Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes, U.S. Congresswoman representing Ohio’s 13th district, posted a series of updates on her official Twitter account highlighting legislative priorities, commemorating fallen service members, and promoting opportunities for young artists.
On March 20, 2026, Sykes called for congressional action following the death of James T. Woods, a high school student from Streetsboro. She wrote: “Our children should not be left unprotected and James T. Woods, a high schooler from Streetsboro, should still be with us today. Congress must immediately pass the James T. Woods Act to protect children and hold abusers accountable.”
Later that day, she addressed the recent loss of American military personnel in Iraq: “Last week, our nation lost six American service members in a tragic aircraft crash over Iraq. Among them were three brave Ohioans: Captain Seth Koval, Captain Curtis Angst, and Technical Sergeant Tyler Simmons.
We honor their service and their ultimate sacrifice. Though these” (March 20, 2026).
On March 21, Sykes invited high school students to participate in a national art contest: “Calling all high school artists! Applications are open for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.
Submit your original artwork by Friday, March 27 for a chance to have it displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year! Learn more at https://t.co/pAEf7GdsPN. “
Sykes has served as the representative for Ohio’s 13th district since 2023 after succeeding Tim Ryan. Before joining Congress, she was a member of the Ohio House of Representatives from 2015 to 2022. Born in Akron in 1986 and currently residing there at age 37, Sykes holds degrees from Kent State University (BA) and the University of Florida (JD).
