Ohio Democrats propose new redistricting bill

Democrats in Ohio held a press conference Tuesday morning where they announced legislation proposing new Congressional redistricting maps for Ohio.

The press conference was led by Ohio Senate Democratic Leader Nickie Antonio and House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn. Antonio described the proposed maps (pictured above) as "the fairest redistricting proposal that either party has put forward."

"[The plan] follows statewide voter preference from the last 10 years to create seven seats that lean slightly to the left and eight seats that lean towards the right. It minimizes county splits [and] keeps communities across the state whole," Antonio said.

Antonio went on to say the plan creates more competitive districts across Ohio and does not put incumbents against each other.

"Ohioans deserve both parties to urgently work together to do our job and get this done before the end of the month," Antonio said.

Meanwhile, Isaacsohn says Ohio voters should be able to choose their elected officials, not the other way around.

"What we have proposed follows the law and gives voters the voice they deserve in their congressional representation," Isaacsohn said.

"[The plan] is what people of Ohio need to address the issue of having a good life that they can afford. Health insurance that doesn't bankrupt them, enough food to eat. That is what is at stake with these Congressional maps, and it's why we are fighting for fair districts," Isaacsohn continued.

These sentiments were echoed by Ohio Democratic Party Chair Kathleen Clyde, who called upon Republican legislators to work with them to pass these proposed maps.

"Voters deserve an open, fair process, and that starts with today's proposed map," Clyde said.