In a historic ruling on Tuesday, the Colorado Supreme Court declared former President Trump ineligible for office, disqualifying him from appearing on the state’s 2024 ballot. The decision, made under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, cited Trump’s conduct during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. This ruling has sparked controversy and prompted a Republican presidential candidate, Vivek Ramaswamy, to threaten withdrawal from the Colorado GOP primary unless Trump is reinstated.
Ramaswamy condemned the court’s decision, calling it “an actual attack on democracy.” He accused a “cabal of Democrat judges” of trying to eliminate Trump from running in the election. Ramaswamy pledged to withdraw from the primary and demanded that fellow GOP candidates Ron DeSantis, Chris Christie, and Nikki Haley also withdraw unless Trump is allowed on the state’s ballot.
The Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling, which received a 4-3 vote, is temporarily stayed until January 4 due to expected appeals. Three justices dissented from the majority opinion, emphasizing the weight and significance of the decision. However, the court maintained its duty to apply the law without prejudice.
The Trump campaign swiftly responded to the ruling, expressing their intention to file an appeal with the United States Supreme Court. They criticized the Colorado Supreme Court, accusing it of supporting a left-wing group’s scheme to interfere in the election on behalf of President Biden. The campaign expressed confidence that the U.S. Supreme Court would rule in their favor and put an end to what they deemed “undemocratic lawsuits.”
This decision comes after a previous ruling by Colorado District Judge Sarah B. Wallace, who allowed Trump to stay on the ballot but acknowledged his involvement in the Capitol riot as engaging in insurrection. Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold stated that she would follow court guidance on the matter.
The disqualification lawsuits related to Trump’s appearance on the ballot remain pending in 13 states, including Texas, Nevada, and Wisconsin. The ruling in Colorado sets a precedent and raises questions about Trump’s eligibility to run for office in other states.
Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy is now challenging his GOP rivals, including Chris Christie, Nikki Haley, and Ron DeSantis, to join him in vowing to withdraw their names from the Colorado ballot in protest against the court’s decision.
The 14th Amendment, which serves as the basis for disqualification, states that individuals who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States cannot hold office. However, Congress has the power to remove such a disability through a two-thirds vote in each House.
The implications of this ruling extend beyond Colorado, as it adds fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding Trump’s involvement in the Capitol riot and his eligibility for future political office.
