Kitsap County, Washington— On Tuesday, a Kitsap County judge will consider a challenge to eliminate former President Donald Trump from the Washington state’s presidential primary ballot in March.
Eight Kitsap County residents and registered voters have signed an affidavit challenging Trump’s eligibility for the ballot. They argue that his “engagement in an insurrection” on January 6, 2021, violates the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The affidavit requests the removal of Trump’s name from primary and general election ballots.
“Democracy thrives when citizens actively participate and take responsibility,” emphasized Robert Brem, one of the eight voters. “Those who disagree with our stance will have the opportunity to voice their opinions, and ultimately, a judge will render a decision.”
“We, as registered voters in the state of Washington, are invoking our rights under RCW 29A.68.011 of the election provisions to formally request the removal of Donald J. Trump’s name from both the primary and election ballots.”
According to the Washington State Secretary of State’s office, the first hearing is scheduled for Tuesday morning in Kitsap County.
The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits individuals who have participated in an insurrection from holding any elected office unless approved by two-thirds of the U.S. House and Senate.
“I am fully dedicated to providing the residents of Washington with the chance to have their voices heard in the upcoming Presidential primary on March 12. This involves the crucial tasks of printing and dispatching ballots to registered voters well in advance of Election Day,” emphasized Secretary of State Steve Hobbs. “The unique process in our state allows the courts to play a significant role in resolving any queries regarding eligibility.”
The state GOP submitted five names to the March 12 primary ballot, including Trumps, earlier this month, according to the secretary of state’s office.
Brem stated that based on those reasons alone, it would be reasonable to argue that this individual should not be allowed to run for office. However, the final decision ultimately rests with the judge. The judge could choose to proceed with a trial, dismiss the case due to lack of standing, or rule in our favor.
States across the country are facing challenges to Trump’s appearances on presidential ballots.
According to the Associated Press, in December, Colorado’s Supreme Court made a groundbreaking decision by ruling 4-3 that Trump would not be allowed to appear on the state’s Republican primary ballot. This marked the first instance where the 14th Amendment was invoked to prevent a presidential candidate from being included on the ballot.
The U.S. Supreme Court has recently agreed to hear Trump’s appeal in that case, with arguments scheduled for Feb. 8.
