Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) joined the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, co-chaired by James Lankford (R-Okla.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), according to an April 21 announcement.
The move comes as concerns grow over increasing violence against Jewish communities in Ohio and around the world. The task force aims to coordinate with federal agencies, law enforcement, and community groups to address antisemitism through education, prevention, and public awareness initiatives.
“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 group includes 52 senators from both parties. Its legislative priorities focus on promoting awareness of antisemitism, strengthening Holocaust education programs, and ensuring that Jewish communities receive necessary support and protection.
Reports indicate that 2025 was the deadliest year for Jews globally in three decades. In Ohio specifically, there were 230 reported antisemitic incidents in 2024.
Husted’s background includes serving as Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives—where he advanced tax reductions and educational choice scholarships—and later holding positions as Ohio secretary of state and lieutenant governor before joining the U.S. Senate according to his official website. He currently serves on committees related to health, education, labor and pensions; small business; environment; public works; and aging according to his official website. Husted earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Dayton according to his official website, raised three children with his wife Tina while living in Columbus according to his official website.
