Akron Reporter

Rep. Emilia Strong Sykes, who represents Ohio’s 13th district in the U.S. Congress, recently addressed community concerns and public health awareness in a series of posts on social media.

On September 2, 2025, Sykes commented on transportation development during a local event: "Last week, at the Canton Community Conversation Rep. Sykes was asked about the status of bringing passenger rail to Northeast Ohio. The fact is, our community is behind because previous Republican administrations did not think #OH13 was worth investing in." In a follow-up post made moments later, she reiterated her commitment to regional connectivity: "Rep. Sykes knows that is not true, and she will continue to work in Congress to make passenger rail a reality for Northeast Ohio, so we can remain connected to the rest of the state and the country."

The following day, Sykes used her platform to highlight mental health resources during Suicide Prevention Month: "Do you know the difference between calling 911 and 988? September is #SuicidePreventionMonth and knowing this answer could help you save a life."

Sykes has represented Ohio’s 13th district since 2023 after succeeding Tim Ryan. Before her tenure in Congress, she served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2015 through 2022. Born in Akron in 1986 and currently residing there, Sykes holds degrees from Kent State University (BA) and the University of Florida (JD).