Headline: Maine’s Secretary of State Disqualifies Trump from 2024 Republican Primary Ballot, Citing 14th Amendment
In a move echoing Colorado’s state Supreme Court, Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows has disqualified former President Donald Trump from the state’s 2024 Republican primary ballot. This decision comes as both states cite Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which disqualifies individuals who “engaged in insurrection or rebellion” from holding office.
Bellows made the decision after five voters, including two former Republican state senators, challenged Trump’s qualification for the ballot. The secretary of state reviewed the evidence presented during a hearing and concluded that the events of January 6, 2021, constituted an unprecedented attack on the Capitol and the rule of law, with the knowledge and support of the outgoing president.
Emphasizing that the decision is part of Maine’s legal process, Bellows stressed that it will go through the courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court. Recognizing the importance of the rule of law, she suspended the effect of her ruling pending the court process.
Encouraging people to read her decision and Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, Bellows clarified that disqualification does not necessitate a conviction for insurrection. Despite facing criticism, including allegations of partisanship, Bellows firmly denied such claims and reaffirmed her commitment to upholding the Constitution, citing her oath as the driving force behind her decision.
However, the secretary of state revealed that she has faced threats of violence and received threatening communications since the ruling. Despite this, Bellows remains resolute in her dedication to fulfilling her oath and expressed gratitude for the support and security provided by law enforcement.
As the discussion surrounding Trump’s qualification for future political endeavors continues, Maine’s decision adds further weight to the ongoing debate. With the disqualification poised to go through the legal process and potentially reach the U.S. Supreme Court, the nation awaits a definitive resolution to this controversial issue.
Guam News Factor will continue to cover this story as it develops, keeping readers informed of any new developments and legal proceedings surrounding the disqualification of Donald Trump from the 2024 Republican primary ballot.