Ohio Democrats’ objections to what they call Republican redistricting stall tactics grew louder Tuesday.

After the first meeting of the Republican majority Ohio Redistricting Committee lasted less than 30 minutes and included no testimony and no new congressional maps, Democrats believe the GOP plans to miss its Oct. 31 deadline.

“For four years, we’ve all known this day was coming,” said Commission Cochairman Nickie Antonio, D-Lakewood. “We have a constitutional duty at this moment to make our best faith effort to work together and pass a congressional proposal by no later than Oct. 31 — 10 days from now. Delay after seemingly disingenuous delay, we’re watching the clock run out just as it has in the past.”

The commission has until the end of the month to pass maps with four votes, including both Democrats on the commission.

“I believe the adoption of a plan by this commission is certainly possible, and this process will determine whether or not it becomes probable,” said Commission Cochairman Brian Stewart, R-Ashville. “Either way, I want the public, our colleagues in state government, and our colleagues in Congress to know that we enter this process with open minds and willingness to try to find common ground.”

If the commission fails to reach a bipartisan agreement, the Republican majority General Assembly can pass new maps with a simple majority and without bipartisan support. Stewart said there are discussions about future meetings, but none has been formally announced.

“The stakes are really high right now,” Antonio said. “Ohio has the potential to determine whether our Congress bows to the whims of an authoritarian president, or keeps tyrants in check, and provides the checks and balances that Ohioans expect and deserve.”