COLUMBUS, Ohio — The League of Women Voters of Ohio announced Tuesday the results of a study into the effects of gerrymandering on Ohio communities.
According to the League of Women Voters of Ohio, the "Ohio's Congressional Districts: Disparities, Divisions, & Disadvantages" study found that gerrymandered congressional districts "do not reflect communities of interest."
The organization said the study found this makes representation difficult by combining residents with different needs, economic interests, and beliefs
The study also found gerrymandering "unnecessarily" splits small villages, towns, neighborhoods and school districts, "further diluting communities' political power."
The League of Women Voters of Ohio also said the study found that gerrymandered congressional districts make it physically harder for citizens to find or visit the correct congressional district office.
"In practical terms, the splitting of communities of interest has not only created unusually looking districts, it has made it nearly impossible for Ohioans to have quality representation. This in turn, reduces lawmakers’ accountability as well as citizens’ ability to fully participate in their government," The League of Women Voters said in a press release.
The organization said the study was conducted by David Niven, a University of Cincinnati political science professor, and Jim Slagle, a retired attorney and former Common Pleas Court judge.
