Protecting Democracy: Colorado Lawsuit Seeks to Disqualify Trump from Public Office
This week's episode of the Passing Judgment podcast, we are joined by the president of CREW (Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington), Noah Bookbinder. We delve into the recent lawsuit filed by CREW in Colorado. The suit claims that former President Trump is disqualified from holding public office due to his alleged violation of Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. This provision prohibits individuals who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States from holding federal or state office. Tune in to better understand the intersection between the law, politics, and the preservation of democracy.Here are the three key takeaways from the episode:1️⃣ In the state of Colorado there's a unique law that allows voters to sue to remove candidates who are not qualified to serve. This provided an avenue for the plaintiffs, 6 Republican and unaffiliated Colorado voters, to challenge Trump's eligibility for the ballot.2️⃣ The lawsuit is considered ripe for review because Trump has already declared himself a candidate for president, actively fundraising, and giving campaign speeches. With the possibility of him filing paperwork and being put on the ballot, time is of the essence for this case.3️⃣ Section 3 of the 14th Amendment: This provision was added to the Constitution after the Civil War to prevent those who engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States from holding public office. Previous cases and decisions in state courts have interpreted and applied this section to disqualify individuals. CREW's success in a similar case in New Mexico highlights the potential impact of this provision.Follow Our Guest:On X formerly known as Twitter: @NoahBookbinderCheck out CREW here. Follow Our Host:On X formerly known as Twitter: @LevinsonJessica