14th Amendment invoked in lawsuit aiming to disqualify Scott Perry from Pennsylvania ballot

Lawsuit Filed to Remove Scott Perry from 2024 Ballot

Lawsuit Calls for Removal of Scott Perry from 2024 Ballot

A lawsuit has been filed in Pennsylvania’s Commonwealth Court seeking the removal of Republican U.S. House Representative Scott Perry from the 2024 ballot. The lawsuit alleges that Perry’s involvement in the January 6 attack on the Capitol, along with his promotion of conspiracy theories regarding the 2020 election, violates the 14th Amendment’s insurrection clause. The plaintiff, Gene Stilp, a Harrisburg-area activist and former congressional candidate, is urging Pennsylvania’s Secretary of State Al Schmidt to take immediate action.

The 14th Amendment’s Insurrection Clause

The 14th Amendment to the United States Constitution, Section Three, states that individuals who have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or have provided aid or comfort to its enemies, are prohibited from holding public office. The lawsuit argues that Perry’s actions leading up to and following the January 6 attack, including his support for efforts to overturn the 2020 election, fall within the scope of this clause.

Allegations Against Scott Perry

The lawsuit alleges that Perry played a significant role in promoting conspiracy theories surrounding the 2020 election and actively worked to disrupt the transfer of presidential administration from Trump to Biden during the January 6 Congressional presidential election certification process. The FBI’s seizure of Perry’s cellphone records is cited as evidence supporting these claims.

Request for Criminal Referral

In addition to calling for Perry’s removal from the 2024 ballot, the lawsuit also requests that any possible criminal activity uncovered during the case be referred to the Pennsylvania Attorney General for prosecution. The plaintiff seeks further investigation into Scott Perry’s actions and potential legal consequences.

Scott Perry’s Response

Perry, who has not been charged with any crimes related to the January 6 attack or the efforts to overturn the election, has referred to the House’s January 6 Committee as an “illegitimate body.” He has not yet issued a statement regarding the lawsuit or the allegations made against him.

Conclusion

As the lawsuit to remove Scott Perry from the 2024 ballot progresses, it raises questions about the implications of the 14th Amendment’s insurrection clause. The outcome of this case could have significant consequences for Perry’s political career and serve as a precedent for future challenges based on constitutional grounds.

Read More of this Story at www.abc27.com – 2024-01-02 18:42:23