House Democrats Stand with Rep. Mohamed Following Social Media Incitement, Threats

COLUMBUS – The Ohio House Democratic Caucus today is calling for a public apology from Rep. Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) for sharing  a post from a known far-right account attacking Rep. Ismail Mohamed (D-Columbus) for his celebration of diversity and citizenship and for uplifting the importance of voting as citizens of the United States of America. 

“Representative Mohamed represents the American Dream to countless immigrants and their families. He serves his district, his community, and the House of Representatives with honor and distinction. 

Representative Gross’ post missed the mark when it comes to respecting the diversity of our state. The amplification of far-right vitriol poses real risks to not only the incitement of fear but also to the safety of our elected colleague in this heated political environment. 

The people of Ohio deserve better from their elected officials. The Ohio House Democratic Caucus stands firm in our belief that there is strength in our diversity as Ohioans, and we stand with Representative Mohamed. The United States of America is a country made up of many citizens from different backgrounds who moved here to build a better life, including Rep. Mohamed’s family. We should welcome them and celebrate their successes, not put their lives in danger,” said Ohio House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn (D-Cincinnati) on behalf of the caucus. 

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

Rep. Mohamed and Rep. Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus) were the first Somali Americans elected in the state legislature’s history.