Ohio Senator Jon Husted Separates from Campaign Staffer Over Controversial Posts

Ohio Senator Jon Husted has parted ways with a campaign staffer after reports surfaced of a controversial image on the staffer’s Facebook profile. The image showed SS soldiers, and Newsweek confirmed that Husted decided to sever ties with Stephen B. Woytek, a 25-year-old, after learning about his social media activity.

Concerns are rising about the apparent growth of white supremacist views within the Republican Party, especially among younger men. Husted’s spokesperson stated that while Woytek denies any negative intent, his social media activity showed a lack of judgment. Woytek, who serves as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army, was described as studying military history and participating in historical reenactments. However, Husted expects those representing him to exhibit better judgment.

“Steve serves our country honorably as a lieutenant and is proud of his education at The Citadel,” the spokesperson noted. “His social media posts display a lack of judgment, disregarding their impact. Sen. Husted demands better representation.”

Woytek expressed his heartbreak over leaving the campaign in a statement to The Washington Post, where he said he participates in reenactments to educate younger generations and rejects Nazi ideology.

Online Activity and Reenactments

Woytek, who started as political director for Jon Husted for Senate, has been involved in Ohio politics, public policy, and military service. His LinkedIn profile details his roles, including legislative aide and participation in political campaigns. Newsweek understands he has also spent time with the offices of Representative Nancy Mace and Representative Jim Jordan.

Outside of politics, Woytek is a First Lieutenant in the Ohio Army National Guard, with experience in leadership roles concerning operational planning and coordination. He graduated from The Citadel, the South Carolina military college.

Concerns About White Supremacy in Politics

The incident involving Husted’s campaign is the latest to cast attention on extremist imagery within Republican circles. Reporting by The Hill noted that another GOP staffer left following reports of connections with white nationalist figures. Similar concerns exist across the political spectrum, as seen with Graham Platner, a former Democratic Senate nominee, who ended his campaign amidst controversy over a tattoo associated with Nazi symbolism.

Senator Jon Husted’s Profile

Jon Husted, Ohio’s junior U.S. senator, has been a significant figure in state Republican politics. Before joining the Senate, he served as Ohio lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and speaker of the Ohio House. Appointed to the Senate in January 2025, he is now in a highly competitive race against Democrat Sherrod Brown. This Ohio contest is considered crucial for control of the Senate, making the dismissal of a top campaign aide an unwelcome diversion.

The main concern for Husted’s campaign may involve not only Woytek’s social media activity but also whether proper vetting processes were conducted before his hiring.

For further information, Newsweek editors Samantha Beech and Gray R. Thomas can be contacted.