That lack of proportionality now is a driving factor behind Issue 1. Ohio’s gerrymandered maps give Republicans oversized power in the General Assembly and in representation to Congress.

Opponents of Ohio’s Issue 1 redistricting reform claim it would be bad for communities of color. Supporters of the proposal to replace politicians with a citizens commission point to the ways the current maps crack and pack Black voters.

Do you have questions about Ohio Issue 1? The USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau examined a few common questions about the proposed constitutional amendment that would replace Ohio's current way of drawing congressional and state legislative districts.

Writer says approval of Issue 1 will let Ohio citizens help break up party strongholds and make elections fair.