Amid the fallout from a lawsuit resulting in the exclusion of former President Trump from the Colorado ballot, Secretary of State Jena Griswold has disclosed a wave of death threats, as reported by The Hill on Saturday, December 30, 2023.
The unsettling events transpired within three weeks of the legal action, with Griswold confirming the reception of 64 death threats. In a resolute statement on X Saturday, shared on the platform formerly known as Twitter, she underscored her unwavering dedication to democracy and peace, proclaiming, “I will not be intimidated. Democracy and peace will triumph over tyranny and violence.”
Responding to the threats, Griswold recounted her harrowing experience, shedding light on the challenges faced by public officials navigating decisions that ignite political controversies.
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The genesis of the threats can be traced back to the lawsuit filed in Colorado, ultimately resulting in Trump’s removal from the ballot. Griswold clarified that she did not initiate the lawsuit, attributing it to the watchdog organization Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW).
This distinction is pivotal, as Griswold aimed to convey that the legal action stemmed from collective efforts rather than solely her decision.
In a HuffPost article from the prior week, Griswold voiced her apprehensions about potential violence associated with Trump. She detailed her concerns and the threatening atmosphere that emerged post-legal proceedings.
Despite enduring a significant personal toll, Griswold remained steadfast in her commitment to upholding democratic principles.
During an interview, Griswold praised her counterpart in Maine, Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, for independently removing Trump from the ballot in Maine under the 14th Amendment.
Griswold commended Bellows as brave and courageous, acknowledging the weight of the decision she had to make. Bellows, who faced a similar backlash for her historic decision, disclosed receiving threats following her move to exclude Trump from the state’s ballot.
In justifying her decision, Bellows pointed to Trump’s prolonged use of a false narrative of election fraud, culminating in the events of January 6, 2021, when he directed supporters to the Capitol.
Despite the threats, Bellows expressed gratitude for the support from law enforcement and those prioritizing her safety. She stressed the paramount importance of safety for herself and those working alongside her.
The incidents involving death threats against Griswold and Bellows underscore heightened tensions and potential risks faced by officials making decisions impacting high-profile political figures. As these threats unfold, concerns not only arise about the safety of individuals in public service but also spotlight the broader challenges associated with navigating the volatile terrain of contemporary politics.
