Whether it was confusion over ballot language or a genuine desire to keep the system already in place, Ohio voters on Tuesday rejected an amendment that would have established a citizen-led commission to produce the state’s political maps .

Although voters have decided that the Citizens Not Politicians effort isn’t the right way to go, that doesn’t have to mean advocates give up the fight for a system that produces fair and constitutional voting maps.

“In looking at tonight’s vote, it’s clear that the millions of Ohioans who voted yes want to end gerrymandering,” said former Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor, who helped lead the effort. “And it’s also clear that those who voted didn’t think they were voting to end gerrymandering.”

The last part is a bit unfair. There is room for those who simply believe that the terribly flawed Ohio Redistricting Commission should be replaced with a different alternative.

In fact, Gov. Mike DeWine has said he will pursue his own proposed alternative next year.

He must.

The commission has defiantly refused to do its job on several occasions because its members understood there would be no consequences for ignoring redrawing orders that were found to be unconstitutionally mandated to favor Republicans.

DeWine is a member of the commission, although he agreed that the maps should not be drawn by politicians. If he has a better idea, he doesn’t have to waste time putting it into motion.

“While I am devastated by this loss, I will continue to fight for fair maps alongside many Ohioans — Republicans, Independents and Democrats alike — who are demanding better from our government,” said state Senate Democratic Leader Nickie Antonio. “The fight for fair maps is far from over.”

Antonio is right. The desire for fair, constitutional political maps is not a partisan issue. It is a desire of all Ohioans. DeWine and others must not delay in renewing the effort to make maps serve us fairly, rather than just one side.