the state should pursue suspected fraud more aggressively and simplify Medicaid administration to identify improper spending. Ramaswamy asserts that fraudulent providers increase costs for legitimate Medicaid recipients and taxpayers. He has made prosecution of Medicaid fraud a prominent campaign message, promising to make enforcement a statewide priority. The issue has gained additional attention amid investigations and reports involving alleged fraud by Ohio health-care providers.

Vivek Ramaswamy reasons that a zero-income-tax Ohio would attract businesses, investment and workers, putting the state in the company of Florida and Texas, and claims that economic growth, combined with reductions in bureaucracy and spending would cover up the revenue loss via tax cuts.

Vivek Ramaswamy’s Ohio Governor campaign focuses on property tax cuts, income tax phase-out, tackling medicaid fraud

Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy won the Republican nomination for Ohio Governor, as he moves for a general election showdown in November against Amy Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Public Health, an unopposed Democrat primary winner. The biotech entrepreneur cruised to victory over small businessman Casey Putsch, with approximately 87 per cent of the vote. Vivek Ramaswamy was backed by the US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;Ramasway became famous nationally after running unsuccessfully in the 2024 Presidential Primary of Republicans and later backing Trump. Following Trump's victory, he was appointed to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency alongside Elon Musk in early 2025. But he soon left the job at DOGE, with one spokesperson saying he wanted to focus on running for the office.&nbsp;Following his victory, Ramaswamy thanked everyone for getting him through the primaries, maintaining that the real goal remains in November. Trump called Ramaswamy “something special”. US Vice President JD Vance, who is an Ohio resident, said that he voted for Vivek himself."He is Young, Strong, and Smart! Vivek is also a very good person, who truly loves our Country… Vivek Ramaswamy will be a great governor of Ohio, and has my complete and total endorsement - he will never let you down!" said Trump.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-indiana-gop-primary-2026-maga-victory-redistricting-1778045746445">Trump-backed candidates sweep Indiana GOP primary, unseat veteran lawmakers in major MAGA victory</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A world-class education is the birthright of every Ohioan &amp; we’ll make sure that’s what they get, from the inner cities to Appalachia. <a href="https://t.co/4s5btZfb2a">pic.twitter.com/4s5btZfb2a</a>&mdash; Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/2051859531999977857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Campaign finance of &nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy and Amy Acton</h2>Vivek has raised around $30 million in campaign finance. Ramaswamy raised $5 million during the first three months of 2026 and loaned $25 million for the next few months. Compared to Vivek, Acton had notably modest fundraising for the election in November. She also raised close to $5.1 million till now, with an additional $3 million cash in hand.Vivek Ramaswamy, owner of biotech firm Roivant Sciences, had a net worth of $1.8 billion as of late 2025, whereas Amy, a public health service expert, has no such single figure for net worth; she reportedly earned 62 cents in her checking account in 2025. Both of them have significant investments in over 100 businesses with a minimum of $1000 each.&nbsp;

Vivek Ramaswamy secures the Republican nomination for Ohio governor with strong backing from Donald Trump, setting up a high-stakes election battle against Democrat Amy Acton.

Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy won the Republican nomination for Ohio Governor, as he moves for a general election showdown in November against Amy Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Public Health, an unopposed Democrat primary winner. The biotech entrepreneur cruised to victory over small businessman Casey Putsch, with approximately 87 per cent of the vote. Vivek Ramaswamy was backed by the US President Donald Trump. Ramasway became famous nationally after running unsuccessfully in the 2024 Presidential Primary of Republicans and later backing Trump. Following Trump's victory, he was appointed to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency alongside Elon Musk in early 2025. But he soon left the job at DOGE, with one spokesperson saying he wanted to focus on running for the office. Following his victory, Ramaswamy thanked everyone for getting him through the primaries, maintaining that the real goal remains in November. Trump called Ramaswamy “something special”. US Vice President JD Vance, who is an Ohio resident, said that he voted for Vivek himself. "He is Young, Strong, and Smart! Vivek is also a very good person, who truly loves our Country… Vivek Ramaswamy will be a great governor of Ohio, and has my complete and total endorsement - he will never let you down!" said Trump. Also Read: Trump-backed candidates sweep Indiana GOP primary, unseat veteran lawmakers in major MAGA victory

Vivek Ramaswamy secures the Republican nomination for Ohio governor with strong backing from Donald Trump, setting up a high-stakes election battle against Democrat Amy Acton.

Vivek Ramaswamy wins Ohio GOP governor nomination, sets up November clash with Amy Acton

Republican Ohio governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, was slammed by the conservative MAGA voter base of Donald Trump for preaching about the American Dream. Ramaswamy, while talking to the GOP voter base, said, “There’s no Canadian Dream. There’s no British Dream. There’s no Chinese Dream. It’s called the American Dream for a reason. It’s what makes American exceptionalism possible." The gubernatorial hopeful &nbsp;Vivek Ramaswamy is on a tour through the Ohio city. He has been attacked by White nationalists on several occasions, but he maintains good support within the Republican party and has acquired endorsement from US President Donald Trump and is up for competition against Democratic candidate Amy Acton.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There’s no “Canadian Dream.” There’s no “British Dream.” There’s no “Chinese Dream.” It’s called the American Dream for a reason. It’s what makes American exceptionalism possible. <a href="https://t.co/API4YHXYiA">pic.twitter.com/API4YHXYiA</a>&mdash; Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1995863497071329690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Social media erupted with hate, xenophobic and racist remarks. The Indian-origin businessman had been particularly targeted by his conservative White voter base. Many have called for his deportation, saying that they can't see past his brown skin, as far as terming him a foreign parasite. While some criticised the American Dream as capitalist branding, highlighting that the guy who came up with the term was supporting immigration restrictions of 1924 and believed in Anglo-Saxon superiority. But others were quick to point out that America became great because it was populated by the Germanic, Slavic, and Celtic people. One user commented, “The American Dream is seeing you deported”, another commented, “We don't need an Indian to tell us what the American dream is, you should be deported”. "Why is it White America's responsibility to supply a "Dream" to everyone else? Are Brown people incapable of having dreams themselves?"

Vivek Ramaswamy faces intense backlash after social media users criticise him for preaching the “American Dream.” Many accused him of overstepping, sparking a debate on nationality, identity, and political messaging in the US.

Republican Ohio governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, was slammed by the conservative MAGA voter base of Donald Trump for preaching about the American Dream. Ramaswamy, while talking to the GOP voter base, said, “There’s no Canadian Dream. There’s no British Dream. There’s no Chinese Dream. It’s called the American Dream for a reason. It’s what makes American exceptionalism possible." The gubernatorial hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy is on a tour through the Ohio city. He has been attacked by White nationalists on several occasions, but he maintains good support within the Republican party and has acquired endorsement from US President Donald Trump and is up for competition against Democratic candidate Amy Acton.

Vivek Ramaswamy faces intense backlash after social media users criticise him for preaching the “American Dream.” Many accused him of overstepping, sparking a debate on nationality, identity, and political messaging in the US.

