Buckeye Reporter

State Issue 1, appearing on the Ohio ballot this fall, is presented by its proponents as a solution to gerrymandering. However, critics argue that it could lead to increased gerrymandering and potentially impact gun rights. The amendment proposes the creation of an Ohio Citizen Redistricting Commission consisting of 15 members: five Democrats, five Republicans, and five independents. It aims to prevent current and former politicians from serving on the commission.

Philip Derrow, a retired business owner from New Albany, expressed concerns about the amendment in The Columbus Dispatch: "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 political leanings of independents have been questioned. According to Pew Research Center data cited in the article, most independents tend to lean towards either major political party. Yanna Krupnikov from the University of Michigan stated that "a large portion of them do seem to prefer one party or the other."

The amendment's screening panel would include four judges affiliated with both major parties. Former Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen O'Connor supports this effort but has faced criticism for her past decisions regarding gun rights.

Concerns have also been raised about funding for Issue 1's campaign. Ideastream Public Media reported significant out-of-state contributions totaling nearly $30 million.

Sean Soendker Nicholson leads Citizens Not Politicians, a group supporting Issue 1. His background includes roles in various progressive organizations and campaigns.

Rob Sexton from Buckeye Firearms Association warned that 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."

Gun owners are urged by advocates like Joe D. "Buck" Ruth from Buckeye Firearms Association to vote against Issue 1.