Maine Secretary of State Bars Trump from Primary Ballot

Maine Secretary of State Upholds Disqualification of Trump

Shenna Bellows, Maine's Secretary of State, has defended her decision to disqualify Donald Trump from the state's presidential primary ballot. In doing so, Bellows states that she followed Maine's election law and upheld the U.S. Constitution. This action makes Maine the second state to bar Trump from the ballot under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. The Trump campaign has announced plans to appeal the decision. It is worth noting that in Maine, the secretary of state is responsible for determining a candidate's qualification, whereas in other states, this would typically be handled by a court.

CBS News conducted an interview with Bellows after her decision was released. The focus of the interview was on her ruling and the process, with unanswered questions regarding potential safety risks. Following the Colorado Supreme Court's ruling to disqualify Trump, the justices involved in the decision reportedly faced threats. Bellows, a Democrat who assumed office in 2021, stated that her decision was based on the evidence, particularly highlighting Trump's involvement in the events of January 6 as the basis for his disqualification.

Maine's Unique Process for Challenging Candidate Qualifications

Under Maine law, voters have the ability to petition the secretary of state with challenges to a candidate's qualifications for office. A public hearing is then held to allow the challengers to present their case. Secretary of State Bellows emphasizes that Maine takes pride in its voting rights and is the first state in the nation for voter participation. Unlike other states, Maine's election law requires the secretary of state to issue a decision promptly, without waiting for the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene.

It is important to note that an appeal of the Colorado Supreme Court's decision regarding Trump's disqualification is awaiting review by the U.S. Supreme Court. The outcome of this review could have broader implications for challenges to Trump's eligibility in other states. While Bellows acknowledges that her decision may soon be rendered ineffective, she stands by her responsibility to take action.

President Trump's Arguments Rejected by Bellows

In her ruling, Bellows addresses President Trump's arguments against his disqualification. Trump asserts that his speech surrounding the 2020 election and January 6 events is protected by the First Amendment, making disqualification from the presidency unconstitutional. However, Bellows dismisses this argument, stating that the First Amendment does not protect incitement of an insurrection.

Trump also argues that the 14th Amendment does not apply to the presidency, presenting an early draft of Section 3 as evidence. Bellows finds that the early draft confirms that the presidency was intended to be covered by Section 3 and that it was not excluded intentionally. In her decision, Bellows emphasizes that it is unlikely that the drafters would exempt the highest office in the government from an amendment designed to prevent powerful confederates.

Potential Impeachment Attempt and Future Proceedings

There are reports suggesting that Bellows may face an impeachment attempt in Maine's state legislature. While at least one Republican lawmaker has expressed their intention to pursue impeachment, the effort faces challenges due to the Democratic-controlled legislature. Representatives who oppose Bellows' ruling consider it a display of hyper-partisanship and an overreach of her authority. The impeachment process, however, is yet to be determined.

Bellows refrains from commenting on the impeachment effort and maintains her commitment to follow Maine law, the Constitution, and the directions of the courts. The Republican primaries in Maine and Colorado are scheduled for March 5, with Maine needing to have military and overseas voter ballots ready by January 19. Bellows anticipates that Maine's Superior Court will rule on any appeal by January 17, allowing for timely proceedings.

The disqualification of a presidential candidate by a secretary of state under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment is an unprecedented event. Bellows and her ruling acknowledge this historical significance and the impact on the upcoming primaries.