COLUMBUS, Ohio — October 30, 2026 — New details about the past legal troubles of Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton’s estranged mother are drawing attention following her appearance in a controversial political advertisement released by Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy.
According to reporting by NBC News, Donna Arthur, 82, has a history of animal neglect allegations and court proceedings in Pennsylvania, raising additional questions about the circumstances surrounding her participation in the campaign advertisement.
Court records reviewed by NBC reportedly show that Arthur was found living in her vehicle in State College, Pennsylvania, with as many as 20 cats in 2022. Animal rescue workers described unsanitary conditions inside the vehicle, and prosecutors alleged that the animals were being kept in unsafe conditions.
Arthur was reportedly found guilty in connection with the 2022 animal neglect case. The report also described an allegation that a dead kitten had been discovered in her vehicle in 2021.
During court proceedings, Arthur defended her living situation, explaining that she was experiencing homelessness and maintained that her cats were properly cared for.
Animal rescue worker Lesa King, founder of Hope’s Dream Rescue and Sanctuary, described Arthur’s behavior as erratic during their interactions. King also testified that she had concerns about her personal safety.
The newly reported details come after Arthur appeared in a campaign advertisement criticizing her daughter and urging Ohio voters not to support Acton in the November 3 gubernatorial election.
Acton has publicly criticized the advertisement, saying she believes her mother was exploited for political purposes.
Acton has explained that she has not seen her mother since childhood, when she and her brother were removed from Arthur’s custody following allegations of sexual abuse involving Acton’s stepfather.
Speaking with reporters Tuesday, Acton expressed concern about her mother’s well-being and said she hoped Arthur would receive any assistance she needed.
Ramaswamy has defended the advertisement, maintaining that its purpose was to challenge Acton’s credibility rather than address allegations involving her childhood.
The advertisement has drawn criticism from several prominent Ohio Republicans, including Gov. Mike DeWine and U.S. Sen. Jon Husted. President Donald Trump, however, has defended the campaign’s decision to feature Arthur.
The reports about Arthur’s past court proceedings do not establish her current mental health or her ability to make decisions. No independent medical assessment was included in the information reported.
The controversy continues as Ohio voters prepare to choose their next governor on Tuesday, November 3.
