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Former US President Donald Trump’s legal team has submitted an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court seeking to overturn the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision disqualifying him from the state’s GOP primary ballot.
In the 43-page filing, Trump’s lawyers argue that the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling contradicts the principles of a “government of the people, by the people, [and] for the people.” They assert that the Supreme Court should grant certiorari to address this crucial matter, promptly reverse the Colorado ruling, and restore the voters’ right to choose their preferred candidate.
The Colorado Supreme Court’s groundbreaking decision on December 19 marked the first successful challenge to Trump’s candidacy under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. In a 4-3 split decision, the majority of justices cited Trump’s alleged engagement in insurrection on January 6, 2021, as grounds for his ineligibility in the 2024 primary ballot.
The Colorado justices temporarily stayed their decision until January 4, pending appeal. Last week, the Colorado Republican Party also sought Supreme Court intervention to overturn the state court’s opinion, temporarily reinstating Trump on the GOP primary ballot.
Trump’s legal team emphasizes the gravity of the issues presented, especially given his status as the Republican frontrunner. They argue that the Colorado decision could unjustly disenfranchise millions of voters and set a precedent with nationwide implications.
Trump faces similar challenges in Maine, where Secretary of State Shenna Bellows upheld two 14th Amendment challenges to his candidacy. An appeal was filed on Tuesday to Maine’s Superior Court.
While Trump has secured eligibility in several states, ongoing 14th Amendment-related lawsuits are unfolding across the country. Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for Trump’s 2024 campaign, denounced efforts to bar him from the ballot as “unAmerican” and “unconstitutional election interference.” He called for the rejection of the Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling and the assurance of a free and fair election in November.
