USA TODAY Network Ohio/Suffolk University poll shows where things stand with statewide races and what issues voters care most about.
Republican Justice Pat DeWine leads 1st District Court of Appeals Judge Marilyn Zayas, a Democrat, by 43.4% to 41%. Justice Pat Fischer, a Republican, leads Democratic challenger and 10th District Court of Appeals Judge Terri Jamison, 42.2% to 40.6%.
Typically, Ohioans pay little attention to state Supreme Court races, but this year could be different for three reasons: candidates' party affiliations will be listed on ballots for the first time, current justices made high-profile redistricting decisions on Ohio legislative and congressional districts, and the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Americans' right to abortion could spark interest since the issue will likely end up before the Ohio Supreme Court.
is leaving the court on Dec. 31 due to age restrictions. Gov. Mike DeWine will appoint a Republican to fill the seat left open when either Brunner or Kennedy becomes chief.Nearly 68% of poll respondents said state government in Ohio isBut 45% of likely Ohio voters have never heard of