Sandusky County, Ohio

The Ohio Supreme Court must decide whether suspended Sandusky County Common Pleas Judge Jon Ickes can remain on the Nov. 3 general election ballot, even though he would be legally barred from taking office if he wins. Ickes, a Fremont Republican, was removed from the bench earlier this month for misconduct that included using sexist and racist language and shooting a Nerf gun at people during court proceedings. His law license was also suspended for two years, which under Ohio law makes him ineligible to serve as a judge during that period.

The Sandusky County Board of Elections rejected a challenge from Ickes' independent opponent, Kimberly Ontko, who argued he shouldn't remain on the ballot for an office he can't legally hold, citing court precedent and a 2002 attorney general opinion. The board countered that her protest was untimely and that she lacked standing. If Ickes wins while ineligible, Gov. Mike DeWine would appoint a replacement. A ruling is expected before ballots go out starting Sept. 18.