Ohio Primary Election Forecasts Low Turnout, Below 15% Expected

Voter turnout for Ohio's May 6 primary election is expected to be unusually low, with officials in several counties predicting figures around or below 10%. Election directors attribute this to a lack of public awareness and minimal advertising, particularly concerning the statewide Issue 2 bond initiative, which would allow the state to renew up to $2.5 billion in bonds for local infrastructure improvements. Most ballots across the state contain only this bond issue or a handful of local tax levies, contributing to limited voter engagement. Some areas, such as Huber Heights and Franklin, have additional local levies that could marginally boost turnout, but overall participation is anticipated to remain poor. Election officials are encouraging greater voter involvement, emphasizing that low turnout means a small fraction of residents will make important decisions about taxes and local governance.