An Illinois state judge issued a ruling preventing Donald Trump from being listed on the Illinois Republican presidential primary ballot due to his involvement in the Capitol insurrection of Jan. 6, 2021. However, the ruling’s enforcement was postponed pending an anticipated appeal from the former president.
Cook County Circuit Judge Tracie Porter supported Illinois voters who contended that Trump’s actions violated the anti-insurrection clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which led to his disqualification from the state’s upcoming primary and general elections.
The ultimate resolution of this case, alongside similar challenges, is expected to be determined by the U.S. Supreme Court, which recently heard arguments regarding Trump’s eligibility for the ballot. Porter delayed her decision, foreseeing Trump’s appeal to Illinois’ appellate courts and a potential Supreme Court ruling.
The advocacy group Free Speech For People celebrated the ruling as a significant triumph. Trump’s campaign spokesperson criticized the decision as unconstitutional and pledged to appeal promptly. Prior to Illinois, Colorado and Maine had already excluded Trump from their ballots under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, with these decisions pending appeal.
Section 3 bars individuals who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the U.S. Constitution from holding public office, regardless of prior oaths of allegiance.
