Dr. Amy Acton, the Democratic candidate aspiring to be Ohio’s governor, is receiving significant backlash as old posts from the pandemic era resurface on social media.
As Ohio’s top public health official during the 2020 lockdowns, Acton’s social media activity is now facing fresh scrutiny, particularly regarding her comments while pushing strict mandates.
Recently acquired posts from May 2020 showcase Acton’s interactions with Cleveland Browns fans on Twitter. Many of these tweets have since been deleted.
In one notable exchange, Acton advised a Browns fan using a Kermit meme about playoff hopes to “Please social distance.” In another discussion about quarterback Baker Mayfield, she insisted, “Please follow CDC guidelines.” She even emphasized the need to prioritize COVID prevention over sports conversations.
A separate interaction involved a photo of the Browns’ punter. Acton’s response once again urged, “Please social distance.”
Additionally, when a fan mentioned Browns Twitter as a quarantine highlight, Acton responded curtly with “Please stop.” In yet another instance, she reinforced, “We are in a pandemic.”
One of her posts advised a fan with Super Bowl aspirations, stating, “No. Too many people.” She also remarked, “We need masks and PPE, not jerseys,” when fans tweeted about the game.
The revival of these controversial posts has sparked criticism, with many highlighting the inconsistency between her heavy-handed approach and the playful nature of sports discussions during lockdown.
Acton has not yet provided a response to inquiries about her comments, raising questions among voters who remember the complicated dynamics of 2020.
Her campaign now faces a significant challenge as many citizens reflect on the stringent control measures imposed during the pandemic and their impacts on daily life.
