The Colorado Supreme Court has barred Donald Trump from running for president in the state's primary election scheduled for March 5 next year. The ruling, based on a 4-3 vote, invokes Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, marking the first-ever use of this provision to disqualify a presidential candidate. The court cited Trump's alleged involvement in the US Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, as an act of insurrection.

Although the decision is specific to Colorado, Trump's campaign has vowed to appeal to the US Supreme Court. The ruling, if upheld, could complicate Trump's candidacy in the general election in Colorado next November. Notably, the decision takes effect on January 4, 2024, the eve of the state's deadline to print presidential primary ballots.

The Colorado Supreme Court's decision contradicts an earlier ruling by a lower court judge who argued that the insurrection ban in the 14th Amendment did not apply to presidents. The court's majority opinion emphasized their duty to apply the law impartially, acknowledging the gravity of the questions before them.

Trump's spokesperson criticized the decision as "completely flawed," alleging a partisan motive behind the justices' appointments by Democratic governors. The campaign intends to swiftly appeal to the US Supreme Court, where conservatives hold a majority.

Supporters of the ruling argue that it upholds the democratic process and reinforces the seriousness of the Capitol riot as an insurrection attempt. Meanwhile, opponents, including Republican lawmakers, denounce the decision as a partisan attack, contending that it denies citizens the right to support their preferred candidate.

The Colorado Republican Party threatened to withdraw from the state's primary process if the ruling stands. Trump's primary rivals also condemned the decision, with one candidate pledging to withdraw if Trump's candidacy isn't reinstated.

This development comes amid Trump facing multiple legal challenges, including federal and state cases in Georgia related to alleged election subversion efforts. The Colorado ruling adds another layer of complexity to Trump's political future, with potential implications in other states if similar legal actions are pursued.