In a move that underscores the status quo of corrupt and anti-choice Republican leadership, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has appointed former failed gubernatorial candidate Jon Husted to replace JD Vance in the U.S. Senate.
“By appointing Husted to the Senate, Governor DeWine is giving the people of Ohio more of the same tired, divisive Republican leadership,” said American Bridge 21st Century spokesperson Nico Delgado. “Husted’s disturbing track record of corruption combined with his history of trying to restrict abortion rights make him just as toxic as JD Vance and a terrible choice for Ohio.”
Husted was at the center of the FirstEnergy bribery scandal, where the utility giant secretly funneled $1 million to support his failed gubernatorial campaign. Texts later revealed Husted’s direct involvement in pushing H.B. 6, legislation tied to the scandal.
Husted’s track record on women’s rights is equally troubling. He opposed Issue 1, which would have enshrined the right to abortion in Ohio’s constitution, and supported the state’s restrictive “heartbeat” abortion law. He has also long been a staunch enemy of abortion rights, bragging that he has “consistently backed” Ohio Right to Life’s anti-choice agenda.
Despite serving as Lt. Governor, Husted raised ethical concerns by joining the board of Heartland Bank, where conflicts of interest and questionable financial dealings were brought into question. Husted earned an A+ rating from the NRA for his opposition to common-sense gun reform, and as House Speaker, led efforts to overturn a veto of a bill restricting local gun safety measures.
Additionally, Husted has a record of opposing LGBTQ+ rights, including voting to ban marriage equality in Ohio.
Published: Jan 17, 2025