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Desiree Tims Comments After Supreme Court Hears Oral Arguments in Redistricting Lawsuits
COLUMBUS — Today, Desiree Tims, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, a member of the Equal Districts Coalition, released the following statement expressing hope that the Ohio Supreme Court will rule in favor of Ohio voters and fair maps:
“Today is a pivotal moment for the future of Ohio. This morning, the Ohio Supreme Court heard oral arguments regarding rigged district maps that would hand Republicans unearned supermajorities in both Statehouse chambers.
“From the beginning, advocates have pushed for representational fairness as outlined in Ohio’s Constitution.
“A fair map would consist of 55% Republican seats and 45% Democratic seats, based on voting trends over the past decade. It is imperative that the court upholds the will of Ohio voters.
“It is also concerning that Justice Pat DeWine did not recuse himself from a case directly involving his father, Governor Mike DeWine. Governor DeWine was one of only seven commissioners who voted on the rigged maps. The governor was even deposed under oath in the case. Despite this clear conflict of interest, the governor’s son refused to recuse.
“As an advocate and Ohio voter, I am hopeful that the majority of Supreme Court of Ohio will deliver justice for voters. Our democracy does not work if politicians get to pick their voters, not the other way around. We look forward to the outcome of this seminal case.”
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