Ohio Congressional Map Redrawn, Favoring Republican Seats
Ohio’s congressional map has been redrawn, shifting several districts currently held by Democrats to favor Republican candidates, a change that could solidify GOP control in the state.
The Ohio Redistricting Commission (ORC) approved the new map 7-0 today, October 31, 2025, at 16:32:00 EST. The commission is comprised of Governor Mike DeWine, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Auditor Keith Faber, House Finance Chair Brian Stewart, Sen. Jane Timken, House Minority Leader Dani Isaacsohn and Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio. The revised districts target Democratic Representatives Emilia Sykes of District 13, Marcy Kaptur of District 9, and Greg Landsman of District 1. Currently, Ohio has 10 Republican and 5 Democratic representatives in Congress; this map is expected to maintain a 12-3 split.
While Sykes’ district is now considered slightly leaning blue, Landsman and Kaptur’s districts are projected to become more Republican. Landsman’s seat is now considered a toss-up, while Kaptur’s district is expected to shift several points towards the GOP. This outcome is particularly significant as congressional maps directly influence the balance of power in the House of Representatives. The map bypasses a public referendum by going through the ORC instead of the General Assembly.
Democrats on the commission acknowledged the map’s outcome but stated they achieved the fairest result possible within the current system. For more information on the redistricting process, see the National Governors Association’s redistricting resources. The public expressed frustration during yesterday’s hearing regarding the map’s introduction.
Officials stated the map will now be implemented for the upcoming election cycle, and further legal challenges are possible.
