Dr. Amy Acton announced her support for a three-year pause on new fracking waste injection wells in Marietta. The Democratic candidate for Ohio governor seeks to win support from conservative rural voters concerned about local groundwater contamination.
Acton spoke to about two dozen people gathered near the Ohio River. She warned that environmental cleanup costs could exceed $1 billion.
“This is not a partisan issue, that we need to protect our water. We will all pay for this mistake. So that’s why we must act now.”
The stop marked her fourth trip to Appalachian Washington County. Marietta City Council President Susan Vessels, a local Republican, joined Acton at the event.
Vessels broke with Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy over environmental concerns. She praised Acton for listening to residents worried about drilling risks.
“It is a pro-drinking water position, and it should be easy for any leader to support.”
Vessels expressed frustration with the lack of response from state officials. Republican state lawmakers have not responded to local inquiries, according to Vessels.
Candidates Compete For Rural Voters
Ramaswamy has promoted energy production across the state. He previously called for expanded drilling, coal usage and nuclear power during a 2024 debate.
The Republican nominee visited Marietta recently to outline his platform. He said he wants economic growth that safeguards water quality and natural resources.
Both candidates seek to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Mike DeWine on Nov. 3. A Democrat last won the Ohio governor seat in 2006.
Voters report concerns over rising fuel, food and healthcare expenses. The ongoing war in Iran and new AI data centers also drive voter frustration.
Ramaswamy campaign manager Jonathan Ewing said voters feel frustrated by an insider political system. Ewing stated that Ramaswamy cannot be bought by special interests.
Ramaswamy secured endorsements from the National Rifle Association and farming groups. He stopped at Schafer Leather during a downtown campaign visit.
Store clerk Sherry Bailey, 62, said her values align with the Republican party. Donald Trump carried 71% of the county vote in 2024.
Democrats Seek Republican Support
Ohio Democrats created a strategy to rebuild support in Appalachian and western farming areas. The party aims to reach independent and moderate conservative voters.
Ohio Democrats Rural Caucus Chair Chris Gibbs identified three key voter groups. The targeted groups include disaffected Democrats, undecided independents and legacy Republicans.
Independent voter Scott Oancea, 64, said he plans to support Acton this year. The retired graphic designer spoke from Marietta Moose Lodge 1823.
Acton opposes allowing transgender athletes in female sports competitions. She also supports local police cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Acton visited family farms and rural hospitals across Ohio. Farmers asked for support for soil districts, mental health programs and 4-H.
Vessels opposed placing injection wells near the Marietta municipal drinking water aquifer. She reported receiving support from local residents of both major political parties.
Injection wells store industrial waste fluids deep underground. State and local officials regulate land use and public utility permits across Ohio.
Voters across Marietta will cast ballots in the statewide general election on Nov. 3.
