Their commitment highlights what state officials are encouraging all Ohioans to remember—every election matters, especially local ones. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose stressed that lower turnout is expected in this off-cycle election, making individual votes even more impactful. “Particularly in local elections, sometimes they come down to really small numbers,” LaRose noted. “This is probably not going to be the highest turnout election we’ve ever seen, so you don’t really have to worry about lines at the polling locations.”
One of the most talked-about items on the ballot is Issue 2, a measure asking voters to approve $2.5 billion in bonds for local infrastructure projects. The bond extension is part of a program that has been around for decades and aims to fund improvements in roads, bridges, and other community infrastructure needs. LaRose explained that while it does involve committing the state to long-term borrowing, it could also significantly benefit Ohio’s economy and residents’ quality of life. “It does commit us to borrowing money into the future, but I would argue for important things like infrastructure that will improve our economy and quality of life in the state,” he said.
Opponents of Issue 2 argue that the program may be outdated and in need of reform or replacement rather than renewal. Still, the Secretary of State emphasized that participating in this decision is a fundamental part of being an engaged citizen. Regardless of how voters feel about Issue 2 or any local contest, officials urge everyone to come prepared to the polls. That means bringing a valid, unexpired photo ID. Voters are also reminded to be courteous to poll workers and mindful of proper procedures if they are submitting absentee ballots late in the process.
Those who have not mailed in their absentee ballots should drop them off in person at their local election board. Family members can deliver ballots on behalf of others, but they must go inside and sign a designated form. Early voting continues on Friday and will remain open throughout the weekend. All early voting sites will close on Monday to allow time for preparation ahead of Tuesday’s official Election Day. Election officials hope that even without headline-grabbing races, Ohioans will show up in strong numbers to shape the future of their communities and have their voices heard on the issues that directly impact their daily lives.
