Trial Begins in Colorado to Block Trump from 2024 Ballot Over Alleged Insurrection Role

Lawyers argue over the definition of 'insurrection' and eligibility for future office under the 14th Amendment as former president's role in Jan. 6 Capitol riot is scrutinized in Colorado court.

A group of voters in Colorado are arguing in court that former President Donald Trump should be banned from the 2024 ballot due to his alleged responsibility for the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, labeling it an 'insurrection' under the 14th Amendment.
Trump’s attorneys have disputed the claims, arguing that Trump did not engage in an insurrection and that the case is 'anti-democratic'. They also said voters should be allowed to decide whether Trump runs for another term.
The trial began with testimonies from a U.S. Capitol Police officer, Daniel Hodges, and Rep. Eric Swalwell, who outlined their experiences during the riot, aiming to establish a connection between Trump's words and actions and the violence of the day.
The case largely revolves around the interpretation of the term 'insurrection' in the context of the 14th Amendment, a provision ratified after the Civil War and designed to exclude supporters of the Confederacy from holding office.
Similar lawsuits against Trump, aiming to disqualify him from the 2024 election based on his alleged role in Jan. 6, are awaiting trial in other states such as Michigan and Minnesota.