Ballot Measures in the Tristate

This poster examines the use and quality of ballot measure elections in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio. Looking at a 30-year dataset, we evaluate ballot language, topics, frequency, and passage. We assert the differences between states are not a function of their political culture but rather by state characteristics and institutional structure. Mechanisms for the measure to be placed upon the ballot rise as an important difference among the states. These findings may be useful in shaping future attempts in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio at ballot initiatives, measures, and referendum