Overview
- The commission’s first meeting lasted under 30 minutes, produced no Republican proposal, allowed no public testimony, and featured Democrats re-presenting their 8–7 plan.
- Lawyers voided Republicans’ attempted adoption of commission rules after determining the constitution requires at least one Democratic vote to approve them.
- Under Ohio’s constitution the commission needs four votes including both Democrats to pass a map, after which the legislature can act by simple majority if the commission misses the deadline.
- Republican leaders have discussed proposals that could make several Democratic-held districts more competitive for the GOP, with reporting indicating they may seek to add two or three seats to their current 10.
- Democrats are preparing for a possible statewide repeal referendum if a GOP-only map advances, as national party figures signal support, while Republicans could try to shield a plan using an appropriation or an emergency clause.