To the editor:

I am writing this letter to encourage all fellow Ohioans to vote No on Issue 1. Issue 1 is an attempt to limit the voice and power of the average voter. Regardless of your politics we all can agree that everyone’s vote counts equally. That would end if Issue 1 passes. Issue 1 raises the bar on the average citizen to require 60% for victory. Imagine watching Ohio State beat Michigan 59-41 and seeing the officials declare Michigan victorious! This is the logic Issue 1 supporters are pushing. Issue 1 also requires signature and support from all 88 counties. This would mean a single county could prevent the entire state from even having a vote.

The supporters have repeatedly attempted to distract voters with side issues and half-truths. They complain about out of state money being spent in Constitutional Amendment votes. I can only assume they are referring to their own “benefactor” Illinois billionaire Richard Uihlein who has spent millions of dollars in dark money to achieve this specific special election. The supporters also claim the Constitution is being attacked by a wave of amendments. This is simply not true. Since 1913 only 19 citizens proposed amendments have made it into the Constitution.

Don’t let out of state special interests mute your voice. Don’t let one county decide for the rest of the state. Don’t give up the idea of majority rule. Support your fellow Ohioan and Vote No on Issue 1.

Charley Kidder,

Columbiana County Democratic Party Chairman