The Democratic National Convention will nominate President Joe Biden via virtual roll call starting Aug 1, with the process slated to end by August 7, in preparation for the November presidential election.

This decision reinforces Biden’s position as the party's candidate, despite growing internal opposition and concerns over his ability to prevail this fall, as the Post Millennial reports.

Virtual Roll Call Set Due to Deadlines

The Rules Committee of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) finalized the decision to proceed with a virtual roll call on Friday. The virtual nomination process, which spans from Aug. 1 to Aug. 7, was planned to meet Ohio’s certification deadline, even though the state has since extended that deadline.

DNC Chair Jamie Harrison stated, "The timeline for the virtual roll call process remains on schedule and unchanged from when the DNC made that decision back in May, and voted to ratify in mid-June."

According to the DNC, this move avoids the complications and potential challenges associated with policing the Democratic ticket on ballots nationwide during an election season filled with scrutiny and controversy.

Preparation For In-Person Convention in Chicago

Even as the roll call occurs virtually, an in-person convention will convene in Chicago soon after its conclusion. Despite the virtual nomination process, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will deliver their acceptance speeches in person at the convention floor, maintaining some traditional elements of the event.

Speculation had surfaced about Biden's potential withdrawal after a notably poor debate performance on June 27 against Donald Trump. This led to discussions about possible alternative candidates, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and Harris herself.

Addressing these rumors, Harrison expressed confidence in Biden and Harris' reelection, attributing it to the continued support from the party's delegates. "Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, will be reelected because of you," he said.

Republican Criticism of Process

The DNC's justification for the virtual roll call centered around Ohio’s ballot certification deadline, a point of contention with the Republican Secretary of State, Frank LaRose. He called out the DNC for using Ohio as a scapegoat, stating the issue had already been resolved.

LaRose remarked, "The issue is resolved in Ohio, and Democrat proxies know that and should stop trying to scapegoat Ohio for their own party's dysfunction." He criticized the DNC for scheduling their convention after the well-established deadline under Ohio law.

In contrast, Harrison emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, blaming extremism for potential disruptions. He stated, "We will not let extremism in Ohio corrupt the democratic process. This election comes down to nothing less than saving our democracy from a man who has said that he wants to be a dictator on day one."

Preserving The Convention's Significance

The virtual roll call means delegates will not have the chance to stand up and voice their opinions during the convention, a notable departure from tradition. The DNC hopes that the modified format will still allow a unified and celebratory atmosphere once the roll call concludes and the Chicago event begins.

The Republican National Convention, which concluded recently in Milwaukee, opted for in-person nominations, officially nominating Donald Trump as their presidential candidate. This contrast highlights the differing approaches of the two major parties amidst the ongoing concerns and limitations of the current political landscape.

Despite the departure from traditional practices, the DNC aims to keep the process as seamless and organized as possible, with Harrison asserting that "No part of this process is rushed."

Conclusion

The Democratic National Convention's decision to proceed with a virtual roll call for nominating Joe Biden underscores the party's commitment to adapting to current challenges.

The roll call, beginning on Aug. 1 and ending by Aug. 7, precedes an in-person convention in Chicago where Biden and Harris will deliver their acceptance speeches. Despite internal opposition and concerns over Biden's performance, the DNC remains confident in his candidacy.

Meanwhile, Republicans criticize the DNC's handling of the process, especially regarding Ohio's ballot certification deadlines.

The virtual roll call marks a significant departure from tradition but supporters say it aims to maintain the integrity and foster the unity of the party as it heads into the November election.