Cincinnatians can now cast one of the most important votes of their lives, and I'm not talking about the upcoming midterm elections.
People across the country can vote for the dish they believe deserves to officially represent their state as part of a program tied to the United States Semiquincentennial.
According to the program's website, the Official State Dish Registry, in partnership with America250, is the "national record of the dish that best represents each of the 50 states, as chosen by the American public."
People can vote once in each state. If a favorite isn't listed, voters can write it in, and the dish will count toward that state's tally.
Voting closes at 11:59 p.m. ET on Dec. 31, and winners will be announced in early 2027. The winning
dishes will be entered into the Official State Dish Registry as a permanent record of each state's selection.
But Cincinnati chili has some catching up to do.
As of 12:39 p.m. Monday, buckeye candies topped Ohio's ballot with 1,188 votes. Cincinnati chili sat in second place with 715 votes, while pierogis were third with 246.
Goetta, the German American sausage and Greater Cincinnati delicacy, was sixth with 163 votes. Other Ohio staples in the running include Polish boys, Lake Erie Yellow Perch, Cleveland-style corned beef and Barberton chicken.
Per the website, organizers developed each state's ballot by consulting regional cookbooks and state historical societies. They also considered dishes recognized by state legislators and foods widely regarded as "state icons."
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati chili trails buckeyes in race for Ohio’s official state dish
