Shares Key Information for 2025 Election Cycle

Columbus (12-26-24) —The November 2024 general election resulted in several extremely close votes, resulting in either a tie or were decided by three votes or fewer. In total, 23 local races triggered automatic recounts. Ahead of the 2025 election cycle, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose reminds voters that every single vote matters. This year is no exception as we routinely see several tied or very close races every year throughout Ohio.

LaRose said –

“Never let anyone tell you a single vote doesn’t matter, which is why we continue to make sure it is both easy to vote and hard to cheat in the Buckeye State. While the focus is often on the top of the ticket, local elections can have a big impact in communities across Ohio. By doing our part to protect the vote, we are also protecting your voice to ensure the outcome accurately reflects the will of the community.”

Of the 23 local races that resulted in an automatic recount, three issues ended in a tie vote, three contests were determined by three votes, and three contests came down to a single vote.

County Name

Race or Issue

Vote Difference

Ashland

Hillsdale Local Schools 1.4 mill

Yes: 1,875
No: 1,872

Darke

Issue 4 – Village of Arcanum Property Tax Levy

For the Levy: 665
Against the Levy: 668

Jefferson

Dillonvale Renewal Tax Levy 4 Mills Cur Exp

For the Levy: 113
Against the Levy: 112

Licking

Village of Hanover – Property Tax

For the Levy: 376
Against the Levy: 379

Marian

First Consolidated Fire District

Yes: 1,259
No: 1,258

Muskingum

Village of Norwich Renewal Levy

For the Levy: 23
Against the Levy: 23

Shelby

Clinton Township Fire Levy

For the Levy: 229
Against the Levy: 229

Summit

Springfield Local School District – Emergency Requirements 2.79 Mills

Yes: 4,470
No: 4,470

Washington

Sunday liquor sales

Yes: 157
No: 156

LaRose added-

“Local elections which occur in odd-numbered years like 2025 can come down to notoriously slim margins, so it is more important than ever to ensure you are registered to vote and prepared to participate in our democracy in the New Year.”

For those seeking to run for office next year, the Ohio Secretary of State’s office recently released the 2025 Candidate Requirement Guide(opens in a new window) to assist potential candidates in navigating the process and getting their names on the ballot. Voters and candidates Ft alike are also encouraged to review the 2025 Elections Calendar(opens in a new window)and take note of the key dates, including for the fast-approaching primary election on May 6, 2025.