'We don't need an Indian to tell us American Dream': Vivek Ramaswamy under fire

Nalin Haley, son of former US presidential candidate Nikki Haley, has called Vivek Ramaswamy a “creep” who “should not be near any child” and accused him of proposing “third-world parenting” through his education reforms. Nalin slammed Ramaswamy in a post on X and criticised the reforms unveiled by him. Ramaswamy, who was the youngest presidential candidate in the 2024 Republican primaries, is running for governor of Ohio in 2026 and Democratic candidate Amy Acton is likely to be his main rival.“This creep should not be near any child, and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids,” he wrote, reacting to Ramaswamy’s proposals to extend school hours and introduce year-round schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This creep should not be near any child and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids <a href="https://t.co/YoncfrMpwl">https://t.co/YoncfrMpwl</a> <a href="https://t.co/bxpv2oS9FN">pic.twitter.com/bxpv2oS9FN</a>&mdash; Nalin Haley (@Nalin_Haley) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nalin_Haley/status/1993718673295765924?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-call-leaked-to-disrupt-ukraine-peace-talks-deal-not-even-close-yet-kremlin-1764188955915">US call leaked to disrupt Ukraine peace talks, deal not even close yet: Kremlin</a><h2>Ramaswamy reform plans for public education system</h2>&nbsp;Ramaswamy recently laid out an overhaul of Ohio’s public-education system, arguing that outdated structures were failing students. Ramaswamy says he wants to make parenting more affordable by keeping schools open all year and extending the school day so children would go home at 4 pm instead of 3 pm. He argued that longer school hours would reduce childcare costs for working parents.&nbsp;Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms. He has separately cited government data to claim that American students are struggling with reading and mathematics, and stresses that his reforms will fix the “broken system”.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slights-another-female-reporter-calls-her-ugly-both-inside-and-out-1764185627326">Trump slights another female reporter, calls her ‘ugly, both inside and out’</a><h2>Ramaswamy says sex-education lessons should begin at 8</h2>&nbsp;In his post, Nalin also cited a 2022 comment by Ramaswamy reportedly suggesting that Republicans should use rhyme-based slogans such as “wait until 8”—a proposed alternative to Florida’s “don’t say gay” law, implying sex-education lessons should begin only once children turn eight.Education continues to dominate political debates in the US, and Republicans are calling for structural reforms, curriculum scrutiny, and expanded alternatives to public schooling. Ramaswamy’s 2026 gubernatorial campaign is likely to focus on these themes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-press-secretary-karoline-leavitt-s-relative-detained-by-ice-1764174273296">White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s relative detained by ICE</a>&nbsp;Nalin is emerging as a voice of “America First” and pro-MAGA politics. Earlier, he said all legal and illegal immigration should be banned and H-1B visas must come to a stop. His comments stirred a row among White nationalists, who even called for his deportation, but he says dual citizenship is a “stupid idea” and that naturalised citizens should not hold office.Both Nalin and Vivek are of Indian origin.

Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms.

Nalin Haley, son of former US presidential candidate Nikki Haley, has called Vivek Ramaswamy a “creep” who “should not be near any child” and accused him of proposing “third-world parenting” through his education reforms. Nalin slammed Ramaswamy in a post on X and criticised the reforms unveiled by him. Ramaswamy, who was the youngest presidential candidate in the 2024 Republican primaries, is running for governor of Ohio in 2026 and Democratic candidate Amy Acton is likely to be his main rival. “This creep should not be near any child, and we absolutely can’t have his third world parenting style imposed on American kids,” he wrote, reacting to Ramaswamy’s proposals to extend school hours and introduce year-round schooling.

Ramaswamy has proposed to raise the academic standards by restoring the state’s third-grade reading guarantee, expanding phonics-based learning, linking the pay of teachers to performance, widening school-choice options, and removing “ideological content” from classrooms.

‘Third-world parenting’: Nalin Haley calls Vivek Ramaswamy a ‘creep’, slams his reforms

Vivek Ramaswamy, the Indian-origin US politician, has become one of the richest people in America as his net worth has increased to $1.8 billion. It's an 80 per cent increase in just nine months. This comes amid his bid for Ohio governor, which he announced in February.&nbsp;In 2024, Ramaswamy ran for US presidency but withdrew his bid and supported Donald Trump. In March, Forbes estimated his net worth at just about $1 billion, barely making the World Billionaires List.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-scrambles-aircraft-after-chinese-drone-detected-off-island-near-taiwan-amid-diplomatic-tensions-details-here-1764070760725">Japan ‘scrambles aircraft’ after ‘Chinese’ drone detected off island near Taiwan amid diplomatic tensions. Details here</a>&nbsp;Is the money from politics?&nbsp;It's quick to assume that the reason behind this jump in wealth might be because of his rising political career. But as per a Forbes report, it's because of his old pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences.&nbsp;The 39-year-old Republican launched the company in 2014, the year he made Forbes' 30 Under 30 list. A spokesperson from his team confirmed that the Forbes numbers as "broadly correct".&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-thanks-13-world-leaders-on-internet-after-trump-accused-him-of-showing-zero-gratitude-for-efforts-to-end-war-with-russia-1764014092322">Zelensky thanks 13 world leaders on internet after Trump accused him of showing ‘zero gratitude’ for efforts to end war with Russia</a>&nbsp;Bloomberg reported in April that the company raised $75 million in Series D funding at a $1.5 billion valuation, and a person familiar with the company says Ramaswamy's stake is worth about $100 million, or 6.7 per cent.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ramaswamy became the chairman of Roivant in 2021, and the company went public soon after. In early 2023, he left the board to focus on his presidential run. But he still was the owner of tens of millions of shares.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-borders-may-change-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-says-sindh-may-return-to-india-after-1947-s-partition-details-here-1763906027937">India-Pakistan borders 'may change': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says 'Sindh may return to India' after 1947's partition. Details here</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

In 2024, Ramaswamy ran for US presidency but withdrew his bid and supported Donald Trump. In March, Forbes estimated his net worth at just about $1 billion, barely making the World Billionaires List.



Vivek Ramaswamy, the Indian-origin US politician, has become one of the richest people in America as his net worth has increased to $1.8 billion. It's an 80 per cent increase in just nine months. This comes amid his bid for Ohio governor, which he announced in February. In 2024, Ramaswamy ran for US presidency but withdrew his bid and supported Donald Trump. In March, Forbes estimated his net worth at just about $1 billion, barely making the World Billionaires List. Also read: Japan ‘scrambles aircraft’ after ‘Chinese’ drone detected off island near Taiwan amid diplomatic tensions. Details here Is the money from politics? It's quick to assume that the reason behind this jump in wealth might be because of his rising political career. But as per a Forbes report, it's because of his old pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences. The 39-year-old Republican launched the company in 2014, the year he made Forbes' 30 Under 30 list. A spokesperson from his team confirmed that the Forbes numbers as "broadly correct". Also read: Zelensky thanks 13 world leaders on internet after Trump accused him of showing ‘zero gratitude’ for efforts to end war with Russia Bloomberg reported in April that the company raised $75 million in Series D funding at a $1.5 billion valuation, and a person familiar with the company says Ramaswamy's stake is worth about $100 million, or 6.7 per cent. Ramaswamy became the chairman of Roivant in 2021, and the company went public soon after. In early 2023, he left the board to focus on his presidential run. But he still was the owner of tens of millions of shares. Also read: India-Pakistan borders 'may change': Defence Minister Rajnath Singh says 'Sindh may return to India' after 1947's partition. Details here

In 2024, Ramaswamy ran for US presidency but withdrew his bid and supported Donald Trump. In March, Forbes estimated his net worth at just about $1 billion, barely making the World Billionaires List.&nbsp;

Vivek Ramaswamy’s wealth doubles in 9 months, reaching $1.8bn. Here’s how. Hint: It’s not from politics

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Nov 7) formally endorsed Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy in the Ohio Governor's race, calling him "something special." Acknowledging that he competed against Ramaswamy as a Republican Presidential candidate, Trump said that he will be a “GREAT Governor of Ohio.” Stating that he is totally and completely endorsing Ramaswamy, Trump also expressed confidence that Ramaswamy will never let him down. Trump's big endorsement comes even as some from his MAGA group wants Vivek to lose.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Ramaswamy's intelligence, strength, and commitment to conservative values. He described the Indian-origin politician as someone who “truly loves our country.” “Vivek Ramaswamy is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio, a place I love and won big three times, in 2016, 2020, and 2024…will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio, and has my Complete and Total Endorsement – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” Trump wrote in the post.&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20251108/image-1762583544530.png"></figure>&nbsp;Ramaswamy, born in 1985 to Indian immigrant parents, is an American entrepreneur, author, and politician. He ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, campaigning on a platform of nationalism, anti-“woke” politics, and limited government. However, he later pulled out of the race and Ramaswamy endorsed Donald Trump and positioned himself as a strong supporter of him. He’s also the author of books such as “Woke, Inc.” and “Nation of Victims,” which critique corporate activism and identity politics.<h2>MAGA wants Ramaswamy to lose?</h2>After Republican Party's crushing defeat in New York City, New Jersey and Virginia polls, MAGA supporters wants Ramaswamy out of the race in Ohio. The demands were made on social media, more strongly, after an outlier poll claimed that Democrat candidate Amy Acton is ahead of Republican candidate Ramaswamy in the Ohio Governor election. Slamming Ramaswamy for stating that the GOP must “shun identity politics if they don't want to lose voters," MAGA supporters stated that they have nothing in common with this person. "Vivek must lose. If Republicans don't want to lose, they should run someone else right now. This race is not Republican vs Democrat, but a referendum on whether being an American is just a piece of paper. It's a line in the sand," one wrote on social media.

Trump formally endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy for Ohio Governor, calling him “something special” and a “great governor.” Despite MAGA backlash and polls favoring Democrat Amy Acton, Trump praised Ramaswamy’s intelligence and loyalty, giving his “complete and total endorsement.”

