Ohio Senate Republicans successfully passed Senate Joint Resolution 10 on Wednesday, aiming to enshrine a photo voter ID requirement into the state constitution.The measure passed by a 22-9 vote, moving quickly through the chamber just weeks after its introduction.While photo ID has been mandatory at polling places since 2023, GOP leaders believe constitutional protection is necessary to prevent future changes.However, the resolution has sparked significant internal divisions among conservatives.The proposal notably omits stricter rules for mail-in ballots, which continue under more lenient identification standards.A committee tweak further deferred some details to future legislators, drawing sharp criticism from within the party.

Senator Al Cutrona, a Republican from Canfield, announced he voted against the measure in its current form and expressed hope that the House would address the shortcomings.State Representative Ron Ferguson also voiced opposition, arguing the amendment would codify an existing mail-in ballot loophole.House Speaker Matt Huffman acknowledged concerns from members on both sides and indicated he would work to resolve them before any potential vote.

All Senate Democrats opposed the resolution, with Senator Willis Blackshear criticizing the rushed process and claiming the issue was not a genuine problem in Ohio elections.The amendment requires approval from three-fifths of both chambers to reach the November ballot.Conservative activists have also expressed reservations about the measure's completeness.This development highlights ongoing tensions within Ohio's Republican Party over election integrity measures ahead of the 2026 midterms.