Ohio voters will go to the polls Tuesday for a statewide primary election featuring a single ballot issue. Issue 2, a proposal concerning a state bond package, is the reason every precinct across Ohio is open.
Ohio Issue 2 2025 asks voters to approve the state issuing $2.5 billion in bonds. These bonds would fund infrastructure projects over the next 10 years, including work on roads, bridges, water systems, and waste disposal. The bond proposal is separate from any potential funding for sports stadiums. There is no Issue 1 on the ballot this year due to a change in state law. Voters can find information regarding Issue 2 details and the ballot language.
Polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, May 6. Early voting opportunities concluded Sunday evening. Absentee ballots must be postmarked by Monday, May 5, or dropped off at a board of elections by poll close on Tuesday. Voters casting ballots in person must present a government-issued ID.
Early voting turnout ahead of the May primary has been low across the state. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose commented on the level of participation.
While Issue 2 is statewide, some voters will also decide on local races and issues. Ballots in various counties feature primary contests for city council and school board positions. Numerous local levies are also up for a vote, including those for school districts, fire departments, and police services. Information on Summit County ballots and a general Ohio primary voter guide are available. Voters seeking their polling location can visit the Ohio Secretary of State website.
LaRose encouraged voters to participate, noting the potential impact of local elections. "We all think a lot every four years who's going to live in the White House," LaRose said. "Of course, that's impactful, but what probably impacts your life more than who lives in the White House is who works in the courthouse and the schoolhouse and city hall. These are the kinds of things we are voting on this year."
