Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has publicly condemned a controversial campaign advertisement from Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, urging the campaign to "take it down." The ad features the estranged mother of Ramaswamy's Democratic opponent, Amy Acton, accusing her daughter of lying about her past.

DeWine, speaking to reporters in Columbus on Thursday, described the ad as "deeply, deeply troubling." He emphasized that even with the midterm elections approaching, Ramaswamy's campaign should cease airing the advertisement, according to audio provided by WEWS, a Cleveland ABC affiliate.

The ad, which began circulating on social media late Monday, includes statements from Donna Arthur, Acton's mother, who claims her daughter has misrepresented her childhood and struggles. Acton has previously been open about experiencing abuse and her difficult, estranged relationship with her mother, stating she has not spoken to her since she was 12.

Ramaswamy confirmed his campaign produced the ad on Tuesday. The advertisement has faced bipartisan criticism for its use of Acton's personal trauma. Acton herself has called the ad "horrible and hideous," describing it as "despicable and an exploitative thing to do" during a campaign event on Wednesday.

Governor DeWine, drawing on his past experience as a prosecutor in rape cases, stated that "we all have an obligation to speak out for the victims." He stressed the importance of sending a message to children that they are protected, a sentiment that informed his decision to speak out against the ad.

The controversy arises less than two weeks before the midterm elections, a critical period for races in Ohio, including the gubernatorial, Senate, and House contests that could impact congressional power balances.

Despite his strong condemnation of the ad, DeWine indicated he would not withdraw his endorsement of Ramaswamy or the broader Republican ticket in Ohio. When asked about his support for Ramaswamy, DeWine stated, "Today is about the ad. But ... I'm not changing my endorsement."

Acton's campaign has also strongly criticized the ad, calling it a low point in political campaigning. The focus remains on the ad's impact and the ethical considerations of using personal trauma in political discourse.