The second day of the 14th Amendment disqualification trial against former President Donald Trump unfolded in Colorado, where a group of voters seeks to prevent his inclusion on the 2024 ballot based on the Constitution’s “insurrectionist ban” enacted after the Civil War.
Key highlights from Day 2 of the trial include:
- Expert Testimony: An expert on right-wing extremism examined Trump’s history of inciting unrest and testified that his speech on January 6, 2021, was unmistakably perceived by his most militant supporters as “a call to violence.” This testimony is crucial to the challengers’ argument that Trump actively participated in the insurrection and is, therefore, ineligible for public office.
- Legal Battles Escalate: Simultaneously, the battle over Trump’s candidacy intensified. While the Colorado trial continued, Trump initiated a lawsuit aimed at halting a similar case in Michigan. Additionally, a significant hearing is scheduled for Thursday in Minnesota, where another challenge to Trump’s candidacy is being heard.
The 14th Amendment stipulates that U.S. officials who swear an oath to uphold the Constitution are disqualified from holding office if they “engaged in insurrection” or aided the nation’s enemies. However, the Constitution does not provide a specific method for enforcing this ban, and it has been invoked only twice since the 19th century. Consequently, many legal experts view these challenges as a legal long shot.