American entrepreneur and politician Vivek Ramaswamy didn’t mince words after Democrats swept the three biggest contested elections in the United States on Tuesday night. On X, expressing both frustration and urgency, he called the results a wake-up call for the Republican party.
His comments came on the heels of a night where Democrats, Zohran Mamdani, Mikie Sherrill, and Abigail Spanberger, won key elections in New York City, New Jersey, and Virginia, respectively. Ramaswamy, who previously ran for president, is now running for governor of Ohio. He has declared his candidacy for the Republican primary scheduled on May 5, 2026.
Vivek Ramaswamy responds to democratic sweep
“We got our defeat handed to us in New Jersey, Virginia, and New York City. Democrats swept all,” Ramaswamy said in a video shared on X. “There are two key lessons for Republicans. Listen carefully: Number one, our side needs to focus on affordability, make the American dream affordable. Bring down costs: electric, grocery, healthcare, and housing.” Lay out clearly how we’re going to do it,” he said.
Calling for an end to identity politics, something that is rampant in the US right now, he added, “Number two, cut out identity politics. It doesn’t suit Republicans. It’s the woke left’s game. We don’t care about the colour of your skin or religion; we care about the content of your character. That’s who we are.”
Lessons from tonight, no sugar coating. pic.twitter.com/CMZCIH4g2O
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) November 5, 2025
Many agreed with his views. In the comment section, a person wrote, “The Republican Party must launch a deliberate and inclusive outreach campaign to expand its voting base. It is time to intensify efforts and intentionally welcome large numbers of Black Americans, African Americans, Muslims, atheists, Asians, and every other minority group who share conservative values. By prioritising policy-focused messaging, the party can affirm that all Americans belong in the United States.”
Another commented on X, “I’ve always leaned Republican, but I’m troubled by how the party now seems focused more on religion and colour than its core principles. The loudness around these issues is spreading hate and venom. I can’t stand the Democrats, but the current state of the GOP is concerning.”
Democrats win big on election night in key races
On November 4, New York City witnessed the historic win of Zohran Mamdani, a Muslim and democratic socialist, who defeated Republican Curtis Sliwa and veteran politician Andrew Cuomo. He has become one of the youngest mayors in recent history, and the first Indian-American to hold the position.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill became the state’s next governor. Virginia also saw Democratic wins, with Abigail Spanberger becoming the state’s first female governor and Jay Jones defeating incumbent Republican Attorney General Jason Miyares.
Even before all results were finalised, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York framed the outcomes as a rejection of former President Donald Trump’s influence. “Tonight’s results are a repudiation of the Trump agenda,” Schumer said. “The cruelty, chaos, and greed that define MAGA radicalism and are skyrocketing costs were firmly rejected by the American people. It’s a good night for Democrats and our fight to lower costs, improve healthcare, and build a better future for American families.”