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Nov 7) formally endorsed Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy in the Ohio Governor's race, calling him "something special." Acknowledging that he competed against Ramaswamy as a Republican Presidential candidate, Trump said that he will be a “GREAT Governor of Ohio.” Stating that he is totally and completely endorsing Ramaswamy, Trump also expressed confidence that Ramaswamy will never let him down. Trump's big endorsement comes even as some from his MAGA group wants Vivek to lose. In a post on Truth Social, Trump praised Ramaswamy's intelligence, strength, and commitment to conservative values. He described the Indian-origin politician as someone who “truly loves our country.” “Vivek Ramaswamy is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio, a place I love and won big three times, in 2016, 2020, and 2024…will be a GREAT Governor of Ohio, and has my Complete and Total Endorsement – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!” Trump wrote in the post. Ramaswamy, born in 1985 to Indian immigrant parents, is an American entrepreneur, author, and politician. He ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024, campaigning on a platform of nationalism, anti-“woke” politics, and limited government. However, he later pulled out of the race and Ramaswamy endorsed Donald Trump and positioned himself as a strong supporter of him. He’s also the author of books such as “Woke, Inc.” and “Nation of Victims,” which critique corporate activism and identity politics. MAGA wants Ramaswamy to lose? After Republican Party's crushing defeat in New York City, New Jersey and Virginia polls, MAGA supporters wants Ramaswamy out of the race in Ohio. The demands were made on social media, more strongly, after an outlier poll claimed that Democrat candidate Amy Acton is ahead of Republican candidate Ramaswamy in the Ohio Governor election. Slamming Ramaswamy for stating that the GOP must “shun identity politics if they don't want to lose voters," MAGA supporters stated that they have nothing in common with this person. "Vivek must lose. If Republicans don't want to lose, they should run someone else right now. This race is not Republican vs Democrat, but a referendum on whether being an American is just a piece of paper. It's a line in the sand," one wrote on social media.

Trump formally endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy for Ohio Governor, calling him “something special” and a “great governor.” Despite MAGA backlash and polls favoring Democrat Amy Acton, Trump praised Ramaswamy’s intelligence and loyalty, giving his “complete and total endorsement.”

Trump vs MAGA? US president endorses Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy in Ohio Governor race despite supporters' 'he must lose' vow

Vivek Ramaswamy, American entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has been trolled as he was seen barefoot at an interview. The interview video, which was live streamed last year, has been making rounds on social media.&nbsp;
The video has sparked a wave of strong reactions on social media, with some calling him "uncivilised" and "anti-American".&nbsp;
Ramaswamy is currently running for the governor of Ohio following 2024 US Presidential elections.
One of the users wrote, "Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America."&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-revive-our-conviction-vivek-ramaswamy-joins-ohio-governor-race-8754588">'Will revive our conviction': Vivek Ramaswamy joins Ohio governor race</a>
Another commented, "Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?"&nbsp;
While a third user wrote, "Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised."
Commentator Ian Miles Cheong quickly defended Ramaswamy, calling it the "dumbest argument" he's heard.
He further pointed out that going barefoot in one's own home is hardly anti-American.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-india-american-entrepreneur-vivek-ramaswamy-in-us-8719088">PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy in US</a>
&ldquo;I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed," he added.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The dumbest argument I&rsquo;ve heard against Vivek is that going barefoot in your own house is anti-American. I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed. <a href="https://t.co/JVfJMa6VKe">pic.twitter.com/JVfJMa6VKe</a>
&mdash; Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) <a href="https://twitter.com/stillgray/status/1895485277403287798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
Ramaswamy himself addressed the backlash, saying, "This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it."
His remark was commended by some, while, others criticised it.&nbsp;
One user wrote, "Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him. He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alleged-friction-white-house-confirms-vivek-ramaswamy-wont-serve-in-doge-8639030">Result of friction? White House confirms Vivek Ramaswamy won't serve in DOGE</a>
Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Nearly all Indians go barefoot in their own homes. There's nothing wrong with it. Just a cultural thing&rdquo;, a user posted.&nbsp;
Another user said, "&ldquo;In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, considered a sign of respect and hygiene, as it prevents bringing dirt and germs from outside into the house; this practice is widely followed."
Further, political commentator Kim Iversen also joined the debate, saying, "I understand this is a &lsquo;culture' thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift."
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ohio-restricts-transgender-students-from-using-multiperson-bathrooms-779779">Ohio restricts transgender students from using multiperson bathrooms</a>
Iversen added that in her own home, shoes are not allowed, and that socks are also prohibited due to the risk of slipping on hardwood floors.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, trending: Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia.

Vivek Ramaswamy, American entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has been trolled as he was seen barefoot at an interview. The interview video, which was live streamed last year, has been making rounds on social media. The video has sparked a wave of strong reactions on social media, with some calling him "uncivilised" and "anti-American". Ramaswamy is currently running for the governor of Ohio following 2024 US Presidential elections. One of the users wrote, "Vivek will never be governor of Ohio. This is unacceptable for America." Also read: 'Will revive our conviction': Vivek Ramaswamy joins Ohio governor race Another commented, "Maybe at least have some socks on while you interview for a position in the most powerful empire on the planet, yeah?" While a third user wrote, "Vivek lectures us about education while barefoot. Uncivilised." Commentator Ian Miles Cheong quickly defended Ramaswamy, calling it the "dumbest argument" he's heard. He further pointed out that going barefoot in one's own home is hardly anti-American. Also read: PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy in US “I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed," he added. The dumbest argument I’ve heard against Vivek is that going barefoot in your own house is anti-American. I guess too many people grew up on sitcoms where they wear their shoes in bed. pic.twitter.com/JVfJMa6VKe — Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) February 28, 2025 Ramaswamy himself addressed the backlash, saying, "This is America, folks. I let the dogs out in my house when I feel like it." His remark was commended by some, while, others criticised it. One user wrote, "Vivek showed extreme class when Coulter stated flat out because of his race she would not vote for him. He kept the conversation going and never fell into an offended or victim mentality. Well done by him." Also read: Result of friction? White House confirms Vivek Ramaswamy won't serve in DOGE Many other users also came to support Ramaswamy and pointed out that removing shoes indoors is a common practice in many cultures, including South and East Asia. “Nearly all Indians go barefoot in their own homes. There's nothing wrong with it. Just a cultural thing”, a user posted. Another user said, "“In Indian tradition, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's home, considered a sign of respect and hygiene, as it prevents bringing dirt and germs from outside into the house; this practice is widely followed." Further, political commentator Kim Iversen also joined the debate, saying, "I understand this is a ‘culture' thing, but you non-Asians wearing shoes in your homes need a culture shift." Also read: Ohio restricts transgender students from using multiperson bathrooms Iversen added that in her own home, shoes are not allowed, and that socks are also prohibited due to the risk of slipping on hardwood floors. (With inputs from agencies)

'Uncivilised, anti-American': Vivek Ramaswamy faces backlash for appearing barefoot in interview | See HERE

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy launched his bid for Ohio governor Monday, vowing to place the state at the forefront of a “second industrial revolution” in the United States. Watch this report for more details!

