Washington judge leaves door open to challenge Trump's name on 2024 ballot

A judge in Washington state ruled that former President Donald Trump would appear on the state's presidential primary ballot — but left open the possibility that he could be removed in the general election.

In a ruling on Thursday, Thurston County Superior Court Judge Mary Sue Wilson rejected arguments presented by eight Kitsap County residents, who sued to remove Trump from the ballot based on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The section prohibits anyone who has participated in an insurrection from holding federal office.

"The court determines that the secretary of state acted consistent with his duties," Wilson said, according to The Seattle Times. "An order directing the secretary of state to take different action, an order from this court, is simply not supported by the statutes and not supported by the affidavit of the electors."

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The judge pointed to Washington law, which requires ballot challenges to be filed within two days of the candidate list finalization. A judge is required to make a decision on the challenge within five days of it being filed.

Washington's process differs from Colorado, where the state supreme court ruled, following a trial, that Trump should be removed from the ballot. The U.S. Supreme Court has decided to hear an appeal in the Colorado case.

Wilson said that other courts in Washington could determine if Trump will remain on the general election ballot "when it is right."