Ohio voters will face a crucial decision this November concerning Issue 1, a redistricting proposal with the potential to reshape the state’s political landscape. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Issue 1, exploring its implications, the arguments for and against it, and what a “yes” or “no” vote truly means.
What Is Issue 1 and Why Should You Care?
Issue 1 proposes a significant overhaul of Ohio’s redistricting process, aiming to remove politicians from drawing the legislative maps. Currently, the Ohio Redistricting Commission (ORC), comprised of seven members – two Republicans, two Democrats, the governor, secretary of state, and auditor – holds this power. This structure has been criticized, most notably during the Ohio Redistricting Mess of 2022, where the Ohio Supreme Court struck down seven different maps, citing partisan gerrymandering by GOP members.
The Core of the Issue: How the Current System Works
The current ORC setup allows lawmakers to draw districts that directly impact their own political futures. This can lead to gerrymandering, the manipulation of district boundaries to favor one political party over another. This practice can undermine fair representation and create a system where politicians choose their voters, rather than the other way around.
Voting “Yes” on Issue 1: A Shift to Citizen-Led Redistricting
A “yes” vote on Issue 1 would establish a 15-member Ohio Citizens Redistricting Commission (OCRC). This commission would be comprised of Republican, Democratic, and independent citizens, representing the diverse demographics and geographic regions of Ohio. Crucially, current or former politicians, political party officials, lobbyists, and major political donors would be banned from serving on the OCRC.
The amendment aims to create a fair and impartial redistricting process by making it unconstitutional to draw districts that favor or discriminate against any political party or individual politician. The OCRC would operate under an open and independent process.
Commissioners would be selected by a bipartisan screening panel of retired Republican and Democratic judges through a rigorous application process. The OCRC would then draw maps based on federal law, considering past election data on partisan preferences, ensuring reasonably equal population distribution across districts, and keeping communities of interest together.
Voting “No” on Issue 1: Maintaining the Current System
A “no” vote on Issue 1 would reject the independent commission proposal, preserving the current system of redistricting by the Ohio Redistricting Commission.
The Case for Issue 1: Supporters’ Arguments
Supporters of Issue 1, including the nonpartisan coalition Citizens Not Politicians, argue that it’s a battle between citizens and politicians. They believe that the current system allows politicians to prioritize their own interests over the needs of their constituents.
Annette Tucker Sutherland holding a sign in support of Issue 1
Former Republican Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor has become a prominent voice in the campaign, emphasizing the non-partisan nature of the issue. She asserts that Issue 1 empowers Ohioans to reclaim their power from self-serving politicians.
Examples like the 2011 Senate Bill 5, which limited collective bargaining rights, highlight the need for reform, according to supporters. Despite widespread opposition, the bill became law, leading to voter backlash and a successful referendum. They argue such scenarios underscore the importance of fair districts that accurately reflect the will of the people. The August 2023 special election, where voters overwhelmingly rejected Issue 1, further demonstrates a desire for change and accountability.
Supporters like Cuyahoga County voter James Posey feel disenfranchised by the current system. They believe that ending gerrymandering is crucial for creating a more equitable system where legislators listen to all voters and engage in bipartisan collaboration. Tucker Sutherland emphasizes the importance of a transparent and public process in mapmaking.
The Opposition to Issue 1: Opponents’ Concerns
Opponents of Issue 1, like former Republican Congressman Jim Renacci, argue that it would create a less accountable system. They express concerns about replacing elected officials with an unelected commission.
Renacci acknowledges the need for redistricting reform but believes Issue 1 would introduce new problems. He questions the feasibility of finding 15 truly non-political individuals to serve on the commission. Gary Fox, a former Ohio House candidate, worries that commissioners would be less accountable to voters than elected lawmakers. He argues that voters can vote legislators out of office, while the OCRC would only be able to remove a fellow commissioner.
Bruce Christopher, a Medina County trustee, raises financial concerns, noting that commissioners would be paid daily rates and reimbursed for travel, all funded by taxpayer dollars. He also points to potential costs associated with legal challenges and the involvement of the Ohio Supreme Court.
Fox argues that the state Supreme Court, which struck down previous maps, was “politically motivated,” suggesting that even with an independent commission, the process could still be influenced by partisan agendas. Renacci believes the current system doesn’t work, but adding a new bureaucracy is not the solution. He suggests exploring alternative approaches, such as using AI technology to draw fair maps.
Confusion Among Voters
Both sides acknowledge that the campaigns surrounding Issue 1 have become confusing, with similar signage and slogans. Supporters accuse opponents of intentionally creating confusion to mislead voters, while opponents deny this claim.
The Bottom Line: What Your Vote Means
Vote YES to create a 15-member independent commission for redistricting, removing politicians from the process.
Vote NO to maintain the current system with elected officials, potentially opening the door for Republicans to propose alternative redistricting solutions.
By understanding the intricacies of Issue 1 and the arguments surrounding it, Ohio voters can make an informed decision that will shape the future of their state’s political landscape.
