Ohio is a state built on strong communities and practical problem-solving. From church-run food programs to community organizations helping families stay afloat, our communities rely on organizations that step up when government agencies fall short.

That’s why the findings of a recent survey sponsored by Freedom and Faith Defense Project raise serious concerns as we head toward the 2026 Senate race.

According to the survey, if the 2026 congressional elections were held today, Ohio swing voters would choose a Democratic candidate by seven points. That shift alone is noteworthy in a state known for political balance. But the data also reveals why voters are moving: they see Washington overstepping, and they want elected leaders to push back.

A plurality of Ohio swing voters, 34%, believe that charities, community organizations, and religious organizations should face more general regulation. But when the question becomes specific, whether they support President Trump and Republicans in Congress increasing federal control over these groups, 47% say they oppose the idea, compared to just 22% who support it.

Ohioans know the difference between reasonable oversight and political intrusion.

The concern grows even sharper when it comes to the federal government’s recent actions. The survey shows that 60% of Ohio swing voters say the most concerning step Washington has taken is directing federal agencies to investigate and prosecute privately funded charities and religious groups for allegedly supporting domestic terrorism, often based on vague standards and limited due process.

Anyone familiar with our state’s community organizations understands why this alarms people. These are the organizations running after-school programs, providing addiction support in communities devastated by opioids, aiding struggling families, and filling gaps that government programs miss. They are not political actors, but they risk being treated like enemies if Washington’s approach continues.

The survey also found overwhelming opposition to one of the most extreme federal ideas floated in recent years: forcing banks to close accounts based on political or religious beliefs. Seventy-three percent of Ohio swing voters oppose such a policy. That level of consensus crosses every ideological line.

Ohio voters are signaling that they want leaders who will protect the independence of local charities and faith-based organizations, not leaders who will allow Washington to use its power to pressure or silence them.

This is not a partisan issue. It’s a community issue. Ohioans are rejecting the idea that federal bureaucrats should decide which ministries, community organizations, or religious groups are acceptable. They reject the notion that political winds in Washington should influence whether a local charity keeps its bank account or faces investigation.

As someone who has seen firsthand how essential these organizations are to families across Ohio, I believe we must take this moment seriously. Our next senators and representatives must commit to protecting the freedom of community organizations to serve, speak, and operate without fear of political retaliation.

The message from Ohio voters could not be clearer: Washington should support our local charities, ministries, and community organizations, not target them.

Rev. Brown is the Senior Pastor at Woodlands Christian Church in Columbus.

This story is republished from the Ohio Capital Journal. View the original article.