Ohio ballot initiative sacked Jim Harbaugh and Michigan in political ad

Michigan’s cheating scandal is being politicized by Ohio ballot measure

All politics is local.

That phrase, typically attributed to the late Tip O’Neill, a former Speaker of the House, refers to the idea that to win elections politicians need to be keenly aware of issues that matter on a local, rather than federal, level. While the upcoming Presidential election between former President Donald J. Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris may dominate the headlines, over the next few weeks we will learn of several local and state initiatives that voters will decide when they head to the ballot booth in November.

One such issue is Ohio Issue 1, which is on the ballot in November. Deemed the “Establish the Citizens Redistricting Commission Initiative,” this proposed amendment to the Ohio State Constitution would create a “non-politician commission” comprised of 15 individuals tasked with adopting state and federal redistricting plans.

Proponents of the plan, such as “Citizens Not Politicians,” assert that current Ohio law opens the door to “gerrymandering,” a process under which districts are drawn in favor of one political party, by members of that political party. Under this argument, a situation is created where elected officials select their voters, rather than voters selecting their representatives.

That group is out with a new television ad, and it certainly gets to the idea that all politics is local — by invoking Jim Harbaugh, Michigan football, and last season’s sign-stealing scandal:

NEW: Citizens Not Politicians @CitizenMapsOH has released its first statewide television advertisement urging voters to #VoteYesOnIssue1. pic.twitter.com/I25gus0Yfu

— Ohio PoliticsGuru (@OPoliticsguru) September 17, 2024

This is not the first time this election cycle that college football has played a role. The Democratic National Committee flew banners over several games earlier this season, targeting voters in key swing states.

Just remember, we have several weeks left until Election Day, friends. At this point you are probably exhausted by the deluge of political ads, but more are likely headed your way. But do get out and vote in November.