COLUMBUS, Ohio - After months of speculation, former Valley congressman Tim Ryan has decided he will not seek the Democratic nomination for Ohio Governor in next year's election. 

The decision was announced Friday in a statement texted to 21 News that read: 

"After careful consideration, much prayer and reflection, and after long conversations with my family, my closest friends and advisors, I've made the decision not to run for Governor in 2026." 

The announcement paves the way for former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton to become the likely Democratic nominee, who will likely face off against billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy on the Republican ticket. 

Ryan had previously sounded in interviews as though he was leaning towards getting into the race and insiders said if there were any factor that may keep him out, it would likely be doubts over his ability to raise enough cash for the race. 

He had set a deadline of September 30 to make an announcement, but when that date came, the only announcement was that he intended to take a few more days to decide. 

In recent weeks, Acton has picked up a number of prominent endorsements from around the state and has set fundraising records for a Democratic candidate in Ohio. 

Still, she is seen as an underdog in the race against Ramaswamy, who comes with significantly more access to cash and the endorsement of President Donald Trump. 

Still, in a midterm election, voters often turn away from the party in power, particularly when their poll numbers are low. Trump's are currently in the low 40s and he has faced recent defections from members of his own party on a number of issues, including the release of the Epstein files and the elimination of the filibuster in the Senate. 

That, coupled with prices that have remained persistently high could pave the way for a stronger Democratic showing in the 2026 race, which will also feature former Senator Sherrod Brown pitted against GOP Senator Jon Husted. 

If Ryan had entered the race, it would be difficult to imagine how his candidacy wouldn't split the Democratic ticket and take away any momentum the party could have in the race.