Michigan Supreme Court clears path for Donald Trump on state’s primary ballot

On Wednesday, the Michigan Supreme Court cleared the path for Donald J. Trump to be included on the state’s primary ballot, marking a triumph for the former president in a crucial battleground state.

The highest court in the state upheld a previous decision by the appeals court, affirming that Trump’s name could be on the ballot despite lingering concerns about his eligibility for elected office due to his efforts to challenge the results of the 2020 election.

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This decision in Michigan came on the heels of a significant ruling by the Colorado Supreme Court on December 19. In a tight 4-3 verdict, the court decided that Trump should be excluded from the state’s 2024 Republican primary ballot, citing his involvement in the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by a pro-Trump mob.

Trump expressed his approval of the Michigan court’s decision through a statement posted on his social media platform, Truth Social. The primary in Michigan is scheduled for February 27.

The broader question regarding Trump’s eligibility is anticipated to be addressed by the U.S. Supreme Court. Challenges to Trump’s eligibility have been raised in over 30 states, but many of them have already been dismissed.

Also Read: Colorado GOP signals withdrawal from ballot if Supreme Court ruling against Donald Trump stands

The arguments presented by challengers revolve around Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, which disqualifies individuals from holding federal office if they have “engaged in insurrection or rebellion” against the Constitution after having taken an oath to support it.