Illinois Judge Blocks Donald Trump from 2024 Presidential Ballot

A recent ruling by a judge in Illinois has barred former President Donald Trump from appearing on the state’s 2024 Republican presidential primary ballot. The decision, made by Cook County Circuit Judge Tracie Porter, cited Trump’s alleged involvement in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, as grounds for disqualification.

Judge Porter overturned a previous dismissal by the Illinois State Board of Elections of a challenge against Trump‘s candidacy, invoking the disqualification clause of the 14th Amendment. Court documents obtained by Fox News revealed that Porter directed the board to remove Trump‘s name from the ballot or invalidate any votes cast for him due to his violation of the constitutional provision.

This ruling contradicted the decision made by the Illinois Board of Elections just a month earlier, which had upheld Trump‘s candidacy despite allegations of insurrection from a group of Illinois voters.

However, the implementation of Porter’s decision has been temporarily halted until Friday, allowing Trump’s legal team an opportunity to appeal to either the Illinois Appellate Court, First District, or the Illinois Supreme Court.

According to Reuters, a spokesperson for Trump‘s campaign criticized the ruling, labeling it as “unconstitutional” and confirming their intention to appeal promptly.