Vivek Ramaswamy joins the Ohio governor’s race

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy at the Blair House in the US capital&nbsp;on Thursday (Feb 13).&nbsp;
In a post on X, the Indian PM said that he met Ramaswamy and his father-in-law in Washington DC. "We talked about diverse issues including innovation, culture and more."
Talking to Indian news agency ANI, Ramaswamy said it was an honour to welcome Modi to the US. 
"It was a pleasure and honour to welcome Prime Minister Modi here. Hope he has a wonderful visit and it was a great meeting," Ramaswamy said after their bilateral meeting.
Earlier, the Indian PM met with US NSA Michael Waltz and billionaire Elon Musk.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-visit-live-updates-president-trump-to-host-dinner-for-indian-pm-at-white-house-full-schedule-8718153">PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi meets Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy</a>
PM Modi is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump later in the day. Key topics like tariffs, US-India defence deals, and immigration issues are on the agenda of PM Modi.&nbsp;
PM Modi called Waltz a "great friend of India', adding that there is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, space and more.&nbsp;
He further stressed that defence, technology, and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and they both had a wonderful discussion around these issues.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-modi-to-discuss-defence-trade-and-critical-technologies-key-announcements-expected-8719059">Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected</a>
The meeting with Waltz was the first engagement of the day. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval were also present at the meeting.
PM Modi, after meeting Elon Musk, took to X, saying that the two discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about, such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-prime-minister-narendra-modi-meets-spacex-ceo-elon-musk-8719029">Indian PM Modi meets SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, says 'talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform'</a>
"I talked about India&rsquo;s efforts towards reform and furthering &lsquo;Minimum Government, Maximum Governance," PM Modi said.&nbsp;
Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), arrived at Blair House with his three young kids, who could be seen sitting with the two while they engaged in talks.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met the newly elected director of National intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, after landing in Washington, DC, on Thursday. He posted on X that he discussed India-US friendship with her and also congratulated her for becoming Trump&rsquo;s Director of National Intelligence.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-holds-bilateral-meeting-with-us-nsa-michael-waltz-at-blair-house-8718952">'Great friend': PM Modi meets US NSA Michael Waltz, says 'strong potential for cooperation in AI, space'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: PM Modi is scheduled to meet US President Trump later in the day. Key topics like including tariffs, US-India defence deals, and immigration issues are on the agenda of PM Modi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy at the Blair House in the US capital on Thursday (Feb 13). In a post on X, the Indian PM said that he met Ramaswamy and his father-in-law in Washington DC. "We talked about diverse issues including innovation, culture and more." Talking to Indian news agency ANI, Ramaswamy said it was an honour to welcome Modi to the US. "It was a pleasure and honour to welcome Prime Minister Modi here. Hope he has a wonderful visit and it was a great meeting," Ramaswamy said after their bilateral meeting. Earlier, the Indian PM met with US NSA Michael Waltz and billionaire Elon Musk. Also read: PM Modi US visit Live: PM Modi meets Indian-origin entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy PM Modi is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump later in the day. Key topics like tariffs, US-India defence deals, and immigration issues are on the agenda of PM Modi. PM Modi called Waltz a "great friend of India', adding that there is strong potential for cooperation in sectors like AI, semiconductors, space and more. He further stressed that defence, technology, and security are important aspects of India-USA ties and they both had a wonderful discussion around these issues. Also read: Trump, Modi to discuss defence, trade, and critical technologies; key announcements expected The meeting with Waltz was the first engagement of the day. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval were also present at the meeting. PM Modi, after meeting Elon Musk, took to X, saying that the two discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about, such as space, mobility, technology, and innovation. Also read: Indian PM Modi meets SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, says 'talked about India’s efforts towards reform' "I talked about India’s efforts towards reform and furthering ‘Minimum Government, Maximum Governance," PM Modi said. Musk, who heads the Donald Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), arrived at Blair House with his three young kids, who could be seen sitting with the two while they engaged in talks. Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met the newly elected director of National intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, after landing in Washington, DC, on Thursday. He posted on X that he discussed India-US friendship with her and also congratulated her for becoming Trump’s Director of National Intelligence. Also read: 'Great friend': PM Modi meets US NSA Michael Waltz, says 'strong potential for cooperation in AI, space' (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi meets Indian-American entrepreneur-politician Vivek Ramaswamy in US

Vivek Ramaswamy has stated he will not serve in a potential Trump administration. Reports indicate Ramaswamy’s exit was triggered by his comments on H-1B visa debacle. Ramaswamy criticised American culture, hiring practices regarding H-1B visa program….Watch to know more!

Was Vivek Ramaswamy’s exit triggered by his comments on H-1B?

The White House said on Monday (Jan 20) that Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will no longer co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside billionaire Elon Musk, reported news agency Associated Press.
It comes after earlier media reports suggested that Vivek may have to exit DOGE to run for Ohio governor.
Washington Post newspaper had earlier reported that Vivek is expected to replace the term-limited Republican state leader Mike DeWine.
CBS News reported that the move to remove Vivek from DOGE may have been a "result of friction" between him and the incoming agency staff.
The US channel claimed some officials were frustrated with Vivek because of his "lack of participation in the heavy lifting."
A New York Times report had earlier claimed that Musk himself had been critical of Vivek in private conversations.
<h2>Vivek confirms exit</h2>
Vivek later took to X to confirm his exit from the DOGE, saying it was his honour to help support the creation of the new department.&nbsp;
"I&rsquo;m confident that Elon &amp; team will succeed in streamlining government. I&rsquo;ll have more to say very soon about my future plans in Ohio. Most importantly, we&rsquo;re all-in to help President Trump make America great again!" he wrote in his X post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m65p3y7u-ck42988r-lj5lr5rw">
It was my honor to help support the creation of DOGE. I&rsquo;m confident that Elon &amp; team will succeed in streamlining government. I&rsquo;ll have more to say very soon about my future plans in Ohio. Most importantly, we&rsquo;re all-in to help President Trump make America great again! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/f1YFZm8X13">https://t.co/f1YFZm8X13</a>
&mdash; Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1881482161565618648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
The governor&rsquo;s seat in Ohio will be up for grabs in November 2026.&nbsp;
It's because the current Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine is term-limited and has named his deputy Jon Husted would fill the Senate seat being vacated by Vice President JD Vance.
Interestingly, Vivek was also a contender for the vacancy, and Trump himself told him that he would be a good fit.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | CBS news reported that the move to remove Vivek from DOGE may have been caused by alleged friction between him and the incoming agency staff.

The White House said on Monday (Jan 20) that Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy will no longer co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alongside billionaire Elon Musk, reported news agency Associated Press. It comes after earlier media reports suggested that Vivek may have to exit DOGE to run for Ohio governor. Washington Post newspaper had earlier reported that Vivek is expected to replace the term-limited Republican state leader Mike DeWine. CBS News reported that the move to remove Vivek from DOGE may have been a "result of friction" between him and the incoming agency staff. The US channel claimed some officials were frustrated with Vivek because of his "lack of participation in the heavy lifting." A New York Times report had earlier claimed that Musk himself had been critical of Vivek in private conversations. Vivek confirms exit Vivek later took to X to confirm his exit from the DOGE, saying it was his honour to help support the creation of the new department. "I’m confident that Elon & team will succeed in streamlining government. I’ll have more to say very soon about my future plans in Ohio. Most importantly, we’re all-in to help President Trump make America great again!" he wrote in his X post. It was my honor to help support the creation of DOGE. I’m confident that Elon & team will succeed in streamlining government. I’ll have more to say very soon about my future plans in Ohio. Most importantly, we’re all-in to help President Trump make America great again! 🇺🇸 https://t.co/f1YFZm8X13 — Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) January 20, 2025 The governor’s seat in Ohio will be up for grabs in November 2026. It's because the current Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine is term-limited and has named his deputy Jon Husted would fill the Senate seat being vacated by Vice President JD Vance. Interestingly, Vivek was also a contender for the vacancy, and Trump himself told him that he would be a good fit. (With inputs from agencies)

Result of friction? White House confirms Vivek Ramaswamy won't serve in DOGE

Vivek Ramaswamy, Donald Trump's choice to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) with entrepreneur Elon Musk, is expected to step away from the task force soon. Watch this report for more details!

Vivek Ramaswamy to step down from 'doge'?

Elon Musk's star power and political clout were on display at Capitol Hill on Thursday. The world's richest man, and fellow entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, met with legislators behind closed doors to discuss President-elect Donald Trump's plans to cut government spending. Watch in for more details!

USA News: Leaders Of Department of Government Efficiency Meet Lawmakers

US: Elon Musk And Vivek Ramaswamy Bring Trump’s DOGE To Capitol Hill | Race To Power

Days after US President-elect Donald Trump selected Kashyap "Kash" Patel for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), critics have been expressing doubts about his&nbsp;being qualified to lead the US government's principal law enforcement agency.

Some of the critics also voiced concerns, saying that Kash Patel, who is known for his loyalty, has aimed to dismantle an apolitical federal security service and remodel it into a means of partisan retribution.

Jeff Lanza, a former FBI agent, said, "Look, 99.9% of the bureau is made up of hard-working agents who adhere to the principles of fidelity, bravery, and integrity."&nbsp;

"But he's said that he's coming in to just decimate the agency. How is that going to go well and how will that play into the morale of the agents who have to work under him?," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-selects-indian-origin-kash-patel-to-head-fbi-announces-key-picks-for-dea-and-justice-department-780542">Also read:&nbsp;Trump selects Indian-origin Kash Patel to head FBI, announces key picks for DEA, and Justice Department</a>

<h2>'Job is difficult'</h2>

Former FBI and Department of Justice officials told BBC that the job is difficult and it would be nearly impossible for someone like Kash Patel, stressing that he has limited management experience to operate effectively.

