DEVELOPING STORY: The Leesburg Times is continuing to gather information following a rapid series of developments involving Ohio gubernatorial candidate Heather Hill and her former running mate, Stuart Moats. This is the first report on the situation, and several details remain under review as both individuals release conflicting public statements.

The Ohio Secretary of State’s office confirmed that Stuart Moats submitted a withdrawal of candidacy for lieutenant governor as part of the joint Hill–Moats ticket. The office stated:

“Stuart Moats submitted to our office today a withdrawal of candidacy for the office of lieutenant governor as part of the Heather Hill / Stuart Moats joint candidacy for governor and lieutenant governor. Absent a valid lieutenant governor candidate, Ms. Hill no longer qualifies to receive votes for the office of governor. Ohio’s 88 county boards of elections have been notified that any votes for Heather Hill / Stuart Moats will not be counted, and each board must also provide notice.”

Before the state’s confirmation, an online dispute between Hill and Moats surfaced publicly. In that exchange, Hill accused Moats of making racist comments toward her, while Moats questioned her integrity. The disagreement appeared to precede the formal break between the two.

Mr. Moats posted several videos discussing his departure from the campaign. The Leesburg Times briefly spoke with him and has requested a direct, on‑the‑record statement that may be quoted. He has indicated that a statement will be provided soon, and this story will be updated immediately once it is received.

Following the release of the videos and the Secretary of State’s announcement, Hill posted a detailed statement on her campaign Facebook page. In the post, she thanked supporters, criticized Moats’ actions, and described increased attention to her campaign. Hill wrote that two advisors visited the Secretary of State’s office with an affidavit naming a new running mate, but she said the office declined to accept it. She stated that she has not received documentation confirming her removal from the ballot and that calls to the office have gone unanswered.

Hill also said she has retained legal counsel and is exploring options moving forward. She encouraged supporters to donate, contact the Attorney General’s office, and reach out to her directly regarding concerns about Secretary of State Frank LaRose. Hill additionally claimed her personal Facebook account had been compromised.

The Leesburg Times placed a voicemail with Ms. Hill requesting clarification on the status of her campaign and whether she has received any written resignation or official notice. As of publication, that voicemail has not been returned.

Hill was the first Republican to formally announce a gubernatorial campaign for 2026 and has previously served as a local school board president.

With Hill currently unable to receive votes unless circumstances change, the Republican primary now moves forward as a two‑candidate contest between Casey Putsch and Vivek Ramaswamy.

The Leesburg Times is continuing to verify information, gather additional details, and seek further comment from both parties. This remains a developing story and will be updated as soon as new information becomes available.

UPDATE #1 The Leesburg Times has received a statement from Stuart Moats. His statement is listed below:

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