Why are we talking about redistricting . . again?!?
Most states have a once-in-a-decade map making process, and some states (like Texas and Missouri) have chosen to use it to satisfy Trump’s fear-driven demand for more GOP seats. In contrast, Ohio law requires that the state redraw its maps mid-decade if its initial map lacked bipartisan support. Under those rules, the Ohio General Assembly has until Sept. 30 to draw a map that gets bipartisan support. If the legislature fails, the responsibility falls on the Ohio Redistricting Commission, which has until Oct. 31 to pass a map with bipartisan support. If that fails, the legislature must pass a map before Nov. 30. If that map passes without bipartisan approval, it will once again be a temporary fix and this happens all over again. Read more here.
What do current congressional districts look like now?
Current congressional districts, where Republicans control 10 out of 15 of Ohio’s U.S. Congressional seats, do not represent the actual breakdown of Ohio voters, which is closer to 7 Democratic seats and 8 Republican seats. Recall that our current congressional map is in place despite having been struck down by the Ohio Supreme Court as unconstitutionally partisan. See the graphics below (courtesy of Hambley for Ohio).
What could the new maps look like when redistricting is over?
Anything is possible, and ideally public pressure could have an impact. In fact, yesterday Ohio Democratic leadership introduced its proposal for a redistricting plan (see link below) that could be the basis for calls to legislators. But given Ohio’s recent history with the Republican super majority in the statehouse — and a Republican majority on the current Ohio Redistricting Commission — the maps could be even worse.
Realistically, is there anything WE can do about it?
Knowledge is power. Sharing the facts with our networks, demanding transparency in the map proposal process, and pressuring elected officials could make a difference. Learn more about the recent proposal this Friday, when Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio and Secretary of State Candidate Bryan Hambley host a virtual town hall discussion.
And after all of that, if further gerrymandering prevails, we LOSE LOUDLY, shine a light on the injustice and work to elect a Secretary of State in 2026 who will champion the effort for an independent redistricting commission.
For more on Ohio redistricting, watch this short video posted on Facebook by Senator Kent Smith. Click here to check out the new state website, where everyday citizens can submit their own proposals for Congressional redistricting plans.