Gregory Brower, a former FBI assistant director, called the job "nonstop", adding, "It's relentless. It's high stakes. It requires expert judgment, stamina, experience, and a strong ethical and moral compass."

Brower has worked closely with the past two directors.&nbsp;

However, Trump called Patel "a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and 'America First' fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People".

Watch |&nbsp;US: Trump Names Kash Patel As New FBI Director

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Earlier on Tuesday, the father of Kash Patel, Parik Patel, took to X, saying that he is proud of his son and Vivek Ramaswamy.&nbsp;

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When Kashu and Vivek were small they would play together in the parking lot while I was working in the motel 
 
Now Kashu is director of the FBI and Vivek is helping clean up the government with DOGE 
 
So proud of my son and his friends ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/ecQkqdAvVp">pic.twitter.com/ecQkqdAvVp</a>
— Dr. Parik Patel, BA, CFA, ACCA Esq. (@ParikPatelCFA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParikPatelCFA/status/1863264480144302308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Indian-origin Kashyap Patel previously served as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense, Deputy Director of National Intelligence, and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council during Trump's first term.

Kashyap Patel, the son of Indian immigrants, is the author of a book about the so-called government's "deep state."

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after US President-elect Donald Trump selected Kashyap "Kash" Patel for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), critics have been expressing doubts about his being qualified to lead the US government's principal law enforcement agency.

Days after US President-elect Donald Trump selected Kashyap "Kash" Patel for director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), critics have been expressing doubts about his being qualified to lead the US government's principal law enforcement agency. Some of the critics also voiced concerns, saying that Kash Patel, who is known for his loyalty, has aimed to dismantle an apolitical federal security service and remodel it into a means of partisan retribution. Jeff Lanza, a former FBI agent, said, "Look, 99.9% of the bureau is made up of hard-working agents who adhere to the principles of fidelity, bravery, and integrity." "But he's said that he's coming in to just decimate the agency. How is that going to go well and how will that play into the morale of the agents who have to work under him?," he added. Also read: Trump selects Indian-origin Kash Patel to head FBI, announces key picks for DEA, and Justice Department 'Job is difficult' Former FBI and Department of Justice officials told BBC that the job is difficult and it would be nearly impossible for someone like Kash Patel, stressing that he has limited management experience to operate effectively. Gregory Brower, a former FBI assistant director, called the job "nonstop", adding, "It's relentless. It's high stakes. It requires expert judgment, stamina, experience, and a strong ethical and moral compass." Brower has worked closely with the past two directors. However, Trump called Patel "a brilliant lawyer, investigator, and 'America First' fighter who has spent his career exposing corruption, defending Justice, and protecting the American People". Watch | US: Trump Names Kash Patel As New FBI Director × Earlier on Tuesday, the father of Kash Patel, Parik Patel, took to X, saying that he is proud of his son and Vivek Ramaswamy. When Kashu and Vivek were small they would play together in the parking lot while I was working in the motel Now Kashu is director of the FBI and Vivek is helping clean up the government with DOGE So proud of my son and his friends ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ecQkqdAvVp — Dr. Parik Patel, BA, CFA, ACCA Esq. (@ParikPatelCFA) December 1, 2024 × Indian-origin Kashyap Patel previously served as Chief of Staff at the Department of Defense, Deputy Director of National Intelligence, and Senior Director for Counterterrorism at the National Security Council during Trump's first term. Kashyap Patel, the son of Indian immigrants, is the author of a book about the so-called government's "deep state." (With inputs from agencies)

Critics raise concern over Trump's FBI pick Kash Patel, say 'job is difficult'

In 2023, New York City entered into a controversial $220 million lease agreement to rent the Roosevelt Hotel, a historic property in Manhattan owned by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), a state-run entity of Pakistan. The hotel, with its 1,200 rooms, was leased to house undocumented migrants for three years, sparking criticism from various quarters.

Author John LeFevre, shared a report on X saying, “The deal was part of a $1.1 billion IMF bailout package to help Pakistan avoid defaulting on their international debt. Prior to this sweetheart deal, the hotel had been closed since 2020, having long struggled with occupancy and in dire need of renovation.”

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A taxpayer-funded hotel for illegal migrants is owned by the Pakistani government which means NYC taxpayers are effectively paying a foreign government to house illegals in our own country. This is nuts. <a href="https://t.co/Oy4Z9qoX45">https://t.co/Oy4Z9qoX45</a>
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) <a href="https://twitter.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1863022250498125866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-approves-budget-plans-raising-2025-military-spending-to-record-levels-780663">Putin approves budget plans, raising 2025 military spending to record levels</a>

Republican politician Vivek Ramaswamy expressed outrage over the deal, calling it “nuts.” In a post on X, he wrote, “A taxpayer-funded hotel for illegal migrants is owned by the Pakistani government, which means NYC taxpayers are effectively paying a foreign government to house illegals in our own country. This is nuts.”

President-elect Donald Trump has tasked Vivek Ramaswamy and Tesla CEO Elon Musk with improving government efficiency and cutting unnecessary expenditures through the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The Roosevelt Hotel, named after former US President Theodore Roosevelt, had been closed since 2020 due to the pandemic and low occupancy. It reopened in 2023 under the lease agreement with New York City. According to reports, this arrangement was tied to Pakistan’s efforts to secure a $1.1 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stave off an economic default.

The lease agreement was expected to generate $220 million for Pakistan, with Minister of Railways and Aviation Khawaja Saad Rafique confirming that the revenue would aid the country’s financial recovery. “A contract was signed for 1,250 rooms. The hotel will be returned to the government of Pakistan once the three-year term lease expires,” Rafique said during a press conference in 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

In 2023, New York City entered into a controversial $220 million lease agreement to rent the Roosevelt Hotel, a historic property in Manhattan owned by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), a state-run entity of Pakistan.

In 2023, New York City entered into a controversial $220 million lease agreement to rent the Roosevelt Hotel, a historic property in Manhattan owned by Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), a state-run entity of Pakistan. The hotel, with its 1,200 rooms, was leased to house undocumented migrants for three years, sparking criticism from various quarters. Author John LeFevre, shared a report on X saying, “The deal was part of a $1.1 billion IMF bailout package to help Pakistan avoid defaulting on their international debt. Prior to this sweetheart deal, the hotel had been closed since 2020, having long struggled with occupancy and in dire need of renovation.” A taxpayer-funded hotel for illegal migrants is owned by the Pakistani government which means NYC taxpayers are effectively paying a foreign government to house illegals in our own country. This is nuts. https://t.co/Oy4Z9qoX45 — Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) December 1, 2024 × Also read: Putin approves budget plans, raising 2025 military spending to record levels Republican politician Vivek Ramaswamy expressed outrage over the deal, calling it “nuts.” In a post on X, he wrote, “A taxpayer-funded hotel for illegal migrants is owned by the Pakistani government, which means NYC taxpayers are effectively paying a foreign government to house illegals in our own country. This is nuts.” President-elect Donald Trump has tasked Vivek Ramaswamy and Tesla CEO Elon Musk with improving government efficiency and cutting unnecessary expenditures through the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The Roosevelt Hotel, named after former US President Theodore Roosevelt, had been closed since 2020 due to the pandemic and low occupancy. It reopened in 2023 under the lease agreement with New York City. According to reports, this arrangement was tied to Pakistan’s efforts to secure a $1.1 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stave off an economic default. The lease agreement was expected to generate $220 million for Pakistan, with Minister of Railways and Aviation Khawaja Saad Rafique confirming that the revenue would aid the country’s financial recovery. “A contract was signed for 1,250 rooms. The hotel will be returned to the government of Pakistan once the three-year term lease expires,” Rafique said during a press conference in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

'This is nuts': Vivek Ramaswamy blasts NYC's $220mn migrant housing deal with Pakistan-owned hotel

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers.&nbsp;

The two entrepreneurs will be leading the newly formed&nbsp;“Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE).&nbsp;

In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Musk and Ramaswamy said that the elimination of the option of remote working will trigger mass resignations which will help them trim the size of the government and make it more smaller and efficient.

“Requiring federal employees to come to the office five days a week would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome,” wrote Musk and Ramaswamy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tech-titans-and-trump-elon-musk-joins-as-sundar-pichai-dials-us-president-elect-777918">Tech titans and Trump: Elon Musk joins as Sundar Pichai dials US President-elect</a>

“If federal employees don’t want to show up, American taxpayers shouldn’t pay them for the Covid-era privilege of staying home,” they further stated.&nbsp;

<h2>How the decision of work-from-office will likely impact the US govt?</h2>

Nearly 1.1 million federal employees, which is half of the civilian workforce of the government - have the facility of telework, as per the Office of Management and Budget.&nbsp;

Nearly 228,000 employees or 10 per cent of civilian personnel were working remotely with “no expectation that they [work] in-person on any regular or recurring basis” stated the agency in a report in August 2024.&nbsp;

The report came two years after President Biden, speaking in his 2022 State of the Union address,&nbsp;said, “The vast majority of federal workers will once again work in person.”

