Rep. Rader of Ohio House District 13 Sworn Into 136th General Assembly
COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) Monday was sworn into the 136th Ohio General Assembly. Rep. Rader will be beginning his first term in the legislature, serving the people of Cleveland’s West Side and Lakewood at the Ohio Statehouse.
“I am deeply humbled to serve the people of Cleveland’s West Side and Lakewood in the Ohio Statehouse,” said Rep. Rader. “This is a moment to bring bold ideas and steadfast dedication to addressing the issues that matter most – expanding clean energy, fighting for affordable housing, and ensuring every Ohioan has access to the opportunities they deserve. I will always stand up for our community and work tirelessly to build a stronger, more equitable future for all.”
Rep. Rader is a dedicated advocate for sustainability, economic justice, and social equity. His journey into public service began with grassroots activism and a deep commitment to addressing systemic barriers faced by Ohioans. From his early work at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, where he connected thousands to critical resources and successfully lobbied for increased state funding, to his tenure on Lakewood City Council, he has always focused on meeting community needs through bold innovative strategies.
Elected to Lakewood City Council in 2017, Rep. Rader spearheaded Lakewood’s 100% clean energy commitment, initiated the city’s first Climate Action Plan, and raised the minimum wage for city employees. He also championed transparency reforms, affordable housing initiatives, and the creation of new public parks, ensuring that the government serves the needs of all residents. His passion for renewable energy extended statewide during his time as the Ohio Director for Solar United Neighbors. In this role, he empowered thousands of residents to adopt solar power, managed community solar programs, and worked to advance clean energy policies that benefit everyday Ohioans.
Rep. Rader holds a Bachelor of Business from Kent State University, a Master of Public Administration from Cleveland State University, and a Certificate in Renewable Energy Development from Yale University. His academic background, coupled with years of experience in social services, government, and renewable energy, equips him with the tools to craft thoughtful, evidence-based solutions to Ohio’s most pressing challenges.
As a legislator, Rep. Rader’s top priorities are clean energy, affordable housing, workers’ rights, and universal healthcare access.
EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of Rep. Rader’s swearing in is attached to this press release. Courtesy: Ohio House Democrats. Left to Right: Rep. Rader, Dr. Caitlin Rader, Minority Leader Allison Russo.