Republican victories reshape Ohio redistricting

December 10, 2010

COLUMBUS, Ohio: Republican gains in Ohio will prove critical in next year's redistricting process. During a lame duck session, Democrats in the Ohio house attempted to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot that would create a bi-partisan commission to head redistricting. However, with impending Republican gains, GOP supporters in the house have turned against the bill. Democrats argue that this opposition is a partisan attempt to capitalize on recent election victories.

The bill was originally sponsored by Republican state senator Jon Husted. Republicans argue that Democrats only held off on the measure until it became clear they would lose their majority and their influence on the redistricting process. Robert Mecklenborg (R) stated "This could have been passed at any time if your side of the aisle so elected to do so... You elected to roll the dice."

Regardless of the partisan situation, the amendment is unlikely to pass and appear on the general election ballot. Ohio will likely lose two congressional seats following the 2010 census.

Nationwide, Republicans have gained 20 legislative chambers, giving them majorities in 53 (60.2%) of the nations 88 state chambers. These victories will have a significant impact on redistricting and elections in the next 10 years.

Ohio State Senate, Partisan Breakdown

Ohio State Senate
Party		As of November 1, 2010	After the 2010 Election
	Democratic Party	12	10
	Republican Party	21	23
Total		33	33

Ohios State House, Partisan Breakdown

Ohio House of Representatives
Party		As of November 1, 2010	After the 2010 Election
	Democratic Party	53	40
	Republican Party	46	59
Total		99	99

See also

• Ohio 2010 legislative election results
• State-by-state redistricting procedures
• Ohio House of Representatives elections, 2010
• Ohio State Senate elections, 2010
• State legislative elections, 2010