In a recent turn of events, President Biden has made a significant statement regarding the eligibility of former President Donald Trump to be on the ballot in the upcoming 2024 elections. Amidst ongoing discussions about the events that unfolded on January 6th, 2021, President Biden asserted that Trump's actions leading up to and including the insurrection at the Capitol unquestionably qualify as support for an insurrection.
The issue at hand is whether these actions disqualify Trump under the 14th Amendment, and ultimately, it appears that the Supreme Court will be tasked with weighing in on this matter. President Biden, hesitant to make definitive statements on Trump's involvement, wisely defers to the decision of the court, stating, 'Whether the 14th Amendment applies, I'll let the court make that decision.'
The events of January 6th undoubtedly stand out as unprecedented and hold a significant weight. When individuals attempt to halt the ratification of an election by forcefully entering the Capitol, it is not unforeseen to label it as an insurrection. Furthermore, various courts, including the Colorado Supreme Court, seem to share a similar viewpoint, with some ruling that Trump engaged in an insurrection while others differed on his eligibility to be on the ballot.
Twitter Post On Supreme Court to weigh in on Trump's 2024 eligibility
Discussing the legal aspects, it is important to note that the district court in Colorado provided its judgment that Trump engaged in an insurrection but held that because he was no longer in office, the 14th Amendment did not apply. On the other hand, constitutional scholars and the Colorado Supreme Court have argued that the 14th Amendment covers individuals who have held any office under the United States, which includes the presidency. Moreover, these scholars highlight that the 14th Amendment has been subject to various interpretations throughout its history, granting room for legal debate.
Questioning why this matter was not raised earlier, particularly following the events of January 6th, is a valid concern. In hindsight, one could argue that the Democrats, who held the majority at the time, could have passed legislation disqualifying Trump based on his involvement in the insurrection. However, the potential obstacles of Senate approval, likely encountering a Republican filibuster, and the influence of Republican leader Mitch McConnell are factors that may have deterred such legislation.
Ultimately, the ongoing debate revolves around whether the 14th Amendment is self-executing or requires additional enabling legislation. This point of contention will undoubtedly play a crucial role in determining the eligibility of Donald Trump to appear on the ballot in the 2024 elections. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the fateful events of January 6th, the legal and constitutional ramifications remain a focal point for many. The Supreme Court's forthcoming decision will undoubtedly shape the future discussions surrounding Trump's involvement and political aspirations.
