Casey Putsch is a car designer and founder of the Genius Garage nonprofit educational program in northwestern Ohio. A native of Tiffin, Ohio, and Ohio State University graduate with a degree in industrial design, Putsch has built a career in racing, vehicle restoration, and mentoring young engineers. He founded Genius Garage in 2013 as a 501(c)(3) educational program where college students gain professional skills in engineering, design, and racing, leading to employment at companies like Lockheed Martin and Tesla. He is running in the 2026 Republican primary, positioning himself as an 'America First' outsider challenging frontrunner Vivek Ramaswamy.
Casey Putsch is an automotive engineer and founder of Genius Garage, which teaches young people how to build and restore cars. Since 2014 (founded in 2013), the program has helped countless students master new skills and land professional careers at companies like Lockheed Martin and Tesla. Putsch has extensive experience in racing and vehicle restoration through ventures like Putsch Racing for high-end vehicle prep, YouTube channels on car restoration, and inventions like the 104 MPH Omega Car. He is running for governor as an 'America First' candidate in the May 2026 Republican primary, challenging the frontrunner Vivek Ramaswamy with a focus on working-class concerns, affordability, and practical solutions to Ohio's economic challenges.