In a move to address a timing issue with the Democratic convention, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has called a special session for the state's Legislature. The session aims to ensure that both major presidential candidates, including President Joe Biden, will be on the Ohio ballot this November. DeWine expressed his frustration with fellow Republicans who have shown reluctance in offering a legislative solution.

During the special session, DeWine also plans to introduce legislation that would prohibit campaign spending by foreign nationals. The Governor's office has reached out to the Biden campaign for their input on the matter.

The issue at hand arises from the late date of this year's Democratic convention, which coincides with Ohio's statutory deadline to certify presidential candidates for the November ballot. In previous instances, similar problems were resolved through quick legislative fixes. However, this year, several Republican legislators have hesitated to take necessary action.

The special session is scheduled to start on Tuesday, aiming to address the urgency of the situation. DeWine expressed his disappointment with state House Republicans who have failed to put forth significant efforts to include Biden on the ballot. The office of state House Speaker Jason Stephens did not respond immediately to requests for comment.

It is not the first time DeWine has clashed with the GOP-dominated state Legislature. In 2021, lawmakers curtailed the Governor's authority to issue public health orders, highlighting a power struggle between the two entities.

In response to DeWine's announcement, Ohio Democratic Party Chair Elizabeth Walters criticized "corrupt GOP politicians," urging them to prioritize the inclusion of Joe Biden on the Ohio ballot. Despite their political maneuvers, Walters expressed confidence in Biden's presence on the ballot.

Ohio, once considered a crucial swing state, has shown a rightward shift in recent elections. In 2020, former President Donald Trump secured victory in the state with over 53% of the vote, while Biden garnered approximately 45.2%. In the previous election, Trump won with 51.8% against Hillary Clinton's 43.7%. The last time a Democratic presidential nominee won Ohio was in 2012, when President Barack Obama secured the state.

As the special session approaches, Ohio's Legislature faces the task of resolving the timing problem promptly and ensuring a fair representation of candidates on the November ballot.