Fact Check: "Amy Acton is Ohio's first Covid-era health director running for governor."
What We Know
Dr. Amy Acton served as the Director of the Ohio Department of Health from 2019 to 2020, during which she played a pivotal role in the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. She became well-known for her public health leadership alongside Governor Mike DeWine during daily briefings, where she communicated critical health information to Ohioans as the pandemic unfolded (AP News, Wikipedia).
On January 7, 2025, Acton officially announced her candidacy for the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election, marking her entry into the political arena as a Democrat (AP News, Dispatch). This announcement confirms that she is indeed running for governor, making her the first health director during the COVID-19 era to do so.
Analysis
The claim that "Amy Acton is Ohio's first Covid-era health director running for governor" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. Acton was the first woman to hold the position of Ohio's health director and was appointed just before the pandemic began (Wikipedia). Her tenure was marked by significant public visibility and engagement, which has contributed to her recognition among Ohio voters.
Her decision to run for governor is a notable political move, especially considering the challenges she faced during her time as health director, including public protests against pandemic restrictions (AP News, Wikipedia). The sources reporting on her candidacy, including the Associated Press and local news outlets, are reputable and provide a clear context of her background and motivations for entering the race.
While the political landscape in Ohio has shifted toward Republican dominance in recent years, Acton's experience and public health credentials may resonate with voters looking for change (AP News). However, her affiliation with the Democratic Party could pose challenges in a predominantly Republican state.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "Amy Acton is Ohio's first Covid-era health director running for governor" is accurate. She has officially declared her candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial election, leveraging her experience as the state's health director during the COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence from reliable sources confirms both her role as health director and her current political aspirations.