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump-Elon Musk Bonhomie

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Ramaswamy and Musk have said Trump has the authority to “curtail administrative overgrowth” through various means, which include “large-scale firings”, relocating “federal agencies out of the Washington area” and ending remote work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The two said that the DOGE plans “to work with embedded appointees in agencies to identify the minimum number of employees required” for the agency to “perform its constitutionally permissible and statutorily mandated functions.”

They further said that the fired federal workers will be “treated with respect” and that “DOGE’s goal is to help support their transition into the private sector.”

“The president can use existing laws to give them incentives for early retirement and to make voluntary severance payments to facilitate a graceful exit,” they added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers.

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and billionaire Elon Musk - who have been picked by President-elect Donald Trump to run the newly formed task force to review government spending - have proposed to eliminate work-from-home facilities for federal workers. The two entrepreneurs will be leading the newly formed “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE). In a Wall Street Journal op-ed, Musk and Ramaswamy said that the elimination of the option of remote working will trigger mass resignations which will help them trim the size of the government and make it more smaller and efficient. “Requiring federal employees to come to the office five days a week would result in a wave of voluntary terminations that we welcome,” wrote Musk and Ramaswamy. Also Read: Tech titans and Trump: Elon Musk joins as Sundar Pichai dials US President-elect “If federal employees don’t want to show up, American taxpayers shouldn’t pay them for the Covid-era privilege of staying home,” they further stated. How the decision of work-from-office will likely impact the US govt? Nearly 1.1 million federal employees, which is half of the civilian workforce of the government - have the facility of telework, as per the Office of Management and Budget. Nearly 228,000 employees or 10 per cent of civilian personnel were working remotely with “no expectation that they [work] in-person on any regular or recurring basis” stated the agency in a report in August 2024. The report came two years after President Biden, speaking in his 2022 State of the Union address, said, “The vast majority of federal workers will once again work in person.” Watch: Donald Trump-Elon Musk Bonhomie Ramaswamy and Musk have said Trump has the authority to “curtail administrative overgrowth” through various means, which include “large-scale firings”, relocating “federal agencies out of the Washington area” and ending remote work. The two said that the DOGE plans “to work with embedded appointees in agencies to identify the minimum number of employees required” for the agency to “perform its constitutionally permissible and statutorily mandated functions.” They further said that the fired federal workers will be “treated with respect” and that “DOGE’s goal is to help support their transition into the private sector.” “The president can use existing laws to give them incentives for early retirement and to make voluntary severance payments to facilitate a graceful exit,” they added. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk and Ramaswamy led DOGE plan to stop work-from-home for federal employees

US President-elect Donald Trump picked billionaire Elon Musk and former Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to jointly lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).&nbsp;

As the news sparked discussion on social media, some people were seen supporting Trump's decision while others shared their criticism.&nbsp;

Replying to a few of those posts on X, Musk claimed that he and Ramaswamy would not get paid for their role in the department.&nbsp;

Reacting to Trump's decision to the new department, US Senator Elizabeth Warren sarcastically questioned&nbsp;the need for two people to run a single department.&nbsp;

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Unlike you, neither of us are being paid, so it is very efficient indeed.<a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DOGE</a> will do great things for the American people. Let history be the judge.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1856925863725412706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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“The Office of Government Efficiency is off to a great start with split leadership: two people to do the work of one person. Yeah, this seems efficient,” she wrote on X.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rfk-jr-todd-blanche-doug-burgum-donald-trumps-top-picks-spark-debate-776331">RFK Jr, Todd Blanche, Doug Burgum: Donald Trump's top picks spark debate</a>

Musk reshared the post and replied, "Unlike you, neither of us is being paid, so it is very efficient indeed. DOGE will do great things for the American people. Let history be the judge.”

On Tuesday (Nov 14), an X user shared his views on the department saying, "I get the unbridled enthusiasm of wanting to be part of something of profound historical significance like the @DOGE but I think people don't quite realize that the task at hand will require a monumental amount of tedious super-high quality work."

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Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies &amp; compensation is zero. 
 
What a great deal! 😂 <a href="https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i">https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1857112441529700671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Musk replied to that post with a laughing emoji saying, "Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies &amp; compensation is zero. What a great deal!"

<h2>What's The Role Of DOGE?</h2>

While announcing the roles on November 13, Trump said the 'DOGE' department "will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government," a move that could allow Musk to avoid disclosing his financial holdings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-names-vaccine-sceptic-rfk-jr-as-health-and-human-services-secretary-776318">Donald Trump names vaccine sceptic RFK Jr as Health and Human Services secretary</a>

In a post on X, Musk said the department's actions will be published online "for maximum transparency" and will include a "leaderboard for most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars."

"This will be both extremely tragic and extremely entertaining," Musk further wrote.

<h2>DOGE Is Hiring</h2>

The department shared a post on X on November 14 saying it is hiring "high-IQ" people who are willing to work for 80+ hours on "unglamorous cost-cutting."&nbsp;

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We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s…
— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE/status/1857076831104434289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The post read, "We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s you, DM this account with your CV. Elon &amp; Vivek will review the top 1% of applicants."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump picked billionaire Elon Musk and former Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to jointly lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

US President-elect Donald Trump picked billionaire Elon Musk and former Republican Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to jointly lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). As the news sparked discussion on social media, some people were seen supporting Trump's decision while others shared their criticism. Replying to a few of those posts on X, Musk claimed that he and Ramaswamy would not get paid for their role in the department. Reacting to Trump's decision to the new department, US Senator Elizabeth Warren sarcastically questioned the need for two people to run a single department. Unlike you, neither of us are being paid, so it is very efficient indeed.@DOGE will do great things for the American people. Let history be the judge. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 14, 2024 × “The Office of Government Efficiency is off to a great start with split leadership: two people to do the work of one person. Yeah, this seems efficient,” she wrote on X. Also read | RFK Jr, Todd Blanche, Doug Burgum: Donald Trump's top picks spark debate Musk reshared the post and replied, "Unlike you, neither of us is being paid, so it is very efficient indeed. DOGE will do great things for the American people. Let history be the judge.” On Tuesday (Nov 14), an X user shared his views on the department saying, "I get the unbridled enthusiasm of wanting to be part of something of profound historical significance like the @DOGE but I think people don't quite realize that the task at hand will require a monumental amount of tedious super-high quality work." Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies & compensation is zero. What a great deal! 😂 https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 14, 2024 × Musk replied to that post with a laughing emoji saying, "Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies & compensation is zero. What a great deal!" What's The Role Of DOGE? While announcing the roles on November 13, Trump said the 'DOGE' department "will provide advice and guidance from outside of Government," a move that could allow Musk to avoid disclosing his financial holdings. Also read | Donald Trump names vaccine sceptic RFK Jr as Health and Human Services secretary In a post on X, Musk said the department's actions will be published online "for maximum transparency" and will include a "leaderboard for most insanely dumb spending of your tax dollars." "This will be both extremely tragic and extremely entertaining," Musk further wrote. DOGE Is Hiring The department shared a post on X on November 14 saying it is hiring "high-IQ" people who are willing to work for 80+ hours on "unglamorous cost-cutting." We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s… — Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) November 14, 2024 × The post read, "We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s you, DM this account with your CV. Elon & Vivek will review the top 1% of applicants." (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy won't get paid for leading DOGE? Here's what Tesla CEO said

While American&nbsp;billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy look all set to unleash their United States “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) on the US&nbsp;bureaucratic splurge, experts have warned their ambitious agenda might soon face roadblocks.

The DOGE aims to slash government costs by $2 trillion within the next two years by restructuring federal agencies.

However, experts have noted that the executive branch may scuttle their ambitious strides.

Douglas Holtz-Eakin, president of American Action Forum, was quoted as saying by the Hill, “There’s the executive branch that might be in their way. The Congress might be in their way. The Constitution is a bit of an obstacle.”

