Republicans have controlled state redistricting in Ohio for the past three decades through control of Ohio Apportionment Board. They are ceding a good deal of that power over redistricting by passing a reform bill last month that would give the minority substantial say over the final map. The bill ” . . . would add two members, one from each party. And if the minority-party members did not approve of the district maps, the changes would last only four years, not the traditional 10″
By shortening the lifespan of a “contested” redistricting map, the legislation gives incentive to the party in control to make enough concessions to get the minority party on board. Many view this as forward-thinking for Republicans, who apparently realize that their future prospects can change.
Read the New York Times article here.
