A Colorado judge has denied a motion to dismiss a lawsuit seeking to block former President Donald Trump from the state’s presidential ballot. Citing the 14th Amendment, the suit alleges Trump’s involvement in the January 6 Capitol breach disqualifies him from office. Trump’s lawyers argued his actions do not meet the definition of inciting insurrection.
Judge Sarah B. Wallace allowed the case to proceed, highlighting the need to address the complex legal questions it raises, particularly the interplay between the 1st and 14th Amendments. She emphasized her decision was not a judgment on the merits but a recognition of the case’s unique legal context.
The plaintiffs argue Trump’s ties to far-right extremists contributed to the January 6 violence, fitting the insurrection definition under the 14th Amendment. Trump’s defense began presenting its case after the motion’s denial. Similar cases in Minnesota and Michigan may eventually bring the 14th Amendment’s “insurrection clause” before the Supreme Court.