Ismail Mohamed Biography

State Representative Ismail Mohamed is a fighter and intends to use his lived experience and legal expertise to work on behalf of his constituents and to ensure that we are building an Ohio that inspires and uplifts everyone.

A graduate of Northland High School in Columbus, Rep. Mohamed came to Central Ohio at a young age from Somalia. After graduating high school, he went on to attend The Ohio State University receiving his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science in 2013. Furthermore, Rep. Mohamed went on to receive his Jurisprudence Doctorate from OSU Moritz College of Law becoming the first Somali-American attorney to practice in the State of Ohio. 

After law school, Rep. Mohamed started his own legal practice where he is practicing personal injury, immigration, criminal law, etc. Rep. Mohamed also provides pro-bono assistance to indigent clients with various legal issues including expungements, evictions, applying for benefits, etc.

Rep. Mohamed has served in various capacities in public service including his appointment to serve on the North-Linden Area Commission. Furthermore, Rep. Mohamed was appointed by Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther to serve as a member of the Civilian Review Board. The board was created to lay the foundation for creating an oversight authority over Columbus Police.

Rep. Mohamed used his legal expertise as a criminal lawyer to work with his colleagues to create a strong layer of oversight regarding law enforcement's use of force, increase trust between community and law enforcement, and create a more transparent process for investigations.

As State Representative, Rep. Mohamed wants to address the issues of small business development, affordable housing, public safety, and education.  

Rep. Mohamed joined fellow State Representative Munira Abdullahi in the 135th General Assembly in becoming the first Somali Americans in the state legislature’s history.