Maine Secretary of State Disqualifies Trump from Presidential Primary Ballot

Maine Secretary of State, Shenna Bellows, has recently made a significant decision by disqualifying Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot. This move comes as a result of Bellows following Maine’s election law and upholding the U.S. Constitution. This decision was made under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, making Maine the second state to bar Trump from the ballot.

Bellows’ ruling was based on the evidence presented during a public hearing held in Maine on December 15th. Three challenges were filed by registered voters, including one group consisting of three Republican and Democratic former state senators. The challengers argued that Trump was barred from office due to his engagement in insurrection, which violates Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

In her decision, Bellows acknowledged that her ruling could be rendered null and void due to an appeal pending before the U.S. Supreme Court. However, she emphasized that her responsibility was to act according to Maine state law. Trump’s campaign spokesman, Steven Cheung, has stated that they will file a legal objection to prevent this decision from taking effect.

Bellows, who was sworn in as secretary of state just two days before the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol, has a strong commitment to upholding the Constitution and the First Amendment. She rejected Trump’s argument that his conduct surrounding the 2020 election and the events of January 6 cannot disqualify him from the presidency because his speech is protected by the First Amendment. Bellows emphasized that the First Amendment does not permit incitement of an insurrection.

Trump also argued that the 14th Amendment does not apply to the presidency, citing an early draft of Section 3 that referred to the “office of the President or Vice President” as evidence. However, Bellows found that this early draft confirms that the drafters intended the presidency to be covered by Section Three and considered the presidency an office.

Bellows’ ruling ultimately determined that Trump was disqualified under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment but could not be barred under the 22nd Amendment. The Republican primaries for both Maine and Colorado will be held on March 5, known as Super Tuesday. Anticipating an appeal of her decision, Bellows expects Maine’s Superior Court to rule before or by January 17th.

In conclusion, Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows has disqualified Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot based on her interpretation of the U.S. Constitution and Maine’s election law. This decision has sparked controversy, with Trump’s campaign vowing to fight the ruling in court. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for other challenges to Trump’s eligibility across the country.