Holtz-Eakin added that the DOGE’s powers will be fully advisory and it will just give recommendations to the government agencies, without having any real authority.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwidlJmmt9yJAxWyqFYBHbrMNzkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-india-trumps-border-czar-raises-concerns-over-terror-risk-from-canada-776286" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/after-india-trumps-border-czar-raises-concerns-over-terror-risk-from-canada-776286&amp;ved=2ahUKEwidlJmmt9yJAxWyqFYBHbrMNzkQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">After India, Trump’s border czar raises concerns over terror risk from Canada</a>

“They don’t have any authority to do anything other than say, ‘We think this will be good,’” the expert said. “Evidently, Mr. Musk has a lot of free time, and if he wants to waste it, that’s fine,” he stated.

Darrell West, a senior fellow at the Center for Technology Innovation at the Brookings Institution, meanwhile expressed doubts over the authority and status of DOGE since it has not been created by Congress.

“But since this was not created by Congress, we don’t know what its authority is and what status it has,” West said. “I mean, any American can make suggestions on ways to cut the government budget, but the question — is anybody going to pay serious attention to this?”

The expert also noted that major budgetary cuts would be approved only by Congress and would not be based on&nbsp;DOGE’s recommendations. 
 
Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwidlJmmt9yJAxWyqFYBHbrMNzkQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-wont-go-home-cant-get-rid-of-him-trump-says-after-billionaires-constant-presence-at-his-home-776219" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-wont-go-home-cant-get-rid-of-him-trump-says-after-billionaires-constant-presence-at-his-home-776219&amp;ved=2ahUKEwidlJmmt9yJAxWyqFYBHbrMNzkQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">`Elon won`t go home, can`t get rid of him,` Trump says after billionaire`s constant presence at his home</a>

However, West warned that Musk had to be taken seriously only because of his closeness to President-elect Donald Trump.

“Musk has the ear of the president, so people have to take it seriously just for that reason,” West was quoted as saying by The Hill.

Trump, on Tuesday (Nov 12) declared that Vivek and Elon would be spearheading the DOGE arm of his government. Trump in a statement said, “It will become, potentially, ‘The Manhattan Project’ of our time. Republican politicians have dreamed about the objectives of ‘DOGE’ for a very long time.”

(With inputs from agencies)

While American billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy look all set to unleash their United States “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) on the US bureaucratic splurge, experts have warned their ambitious agenda might soon face roadblocks.

While American billionaire Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy look all set to unleash their United States “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) on the US bureaucratic splurge, experts have warned their ambitious agenda might soon face roadblocks. The DOGE aims to slash government costs by $2 trillion within the next two years by restructuring federal agencies. However, experts have noted that the executive branch may scuttle their ambitious strides. Douglas Holtz-Eakin, president of American Action Forum, was quoted as saying by the Hill, “There’s the executive branch that might be in their way. The Congress might be in their way. The Constitution is a bit of an obstacle.” Holtz-Eakin added that the DOGE’s powers will be fully advisory and it will just give recommendations to the government agencies, without having any real authority. Also read: After India, Trump’s border czar raises concerns over terror risk from Canada “They don’t have any authority to do anything other than say, ‘We think this will be good,’” the expert said. “Evidently, Mr. Musk has a lot of free time, and if he wants to waste it, that’s fine,” he stated. Darrell West, a senior fellow at the Center for Technology Innovation at the Brookings Institution, meanwhile expressed doubts over the authority and status of DOGE since it has not been created by Congress. “But since this was not created by Congress, we don’t know what its authority is and what status it has,” West said. “I mean, any American can make suggestions on ways to cut the government budget, but the question — is anybody going to pay serious attention to this?” The expert also noted that major budgetary cuts would be approved only by Congress and would not be based on DOGE’s recommendations. Also read: `Elon won`t go home, can`t get rid of him,` Trump says after billionaire`s constant presence at his home However, West warned that Musk had to be taken seriously only because of his closeness to President-elect Donald Trump. “Musk has the ear of the president, so people have to take it seriously just for that reason,” West was quoted as saying by The Hill. Trump, on Tuesday (Nov 12) declared that Vivek and Elon would be spearheading the DOGE arm of his government. Trump in a statement said, “It will become, potentially, ‘The Manhattan Project’ of our time. Republican politicians have dreamed about the objectives of ‘DOGE’ for a very long time.” (With inputs from agencies)

Congress and Constitution: Experts claim Musk’s DOGE plan may face real obstacles

Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian-origin biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy announced that they are hiring for their new United States Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk and Ramaswamy are seeking “high-IQ small-government revolutionaries” who are willing to work over 80 hours a week without pay.

In an X post, the department posted from its official handle, “We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting.”

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We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s…
— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE/status/1857076831104434289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/so-humanity-can-grow-elon-musk-allegedly-offered-his-sperm-to-a-very-famous-politician-776412">'So humanity can grow,' Elon Musk allegedly offered his sperm to a very famous politician</a>

“If that’s you, DM this account with your CV. Elon &amp; Vivek will review the top 1% of applicants,” it added.

However, to send a message to a DOGE account to submit applications, users need an X subscription. To get a verified X account, users need to pay $84 a year for the premium membership.

“Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies &amp; compensation is zero,” Musk wrote in a separate X post about the job. “What a great deal!”

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Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies &amp; compensation is zero. 
 
What a great deal! 😂 <a href="https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i">https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1857112441529700671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Trump appoints Musk and&nbsp;Ramaswamy</h2>

US President-elect Donald Trump earlier announced the appointment of Musk and Ramaswamy to the department, saying “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies – essential to the ‘Save America’ movement.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/good-news-trump-ally-elon-musk-met-with-irans-un-ambassador-discussed-ways-to-defuse-tensions-report-776427">'Good news,' Trump ally Elon Musk met with Iran’s UN ambassador, discussed ways to defuse tensions: Report</a>

Musk has vowed to reduce federal bureaucracy by one-third and reduce the US government spending by $2 trillion, a move that he said “necessarily involves some temporary hardship”.&nbsp;

The X owner has emerged as a strong ally of Trump since the first assassination attempt on the Republican. He is the largest donator to Trump’s campaign after donating $120 million. Musk has also held rallies and events for Trump and promoted his campaign message consistently on X.

(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian-origin biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy announced that they are hiring for their new United States Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Tesla CEO Elon Musk and Indian-origin biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy announced that they are hiring for their new United States Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Musk and Ramaswamy are seeking “high-IQ small-government revolutionaries” who are willing to work over 80 hours a week without pay. In an X post, the department posted from its official handle, “We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting.” We are very grateful to the thousands of Americans who have expressed interest in helping us at DOGE. We don’t need more part-time idea generators. We need super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries willing to work 80+ hours per week on unglamorous cost-cutting. If that’s… — Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) November 14, 2024 × Also read | 'So humanity can grow,' Elon Musk allegedly offered his sperm to a very famous politician “If that’s you, DM this account with your CV. Elon & Vivek will review the top 1% of applicants,” it added. However, to send a message to a DOGE account to submit applications, users need an X subscription. To get a verified X account, users need to pay $84 a year for the premium membership. “Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies & compensation is zero,” Musk wrote in a separate X post about the job. “What a great deal!” Indeed, this will be tedious work, make lots of enemies & compensation is zero. What a great deal! 😂 https://t.co/16e7EKRS6i — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 14, 2024 × Trump appoints Musk and Ramaswamy US President-elect Donald Trump earlier announced the appointment of Musk and Ramaswamy to the department, saying “Together, these two wonderful Americans will pave the way for my administration to dismantle government bureaucracy, slash excess regulations, cut wasteful expenditures, and restructure federal agencies – essential to the ‘Save America’ movement.” Also read | 'Good news,' Trump ally Elon Musk met with Iran’s UN ambassador, discussed ways to defuse tensions: Report Musk has vowed to reduce federal bureaucracy by one-third and reduce the US government spending by $2 trillion, a move that he said “necessarily involves some temporary hardship”. The X owner has emerged as a strong ally of Trump since the first assassination attempt on the Republican. He is the largest donator to Trump’s campaign after donating $120 million. Musk has also held rallies and events for Trump and promoted his campaign message consistently on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy’s DOGE seeks ‘super-high IQ’ candidates

Former biotech executive Vivek Ramaswamy dropped out of this 2024 US presidential race on Tuesday (Jan 16) after his long shot bid caught attention but failed to catapult the Indian-American high enough in the Republican party's first nominating contest in Iowa.

