Overview

• Ohio voters are preparing to poll on Issue 1, a measure to enshrine abortion rights up to fetal viability, into the state constitution. The outcome could provide insights for the 2024 Senate race and national abortion debates.
• Key Republican and Democratic figures, including Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, are rallying their supporters, highlighting the partisan nature of the ballot measure. Brown supports the measure, while Republicans including Secretary of State Frank LaRose, state Sen. Matt Dolan, and businessman Bernie Moreno oppose it.
• Abortion rights groups are expected to spend around $20 million on getting the measures approved, which could mark another win for such activists, following successful referendums in Michigan and Kansas.
• The Ohio Ballot Board, overseen by LaRose, has modified the ballot language, which could impact voters' understanding and support for the measure. Several polls show varying levels of agreement with the proposed language.
• The question of abortion rights could become a significant point of contention in the 2024 elections, particularly in swing states. Ohio's results on Issue 1 may influence campaign strategies and abortion-related legislative tactics nationwide.