Ohio Teamsters back Ramaswamy for governor, shifting from Democratic tradition

In a stunning turn of events, the Ohio Conference of Teamsters has thrown its support behind Vivek Ramaswamy for governor, marking an unexpected departure from its long-standing alignment with Democratic candidates.

Fox News reported that this endorsement, confirmed by Ramaswamy’s campaign to Fox News Digital, signals a significant shift as the biotech entrepreneur and former 2024 presidential candidate gains traction among labor unions and conservative voters alike ahead of the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial race.

The Ohio Conference of Teamsters, representing over 50,000 workers across the state, has historically backed Democratic figures like former Ohio Rep. Tim Ryan.

Unprecedented Union Support for a Republican

However, their decision to endorse Ramaswamy reflects a change in priorities, focusing on a candidate they believe will prioritize workers’ interests.

Patrick J. Darrow, president of the Ohio Conference of Teamsters, expressed confidence in Ramaswamy’s vision for the state.

Darrow stated, “The Teamsters are proud to endorse Vivek Ramaswamy for Governor of Ohio. Our members want a leader who will fight for good-paying jobs and strengthen the future for Ohio’s working families.”

Ramaswamy Builds a Diverse Coalition

He added, “Vivek has demonstrated a commitment to listening to labor and partnering with us to deliver real results, and we look forward to working with him.”

Ramaswamy, in response, shared his appreciation for the endorsement, emphasizing a unifying message.

He said he was “deeply grateful” for the support and noted, “This isn’t about left vs. right, it’s about up vs. down.”

Labor and Conservative Backing Unite

Ramaswamy further elaborated, “We are building a movement that restores dignity to work, rewards those who keep our economy moving, and ensures every Ohioan has a fair shot at the American Dream.”

He concluded, “Together, we will make Ohio the best place in America to work, raise a family, and pursue a better life for the next generation.”

Beyond the Teamsters, Ramaswamy has garnered support from several other labor organizations, including the Ohio State Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters and the Central Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters.

Crossing Political Lines with Endorsements

Interestingly, both of those unions also endorsed Democratic Senate candidate Sherrod Brown, showcasing their willingness to support candidates across party lines based on specific issues.

Additional backing for Ramaswamy comes from the Cleveland Building & Construction Trades Council and the Northwest Ohio Building & Construction Trades Council, further solidifying his appeal among workers.

On the political front, Ramaswamy has secured endorsements from prominent conservative figures and groups, including President Donald Trump and the Ohio Republican Party, blending labor and right-leaning support in a unique coalition.

Financial and Political Shifts in Ohio

Financially, Ramaswamy’s campaign revealed to Fox News Digital that nearly $220,000 of contributions in his initial months as a candidate came from individuals who previously donated to Tim Ryan, a past Teamsters-backed Democrat who has not yet decided on a gubernatorial run.

This crossover in donor support hints at Ramaswamy’s ability to attract a diverse base, even among those traditionally aligned with Democratic causes.

Meanwhile, on the Democratic side, Dr. Amy Acton, former Ohio Department of Health Director, currently leads as the frontrunner in the gubernatorial race, setting the stage for a competitive election in 2026.