Ohio candidate Amy Acton names David Pepper as running mate

Democratic Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton has chosen former state party chair David Pepper as her running mate, confirming the selection to The Associated Press ahead of a joint public appearance; the announcement came the same day a rival planned a separate running-mate event.

Democratic Ohio gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton announced she has chosen David Pepper, a former state party chair, as her running mate. Acton confirmed the selection to The Associated Press ahead of the pair's first public appearance together. The campaign highlighted Pepper's local-government experience and several county-level programs he led. Acton said the two share a common vision for the state and cited his record as a reason for the pick. Key details: - David Pepper is 54, a lawyer and writer, and a former member of the Cincinnati City Council and the Hamilton County Commission; the article notes he is the son of a former Procter & Gamble CEO. - Acton confirmed the selection to The Associated Press and the pair planned a first public appearance together on Wednesday. - The campaign credited Pepper with leading a foreclosure prevention program, introducing a prescription drug discount program for county residents, supporting an earned income tax credit initiative, balancing the budget, and holding the line on property taxes. - Pepper said he sees economic similarities between his county experience during the Great Recession and current conditions and emphasized working across party lines. - The announcement coincided with reports that rival Vivek Ramaswamy planned a campaign event expected to involve his running mate; Ohio Chamber of Commerce President Steve Stivers issued a statement commending Rob McColley in that context. - Acton and Ramaswamy are competing to succeed Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, who is term-limited at the end of the year. Summary: Acton's selection brings a former state party chair and local elected official onto her ticket and spotlights his record on county programs and fiscal measures. The campaign framed the announcement as preparation for a joint public appearance Wednesday; the broader impact on the governor's race is undetermined at this time.