Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi faced criticism for her comments on ABC’s “This Week,” where she suggested that the decision to ban former President Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot could vary based on different state laws. Pelosi’s remarks came in response to host George Stephanopoulos’ question about whether Trump, who Pelosi believes engaged in insurrection, is ineligible to be president under the 14th Amendment.
Pelosi stated that the decision is up to individual states, as they have different laws. Stephanopoulos interjected, reminding her that the Constitution is the governing document. Pelosi acknowledged the Constitution’s Article 14, Section 3, which could disqualify Trump from running for president, but reiterated that states have different laws.
The exchange was highlighted on social media by the RNC Research account and various conservative users. One user, Insurrection Barbie, criticized Pelosi for suggesting states could overrule the Constitution to remove Trump from the ballot. The Constitutional Conservative accused Pelosi of saying states could ignore the constitution because of differing laws.
California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, despite personal feelings about Trump’s actions, included him on the list of candidates certified to run in the March primary, committing to abide by the rule of law. This decision contrasted with Maine’s Democratic secretary of state, Shenna Bellows, and Colorado’s Supreme Court, both of whom ruled Trump ineligible over his role in the Capitol riot.
The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to take up Trump’s appeal in the Colorado case in February. Pelosi, in the interview, also warned about Jan. 6 messaging during a campaign year and emphasized the importance of speaking with respect and unifying people.
Pelosi’s comments have sparked debate over the interpretation of the Constitution and the role of state laws in determining eligibility for presidential candidates.