Former biotech executive Vivek Ramaswamy dropped out of this 2024 US presidential race on Tuesday (Jan 16) after his long shot bid caught attention but failed to catapult the Indian-American high enough in the Republican party's first nominating contest in Iowa. The 38-year-old then endorsed Trump as an “America-first” candidate who would have his full support, and now he is set to play a major role in US president-elect Trump's cabinet. Trump, on Tuesday (Nov 12) announced that Ramaswamy, along with Tesla CEO, would lead “Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)” a new US government efficiency group tasked with cutting federal waste. pic.twitter.com/Vnk4MCAofY — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 13, 2024 × Who is Vivek Ramaswamy? Ramaswamy was born on Aug 9, 1985 in Cincinnati, Ohio, to immigrant parents from southern India. Ramaswamy's father worked as an engineer and patent attorney for General Electric, while his mother worked as a geriatric psychiatrist. After finishing his schooling, Ramaswamy attended Harvard University, graduating in 2007 with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) (summa cum laude) in biology. He then went on to study at Yale Law School. Also read: Donald Trump wins Republican presidential caucuses in Iowa, DeSantis secures 2nd spot, Haley 3rd In 2007, he co-founded Campus Venture Network and sold it to a non-profit organisation two years later. In 2014, Ramaswamy founded the biotech company Roviant and Sciences as its chief executive officer (CEO) till 2021 and assumed the role of executive chairman. Roviant Sciences bought patents from larger companies for drugs that had yet to be fully developed and marketed. Last year, Forbes estimated Ramaswamy's wealth at $ 630 million. Entry into politics In the 2004 presidential elections, Ramaswamy said he had voted for a libertarian but did not vote in 2008, 2012, or 2016. He has contributed to Republican and Democratic candidates. Also watch | 'Will Pardon Trump If...' Vivek Ramaswamy's big statement ahead of 2024 US Presidential election × Ramaswamy said he voted in 2020 for then-President Donald Trump. In the following year, the former biotech executive registered to vote in Ohio's Franklin County in Nov as unaffiliated but described himself as a Republican. In Feb 2023, Ramaswamy declared his candidacy for president. Ramaswamy's opinions Although a Hindu, Ramaswamy has been telling voters that the US is based on “Christian and Judeo-Christian values” and has described himself as an American nationalist. His policy positions are mostly deeply conservative. He has opposed affirmative action and supports state-level bans on abortion after six weeks, with exceptions for rape and incest and to save a mother's life. He wanted to greatly expand the powers of the presidency and dismantle much of the federal government, including the FBI, the Department of Education and the tax-collecting Internal Revenue Service. As Russia launched a war against Ukraine in late Feb 2022, Ramaswamy opposed NATO membership for Ukraine and said Kyiv should make concessions to Moscow to end the war. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Vivek Ramaswamy, Trump's former political rival and to-be Department of Govt Efficiency chief?

Trump picks Musk to lead 'Department of Government Efficiency' with Ramaswamy. Department of Government Efficiency aims to dismantle bureaucracy, cut expenditures. Trump links Doge to The Manhattan Project, Musk and Ramaswamy ‘to shake up’ government. Watch to know more!

USA News: Elon Musk Promises He Is ‘Making Government Fun Again!’ In America | WION Originals

The United States expressed its "incredible concern" about North Korean troops deployed in Russia. During a press conference, the US State Department said North Korea's decision will lead&nbsp;“to continue Russia's brutal war against Ukraine”. The US also confirmed in the conference that as many as 10,000 soldiers have been transferred by North Korea to Russia.

Talking about the West Asia crisis, the US said Israel was not violating US laws regarding humanitarian aid in Gaza. But the US further "urged" Israel to improve the situation in the region by allowing more humanitarian aid in the affected areas.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US-President elect Donald Trump announced Elon Musk and&nbsp;former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead the Department of Government Efficiency "(DOGE)."&nbsp;"DOGE" is a new department in the US administration introduced by Republicans that will be taking care of cutting federal waste.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more: &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-incredibly-concerned-by-north-korea-troops-in-russia-confirms-10000-soldiers-have-joined-ukraine-war-775668">US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/13/465686-new-wion72.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) expressed concern over North Korea's decision to supply troops to Russia “to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”.&nbsp;During a daily press briefing, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed that thousands of North Korean troops in Russia have started “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the Ukraine border.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-gaza-aid-efforts-in-right-direction-says-us-but-urges-further-action-775661">Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/13/465684-new-wion71.jpg?imwidth=400" />

The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) said that Israel was not violating US laws regarding the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, but urged further progress. This comes a month after US President Joe Biden's administration set a November 13 deadline for Israel to improve access to humanitarian assistance or risk the suspension of some military aid.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-vivek-ramaswamy-to-lead-department-of-government-efficiency-in-trumps-second-term-775673">Elon Musk &amp; Vivek Ramaswamy to lead 'Department of Government Efficiency' in Trump's second term</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/13/465691-00036mc2yv.jpg?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (Nov 12) that Tesla CEO Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead the Department of Government Efficiency "(DOGE)."&nbsp;"DOGE" is a new department in the US administration introduced by Republicans that will be taking care of cutting federal waste.&nbsp;Trump said Musk and another stalwart ally, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, would lead a "Department of Government Efficiency ('DOGE')" a tongue-in-cheek reference to an internet meme and cryptocurrency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-picks-former-us-spy-john-ratcliffe-as-cia-chief-kash-patel-misses-out-on-top-role-775674">Donald Trump picks former US spy John Ratcliffe as CIA chief, Kash Patel misses out on top role</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/13/465689-untitled-design-2024-11-13t084232641.png?imwidth=400" />

US President-elect Donald Trump picked John Ratcliffe, a former spy, to serve as director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) on Tuesday (Nov&nbsp;12).&nbsp;Earlier there were talks that Indian-origin Kash Patel, a Republican House staffer, was in line for the same role. However, with Trump’s recent announcement, it is clear as a bell that Patel has been snubbed as Ratcliffe is set to lead.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;35 Killed In Deadly Car Ramming In China

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&nbsp;

The United States expressed its "incredible concern" about North Korean troops deployed in Russia. During a press conference, the US State Department said North Korea's decision will lead “to continue Russia's brutal war against Ukraine”.

The United States expressed its "incredible concern" about North Korean troops deployed in Russia. During a press conference, the US State Department said North Korea's decision will lead “to continue Russia's brutal war against Ukraine”. The US also confirmed in the conference that as many as 10,000 soldiers have been transferred by North Korea to Russia. Talking about the West Asia crisis, the US said Israel was not violating US laws regarding humanitarian aid in Gaza. But the US further "urged" Israel to improve the situation in the region by allowing more humanitarian aid in the affected areas. Meanwhile, US-President elect Donald Trump announced Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead the Department of Government Efficiency "(DOGE)." "DOGE" is a new department in the US administration introduced by Republicans that will be taking care of cutting federal waste. Click on the headlines to read more: US 'incredibly concerned' by North Korea troops in Russia, confirms 10,000 soldiers have joined Ukraine war The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) expressed concern over North Korea's decision to supply troops to Russia “to continue their brutal war against Ukraine”. During a daily press briefing, State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed that thousands of North Korean troops in Russia have started “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the Ukraine border. Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action The United States on Tuesday (Nov 12) said that Israel was not violating US laws regarding the level of humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza, but urged further progress. This comes a month after US President Joe Biden's administration set a November 13 deadline for Israel to improve access to humanitarian assistance or risk the suspension of some military aid. Elon Musk & Vivek Ramaswamy to lead 'Department of Government Efficiency' in Trump's second term US President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday (Nov 12) that Tesla CEO Elon Musk and former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will lead the Department of Government Efficiency "(DOGE)." "DOGE" is a new department in the US administration introduced by Republicans that will be taking care of cutting federal waste. Trump said Musk and another stalwart ally, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, would lead a "Department of Government Efficiency ('DOGE')" a tongue-in-cheek reference to an internet meme and cryptocurrency. Donald Trump picks former US spy John Ratcliffe as CIA chief, Kash Patel misses out on top role US President-elect Donald Trump picked John Ratcliffe, a former spy, to serve as director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) on Tuesday (Nov 12). Earlier there were talks that Indian-origin Kash Patel, a Republican House staffer, was in line for the same role. However, with Trump’s recent announcement, it is clear as a bell that Patel has been snubbed as Ratcliffe is set to lead. Watch | 35 Killed In Deadly Car Ramming In China ×

Morning brief: Trump's top picks for White House; latest on West Asia crisis; and more

Elon Musk is poised to undertake his most ambitious project yet...Dismantling the federal bureaucracy.

USA: Donald Trump Picks Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy To Key Cabinet Roles

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