Staff Reports
President Joe Biden, the Democratic presidential nominee, will be officially nominated through a virtual roll call before the party’s convention in Chicago in August. This strategy will ensure Biden’s spot on the November ballot in Ohio and limit disruptions from protesters during the nomination process.
The Democratic National Convention is set for August 19-22, which is after Ohio’s ballot deadline of August 7. Ohio lawmakers have previously shifted the deadline for candidates from both parties, but they have not done so for Biden this year. This led to a rare special session called by Governor Mike DeWine to address the issue.
Democrats plan to nominate Biden by virtual roll call to meet Ohio ballot deadline https://t.co/zZ0CQHlczZ
— News 6 WKMG (@news6wkmg) May 29, 2024
The virtual proceedings will provide Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris with the party’s formal endorsement, similar to the process used in 2020 when the convention went virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This approach aims to minimize any unexpected moments that could potentially embarrass Biden during the convention, particularly in light of some unrest within the party over his stance on Israel’s conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
The exact date of the virtual roll call has not been announced, but it is expected to take place following the committee’s rules and bylaws committee vote on proposed changes to the process. The vote is scheduled for June 4.
The Democratic National Committee chairman, Jaime Harrison, emphasized the necessity of ensuring that Republicans cannot interfere with the democratic process, prompting the decision to conduct a virtual roll call independently. Concurrently, Ohio lawmakers convened for a special session to address this issue. There were negotiations between the House and Senate, led by Republicans, but no resolution had been reached as of Tuesday.
The adjustments to Ohio’s ballot deadline have sparked debate and contention in the state legislature. The Senate introduced a measure that includes a prohibition on foreign nationals donating to Ohio ballot campaigns, which has faced opposition from Democrats. Governor DeWine has urged legislators to pass the proposed measure during the special session, while Democrats have expressed concerns about certain additional requirements included in the proposal.
The ongoing discussions are complicated by the differing interpretations of Governor DeWine’s proclamation, leading to a structured approach by the Ohio Senate and the House regarding their sessions. The situation remains fluid as both chambers work towards a resolution.
