In a significant development, a Maine judge has instructed Secretary of State Shenna Bellows to hold off on implementing her decision to exclude former President Trump from the state’s Republican primary ballot. The directive came on Wednesday, as Justice Michaela Murphy of Maine Superior Court emphasized the need to await a U.S. Supreme Court verdict before proceeding.
Rapid Decision-Making Without Guidance
Justice Michaela Murphy of Maine Superior Court emphasized in her ruling that Bellows, under Maine law, had to make a quick decision without the guidance of the Supreme Court. The court has agreed to review, at Trump’s request, a prior ruling by a Colorado court to bar him from the ballot, with arguments scheduled for February 8.
Incitement to Insurrection and Questioned Eligibility
On December 28, Bellows cited the Colorado court’s rationale, deeming Trump unfit for presidency and ineligible for the Maine ballot. She cited his incitement to insurrection after the 2020 election.
Maine’s Peculiar Decision-Making Process
Justice Murphy stated that Bellows “faced an uncertain legal landscape” and deserves the opportunity to adjust her decision based on the Supreme Court’s verdict. Maine’s unique process allows the Secretary of State to decide on ballot eligibility before court intervention.
Public Opinion Divide
A University of New Hampshire poll reveals a significant divide among Maine residents: 85% of Democrats support Bellows’ decision, while 95% of Republicans oppose it. Independent voters are split, with 47% in favor and 49% against.
Impact on Primaries and Trump’s Appeal
The Supreme Court’s final decision could impact the Republican primaries in Maine and Colorado, set for March 5. Trump’s attorneys, alleging bias and a lack of “legal authority,” have appealed Bellows’ decision.
Legal battles over Trump’s eligibility add uncertainty to the primary, challenging the democratic process, said Barron’s News.
Postponement for Stability and Predictability
Justice Murphy delays Trump’s eligibility verdict, awaiting Supreme Court’s Colorado case ruling for greater predictability in weeks before primary elections.
The objective is to “reduce any potential destabilizing impact” and ensure “enhanced predictability” in the weeks preceding the primary elections. Bellows is directed to revise her decision within 30 days of the Supreme Court’s ruling, with options to modify, withdraw, or confirm it. This pertains to her earlier decision excluding Trump from the ballot.
According to WSJ Print Subscription, Maine Judge wisely delays Trump’s eligibility verdict for stability, awaiting Supreme Court’s Colorado case ruling.