MARIETTA, Ohio (AP) — Dr. Amy Acton, the Democratic candidate for governor, announced her support for a three-year moratorium on permitting new injection wells for fracking in rural Washington County. This issue is significant for voters concerned about groundwater pollution from the industry's waste. Acton emphasized the need to protect water resources, stating that cleanup costs could exceed $1 billion. She addressed a gathering of about two dozen supporters at a riverfront gazebo, asserting that this is not a partisan issue.
Acton was joined by Susan Vessels, a local Republican who has chosen to support Acton over her party's nominee, Vivek Ramaswamy, a tech billionaire and former presidential candidate. Vessels, who is the president of the city council in Marietta, commended Acton for her attentiveness to local residents' concerns regarding fracking risks.
Ramaswamy has advocated for American energy development, including fracking, stating during a 2024 presidential debate, "Unlock American energy. Drill, frack, burn coal, embrace nuclear." He has expressed a desire for economic growth that also protects Ohio's natural resources and water quality.
Acton has been actively campaigning across Ohio, particularly in areas that have historically voted Republican, as Democrats seek to regain ground in a state where Republicans currently dominate the Legislature and hold all statewide offices. The last Democrat to win the governor's race in Ohio was in 2006.
Both candidates are attempting to connect with voters in Marietta amid rising dissatisfaction over costs of living and broader economic concerns. Surveys indicate that rural Americans are increasingly worried about the economy.
Acton, who previously served as the state's health director during the early COVID-19 pandemic, participated in Marietta's Fourth of July parade. Ramaswamy, endorsed by Trump, held a veterans' town hall on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
Ramaswamy's campaign manager, Jonathan Ewing, noted that voters are frustrated with the political system, feeling it serves a select group rather than the general public.
Ramaswamy has received endorsements from farming groups and the National Rifle Association. He visited a local business, Schafer Leather, where staff expressed support for him despite concerns about rising gas prices.
Democrats are optimistic about their chances, believing that rural voters are growing weary of one-party rule. Chris Gibbs, chair of the Ohio Democrats Rural Caucus, indicated that a statewide listening tour revealed three groups of voters who may be persuaded: disaffected Democrats, engaged independents, and legacy Republicans dissatisfied with their party's direction.
Independent voter Scott Oancea, who previously supported Trump, expressed his intention to vote for Democrats this year, citing his discontent with current political developments.
Acton has positioned herself as a moderate candidate, taking stances that appeal to centrist voters, including opposition to transgender athletes competing in female sports and support for local law enforcement cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
As part of her campaign, Acton has visited rural hospitals and farms to discuss healthcare access and conservation issues. She noted that many concerns of Ohioans transcend party lines and that voters are fatigued by current political divisions.
Vessels observed a shift in voter sentiment, noting that many residents appreciate bipartisan efforts on local issues, such as opposition to a controversial data center deal and the placement of injection wells near drinking water sources.
Support for journalism and civil dialogue remains crucial as the campaign progresses.