COLUMBUS, Ohio — As of March 2026, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Dr. Amy Acton has not released a specific “marketing budget,” but newly filed campaign finance reports show a clear picture of her spending priorities — and a surge in grassroots backing ahead of the May 5 primary.
In her latest report filed January 30, Acton’s campaign reported raising more than $5.3 million, a record-setting total for an Ohio Democratic challenger at this stage in the race. The campaign entered 2026 with roughly $3 million cash on hand, positioning her as the strongest Democratic contender in years to take on Republican frontrunner Vivek Ramaswamy, who reported nearly $13 million in available funds.
Acton’s filings also show she is leaning heavily on small-dollar support, with 96% of donations under $100, reflecting a grassroots-driven network that campaign strategists say mirrors her community-focused image.
While the campaign has not published internal marketing figures, expenditures point to a concentrated push on digital advertising and direct mail outreach to voters across the state. The campaign has said those efforts are designed to expand Acton’s visibility and message footing ahead of Ramaswamy’s multimillion-dollar ad blitz.
Acton’s travel spending remained modest, totaling about $26,000 in 2025, as she continues her “drive-across-Ohio” tour rather than relying on air travel. Insiders expect her campaign’s remaining $3 million to fund a broad media rollout this month, blending TV ads with increased online presence to keep pace with Republican advertising spending.
Political observers say March could mark a turning point in the tone of the race, as both candidates prepare to define their messages before early voting begins in April.
