The Minnesota Supreme Court has reached a decision regarding a lawsuit that aimed to prevent former President Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s primary ballot for the 2024 presidential election. While the court dismissed the suit, the ruling applies solely to the primary, leaving open the possibility that Trump may face challenges regarding his eligibility in the general election.
Decision to Dismiss the Lawsuit
Chief Justice Natalie E. Hudson announced the court’s ruling, emphasizing that there is no state statute prohibiting a major political party from including an ostensibly ineligible candidate on the presidential nomination primary ballot or sending delegates to support that candidate at the national convention. The court’s decision neither explicitly addresses Trump’s eligibility nor sets a precedent for the general election.
Lawsuit Background
The lawsuit was filed by Free Speech for People, a liberal group representing Minnesota voters. The case hinges on a provision of the 14th Amendment, which disqualifies individuals from holding public office if they have “engaged in insurrection or rebellion.” The lawsuit is one of several nationwide challenging Trump’s eligibility, particularly concerning his role in the events surrounding the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
National Challenges to Trump’s Eligibility
Similar legal battles are unfolding across the United States. In Colorado, a trial has recently commenced for a case challenging Trump’s eligibility, while a New Hampshire judge dismissed a long-shot candidate’s attempt to declare Trump ineligible.
Trump Campaign’s Response
Following the Minnesota Supreme Court’s decision, Trump’s campaign issued a statement, claiming that the order validates their position that the 14th Amendment challenges are “strategic, un-Constitutional attempts to interfere with the election.”
As the 2024 presidential election season unfolds, the question of Trump’s eligibility continues to be a focal point of legal and political debate.
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