DeepSummary
The podcast episode discusses whether former President Donald Trump should be allowed on the 2024 presidential ballot, given the events of January 6th, 2021 and the 14th Amendment's disqualification for those engaged in insurrection. Maine Secretary of State Shanna Bellows initially ruled to remove Trump from the state's ballot, citing his role in the Capitol attack, but her decision was put on hold pending a Supreme Court case from Colorado.
The episode explores the legal arguments on both sides, with Trump claiming the 14th Amendment doesn't apply to his actions, while others argue his conduct met the criteria for insurrection. Practical concerns are also raised about potential violence from Trump supporters if he's barred from running, as well as consequences if he runs and either wins or loses.
University of Chicago law professor Aziz Huq warns that regardless of the outcome, political violence is a substantial risk given the current polarized climate, and a ruling against Trump could lead to a "bloody unraveling of democratic norms" as state officials may defy the decision.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is weighing whether the 14th Amendment disqualifies Donald Trump from the 2024 presidential ballot due to his role in the January 6th Capitol attack.
- There are legal questions about whether Trump's conduct meets the criteria of 'insurrection' under the 14th Amendment and the process for enforcing such a disqualification.
- State officials have taken opposing stances, with Maine initially ruling to remove Trump from its ballot before being blocked pending the Supreme Court case.
- Regardless of the outcome, there are concerns about risks of political violence from Trump's supporters if he's barred from running or over a potential re-election.
- The case raises questions about the breakdown of democratic norms and institutions meant to ensure peaceful transfers of power.
- The current polarized political climate has increased willingness among some to use or accept political violence.
- Trump and his allies have signaled they may not accept an unfavorable ruling, potentially defying courts and sowing further unrest.
- Legal scholars warn the case could mark the 'bloody unraveling of democratic norms' rather than resolve the crisis around Trump's actions.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “And the United States Constitution does not tolerate an assault on the foundations of our government. And under main election law, I was required to act.“ by Shanna Bellows
- “This is a terrifying, terrifying and disastrous decision that you could see copied by other secretary of states and other states that would throw our nation into absolute pandemonium.“ by Billy Bob Falkingham
- “I will tell you, my house was swatted on Friday night, and I stand by doing my job. But the response, the threats of violence and threatening communications have been unacceptable.“ by Shanna Bellows
- “I have a really hard time seeing how any pathway in which political violence is not a substantial risk.“ by Aziz Huq
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Episode Information
Consider This from NPR
NPR
2/7/24
The first is legal — does the 14th amendment apply him?
The second is practical. What would happen if Trump WERE removed from the ballot?
How might his tens of millions of supporters respond?
At a rally last month, the former President suggested if he doesn't get what he views as "fair" treatment, the country is in big trouble.
This week the Supreme Court will weigh whether Donald Trump is constitutionally ineligible to be president.
We hear from a legal scholar who says it could be the beginning of a, "bloody unraveling of democratic norms."
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