Maine has barred Donald Trump from its 2023 presidential primary ballot, marking the second state to do so due to his alleged role in the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, a Democrat, concluded that Trump, a leading contender for the Republican presidential nomination, incited an insurrection by spreading false claims about voter fraud and urging supporters to march on the Capitol.
Bellows, in her 34-page ruling, emphasized that the US Constitution cannot tolerate an assault on the foundations of the government. The decision is subject to appeal in a state Superior Court, with Bellows suspending her ruling until the court addresses the matter.
Donald Trump’s campaign expressed swift opposition, vowing to file an objection to what they deemed an “atrocious” decision. Trump’s legal team maintains that he did not engage in insurrection, arguing that his remarks on the day of the 2021 riot were protected by the right to free speech.
This decision followed a stance by a group of former Maine lawmakers who cited a constitutional provision barring individuals from holding office if they partake in “insurrection or rebellion” after swearing an oath to the United States. The former lawmakers praised Bellows for standing on the side of democracy and the constitution in disqualifying Trump from Maine’s ballot.