What happens to the Vermont ballots if Biden steps aside? Can another Democrat get on

Rumors are circulating that President Joe Biden may bow out of the 2024 presidential race this weekend — three weeks after a disastrous debate performance sowed doubt in supporters' minds about his mental fitness.

But how would a last-minute dip from Biden impact the Nov. 5 general ballot in Vermont? At this juncture, it wouldn't, said Chief of Staff Bryan Mills of the Vermont Secretary of State's office.

Mills explained that his office traditionally does not print general election ballots until after the Democratic National Convention in mid-August, which means Biden's theoretical replacement could easily make the cut should the president step aside before then.

Each state sets its own deadlines for candidates and the printing of ballots.

Several states have said that by the time the DNC occurs, the deadline to file to appear on the ballot in those states will have already passed. Because of this, Democrats may have to participate in an early roll call vote to determine their nominee before Aug. 22, the last day of the convention.

Biden's replacement: Who would it be and how would they be chosen?

So far, Vice President Kamala Harris has received the warmest reception from political allies as a potential replacement for Biden on the Democratic ticket.

But how might Harris — or someone else for that matter — make it on the ballot if each state has already held its presidential primary?

If Democrats do not pursue an early roll call, delegates will need to select Biden's successor at the DNC.

How smoothly the convention's voting goes is highly dependent on whether Biden chooses to endorse a replacement. While convention delegates are not legally required to vote for Biden's pick, they are inclined to do so, according to Forbes. On the other hand, should Biden fail to endorse someone — which would lead to a rare open convention — the DNC may become divided over multiple different candidates, throwing the party's unity into question.

Megan Stewart is a government accountability reporter for the Burlington Free Press. Contact her at mstewartyounger@gannett.com.