Buckeye Reporter

State Issue 1 on the ballot this fall is presented by its proponents as a measure to eliminate gerrymandering of legislative district maps in Ohio. However, critics argue that the constitutional amendment could lead to increased gerrymandering and potentially impact gun rights.

Proponents claim that Republicans unfairly draw maps to retain power. Historically, when Democrats controlled the state in the 1970s and '80s, they also drew maps favoring their party. The amendment proposes creating an Ohio Citizen Redistricting Commission of 15 members—five Democrats, five Republicans, and five independents—to draw fair districts. It also aims to ban current and former politicians from serving on the commission.

However, critics argue that the certified ballot language contradicts these claims. Philip Derrow, a retired business owner from New Albany, expressed concerns: "Ohio’s Constitution is a bloated monstrosity. Passage of Issue 1 this November will only make it more bloated — and, ironically, even less constitutional."

The amendment's provision for independents has also been questioned. According to Pew Research Center data, most independents lean towards either the Republican or Democratic Party. University of Michigan political scientist Yanna Krupnikov noted that "independents do have affiliations to political parties" and typically prefer one party over another.

The process for appointing commission members involves a screening panel of four judges—two affiliated with Republicans and two with Democrats. Critics highlight that all judges in Ohio run for office and appeal to specific political demographics, making them politicians by definition.

Justice Maureen O'Connor's involvement has raised additional concerns among gun-rights advocates due to her past rulings perceived as unfavorable to gun rights. For instance, she sided with liberal justices in a decision requiring school staff to undergo extensive peace officer training before carrying firearms at work.

Financial backing for Issue 1 includes significant out-of-state contributions. Ideastream Public Media reported that $6 million came from the Sixteen Thirty Fund, which has received donations from Hansjörg Wyss of Switzerland.

Supporters of Issue 1 include groups like ACLU of Ohio and American Federation of Teachers. Sean Soendker Nicholson leads Citizens Not Politicians, advocating for progressive causes through various roles in Democratic communications and advocacy organizations.

Rob Sexton from Buckeye Firearms Association emphasized the potential impact on gun rights if Issue 1 passes: "folks like the Second Amendment community... we're going to have to fight for our rights harder than we ever have."

Joe D. "Buck" Ruth urges Ohioans who support gun rights to vote against Issue 1.

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