Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) announced on Apr. 21 that he has joined the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, co-chaired by James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.). The task force aims to coordinate efforts with the administration, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to combat antisemitism through education, prevention, and public awareness.
The announcement comes as concerns grow over increasing violence against Jewish communities both in Ohio and worldwide. According to reports, 2025 was the deadliest year for Jewish people globally in three decades. In Ohio specifically, there were 230 reported antisemitic incidents in 2024.
“Antisemitism has no place in our country or anywhere in the world. As violence against Jewish communities rises, we must stand united in condemning hate and protecting the safety of every American. Ohio is home to around 177,000 Jewish Ohioans, and I’m proud to join this bipartisan task force to support the Jewish community, strengthen education efforts and work with my colleagues across the aisle to combat antisemitism wherever it appears,” said Husted.
The task force consists of 52 senators from both parties who are focused on legislative priorities such as promoting awareness of antisemitism, strengthening Holocaust education programs, and ensuring support for Jewish communities.
Husted brings a background that includes serving as Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives—where he advanced tax reductions and educational choice scholarships—and later holding roles as Ohio secretary of state and lieutenant governor before joining the U.S. Senate according to his official website. He currently serves on several Senate committees related to health, education, labor and pensions; small business; environment; public works; and aging according to his official website.
Outside his legislative career, Husted earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Dayton according to his official website, raised three children with his wife Tina while living in Columbus—and recently welcomed a granddaughter according to his official website.
