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The Express Gazette
Sunday, October 4, 2026

Ramaswamy Faces Embarrassment After Nearly Dropping Child at Rally

GOP gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy struggled to pick up a 10-year-old boy during an event in Ohio.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Ramaswamy Faces Embarrassment After Nearly Dropping Child at Rally

Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, experienced a moment of public awkwardness at a campaign rally in Vandalia, Ohio, when he nearly dropped a 10-year-old boy he attempted to lift.

The incident occurred on Saturday as Ramaswamy was speaking ahead of an appearance by former President Donald Trump. He noticed a young boy named Hunter in the crowd holding a sign that read "proud military kid for Trump." Ramaswamy invited Hunter onto the stage, intending to pick him up.

However, as Ramaswamy attempted to lift the boy, he visibly struggled, and the child lurched backward. Ramaswamy managed to regain his grip, but the mishap drew immediate attention. He remarked "Big guy!" following the struggle.

Ramaswamy then invited Hunter's sister to the stage but opted not to lift her, allowing her to chant into the microphone before he resumed his speech. The episode quickly drew ridicule on social media, with users commenting on Ramaswamy's strength and his need for physical training.

Ramaswamy is in a close contest against Democrat Dr. Amy Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Health, with weeks remaining until Election Day. Despite significant fundraising and advertising expenditures, the race is proving to be tight in the Republican-leaning state.

Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and former presidential candidate, has garnered strong support from Ohio Republicans. He has spoken about the opportunities America has provided to his immigrant family, highlighting the American dream.

He invited ten year old Hunter on stage after spotting his sign about his military father in the crowd, but the tender moment soon collapsed as he struggled to hold him up

Former President Trump, who arrived in Ohio for campaigning, has endorsed Ramaswamy. Trump's campaign blitz ahead of the November 3 elections includes stops in various states. The rally in Vandalia was part of Trump's effort to support key candidates, including Senator John Husted and other contenders for House and Senate seats, as well as the governor's office.

Ramaswamy was one of the headline speakers at the rally in Vandalia where Trump addressed voters ahead of the midterm elections

US President Donald Trump was out on the campaign trail in the key battleground state stumping for key candidates

Ohio Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, left, and Senator Jon Husted, R-Ohio, applaud as President Donald Trump speaks


Sources