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🗳️ Trump Temporarily Removed from Colorado Ballot Over Jan. 6 Role
Colorado’s Supreme Court, in a 4-3 decision, has ruled to exclude former President Donald Trump from the state’s Republican primary ballot for 2024, citing his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack. This marks the first state to block Trump’s presidential bid under the 14th Amendment’s “insurrection clause.” The ruling, however, is on hold until January 4, pending a review by the U.S. Supreme Court.
Legal Blow to Trump: Insurrection Clause Invoked
The Colorado court’s decision came as a significant legal setback for Trump, affirming that his actions surrounding the 2020 election and the Capitol riot amount to insurrection. The court determined that the presidency falls under the scope of the 14th Amendment clause, contrary to a district court’s earlier ruling.
Trump’s Campaign to Appeal to U.S. Supreme Court
Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump’s campaign, criticized the court’s decision as flawed and undemocratic, pledging to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The court’s makeup, entirely appointed by Democratic governors, has been highlighted by Trump’s team as a point of contention.
Colorado Petitioners Aim to Protect Elections
Norma Anderson, a former Republican leader and a petitioner in the case, stated that the ruling supports their goal of ensuring only eligible candidates appear on Colorado’s Republican primary ballot. This decision aligns with their commitment to safeguarding free and fair elections.
Impending High Court Battle and Additional Lawsuits
The Colorado decision sets the stage for a dramatic showdown at the U.S. Supreme Court, adding another layer to the court’s deliberations on Trump-related matters. The ruling forms part of a series of efforts in various states to prevent Trump from seeking the presidency again, with similar lawsuits pending in states like Michigan and Minnesota.
Dissenting Opinions Highlight Procedural Concerns
The decision faced dissent from three justices, who expressed concerns about the procedural application of Colorado’s election law and the enforcement of the 14th Amendment’s insurrection clause. They emphasized the importance of procedural due process in disqualifying a candidate from holding public office.