Democrats are facing a challenge in getting President Joe Biden on the ballot in Alabama and Ohio after warnings from top Republican election officials that the deadline to certify him as the Democratic nominee in both states will be missed. The nominating convention is too close to the general election in both states, with Ohio’s certification deadline on August 7 and Alabama’s on August 15, while the Democratic National Convention is scheduled for August 19-22. Historically, states have either pushed back the deadline or accepted provisional certifications in such situations.
The Biden campaign is exploring options to resolve the issue, such as pushing back the certification deadlines or accepting provisional certifications that would be confirmed after the convention. In Ohio, Democrats have been advised to either move their convention or pass legislation, although bipartisan support for such measures is uncertain. In Alabama, Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation to push back the certification deadline, hoping for bipartisan support as it has happened before for Republican candidates.
As the Biden campaign works to ensure the President’s presence on the ballot in all 50 states, considerations include holding a remote convention roll call or pursuing litigation. The campaign has hinted at a potential legal case in Alabama, arguing that strict application of the state’s deadline could restrict ballot access. Despite the challenges, Democrats are determined to address the issue and secure Biden’s spot on the ballot for the upcoming election.
