Councilwoman Stephanie Howse‑Jones Applauds Governor DeWine for Protecting Mail-In Voting

Jun 25, 2026

CLEVELAND, OHIO—Ward 8 Cleveland City Councilwoman Stephanie Howse‑Jones today released the following statement in response to Governor Mike DeWine vetoing HB 472, which would have added new restrictions to Ohio’s vote‑by‑mail system. She also reiterated her commitment to protecting voting rights and advocating for policies that strengthen Cleveland families.

“I am encouraged by Governor DeWine’s decision to veto HB 472. Adding further barriers to voting is unwarranted and amounts to intentional voter suppression. Ohio’s elections have consistently been safe, and vote-by-mail is a trusted option that thousands of Ohioans rely on.

Instead of making it harder to vote and enacting policies that harm millions of Ohioans, especially Cleveland residents, Republican leaders should focus on making sure Ohio families can keep food on the table and a roof over their heads.

I appreciate the Governor’s veto and hope he will push his Republican colleagues to address the real, everyday concerns of Ohioans who are struggling to afford to live.”

For more information, please contact Councilwoman Stephanie Howse-Jones at 216.664.2908 and showsejones@clevelandcitycouncil.gov.