Ohio Democrats Disappointed in Redistricting Commission's Dysfunction, Remain Determined to Fight for Fair and Open Process Ohioans Deserve

Senate Minority Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) and House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) today released a joint statement following the Ohio Redistricting Commission meeting that failed to appoint commission co-chairs, establish commission rules, or lay out a schedule for the three constitutionally mandated statewide hearings. 

“What should have been a fairly procedural meeting was anything but today. The people of Ohio established this commission with the expectation that elected officials would draw constitutional maps with fair representation. Instead, the Republican-controlled commission showed they’re not even capable of getting the process started despite having 16 months to get prepared,” said Leaders Antonio and Russo. “We have a lot to prove to the people of Ohio that we are capable of getting the job done, and we remain optimistic that we can. Fair districts mean better representation, and better representation means better, more responsive government for the people, by the people.” 

Since the Republican-controlled commission failed to appoint co-chairs, Governor Mike DeWine recessed the commission until 8:00 a.m. ET Friday, September 15. The governor did warn the commission that if co-chairs were not selected by 5:00 p.m. ET Thursday, September 14, he would postpone Friday’s meeting to an undetermined date.