On Wednesday, an Illinois state judge, Tracie Porter, issued a ruling barring Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s Republican presidential primary ballot. The decision stems from Trump’s role in the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. However, the ruling’s implementation was delayed in anticipation of an appeal by the former president.
Judge Porter sided with Illinois voters who argued that Trump violated the anti-insurrection clause of the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment, making him ineligible for the state’s March 19 primary ballot and its November 5 general election ballot. The ultimate resolution of this case, along with similar challenges in other states, is expected to be determined by the U.S. Supreme Court. The high court had already heard arguments related to Trump’s ballot eligibility on February 8.
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Judge Porter explained that she stayed her decision due to the anticipated appeal to Illinois’ appellate courts and a potential ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court. The advocacy group Free Speech For People, leading the disqualification effort in Illinois, lauded the ruling as a “historic victory.” A spokesperson for Trump, who is the national frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination, declared the ruling unconstitutional and confirmed plans for a swift appeal.
Previously, both Colorado and Maine removed Trump from their state ballots, citing his disqualification under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which prohibits individuals engaged in insurrection or rebellion from holding public office. The decisions in these states are pending appeals from Trump. The Supreme Court is currently considering Trump’s challenge to his disqualification in Colorado. During oral arguments, justices expressed skepticism about states taking broad actions that could impact national elections, raising concerns about the potential implications of such decisions.
