COLUMBUS – Voter turnout expected to be light for Tuesday’s general election in Ohio.
Voter turnout in off-year elections is often low due to the absence of high-profile elections for president or senate seats. In Ohio, voter turnout for the 2020 presidential election was about 74% and the 2018 mid-term was 55 percent but the general election in 2017 saw just 30% of eligible voters cast ballots.
However, Jen Miller with the League of Women Voters of Ohio says, even in an off year, every eligible voter should show up to ensure their voice is heard.
“This election is important because we’re talking about local school boards, local judges: those elected officials that can really affect our daily lives, how funding will be spent in our communities, what policies are implemented,” Miller said.
Ballot issues include tax levies to fund schools, fire, police, parks, and road repairs.
Central Ohioans will vote for a new representative from the 15th Congressional district. The race is between two-term Democratic state Rep. Allison Russo of Upper Arlington and Republican Mike Carey to replace Republican Steve Stivers, who left to head the Ohio Chamber of Commerce.
“A lot of folks are frustrated with our government. They feel as though our government is dysfunctional. The best thing you can do is vote and make sure that you’ve done your research, especially in those local races,” Miller said.
President Joe Biden has thrown his political weight behind Russo as his party is seeing its best chance in years in the sprawling, Republican-leaning district. Biden says Russo’s life circumstances make her best for the job.
Carey is backed by former president Donald Trump, who says he’s heard “all good” things about the former coal lobbyist. Former Vice President Mike Pence visited the state this weekend to campaign for Carey.
In the 11th Congressional district, voters will replace Marcia Fudge, who left to serve the White House. Democrat Shontel Brown and Republican Laverne Gore are vying for that seat.