Illinois Election Board Upholds Trump’s Eligibility for 14th Amendment Challenge, Eyes Turn to Pending Supreme Court Hearing
In a recent session on Tuesday, the Illinois State Board of Elections unanimously voted to keep Donald Trump’s name on the state’s presidential primary ballot, despite active objections under the 14th Amendment’s Section 3, which addresses participation in insurrection against the United States or giving aid to its enemies.
The board dismissed the lawsuit brought by Illinois voters, contending that challenges to Trump’s eligibility are beyond the board’s authority. While Trump critics pointed to his post-election actions and the Capitol riots, the board determined that the evidence did not support the insurrection clause.
Trump’s attorney, Adam Merrill, argued that the interpretations of “insurrection” were shaky and that the case showed a “lack of evidence” and “lack of jurisdiction.” Yet, the decision is likely to stir further debate around the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and the eligibility of past presidents for future political office.
The ruling in Illinois comes ahead of a significant parallel case in Colorado, where Trump is also facing a challenge to his position on the presidential ballot. With the U.S. Supreme Court scheduled to address Colorado’s dispute next week, the national and state-level implications of these challenges will become increasingly clear.
Many other states have grappled with similar 14th Amendment challenges to Trump’s eligibility, leaving a patchwork of legal decisions that have tilted in favor and against the former president. While Colorado and Maine have imposed restrictions, the Illinois decision reveals a continued leeway for Trump’s involvement in the primaries.