Is Washington State Trying to Kick Trump Off the Ballot? You Won’t Believe What Happens Next!
Washington State is embroiled in a political uproar as officials consider a drastic move against President Trump. Reports suggest that efforts are underway to potentially remove Trump’s name from the ballot come election time. The ramifications of such a decision could shock the nation and alter the course of the upcoming election. Stay tuned as we delve into the details of this unprecedented twist in the realm of election law.
Washington State’s Bold Move Against Trump: Activists Take Action
In an astonishing turn of events, activists in Washington state are attempting to remove former President Donald Trump from the November ballot. They rely on an old law they believe can prevent felons from appearing in federal elections. While their claims seem questionable and their motives transparent, this move might end up having unintended consequences for the Democrats more than Trump.
The Legal Argument: An Obsolete Law in Play
The strategy revolves around Washington state’s RCW 29A.68.020, which grants voters the right to challenge a felon’s appearance on the electoral ballot. According to local attorney David Vogel, his clients are poised to invoke this statute to keep Trump off the ballot.
The law specifies that a candidate convicted of a felony may be barred if their conviction hasn’t been reversed or if their civil rights haven’t been restored. However, Vogel’s plan hinges on a law that was originally intended for state and local elections, rendering its applicability to federal races highly questionable.
Federal Laws vs. State Laws: Who Governs Presidential Elections?
The crucial point to consider is the U.S. Constitution and federal laws primarily govern federal elections. Consequently, no state, including Washington, can impose additional qualifications or restrictions on federal candidates. This is supported by landmark Supreme Court cases like Powell v. McCormack (1969) and U.S. Term Limits, Inc. v. Thornton (1995). Federal law does not bar felons from running for office.
The Untold Story: Could This Actually Harm Democrats?
While activists aim to penalize Trump, their actions could inadvertently backfire on Democrats. If Trump is perceived as a victim of partisan attacks, it might galvanize his supporters and sway undecided voters. The perception of hypocrisy becomes even more pronounced when considering the Democratic Party’s advocacy for felons’ rights, including the right to vote and serve on juries.
The Big Picture: Electoral Ramifications
Even if activists manage to apply this law to federal elections, Trump is likely to appeal any adverse decision. The RCW law specifies that a candidate convicted of a felony can still appear on the ballot if the conviction is under appeal. Given the legal complexities, an appeal from Trump could drag on well past the upcoming election, making it improbable for him to be removed from the ballot.
The Mysterious Clientele: Who’s Behind the Scenes?
David Vogel, the Seattle attorney leading this charge, has yet to reveal who his clients are. He states that his previous clients faced harassment, thus he will only disclose their identities when necessary. This adds another layer of intrigue and speculation, fueling public curiosity and skepticism.
Principles vs. Performance: Where Do Democrats Stand?
The Democrats have found themselves walking a fine line. While they vocally support efforts to keep Trump off the ballot, they also celebrate some felons holding office and advocate for incarcerated individuals’ rights. This contradiction leaves them vulnerable to accusations of hypocrisy and could tarnish their public image.
- State Rep. Tarra Simmons, a former felon, serves in the state legislature.
- Democrats recently attempted to extend voting rights to currently incarcerated felons.
Is Fear Driving These Actions?
The Democratic Party’s efforts to remove Trump might stem from fear. Biden‘s soft support in the polls indicates a vulnerable political landscape. A Cascade PBS/Elway Poll shows Biden with only 42% support in Washington state. Comparing this to Trump’s 34%, the numbers suggest that Democrats could be in for a tough fight.
In conclusion, Washington state’s attempt to remove Trump from the ballot is fraught with complexities, legal challenges, and potential political fallout. While the immediate goal is clear, the long-term ramifications remain to be seen. One thing is for sure: the political drama in Washington state is far from over.
Source: mynorthwest.com