At the chamber Husted worked on pivotal economic development projects, including initiatives to improve air service at the Dayton International Airport and advance pro-business legislative priorities. With his depth of experience, Husted is already advocating for our business community in the Senate, ensuring our region’s needs are front and center.
Senator Bernie Moreno, who took office on January 6, 2025, also brings a unique perspective to his role. A former automobile dealership network owner and an immigrant from Colombia, Senator Moreno recently visited Dayton to meet with local business leaders in December. He has already been assigned to several influential committees, including Homeland Security and Government Affairs, Commerce, Science and Transportation, Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, and the Budget Committee.
These committee roles are crucial for advancing Dayton’s business priorities, from key infrastructure projects to addressing workforce housing and advocating for solutions that support legal immigrant workers for local businesses. Additionally, Dayton’s strong financial institutions will benefit from having another member on the Banking Committee.
We are at a unique moment in Ohio’s history, with two new U.S. Senators who both bring business experience to the table. While Senator Husted’s ties to Dayton are strong, it’s important that our business community continues to advocate for the region’s priorities with both Senators. Ohio has nearly 12 million residents, and the Dayton area comprises about 1 million of them, meaning our region must compete with many other voices for the Senators’ attention and support.
What sets Dayton apart is the unique economic power of key assets like Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the I-70/I-75 interchange, world-class universities, headquartered companies with global reach and local innovative businesses that are the backbone of our economy. With these assets comes great responsibility.
It’s critical that our new senators work closely with our U.S. House delegation to address the issues most vital to Dayton area businesses and continue driving our region’s economic success. Let’s ensure our voices are heard, and our advocacy continues to strengthen the partnership that will help the region continue to thrive for years to come.
Chris Kershner is the president and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.