More than 700 people have signed an online petition asking Ohio lawmakers to rethink the state motto: “With God, all things are possible.”
That phrase comes straight from the Bible (Matthew 19:26) and has been Ohio’s official motto since 1959. Back then, public life was a lot more religious—over 90% of Americans identified as Christian.
The motto has been challenged in court more than once. At one point, judges even ruled it unconstitutional, but a higher court later reversed the decision. In the end, the courts decided the motto was more of a “ceremonial tradition” than an actual push for religion, though critics see that as a loophole that lets religious language stay in government symbols.
Online Petition vs. Real Ballot Petition
The current petition is online, which makes it easy to sign and share. But here’s the key difference:
Online petitions are basically public opinion tools. They can raise awareness and send a message to lawmakers, but they don’t change the law.
Legal petitions for the ballot require collecting a set number of valid signatures from registered voters, following strict rules. If enough signatures are gathered, the issue can actually go on the ballot for everyone in Ohio to vote on.
So while this petition is making noise, it’s not the same thing as launching a ballot measure.
What Do You Think?
Supporters of the motto say it’s harmless and a part of Ohio’s tradition. Critics say it favors one religion and leaves out people who aren’t Christian.
Now the question goes to you:
Should Ohio stick with its Bible-based motto, or adopt something more neutral that represents all Ohioans?
