The Ohio Constitution was amended less than 10 years ago, by an overwhelming number of voters, to create an equitable and fair way to draw maps in Ohio. When one-party approved Congressional maps were passed before the 2022 elections, it triggered a provision to redraw the maps before the 2026 midterm elections. As the process shifts to the redistricting commission, we encourage Governor DeWine and others on the Commission to prioritize maps that create equitable representation in Washington D.C. and districts that are competitive to generate the best leaders Ohio has to offer!
As I have traveled the state, in the past 10 years, I have preached in around 70 congregations in rural urban and suburban communities. When I walk in nobody is asking if you’re a Democrat or Republican.
People are talking about the High School Football game that their grandson just played in or their daughter’s upcoming dance recital, or who is sick and who is getting better. They are talking about the community meal that afternoon and donation needs for the food pantry.
As people of faith we are whole people, bigger than our political affiliations and party preferences. But sadly, the Ohio General Assembly does not see 12 million unique and beautiful Ohioans, instead they see red and blue dots – a means to their own end.
We need fair maps so that people can pick the best candidate to serve their community – regardless of party. I have spoken with numerous clergy who are proud that they often split ticket in their voting because, as community leaders, they know people. They vote for those who show up. Those who volunteer with the PTA and scouts. Those who donate to the food pantry, those who help with the Kiwanis and Rotary holiday drives.
Scripture tells us we cannot serve two masters. Yet our public officials are stuck in a system that forces them to care for the powerful and well-connected instead of all the people in their districts.
We plead with the Ohio General Assembly to make district competitive so that candidates are encouraged to be present in their communities and not DC hotels. Make districts competitive so candidates will visit every school gymnasium instead of martini lunches with lobbyists. Make districts competitive so that elected officials must listen to those who they disagree and seek to build relationships instead of calling their opposition names and ignoring their supporters.
Ohio needs equitable representation in Congress so that the voices of the people can be heard. Through elections we have the opportunity to listen to the needs of the people. One of the most holy and sacred and loving acts we can do for our neighbors is simple - listen to them. Are people concerned about the economy, education or the environment in this election? Through equitable representation, Ohioans will be heard in the halls of power in Washington DC and continue to be heard as the partisan winds shift back and forth. Locking Ohio into gerrymandered maps silences the voices of all Ohioans.
Love our neighbor and listen to them through equitable representation.
Help our elected leaders answer their sacred call as public servants by creating a system that encourages them to serve the community above their political party. Thank you.
Fair maps set our public servants up for success to solve Ohio’s most pressing needs. Pass fair maps today!