The Colorado Supreme Court has delivered a groundbreaking ruling, declaring Donald Trump ineligible for the US presidency due to his involvement in the January 2021 assault on the Capitol.
This legal decision, invoking the 14th Amendment, could significantly impact the upcoming 2024 election.
Trump’s campaign plans to appeal the ruling, leading to immediate condemnation from Republicans across the spectrum.
The ruling, while currently limited to the Colorado primary ballot, marks the first successful use of the 14th Amendment to bar someone engaged in insurrection from holding office.
The court’s majority stated that Trump is disqualified under Section Three of the 14th Amendment, emphasizing the gravity of the decision. However, the ruling is on hold until January 4, anticipating an appeal to the US Supreme Court.
Trump’s campaign swiftly expressed its intention to appeal, characterizing the Colorado Supreme Court as influenced by a left-wing agenda.
The judgment drew rebukes from senior Republicans, including Senator Marco Rubio and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
The latter, despite running against Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, aligned himself with the former president’s position and called for a reversal by the US Supreme Court.
The ruling raises questions about the broader impact on Trump’s political future and the potential consequences for the 2024 election.
Amid historic indictments related to the 2020 election, debates on Trump’s eligibility continue. Multiple 14th Amendment lawsuits nationwide add complexity to the legal landscape surrounding Trump’s potential candidacy.