Following the Colorado Supreme Court’s decision to disqualify Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s 2024 ballots, California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis is urging California’s Secretary of State Shirley Weber to “explore every legal option” for a similar move. Citing the ruling that deems Trump ineligible due to his role in inciting the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection, Kounalakis emphasizes the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting democratic foundations.
In a letter to Secretary of State Weber, Kounalakis points to the Colorado decision as a potential basis for California to take similar action. She underscores the constitutional requirement that presidential candidates be free from insurrectionist activities, stating, “The constitution is clear: you must be 35 years old and not be an insurrectionist.” The letter reflects the Lt. Gov.’s view that the Colorado decision sets a precedent that could have implications for other states.
The legal battles surrounding Trump’s eligibility for the 2024 ballot are unfolding in various states, with disqualification lawsuits pending in 13 states, including Texas, Nevada, and Wisconsin. Kounalakis’s call for legal exploration aligns with ongoing efforts to hold Trump accountable for his alleged role in the Capitol insurrection and to ensure adherence to constitutional standards for presidential candidates.
As states navigate these unprecedented legal challenges, the outcome of these lawsuits will have significant implications for the eligibility of candidates with alleged ties to insurrectionist activities.
