Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a central figure in the recent removal of Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot, has been a subject of considerable attention following her pivotal decision. Bellows, who previously met with President Joe Biden and expressed critical views on the Electoral College, made headlines with her ruling tied to Trump’s involvement in the Capitol riot.
Following her decision, Bellows revealed a disturbing incident where her residence was targeted in a ‘swatting’ attack, leading to threats against her family. This development has intensified the scrutiny around her, especially considering her past interactions with the White House, as reported by Fox News. Bellows visited the White House twice in 2023, once meeting with Biden in March during a Women’s History Month event and later in June with Justin Vail, a presidential aide.
Her stance on the Electoral College, which she labeled a ‘relic of white supremacy’ in a June 2021 op-ed, has resurfaced amid the controversy. Bellows critiqued the system for its disproportionate influence favoring less populous states, a mechanism that helped Trump clinch victory in 2016 despite losing the popular vote.
Bellows took to Facebook to disclose the threats and the swatting incident at her home. ‘Swatting,’ a dangerous prank involving false emergency reports, did not result in injuries at her home, but Bellows condemned the act as unacceptable.
Her decision to exclude Trump from the ballot was grounded in the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which bars individuals involved in insurrection from holding office. The application of this clause, especially to presidential candidates, remains a matter of significant debate.
Bellows’ ruling followed a similar judgment by the Colorado Supreme Court, which also removed Trump from the ballot under the 14th Amendment. However, these decisions are pending the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on whether Trump violated the provision.
Despite the controversy, Bellows stands firm on her decision. In a CNN interview, she emphasized her constitutional duty and the thorough analysis that led to her conclusion. Addressing accusations of election theft and voter disenfranchisement from the Trump campaign, Bellows underscored the unprecedented nature of the situation, noting the unique circumstances that led to her historic decision.