- Elon Musk donated $5 million to V-PAC, a political action committee backing Vivek Ramaswamy in the Ohio governor's race.
- The donation contradicts rumors of a rift between Musk and Ramaswamy, who were brief former co-leaders of DOGE.
- Ramaswamy will face Democrat Amy Acton in the general election in November.
- Amy Acton's campaign denounced the donation, claiming Ramaswamy only cares about himself and his billionaire buddies.
- The funding drew attention because of rumored past tensions between Musk and Ramaswamy over their planned co-leadership of DOGE.
- Ramaswamy denied any falling out with Musk or Trump in a Fox News interview.
- Musk had previously posted his "full endorsement" for Ramaswamy on social media, but had not donated until May.
- Other large donors to the same PAC at that time include $10,000 from Polymarket and $5 million from Ratmir Timashev, an entrepreneur.
Elon Musk's recent $5 million donation to Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign through the PAC V-PAC has reignited interest in the Ohio gubernatorial race. This funding, made on May 8, contradicts earlier rumors of discord between Musk and Ramaswamy, who briefly co-led the DOGE initiative.123
Ramaswamy, a Republican, is set to face Democrat Amy Acton in the November election. Acton's campaign spokesperson, Addie Bullock, criticized Musk's donation, stating, “Ramaswamy doesn’t care about Ohioans; he only cares about himself and his billionaire buddies.” Meanwhile, Ramaswamy has denied any falling out with Musk or Trump, asserting his commitment to Ohio's future.4
The upcoming election also brings the contentious issue of Amtrak expansion to the forefront. Advocates argue that expanding service, including routes to cities like Columbus, could enhance Ohio's economy and quality of life. However, critics express concerns over potential long-term subsidies required from the state.
Ramaswamy's campaign has not publicly addressed his stance on the Amtrak initiative, while Acton has made only broad statements supporting rail investment. Libertarian candidate Don Kissick has openly opposed state funding for the project, adding to the debate surrounding transportation in Ohio.
As the election approaches, the implications of Musk's financial backing and the Amtrak decision will be pivotal in shaping Ohio's political landscape.
“Musk's $5 million donation to V-PAC on May 8 contradicts rumors of a rift between the former DOGE co-leaders; other donations included $10,000 from Polymarket and $5 million from entrepreneur Ratmir Timashev. Ramaswamy denied any falling out with Musk or Trump in a Fox News interview, while Democratic opponent Amy Acton's campaign denounced the donation as self-serving.”
Cleveland.com
