After graduation from the University of Cincinnati, Widener served two terms on the Mad River-Greene Local Board of Education before starting his legislative career.

[5] Widener served as Chairman of the Energy & Public Utilities Committee in the 128th General Assembly, and in the 129th General Assembly, Senate President Tom Niehaus named Widener as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee,[6][7] He also serves on the State Controlling Board;[8] and to the State Council on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

As Chairman of the Finance Committee, Widener played a leading role in shaping the biennium budget.

[12] Widener has faced controversy for trying to shield public records related to Senate parking key cards.

[13] For this and other reasons, the Cleveland Plain Dealer in an editorial named Widener the worst person in the Ohio General Assembly.