AOTL: Ohio’s New Maps Must Ensure That Communities Are Represented

For Immediate Release:
April 26, 2021
Contact:
Molly Mitchell
mitchell@redistrictingaction.org

AOTL: Ohio’s New Maps Must Ensure 
That Communities Are Represented   

Slower Population Gain Over the Past Decade Means OH will
Lose One Congressional Seat During Redistricting

Today, the Census Bureau released apportionment data based on the 2020 census count that determines the number of seats each state in the country has in the United States House of Representatives. Based on this new data, Ohio will lose a congressional seat, moving from 16 to 15 seats total. New criteria defined in the 2018 redistricting reform measure that passed with overwhelming support by Ohio voters, requires mapdrawers to reorganize congressional districts in most metropolitan areas, so many districts will be reconfigured but not necessarily due to the lost seat.

“Even with new safeguards against unnecessarily cracking apart our communities, it is essential that our map drawers follow not just the letter but also the spirit of the 2018 congressional reform measure to protect Ohio’s communities and to draw fair maps. They should also start their preparation for this monumental task now that redistricting has unofficially begun,” said Katy Shanahan, All On The Line (AOTL) Ohio State Director. 

“AOTL strongly believes that all Ohioans should be given the opportunity to engage in redistricting and ensure that communities, particularly in metropolitan areas, are protected against gerrymandering. We will do everything in our power to create a fair and transparent process with ample opportunities for public input so that maps are representative of Ohio and are responsive to the will of its voters,” continued Shanahan.

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