Colorado's top court finds Trump ineligible for US presidency
The highest court in Colorado has rendered a decision that deems former US President Donald Trump ineligible to participate in the race for the White House.
This ruling is based on his alleged involvement in the assault on the Capitol by his supporters in 2021. Consequently, the court has asserted that he should be excluded from the primary ballot in the state.
This landmark ruling, specific to Colorado, holds significant historical weight as it marks the inaugural utilization of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. This constitutional provision disqualifies individuals from holding public office if they have been involved in insurrection. Notably, this decision sets a precedent for potential similar legal actions being considered in courts across other states.
The Colorado high court, in a narrow four-three majority decision, articulated that President Trump stands disqualified from assuming the presidency under Section Three of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. As a result, listing him as a candidate in the presidential primary ballot would be deemed a wrongful act under the state's Election Code.
However, it's crucial to note that this decision is exclusive to Colorado and pertains solely to the upcoming primary election scheduled for March 5. This event holds significance for Republican voters in choosing their preferred presidential candidate. Nonetheless, its implications might extend to the general election in Colorado slated for November.
Donald Trump, known for his background as a real estate mogul and television personality, faces an array of legal challenges. These include criminal charges linked to purported efforts to overturn the 2020 election, mishandling classified documents, payments for silence during the 2016 election, and allegations of fraudulent business practices.
Trump has vehemently asserted that he is a victim of political persecution amidst these legal proceedings. Despite this ruling in Colorado, the decision remains pending appeal until the following month, potentially impacting the trajectory of his candidacy in the state.