Supreme Court Questions Trump Lawyer Over Ballot Disqualification
Justices Grilling Trump Lawyer
U.S. Supreme Court justices grilled a lawyer for Donald Trump as he fights to avoid being removed from state presidential ballots due to his involvement in the 2021 Capitol attack. The case has major implications for the November election.
Constitutional Implications
The nine justices were considering Trump’s appeal of a ruling by Colorado’s top court to disqualify him from the state’s Republican primary ballot under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The amendment prohibits individuals who engaged in insurrection from holding public office.
Trump’s Absence and Public Opinion
Trump was not present at the hearing, instead planning to start his day at his Florida home and travel to Nevada. Demonstrators gathered outside the courthouse, expressing their opinions on the matter.
Challenging Presidential Contest
This case calls on the Supreme Court to play a central role in a presidential contest unlike any since the 2000 Bush v. Gore decision. Anti-Trump forces have attempted to disqualify him in over two dozen states, with mostly unsuccessful outcomes.
Legal Arguments and Historical Context
Trump’s lawyers argued that he is not subject to disqualification under the 14th Amendment. The amendment was ratified after the American Civil War, in which rebelled Southern states engaged in the practice of slavery. Trump’s supporters attacked the Capitol in a bid to prevent Congress from certifying Biden’s victory.
Future Implications and Legal Challenges
Trump also faces other legal challenges, including a case related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. The eventual ruling in the Colorado case may not indicate how the justices would rule on his bid for immunity from prosecution as a former president.
Plaintiffs and Backing Organization
The plaintiffs in the Colorado case are backed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington, a liberal watchdog group.
