Program Directory

Columbus Metropolitan Club - 10-27-2021 - Who Represents Who? Redistricting and Gerrymandering in Ohio

With the results of the 2020 U.S. census in hand, U.S. lawmakers are now redrawing the lines of 429 House districts in 44 states and 7,383 legislative districts across the country. In Ohio, the state's¿11.8 million residents will now be divided into 15 congressional districts, down one district due to the Buckeye State's slower population growth. Ohio is also using a new redistricting system this cycle designed to make redistricting fairer and less partisan, although the process is unproven, and it will likely involve as much back-room horse trading as public debate. How is Ohio's demographic landscape changing? What are the implications of redistricting on free and fair elections in Ohio, and what does a gerrymandered legislative map mean to Ohio voters already skeptical that their votes matter?

Featuring Kyle Kondik, political analyst and author of¿"The Long Red Thread: How Democratic Dominance Gave Way to Republican Advantage in US House Elections," Jen Miller, Executive Director, League of Women Voters of Ohio, Sam Gresham, Chariman, Common Cause Ohio and Principal, Sam Gresham International (SGI), and Terry Casey, Republican Consultant, with host Jessie Balmert, State Government Reporter, Cincinnati Enquirer.

October 27, 2021