Ohio’s Secretary of State, Frank LaRose, has raised concerns that Biden is at risk of missing the state’s candidate filing deadline due to the late timing of the Democratic National Convention. LaRose has repeatedly stressed the need to comply with Ohio law and has called on the Democratic Party to find a solution within the legal framework.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, has expressed frustration with his party’s lack of progress in addressing the issue. He has convened a special legislative session to pass legislation that would guarantee the inclusion of both major presidential candidates on the Ohio ballot. DeWine has emphasized the urgency of this matter and has criticized lawmakers for failing to act promptly.
LaRose, who unsuccessfully ran for Senate in 2024, has stated that the Democratic Party has not presented a viable solution that adheres to existing law. He maintains that either the state legislature must modify the law or the Democratic Party must adjust its plans.
Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens, also a Republican, has indicated that the legislature will not intervene to assist Biden. The Democratic Party has not yet announced a solution that complies with Ohio law, leaving Biden’s ballot status in jeopardy. The situation highlights the challenges faced by the Biden campaign in ensuring his appearance on the ballot in all 50 states, and the potential legal and political implications of missing state deadlines.