Legislative Democrats File Amicus Brief Calling for Action on False, Misleading Issue 1 Ballot Language

COLUMBUS – Ohio Legislative Democrats, led by House Democratic Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) and Senate Democratic Leader Nickie J. Antonio (D-Lakewood) are continuing their push through legal proceedings against the Ohio Ballot Board after the Republican majority approved deceptive and misleading summary language of Issue 1, the Citizens Not Politicians constitutional amendment to set forth a citizen-driven process to draw fair maps and end gerrymandering in Ohio.

In an amicus brief filed Friday before the Ohio Supreme Court in the Citizens Not Politicians v. Ohio Ballot Board case, legislative Democrats took aim at Ohio Republicans who are purposely putting forth false, misleading ballot summary language before voters in November, writing in their brief, “These politicians have rigged the system to put forward a misleading and dishonest ballot summary of the Citizens Not Politicians (“CNP”) proposed constitutional amendment. Ironically, it was a desire to put an end to that type of self-serving behavior that led hundreds of thousands of Ohioans to work tirelessly to get an independent redistricting proposal on the ballot.”

“Extreme, out-of-touch Republican politicians in Ohio will stop at nothing to rig the system against voters and game the process for their own political ambitions and fixed outcomes,” said Leader Russo. “It is dirty politics at its worst, but I am confident voters will see through their dishonesty. That’s why I will be voting yes on Issue 1 in November to ensure it is citizens, not politicians, who will draw fair maps and decide Ohio’s future.”

“It’s crucial for democracy that voters receive clear and truthful information. The misleading language on the ballot about Issue 1 is a direct attack on voter integrity. We urge the court to take immediate action to correct this and ensure every Ohioan's vote is based on accurate information,” said Leader Antonio. “The filing underscores our commitment to upholding the integrity of Ohio’s electoral system and ensuring that every Ohio voter has the clear, unbiased information they deserve.”

Ultimately, legislative Democrats argue in the brief that the Ballot Board should be reconvened to draft and adopt an unbiased, accurate and truthful summary of Issue 1. The Democrats’ amicus brief can be found here.

Ohio Legislative Democrats remain dedicated to defending democratic principles and will continue to fight for a transparent and fair ballot process.