The Michigan Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that Donald Trump would remain on the State’s ballot scoring a major victory for the former president and current GOP leader in the bid for the party’s nomination.
According to the Detroit Free Press, Michigan’s highest court ruled in line with a lower court’s decision stating that neither the courts nor Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson could prevent Trump from appearing on the ballot in Michigan’s upcoming GOP primary in February.
Michigan’s ruling comes after a legal precedent that was set in Colorado where Trump is being kept off the ballot (pending an appeal) due to his conduct related to the January 6 insurrection and the 14th Amendment. The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits individuals who have sworn to uphold the Constitution from holding public office if they have participated in an insurrection or rebellion against the United States. There is a debate going on in several court cases regarding whether it is the responsibility of the state or only Congress to disqualify a candidate on such grounds.
Ron Fein, who serves as the legal director of Free Speech For People, filed a lawsuit in Michigan and expressed disappointment in the recent court decision. However, he also pointed out that the ruling is only applicable within the state of Michigan.
Another attorney representing the challengers, Mark Brewer, stated that their efforts to defend the Constitution will not end with this decision.
“The court’s decision is disappointing, but we will continue to fight for this critical constitutional provision which is designed to protect our republic,” Brewer said in a statement.
Michigan could’ve been a deathblow for Trump
If Trump ended up being held off the ballot in Michigan it certainly could’ve been a deathblow for his chances at regaining the Presidency. Michigan is widely seen as much more of a battleground state, especially in this upcoming election, and its 16 electoral votes could certainly play a huge factor in the vote tally next November.
Still, if states continue to attempt to keep Trump off the ballot, it could be a benefit to his GOP challengers and a potential argument against Trump’s electability. However, that would force GOP candidates to grow a backbone and challenge Trump which is something you shouldn’t hold your breath on.
