Ohio's Redistricting Dilemma: Issue 1 and the Fight for Fair Representation

Voters in Ohio have a big decision to make on Election Day (Nov. 5) with Issue 1, the “Citizens Not Politicians” plan, up for a statewide vote. The current districts drawn by the General Assembly have led to a legislature more interested in grabbing headlines than solving real problems. A “yes” vote on Issue 1 could change that, ensuring fairer representation and addressing actual concerns of Ohioans. Look around your child’s sports event – one in four adults there might be on Medicaid. This shows just how many people in Ohio need help with healthcare. Meanwhile, our legislature is focused on divisive issues like transgender rights and women’s health options to win elections. This is because the current system lets political insiders draw districts to their advantage. Issue 1 wants to fix this by creating a 15-member commission of Democrats, Republicans, and independents to draw fair districts. It would keep out current or former officeholders and lobbyists, who are used to manipulating the system. Some Republicans are not telling the truth about Issue 1, trying to confuse voters. Even the Ohio Supreme Court, with a Republican majority, hasn’t stopped misleading ballot language. If Issue 1 passes, its opponents might try to stop it with lawsuits. This year’s Supreme Court elections are important. Voting “yes” on Issue 1 and supporting the right judges could help ensure a fair process for this crucial change. Fairness is what Issue 1 is all about.