Ohio Governor Initiates Special Session to Confirm Biden’s Inclusion on 2024 Ballot

Ohio’s Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced on Thursday that he will convene a special session of the General Assembly next week to pass legislation ensuring that President Joe Biden will be on the state’s 2024 ballot.

DeWine stated, “Ohio is running out of time to get Joe Biden, the sitting President of the United States, on the ballot this fall. Failing to do so is simply unacceptable. This is ridiculous and an absurd situation.”

The issue of whether Biden will be on the state ballot has become embroiled in a partisan legislative battle aimed at preventing foreign money from influencing state ballot campaigns. This comes after funds linked to a Swiss billionaire played a role in successfully securing abortion rights in Ohio’s constitution, a traditionally conservative state.

The Democratic National Convention, where Biden is set to be formally nominated, takes place after Ohio’s ballot deadline of August 7. The convention is scheduled for August 19-22 in Chicago.

Due to Ohio changing its certification deadline from 60 to 90 days before the general election, lawmakers have had to amend the requirement twice, in 2012 and 2020, to accommodate candidates from both parties. However, these changes were only temporary.

Lawmakers failed to find a solution by the May 9 deadline set by Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose.

DeWine revealed that he had spoken with LaRose, who indicated that next Wednesday is the absolute deadline.

Expressing his frustration, DeWine stated, “I’ve waited. I’ve been patient. And my patience has run out.”

Alabama recently altered its law to ensure that Biden will be included on fall ballots. The Alabama legislation provides similar provisions for the president as were made four years ago for then-President Donald Trump.