In a landmark decision, Colorado’s highest court has ruled that the former President is ineligible to be listed on the state’s 2024 election ballots. The state’s Supreme Court, in a closely contested 4-3 vote, invoked the 14th Amendment, referencing the events of January 6, 2021, as the basis for their decision. While the ruling is temporarily on hold until January 4, pending inevitable appeals, it marks a significant moment in electoral law.
The majority justices acknowledged the gravity of their decision, emphasizing their commitment to uphold the law impartially. In contrast, the dissenting justices expressed concern over the ruling’s implications.
Meanwhile, the former President, speaking in Iowa, refrained from commenting on the Colorado decision but sharply criticized the current administration, suggesting that there was an attempt to manipulate the election process against him. His campaign has indicated they will immediately challenge the ruling, with his spokesman describing the decision as fundamentally flawed and an affront to democracy.
The Secretary of State of Colorado, while respecting the court’s direction, noted the provisional nature of the ruling given the possibility of an appeal.
This disqualification effort in Colorado is part of a broader legal challenge being faced by the former President, with similar lawsuits underway in multiple other states. The outcome of these legal battles could have far-reaching consequences for the political landscape leading up to the next presidential election.