US Supreme Court justices on Thursday heard oral arguments concerning Donald Trump's eligibility to stand in presidential elections. The case stems from a December ruling by Colorado's top court, which disqualified the former president from the state's ballot over his role in the 2021 Capitol riot.
The Colorado court cited a constitutional provision that bars individuals who engaged in insurrection or rebellion after taking an oath to support the Constitution from holding public office. Trump's legal team has disputed this interpretation, arguing that the provision does not apply to the presidency and that the state lacks authority to enforce it.
During the hearing, justices from both conservative and liberal wings raised questions about the scope of the amendment and the potential implications for other states if the Colorado ruling were upheld. A decision in favour of the disqualification could lead to similar challenges across the country.
The Supreme Court has not yet issued a ruling. Its decision will determine whether Trump's name appears on the Colorado primary ballot and could affect ballot access in other states where legal challenges are pending.
Observers note that the court is moving unusually quickly in this matter, reflecting the urgency of the upcoming election cycle. A ruling is expected in the coming weeks, before the Colorado primary filing deadline.
