Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced his opposition to a fall ballot issue aimed at reforming the state's political mapmaking system. He expressed his intention to work towards defeating the Citizens Not Politicians amendment and proposed an alternative amendment based on the Iowa model.
DeWine criticized the proposed amendment, arguing that it would lead to gerrymandering by mandating partisan proportionality in district maps. He highlighted the Iowa model, which prohibits consideration of past election results and aims to remove politics from the redistricting process.
Supporters of the fall ballot measure defended the proposal, emphasizing the need for an independent body to draw district maps to prevent gerrymandering by politicians. They pointed out the failures of Ohio's existing system, which produced multiple unconstitutional maps rejected by courts.
The fall ballot proposal seeks to replace the Ohio Redistricting Commission with an independent panel selected directly by citizens. The new panel would be diverse in party affiliation and geography to ensure fair representation.
DeWine emphasized the importance of criteria set by the state constitution for map drawing, rather than the individuals involved. He pledged to work with the Legislature to introduce the Iowa plan to voters in January if lawmakers fail to act.
Despite calls for an immediate special session to address the issue, DeWine cited lack of support in the politically divided Ohio House. The upcoming session in January may see changes in leadership that could impact the fate of the redistricting issue.
