It matters who votes not who campaigns for a ballot issue | Letters

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Early voters at the Board of Elections in Norwood, will have the choice of voting yes or no on Issue 1, the only thing on the ballot for the special election which will be Aug. 8. If passed, it would be harder to amend the state’s constitution.
Early voters at the Board of Elections in Norwood, will have the choice of voting yes or no on Issue 1, the only thing on the ballot for the special election which will be Aug. 8. If passed, it would be harder to amend the state’s constitution.

It does not matter where you sit on the political spectrum bench, "super-majority" voting rules like Issue 1 clearly result in allowing and encouraging a minority of voters (or legislators in the House and Senate) to overrule the majority. "Majority" is a specific, naturally defined number. "Super-majority" is a slippery, politically manipulated game.

As many writers have said, it doesn't matter who campaigns for an issue, only registered voters get to vote. When a majority of Ohio voters are convinced and committed enough to actually vote, that will be the will of the people. I'll vote "No" on Issue 1.

Paul Piazza, West Chester

Long-time Republican is switching parties

In reference to Hans Johnson's July 12 guest column, I can't say I agree with out-of-state persons working to turn election votes, but on the other hand, I sure don't like much of anything that the Republican Party is doing in Columbus. I've most generally voted Republican, but now, at age 81, will be switching parties. What a travesty. No wonder Ohio is slipping in all the measurable polls.

Janet Hamilton, Mason

Issue 1 will ensure citizens continue to have their voices heard

Ken Blackwell’s July 16 guest column, "Ohio’s constitution is far too easy to amend," distorted and misrepresented facts. He stated, "Ohio’s constitution has been amended a whopping 172 times, just since 1851." This is misleading. He includes initiatives led by both state legislators and citizens. Issue 1 applies only to citizen-led initiatives.

Issue 1 is about the power we each hold, to have our voices heard. I will vote "No" on Issue 1 to ensure citizens continue to have their voices heard. Even choices I disagree with. Ohioans deserve this right.

Fran Gafvert, Pleasant Ridge

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: It matters who votes not who campaigns for a ballot issue | Letters