In a remarkable political journey, Vivek Ramaswamy, the billionaire biotech entrepreneur, has shifted his focus from national politics to a potential gubernatorial run in Ohio. After abandoning his 2024 presidential campaign and co-leading an ambitious government reform initiative with Elon Musk, Ramaswamy is now expected to launch his candidacy for Ohio governor in February 2025. Born into an immigrant family in Cincinnati, Ramaswamy's career spans from Wall Street success to founding pharmaceutical ventures, before entering the political arena. His decision to support Donald Trump's presidency and co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) highlights his evolving role in conservative politics. Despite leaving DOGE shortly after its inception, Ramaswamy remains a prominent figure, now setting his sights on state-level leadership.
Ramaswamy's early life laid the foundation for his future successes. Born in August 1985 in Cincinnati, Ohio, he was raised by parents who immigrated from Kerala, India. Though initially brought up in the Hindu faith, Ramaswamy attended a Catholic high school. He later graduated from Harvard University in 2007 with a degree in biology, showcasing both academic prowess and a penchant for unconventional pursuits, such as rapping under the alias "Da Vek." Following his time at Harvard, Ramaswamy ventured into finance, becoming a partner at QVT Financial by age 28. Simultaneously, he pursued a law degree at Yale University, where he forged connections that would prove instrumental in his political endeavors.
Ramaswamy's business acumen propelled him into the spotlight. In 2014, he founded Roivant Sciences, a pharmaceutical venture aimed at revitalizing drugs previously abandoned by other companies. Under his leadership, Roivant grew significantly, earning Ramaswamy a net worth estimated at $1 billion. By 2021, he transitioned from CEO to chairman, eventually stepping down to pursue political ambitions. That same year, he authored "Woke, Inc.," advocating for a separation between corporate profits and social activism. Additionally, he co-founded Strive Asset Management, an investment fund that garnered backing from conservative figures like tech billionaire Peter Thiel. Ramaswamy's entrepreneurial ventures underscored his commitment to redefining American capitalism.
His entry into national politics began with a bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. Ramaswamy positioned himself as a candidate aiming to restore American exceptionalism, proposing controversial policies such as raising the voting age to 25 and sending troops to the southern border. Although his campaign ultimately faltered, Ramaswamy endorsed Donald Trump, who selected him to co-lead DOGE alongside Elon Musk. This task force sought to streamline federal bureaucracy, but Ramaswamy's tenure was short-lived. In January 2025, he left DOGE, citing differing approaches with Musk. Ramaswamy emphasized that saving the country required collaboration from various sectors, not just top-down or bottom-up efforts.
With his departure from DOGE, Ramaswamy has turned his attention to Ohio's gubernatorial race. Rumors have long circulated about his potential statewide candidacy, and multiple outlets report that he will officially launch his campaign in February 2025. As a leading figure in conservative circles, Ramaswamy aims to succeed term-limited Republican Governor Mike DeWine. His background in business, finance, and politics positions him as a formidable contender in the upcoming primary. Ramaswamy's unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit and political vision may shape the future of Ohio's governance, reflecting his ongoing commitment to reform and innovation.