Since Donald Trump’s loss in the 2020 election, he hasn’t seemed to have left the news. From election frauds to fraudulent papers, Trump has continued to make waves in the media, becoming a key issue between parties. He has spent his time either defaming the democratic party, specifically Biden, or spending his time claiming that Biden isn’t even the true victor of the election. However, as the United States begins to prepare for the 2024 elections, Trump’s ability to even stand on the ballet has become debated. Surprisingly, instead of his many felony charges, it is actually Amendment 14 that deters him from running.  The Amendment clearly states that  

“No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any state legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any state, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof.” 

With Maine first setting the precedent and other states soon following, Amendment 14 of the U.S. Constitution has become a sore topic for Americans. However,  I feel  Trump’s ability to be on the ballot should be sought out in court. As a student journalist myself, I have prided myself in Americans’ First Amendment rights. However, I have always understood that with great power comes great responsibility. The carelessness that Trump exhibits has led to the spread of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and pain. 

As president one must understand the power of their words. Though his ability to bring people together may be considered admirable, his utter negligence and hatred have become a point of concern for many voters. U.S. voters must start to face the fact that Trump is taking advantage of the American rural population. With catchy slogans, and half the story, his ability to create a sea of red is genuinely concerning, and his actions on January 11 prove that standing on the ballot is the last thing this man should ever do.