Democrats' Virtual Vote: A Crucial Decision Looms for Biden's Nomination

Democrats are set to conduct a virtual vote to formally nominate President Joe Biden in early August, ahead of their in-person convention. This decision comes as some party members urge Biden to step down from the race. The Democratic National Convention's rules committee will discuss and finalize these plans next week.

Bishop Leah D. Daughtry and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, co-chairs of the committee, emphasized not rushing the virtual voting process. The convention, starting August 19 in Chicago, announced an early roll call to meet Ohio’s initial ballot deadline, which has since been updated, prompting Democratic leaders to operate under the initial rules to avoid legal issues.

The move follows concerns raised by several Democratic Congress members regarding Biden's candidacy after a challenging debate against former President Donald Trump. An AP-NORC poll shows diminishing confidence among Democrats in Biden’s capability to serve effectively. House Democrats, concerned about party unity, have delayed sending a letter opposing the early roll call vote.

(With inputs from agencies.)