A pivotal ruling emerged from a Colorado state court, stating that former President Donald Trump engaged in insurrection by inciting the Capitol attack but is not prohibited from appearing on the primary ballot in Colorado. Judge Sarah B. Wallace’s decision, while acknowledging Trump’s involvement in the insurrection, deliberated on the application of the 14th Amendment, Section 3, in determining his eligibility for office.
The judgment serves as a significant legal victory for Trump despite its condemning language, prompting an expected appeal that may eventually reach the Colorado or U.S. Supreme Court. Trump’s campaign, celebrating the ruling, denounced the challenges to his ballot appearances as “un-American,” emphasizing the ongoing legal battle’s broader significance.
Opponents aiming to keep Trump off state ballots have pursued lawsuits across multiple states, seeking a U.S. Supreme Court intervention. However, Wallace’s ruling in Colorado, while recognizing Trump’s involvement in inciting the Capitol violence, ultimately concluded that Section 3 of the 14th Amendment did not specifically apply to the presidency, allowing Trump to remain eligible for primary appearances.
