Ohio Senator Cuts Ties with Staffer Over Controversial Online Activity

Ohio Senator Jon Husted ended his association with a campaign staff member after reports surfaced about the individual’s controversial online presence. Stephen B. Woytek, whose past Facebook profile featured an image of Nazi soldiers, was a 25-year-old assisting Husted’s reelection effort. The photograph, now removed, depicted SS soldiers with captured Soviet banners as reported by The Washington Post.

In the wake of shared content like a playlist celebrating Rhodesia, concerns have amplified regarding the presence of individuals with white supremacist tendencies within the Republican Party. Woytek’s association with Husted ended when the senator, learning of the posts, opted for a separation.

‘Steve serves our country honorably as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army and is a proud graduate of The Citadel,’ stated a spokesperson.

While he denies negative intent, his social media activity shows a lack of judgment and disregard for its implications. Sen. Husted expects better from his representatives.

Woytek expressed devastation at parting from the campaign. His online activity included connections to military reenactment groups portraying the same SS unit as in his profile picture. Moreover, Woytek’s Spotify account was linked to a playlist titled ‘Tales From Rhodesia,’ described as for someone nostalgic for Rhodesia, a state that ceased to exist in 1980.

Symbols from Rhodesia have been noted by historians and civil rights advocates as adopted by white supremacist movements. These symbols have been featured prominently in extremist activities recently.

Woytek, in defense, asserted his rejection of Nazi ideology, stating that his reenactments are educational. ‘I want to make clear: I reject the racist and antisemitic ideology the SS and Nazi Germany stood for,’ he emphasized. ‘Educating our younger generations is vital.’

Woytek’s Professional Background

According to LinkedIn, Woytek began working as political director for Jon Husted for Senate in August. His experience includes roles in Ohio politics, public policy, and military service. Woytek has been a legislative aide in the Ohio House of Representatives and participated in various political campaigns.

His military service spans roles as a lieutenant in the Ohio Army National Guard, involving operational planning and coordination. An alumnus of The Citadel, his background combines leadership in both military and political spheres.

White Supremacy Concerns in the GOP

This incident raises further concerns about extremist symbols and affiliations within Republican campaigns. The controversy mirrors earlier GOP staffing issues. Previously, a GOP campaign member left a congressional office following participation in forums with white nationalist figures.

Such issues are not restricted to Republicans; former Democratic Senate nominee Graham Platner ended his campaign in 2026 after controversies, including a tattoo associated with Nazi symbolism.

About Senator Jon Husted

Senator Jon Husted has a long tenure in Ohio Republican politics. Before his Senate appointment in January 2025, he served as Ohio lieutenant governor, state secretary of state, and speaker of the Ohio House. His current Senate race, contested against Democrat Sherrod Brown, is crucial for Senate control.

With a significant Senate race underway, Husted’s removal of Woytek diverts attention during a critical campaign phase. The incident underscores concerns about the campaign’s vetting processes regarding available public material.