Jon Husted Receives Extensive Support from Ohio Sheriffs
Senator Jon Husted has garnered an unprecedented 75 endorsements from the sheriffs of Ohio’s 88 counties. This marks a historic level of backing from law enforcement, including a notable bipartisan agreement and an overwhelming show of support from independent sheriffs.
“We’ve seen at the national level that some, like Sherrod Brown, are downplaying the ongoing border crisis, while millions are crossing without proper screening,” Husted stated. He highlighted concerns over crime associated with border policies, referencing issues such as drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Husted attributed a lack of support for Brown—who is vying to return to the Senate following his removal in 2024 after 18 years—partly to immigration policies enacted under the Biden administration. Local sheriffs have reportedly felt sidelined by federal policies.
“They mentioned they’d arrest undocumented immigrants, coordinate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, but then ICE would just say, ‘Release them,’” Husted claimed.
He also pointed to a shift towards stronger enforcement policies under the Trump administration as a positive change for law enforcement on the ground.
“These first responders have real experience,” Husted argued. “They can compare Sherrod Brown’s stance with my own. Now, when they make an arrest, they know that by contacting ICE, those individuals will be processed for deportation.”
Among Husted’s supporters is a sheriff who had previously backed Brown. Wood County Sheriff Mark Wasylyshyn, who endorsed Brown in the last election, is now firmly supporting Husted. “Jon Husted has consistently stood by law enforcement,” Wasylyshyn noted in a press release, adding confidence in Husted’s abilities to continue supporting their efforts for community safety.
Additionally, the sheriff from Brown’s own hometown in Richland County has also thrown his weight behind Husted.
Husted stressed that crime is a daily challenge for many Ohioans, pointing out how “working families” often don’t have access to private security services that some high-profile critics of law enforcement enjoy.
If you’re earning about $80,000 a year, Husted remarked, you’re likely not living in a neighborhood with gated communities. “In many places, families are facing threats from theft or drug-related issues. They want law enforcement to uphold the law.”
His campaign has emphasized his long commitment to funding law enforcement, highlighting efforts that led to over $274 million invested in resources like body cameras and training programs. He also initiated a statewide recruiting hub to tackle staffing shortages in law enforcement.
“Jon Husted has consistently protected law enforcement when others have not,” Van Wert County Sheriff Thomas Riggenbach stated. “He’s ensured we have the resources to effectively perform our duties.”
For Husted, these endorsements signify much more than numbers—they reflect a lifelong commitment to supporting police. “I’ve always stood with law enforcement,” he said. “They’re integral in the fight against crime, and I’ll continue working alongside them to keep Ohio safe.”
The Ohio Senate race is shaping up to be pivotal, with Democrats eyeing a potential victory that could diminish the narrow 53-47 Republican majority in the Senate, while Republicans aim to retain their hold to stabilize the race further.
