Attorney General Jason Miyares of Virginia has joined a coalition of 27 states in filing an amicus brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to hear an appeal regarding the ballot eligibility of former President Donald Trump in the Colorado Presidential Primary Elections. The Colorado Supreme Court's decision to exclude Trump from the primary ballot is being challenged on the grounds that it violates the Fourteenth Amendment and infringes on Congress's exclusive power to determine a candidate's eligibility for office.
In the amicus brief, the coalition argues that the Constitution's structure, relevant history, and previous Supreme Court rulings support the idea that Congress should have the authority to decide whether a person is qualified to hold office. They believe that state courts should not be able to usurp this power. The coalition states, "The Court should grant the Petition to prevent state courts from usurping Congress’s exclusive power."
Attorney General Miyares strongly condemns the Colorado Supreme Court's decision, calling it a "clear abuse of power" and comparing it to actions that one would expect to see in Cuba rather than in America. He emphasizes the importance of allowing voters to have the power to choose their president, stating, "Removing your political opponent from the ballot is not 'democracy'."
Virginia, along with 26 other states including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Texas, and Wyoming, has joined the amicus brief led by West Virginia and Indiana. The states argue that the Colorado Supreme Court's decision sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the democratic process.
The coalition's amicus brief can be accessed [HERE](insert link).
The case now awaits the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on whether or not to hear the appeal. If the Court agrees to take up the case, it could have significant implications for future elections and the power of state courts to determine ballot eligibility.
This news comes amidst a highly contentious political climate, with ongoing debates about voting rights and the integrity of elections. As the nation's highest court, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on this matter will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences.
The Office of the Attorney General in Virginia can be contacted at 804-786-2071 for any inquiries related to this case.
To find out more, go to this link: https://www.oag.state.va.us/media-center/news-releases/2664-january-5-2024-attorney-general-miyares-joins-brief-asking-us-supreme-court-to-hear-trump-ballot-eligibility-case