COLUMBUS, Ohio has not seen a liberal majority in its supreme court for nearly forty years. This year, Democrats are hopeful for a change, with the primary elections setting the stage. They aim to select a strong candidate for an open seat on the court, which is pivotal in key issues like redistricting, public education, health care, environmental concerns, and criminal justice.
Abortion rights are at the forefront of the Democrats’ campaign, especially in a state that has shifted towards the Republican side over the last decade. The Ohio Supreme Court will play a crucial role in determining the implementation of a voter-approved constitutional amendment that safeguards reproductive rights.
Kellie Copeland, from Pro-Choice Ohio, emphasizes the significance of this election for reproductive freedom and abortion access in the state. The upcoming elections for state supreme court seats are critical, with 80 seats up for grabs in 33 states. Ohio stands out as one of the few states where the supreme court’s partisan control could change, prompting both activists and political parties to prepare for a vigorous and costly campaign.
Democrats are defending two seats and competing for an open one. Winning all three is essential to overturn the current 4-3 Republican majority, a challenging task in a predominantly Republican state. However, Democrats are encouraged by the recent amendment that protects reproductive health-care decisions, which received 57% support.
Jessie Hill, a law professor, points out the significant power the Ohio Supreme Court holds in interpreting this amendment. Aaron Baer, from the Center for Christian Virtue, questions how the amendment will be implemented, hinting at potential judicial bias.
State supreme court races have seen a surge in spending, with a recent Wisconsin race breaking records. This has raised the profile of these elections, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on abortion rights turned the issue back to the states.
In Ohio, where Republicans have dominated the supreme court since 1986, the court has been the final arbiter on many GOP-led legislative decisions. A bipartisan effort is underway to amend the redistricting process, which could become a key issue in the fall elections.
The contested primary features two Democrats, Judges Lisa Forbes and Terri Jamison, vying to face Republican Dan Hawkins. Both Democrats emphasize the importance of a Democratic majority on the court to counterbalance a gerrymandered legislature.
Forbes is motivated by the need for the court to act as a firewall, while Jamison highlights the judiciary’s independence. The outcome of these races could impact the balance of power on the court, with party affiliation playing a significant role due to a recent law.
Ryan Stubenrauch, a Republican consultant, believes that despite the Democrats’ focus on abortion, the issue may not dominate the elections due to the passage of Issue 1 and shifting public concerns.
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