Midterm elections are November 6 and for those who are able to vote, state and local officials as well as tax levies and drug related issues will fill the ballot.
Voting is the main way to influence government and as social studies teacher for Randy Royal said, “You don’t vote, you don’t have a voice.”
For first time voters, it can be difficult for students to have an understanding of who is running and where they stand on main issues. The Ohio race includes electing a governor, senators, and representatives, among others.
U.S. Senate:
Sherrod Brown (Democrat)
- Wants to raise minimum wage
- Supports a bipartisan solution to securing borders and protecting those brought to the U.S. as children who are contributing to their communities.
- Believes in strengthening gun background checks but believes that law-abiding citizens should be able to bear arms.
Jim Renacci (Republican)
- Plans to addresses the debt crisis facing the country, sustaining long-term economic growth that cultivates job creation, and tackling the opioid crisis
- Will support a merit-based immigration policy
- Supports 2nd amendment rights
US Representative 2nd Congressional District
Jill Schiller (Democrat)
- Plans to focus on the needs of the people in the district: stable jobs, manageable healthcare premiums, and strong schools.
- Feels legislation should be passed to provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. She also believes in increasing border security.
- Believes the common sense gun reform is good for keeping everyone safe without infringing on the rights of law-abiding gun owners.
Brad Wenstrup (Republican) Incumbent
- Believes citizens must remain active and vigilant to ensure our nation remains safe and free
- Pro-life
- Outlining new healthcare system to replace Obamacare, which Wenstrup feels increases costs and hinders access to care.
Ohio Governor
Richard Cordray (Democrat)
- Proposes a comprehensive plan to stop the opioid crisis
- Wants to support the local public servants. Believes local governments deserve more.
- Believes schools need funding but wants to close failing charter schools and does not believe online high school is a good choice.
Mike Dewine (Republican)
- Has invested $17 million to fight the opioid epidemic and has awarded $24 million in drug prevention grants and is suing the opioid manufacturers and distributors
- Believes in working in partnerships with the local governments
- Believe it’s the parent’s choice in choosing the school is best suited for their child.
In addition to voting for positions in government, Issues 1 and 9 will also be on the ballot.
Issue 1
Issue one reduces penalties for crimes of obtaining, possessing, and using illegal drugs which would add a new article to the Ohio Constitution.
The amendment:
- Would reclassify drug offenses from felony to misdemeanor for both accused and convicted criminals
- Require the state to spend savings due to a reduction of the number of prison inmates on drug treatment and rehabilitation programs
Issue 9
This three-year property tax levy of 1.98 million is an additional tax to benefit Children’s Services. The proposed levy will provide $37 million to federal and state-mandated services to children of Hamilton County Children’s Services.
Those voting on November 9 will help determine the future of the state and country. Social studies teacher Frank Lowden said, “To become part of the political process at any age is important and our duty.”
For more information on these candidates and ballots, visit The League of Women Voters official voting guide or visit the McNicholas library for a print version of the voting guide.
The McNicholas Milestone 