In a landmark decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has shut down attempts by states to block Donald Trump from seeking reelection this year, citing constitutional limitations. The ruling, which overturned a Colorado high court decision, signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battles surrounding Trump’s candidacy.
Court Strikes Down Colorado’s Ban
The Supreme Court’s 20-page per curiam decision highlighted the lack of authority held by state courts to disqualify candidates for federal office under the 14th Amendment. Justices emphasized that while Congress is empowered to enforce the amendment, states lack the jurisdiction to independently bar candidates from the ballot.
The ruling stemmed from Colorado’s attempt to prevent Trump from appearing on the state’s primary election ballot, alleging his involvement in insurrection. However, the Supreme Court’s decision firmly rebuffed such state-level intervention.
States can’t kick Trump off ballot : Justices’ Split Decision
Although the ruling saw no dissents, only a slim majority of five justices supported the decision’s rationale. Notably, Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson sharply disagreed, arguing against the exclusive authority of Congress to enforce the 14th Amendment.
