Campaign personnel for former state health director Amy Acton confronted a Republican activist carrying a video camera during a campaign event in Harrison, Ohio.
The videographer approached the Democratic gubernatorial nominee to ask why she continues to decline debate invitations from Republican rival Vivek Ramaswamy.
As the interviewer asked about the debates, campaign staffers rushed forward to block the cameraman from reaching Acton.
Acton walked away without responding while her staff repeatedly demanded that recording cease immediately.
Demanding an end to filming, one staff member shouted, “No pictures, no interviews”.
During the encounter, staff members bumped into the cameraman and jolted his camera, prompting him to ask them to be careful.
Explaining the choice to forgo forums, a campaign spokesperson issued a statement criticizing Ramaswamy.
Framing her focus on voters, the spokesperson stated, “Dr. Acton’s focus is on talking with Ohioans, not platforming a scam artist”.
Challenging her decision, Ramaswamy stated voters deserve direct debate exchanges.
Criticizing her candidacy online, Ramaswamy wrote, “It’s too bad for Ohio voters that Acton won’t take voter questions, won’t debate”.
The candidates prepare to face off in the Nov. 3 general election.