Authorities in Colorado are taking action amid concerns of potential threats against state Supreme Court justices following a recent ruling barring former President Donald Trump from the state’s presidential primary ballot.
Denver Police Initiated Enquiry
Denver police have initiated an investigation into these threats, with an increased police presence around the homes of the justices involved in the decision. This comes as political strategists speculate about potential backlash from Trump supporters, while online forums have seen the emergence of violent rhetoric aimed at the justices.
Court Decision Spurs Investigation
The Colorado Supreme Court’s decision on December 19, in a 4-3 ruling, determined that Trump should be disqualified from the state’s presidential primary ballot. The basis for this decision was a little-known clause within the U.S. Constitution’s 14th Amendment, which deals with insurrection.
Read More: Legal Woes Mount for Trump’s Co-Defendant As Attorney Quits Over Unpaid Fees
Response to Apparent Threat
Credit: DepositPhotos
Two nights after the court’s ruling, Denver police responded to an incident at the home of one of the justices following a call for service that authorities later labeled as a possible “hoax report.” Investigations into this incident are ongoing, adding to concerns about threats directed at the justices.
Potential for Political Backlash
Republican strategists have raised concerns that the Colorado ballot ruling, likely to be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, could further polarize political conservatives. Some fear it may reinforce the narrative that Trump is a victim of a partisan legal process.
Online Threats Emerge
Media outlets have reported on the appearance of violent rhetoric on right-wing online forums from Trump supporters directed at the four Colorado justices who ruled against the former president. These posts have included calls for the public exposure of the justices’ personal information and disturbing messages.
Also Read: Turkey and Hungary Reevaluate Ties with Russia Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
Investigation Underway
The Denver Police Department is actively investigating incidents related to these threats against Colorado Supreme Court justices. They are working in collaboration with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to thoroughly probe any reports of harassment or threats.
FBI Involvement
The FBI has also become involved in the matter, acknowledging the situation and stating that they are working with local law enforcement. They have made it clear that they will vigorously investigate any threats or acts of violence associated with extremist views, regardless of the motivation behind them.
Details Remain Confidential
Credit: DepositPhotos
Both the police and the FBI have refrained from providing specific details about the nature or scope of the threats being investigated. Similarly, the Colorado state judicial branch has chosen not to comment on the issue at this time.
Read More: Biden Vetoes Resolution to Repeal ‘Woke’ Lending Rule
Historic Decision
Trump’s disqualification from the White House ballot is historic, as he became the first candidate in U.S. history to be deemed ineligible under a provision of the 14th Amendment that prohibits officials who engage in “insurrection or rebellion” against the U.S. government from holding elected office.
Rationale for Decision
The Colorado Supreme Court’s ruling was based on Trump’s alleged role in inciting the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mob of his supporters. This attack aimed to prevent Congress from certifying Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential race.
Delayed Implementation
While the court’s decision pertains specifically to Colorado’s March 5 Republican primary, the justices have opted to delay its effect until at least January 4, 2024, to allow for the possibility of an appeal.
Read Next: Nikki Haley Surges in her Bid for 2024 Presidential Race
More from The Stock Dork – Biden Administration Faces Criticism Over Exemptions in EV Tax Credit Rule
More from The Stock Dork – Court Limits Biden Administration’s Changes to Family Planning Program, Allowing Funding for Abortion Referrals