Ohio Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton faced a security incident Sunday at the Canfield Fair when an armed man allegedly pushed through a crowd toward her speaking location, injuring two attendees before law enforcement intervened.
What Happened at the Fair
Patrick Havas, 38, was arrested at the Canfield Fair in Canfield, Ohio, after allegedly forcing his way toward Acton’s position at the Mahoning County Democrat booth. According to the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, Havas knocked two people to the ground during the confrontation. Officers recovered two handguns and brass knuckles from Havas following his arrest, though investigators confirmed no weapons were brandished or removed from their holsters during the incident.
Acton was not injured in the altercation. Members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol were present as part of her protective detail and helped take the suspect into custody. Havas was booked at Mahoning County Jail facing charges of disorderly conduct and two counts of assault, according to state authorities.
Candidate Responds to Security Threat
Speaking at a Labor Day parade in Cleveland the following day, Acton thanked first responders and expressed concern for those injured. She addressed the broader political climate, stating that voters across party lines show exhaustion with division and hostility in politics. Acton, who described herself as a fighter despite her emphasis on kindness, warned against mistaking compassion for weakness in the current political environment.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who appointed Acton as director of the Ohio Department of Health in 2019, issued a statement condemning the incident. DeWine spoke directly with Acton and confirmed she was unharmed, while emphasizing that violence or threats at political events remain completely unacceptable regardless of party affiliation.
Campaign Context and Reactions
Acton faces Republican nominee Vivek Ramaswamy in the November gubernatorial election. Ramaswamy’s campaign condemned the incident through communications director Connie Luck, who stated that candidates must be able to meet voters without fear of violence or threats. The incident occurred near Acton’s hometown of Youngstown, approximately 60 miles from Cleveland, at a fair where Ramaswamy was also scheduled to appear Sunday afternoon. The event highlights ongoing concerns about candidate safety and security at public campaign events across the nation as the election season intensifies.
