Akron Reporter

U.S. Representative Emilia Strong Sykes, who represents Ohio’s 13th district in Congress, used her social media platform in early October 2025 to criticize Republican actions on healthcare and the federal government shutdown, while highlighting their impact on her constituents.

On October 3, Sykes posted about the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits, stating: "Republicans' failure to extend ACA tax credits is not only tragic for the 6,000 and counting families who have already been kicked off their healthcare, it will also be a detriment to our local economy in #OH13. Our largest employers are healthcare systems and Republicans'".

Later that day, she shared details from a visit to Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), expressing support for federal employees affected by the ongoing government shutdown: "Rep. Sykes visited @CAKairport to thank its dedicated employees, many of whom are federal employees and are feeling the effects of the government shutdown.

#OH13 has over 5,000 federal workers who are our neighbors, postal workers, VA staff, air traffic controllers, and more,".

On October 4, Sykes continued her criticism of Republican policies regarding both healthcare access and government operations: "Democrats are fighting for affordable healthcare and lower costs. Republicans shut down the federal government instead of working across the aisle for the American people.

Rep. Sykes works for you. Republicans are working for billionaires."

Sykes has represented Ohio’s 13th district since replacing Tim Ryan in Congress in 2023. Before joining Congress, she served in 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 a JD from the University of Florida.