Staff Reports
Democrats in Ohio are currently struggling to secure Joe Biden's placement on the presidential ballot, resulting in significant chaos and confusion. Despite Governor Mike DeWine's efforts to convene a special session of the Ohio legislature to address the issue, both parties failed to reach an agreement due to a dispute over a campaign finance bill related to foreign donations. This impasse has left Biden’s ballot access in limbo, prompting Democrats to propose a “virtual roll call” to ensure his inclusion on the ballot.
Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison expressed confidence that Biden would eventually appear on the Ohio ballot. However, the lack of action from Ohio Republicans forced Democrats to take independent measures. Governor DeWine voiced his frustration over the delay, stressing the urgency of getting Biden on the ballot as the sitting president, calling the situation “ridiculous” and “absurd.”
Democrats Will Hold 'Virtual Roll Call' Before the Convention to Ensure Biden Is on the Ohio Ballot https://t.co/ox1quqriVh . #Trump2024 pic.twitter.com/bC1gO9rUIM
— ??NahBabyNah?? (@NahBabyNah) May 29, 2024
The need for a “virtual roll call” arises from a potential oversight by the national Democratic Party regarding Ohio’s ballot access deadline. Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose highlighted this issue to Democrats in April, noting that the deadline law was established when Democrats held the majority in the state House 15 years ago. The DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee will address the possibility of a virtual roll call in their upcoming meeting on June 4, with potential approval required from the full DNC.
This move towards a virtual solution draws from the precedent set during the 2020 Democratic National Convention, which was conducted largely remotely due to the pandemic. Traditionally, an in-person roll call of states culminates in the nomination of a presidential candidate. While the Chicago convention is expected to feature an in-person roll call, Biden’s formal nomination might occur during virtual proceedings.
The ongoing debate in Ohio underscores the importance of promptly and efficiently addressing ballot access issues. The proposed virtual roll call reflects the Democrats' innovative response to logistical challenges. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the democratic process is upheld and that candidates like Joe Biden can appear on the ballot without unnecessary delays or complications.
