Legislature’s behavior shameful, disgusting

After Ohio General Assembly inaction during many months — while the Fair Districts=Fair Elections Coalition has continued making significant strides with its ballot initiative signature-gathering efforts — so many folks were pleased when it looked like the General Assembly would finally demonstrate sincere interest in addressing the congressional redestricting with the establishment of a four-person joint committee, which held two public comment sessions this fall.

The expectation has been that this committee would make a recommendation to the General Assembly that would lead to placing an earnest proposal on the May 2018 primary ballot for voter approval.

It is now late December, no clear proposal yet from the joint committee; the credibility of General Assembly leadership is again coming under scrutiny.

As its closed-door meetings continue into January, it appears that these legislative leaders remain committed to finding some devious way to circumvent the will of the people. Why no open meetings?

It is sad and shameful that the General Assembly’s objective seems intent on holding onto political power, instead of accepting the volumes of testimony in favor of the Fair Districts=Fair Elections proposal.

There is overwhelming evidence that Ohio voters want an end to gerrymandered congressional districts, which are a primary contributor to “safe districts,” as well as much political polarization.

As the General Assembly continues its behavior on this, Ohio voters’ disgust grows. Hilliard