State Rep. Beth Lear (R-Galena) expressed gratitude for the 1.3 million Ohioans who supported Issue 1, which failed in the Aug. 8 special election.
“Thank you to everyone who voted YES. While it was tough to compete when you’re outspent 4:1 and the opposition lies, we cannot give up fighting for our kids and grandkids. Take a break, love on your families, come back refreshed for the fall!” State Rep. Beth Lear (R-Galena) said on Facebook.
"Thank you to everyone who voted YES."
In the Aug. 8 special election, Ohio voters decisively rejected Issue 1, a Republican-backed amendment that aimed to require a 60% majority for passing constitutional amendments, with 61% voting against it, according to Center Square. The proposed amendment, which garnered significant attention and turnout, was framed by opponents as an attempt to hinder citizens’ ability to effect constitutional changes.
Meanwhile, critics have voiced concerns about the influence of out-of-state “dark money billionaires” and anticipates upcoming battles over proposed amendments that could impact issues ranging from parental rights to job regulations and public safety protections.
“I’m grateful that nearly 1.3 million Ohioans stood with us in this fight, but this is only one battle in a long war,” Secretary of State Frank LaRose said in a press release.
“Unfortunately, we were dramatically outspent by dark money billionaires from California to New York, and the giant ‘for sale’ sign still hangs on Ohio’s constitution. Ohioans will see the devastating impact of this vote soon enough. The radical activists that opposed Issue 1 are already planning amendments to shut parents out of a child’s life-altering medical procedure, force job killing wage mandates on small businesses, prevent law abiding citizens from protecting their families and remove critical protections for our first responders. I’ve said for months now that there’s an assault coming on our constitution, and that hasn’t changed. I’m just getting started in the fight to protect Ohio’s values.”
The issue became polarizing nationally given the pro-abortion ballot measure being considered in Ohio this fall. This prompted President Joe Biden to weigh on the results of the vote.
“Today, Ohio voters rejected an effort by Republican lawmakers and special interests to change the state’s constitutional amendment process. This measure was a blatant attempt to weaken voters’ voices and further erode the freedom of women to make their own health care decisions. Ohioans spoke loud and clear, and tonight democracy won,” Biden said in a statement.
