Maine’s Secretary of State, Shenna Bellows, reversed her decision to ban former President Donald Trump from appearing on state ballots following a Supreme Court ruling that overturned similar bans in Colorado.
The court’s rejection of Colorado’s decision prompted Bellows to withdraw her December ruling, which had barred Trump from Maine’s ballots. The ruling cited the lack of state authority to enforce the 14th Amendment’s “insurrection” clause concerning federal offices.
Bellows, a Democrat, acknowledged the Supreme Court‘s authority and withdrew her initial determination, ensuring that votes cast for Trump in Maine’s upcoming March 5 presidential primary would be counted. Maine, like Colorado, is among the states voting during the GOP’s Super Tuesday primaries and caucuses.
The Maine Republican Party welcomed the decision, accusing Bellows of attempting a bureaucratic coup to benefit President Joe Biden. Democrats commended Bellows’ efforts but acknowledged the Supreme Court’s final say in the matter, emphasizing their focus on engaging with voters and defeating Trump at the ballot box.
Despite being banned from ballots in multiple states, Trump’s eligibility remained pending until the Supreme Court’s ruling. Bellows’ initial decision in December made her the first state official to remove a presidential candidate under the 14th Amendment, citing concerns over Trump’s involvement in the January 6 insurrection.
The Supreme Court’s ruling affirmed that states lack the constitutional authority to enforce the 14th Amendment concerning federal offices, including the presidency.
While all justices agreed on Trump’s ballot eligibility, there was dissent regarding the extent of congressional action required to disqualify a candidate under the amendment.
The decision follows the court’s recent agreement to consider a case concerning Trump’s presidential immunity from prosecution, indicating continued legal scrutiny over his actions and eligibility.
