Republican campaign staffer fired over use of SS soldiers in Facebook profile photo

A campaign staffer for Ohio Republican Senator Jon Husted, Stephen Woytek, was fired after a Facebook profile photo of German SS soldiers and a song playlist celebrating Rhodesia came to light. A spokesperson for Husted stated, "Upon learning about the social media posts today, Senator Husted made the immediate decision to part ways." Woytek, a US Army lieutenant and military history enthusiast, acknowledged his lack of judgment, stating he should have "exercised better judgment when posting about my activities online." He denied racist or antisemitic intent, explaining his involvement in historical reenactments, including with a group whose members wear SS uniforms. Woytek also follows SS uniform suppliers and has a broader interest in military history, with his LinkedIn profile indicating continued service in the Ohio National Guard.