You might have seen the headlines about Texas Democrats leaving the state to block a redistricting vote. Their Republican counterparts, backed by a push from former President Trump, are eager to move forward.

But here in Ohio, the stakes are even higher. We’re the only state in the nation required to redraw our congressional maps in 2025. That means this year’s redistricting will decide how we’re represented in Congress—not just for the next election, but for the rest of the decade.

Why Redistricting Matters

Congressional district maps determine which voters are assigned to which districts, and those districts ultimately decide who gets elected.

In a fair process, maps reflect population changes and political realities. However, politicians in power tend to twist the lines to protect themselves or their party, a tactic called gerrymandering. And Ohio is no stranger to it. Over the past several years, our state’s maps have been ruled unconstitutional by the Ohio Supreme Court five times for being unfair to voters.

What’s Happening Now

Former President Trump has openly called for adding “at least 5” Republican seats in Texas, and more in other states, by manipulating the redistricting process. That pressure extends to Ohio.

Here’s the reality:

• Ohio’s political breakdown: About 55% of voters lean Republican.

• Fair representation: Roughly 7 Democratic seats and 8 Republican seats in Congress.

• What’s at risk: Gerrymandered maps that silence millions of voices and lock in political power until 2031.

Ohio Voters Already Spoke—But Were Ignored

Ohio voters have demanded fair maps. The Ohio Supreme Court agreed. Yet the politicians who drew the maps still didn’t listen. If we’re not watching closely this year, they could cheat again, and we’d be stuck with the consequences for the next decade.

This isn’t just about lines on a map. Gerrymandering impacts everything, from our schools and healthcare to our environment and basic rights.

What You Can Do Right Now

We have one last shot this decade to get it right. Here’s how to get involved:

• Spread the word: Share this post with friends and family.

• Post on social media: Tell people redistricting may sound boring, but rigged maps give us extreme laws and out-of-touch politicians who don’t listen to voters.

• Write a letter: Send your local paper a note about why fair districts matter to you.

✅ Voters should choose their politicians.

❌ Politicians shouldn’t choose their voters.

Sign up for updates at EqualDistricts.org so you don’t miss the chance to protect Ohio’s democracy.

Need more info?

• Read the Brennan Center’s guide to gerrymandering

• Explore the timeline of Ohio’s rigged maps