Authority Questions and Weber’s Position
A critical question revolves around whether top election officials can act unilaterally to remove a candidate from the ballot. While Democratic secretaries of state in pivotal states have been cautious, California Secretary of State Shirley Weber has not taken a definitive stance, citing ongoing reviews of legal cases.
Court Challenges and the Role of Attorney General Rob Bonta
Lawsuits filed in multiple states aim to force secretaries of state to exclude Trump from primary ballots, including in California. Eleven Democrats in the California Assembly, led by Evan Low, have urged Attorney General Rob Bonta to seek an expedited state court ruling, adding a unique dimension to the legal battle.
Consequences of Missing the Debate Stage
Christie, currently in third place in polls of likely Granite State GOP primary voters, could face a credibility blow if excluded from the debate stage. Experts suggest that candidates failing to make the debate stage are often perceived as less serious contenders. As Christie’s campaign focuses primarily on one state, the impact of missing the stage could prompt a reevaluation of his candidacy.
Campaign Strategies and Potential Outcomes
Christie’s campaign, confident about meeting the 6 percent threshold, is planning around being present at the Tuscaloosa debate. Despite the campaign’s optimism, if Christie fails to make the stage, questions arise about whether he would reconsider his position, given his prior statements about candidates not making the debate stage.
In the final stretch before the debate deadline, the outcome remains uncertain, with the potential for legal and political implications. Christie’s supporters emphasize the importance of his presence on the debate stage to ensure voters hear his perspective.
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