There’s still room for innovation, however, and in the past year Republicans have opened new fronts in the war for minority rule.
One element in these campaigns, an aggressive battle to limit the reach of the referendum process, stands out in particular.
It’s an abrupt change from earlier decades, when Republicans used referendums to build support and enthusiasm among their voters on both social and economic issues.
If they get their way, the measure could go to voters in an August special election (previously, Ohio Republicans had opposed August special elections).
One proposal would require 60 percent of the vote; the other two would require a two-thirds vote.