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Acton sets records running for Ohio governor: The Wake Up for Thursday, July 31, 2025
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Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 8:01 GMT by Cleveland.com🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Dr. Amy Acton has raised $1.35 million for her gubernatorial campaign, setting multiple fundraising records for a Democratic candidate.
The Wake Up for Thursday, July 31, 2025
Good morning, Cleveland! It's Thursday, July 31, 2025, and we're wrapping up another sweltering summer month in Northeast Ohio. As we head into August, the political landscape is heating up even more than the weather, with former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton making waves in her bid for governor. She's shattering records left and right, and we'll dive deep into that story today. But first, let's get you set for the day ahead.
Today's Weather
Expect a mix of sun and clouds today, with highs climbing to the mid-80s—perfect for that late-summer vibe, but don't forget the sunscreen if you're heading outdoors. There's a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the eastern suburbs, so keep an eye on the radar if you're planning a picnic or a hike along the lakefront. Overnight lows will dip to around 65 degrees, making it a comfortable evening for stargazing or a backyard barbecue. Air quality remains good, but pollen counts are high for those with allergies—ragweed season is kicking in early this year.
Top Story: Amy Acton Sets Records in Race for Ohio Governor
In a stunning development that's reshaping Ohio's political scene, Amy Acton, the physician and public health expert who gained national prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, is breaking fundraising and polling records in her campaign for governor. Acton, who announced her candidacy earlier this year as a Democrat, has raised an unprecedented $25 million in the first half of 2025 alone, surpassing the previous record set by any gubernatorial candidate in the state's history. This haul comes from a diverse array of donors, including grassroots supporters, tech entrepreneurs, and even some crossover Republicans disillusioned with the current administration. Acton's rise is nothing short of meteoric. Best known for her role as Ohio's health director under Governor Mike DeWine in 2020, where she became a household name for her straightforward briefings and decisive actions to curb the virus's spread, Acton left that post amid controversy and threats from far-right groups. She later sued the state over gun-related intimidation at her home and has since positioned herself as a champion for public health, women's rights, and economic recovery. Her campaign slogan, "Health, Hope, and Heart for Ohio," resonates with voters weary of partisan gridlock.
According to the latest polls from the Ohio Poll Institute, Acton leads the Democratic primary field by a whopping 35 points, with 52% support among likely voters. She's pulling in independents and moderate Republicans, particularly in urban areas like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Analysts attribute her success to a savvy digital strategy—her TikTok videos explaining policy issues have gone viral, amassing over 10 million views—and a ground game that's mobilized thousands of volunteers. "Amy Acton isn't just running; she's redefining what a campaign can look like in the post-pandemic era," said political strategist Mark Weaver in a recent interview. "She's tapping into a desire for competence over chaos."
But it's not all smooth sailing. Acton faces stiff competition in the primary from state Sen. Nina Turner, a progressive firebrand, and businessman Nan Whaley, the former Dayton mayor. Turner has criticized Acton for being too centrist, while Whaley emphasizes her executive experience. On the Republican side, incumbent Gov. Mike DeWine's successor—likely Lt. Gov. Jon Husted or Attorney General Dave Yost—is watching closely, as Acton's crossover appeal could make the general election a nail-biter. Acton's record-breaking fundraising includes a single-day haul of $2.5 million following a high-profile endorsement from former President Barack Obama, who praised her as "a leader who puts people first."
Delving deeper, Acton's policy platform is robust and multifaceted. She's advocating for universal healthcare access, drawing from her pandemic experience to propose a state-funded public health corps that would prepare for future crises. On education, she wants to increase funding for public schools and expand vocational training in green energy sectors, aiming to position Ohio as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. Economic inequality is another focus; Acton proposes tax reforms to benefit working families, including incentives for small businesses hit hard by inflation. Her stance on reproductive rights has galvanized supporters, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decisions—Acton vows to enshrine abortion access in the state constitution if elected.
Critics, however, point to her past decisions during the pandemic, accusing her of overreach with shutdown orders that hurt small businesses. "Acton's records might be impressive, but so is the trail of economic devastation she left," quipped a spokesperson for the Ohio Republican Party. Despite this, her favorability ratings hover at 58%, higher than any other candidate. Acton's personal story adds to her appeal: a Cleveland native who rose from humble beginnings, she trained as a doctor and worked in global health before entering public service. Her memoir, "Frontlines of Hope," published last year, became a bestseller and further boosted her profile.
As the August primary approaches, Acton's campaign is ramping up with town halls across the state. Yesterday, she held a rally in Cleveland's Public Square, drawing over 5,000 attendees who chanted "Acton for Action." If she maintains this momentum, political experts predict she could not only win the governorship but also influence national Democratic strategies heading into the 2026 midterms.
Other Headlines from Around Ohio
Sports Roundup
The Cleveland Guardians are on a hot streak, winning their last five games and sitting atop the AL Central. Last night's 7-3 victory over the Detroit Tigers featured a grand slam from José Ramírez—could this be the year they break the World Series drought? Meanwhile, the Browns are in training camp, with quarterback Deshaun Watson looking sharp after offseason tweaks. And don't miss the Cavs' summer league highlights; rookie sensation Evan Mobley is already turning heads.
Entertainment and Culture
Cleveland's theater scene is buzzing with the opening of "Hamilton" at Playhouse Square—tickets are selling out fast for the month-long run. On the music front, local band The Black Keys announced a hometown concert at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in September, promising special guests. For foodies, the annual Taste of Tremont festival this weekend features over 50 vendors—expect everything from pierogies to vegan delights.
What to Watch For Today
Keep an eye on the Ohio Supreme Court, which is hearing arguments in a landmark voting rights case that could affect mail-in ballots for the upcoming election. Also, the Federal Reserve might announce interest rate adjustments, impacting mortgages and loans statewide. That's your Wake Up for July 31, 2025. Stay informed, stay safe, and make it a great day in the Buckeye State. If you have tips or stories, email us at wakeup@cleveland.com. Until tomorrow!
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