Donald Trump Files Appeal to Challenge Maine Secretary of State’s Ruling on Presidential Primary Ballot Eligibility

Former President Donald Trump has filed an appeal in Maine Superior Court to challenge the state’s Secretary of State’s ruling that he is ineligible to appear on the Republican presidential primary ballot.

Trump’s attorneys argued in their appeal that the Secretary of State’s ruling was “the product of a process infected by bias and pervasive lack of due process; is arbitrary, capricious, and characterized by abuse of discretion.” Trump also said he was denied due process because the Secretary of State, Shenna Bellows, is a Democrat and should have recused herself from considering the challenges to his eligibility for office.

Bellows had ruled last week that Trump is constitutionally barred from appearing on the state’s primary ballot under Section Three of the 14th Amendment, citing his efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

In response to Trump’s appeal, Bellows has halted the effect of her ruling to allow Trump to seek the state superior court’s review. The court is expected to hear the case in the coming weeks.

The outcome of this case could have a major impact on the Republican presidential primary in Maine. It remains to be seen whether Trump will be allowed to appear on the ballot or if his appeal will be denied.