Key Findings

1. A Washington state bill appears designed to keep Donald Trump’s name from appearing on the presidential ballot. 
2. HB 2150 would disqualify anyone who has “engaged in insurrection or rebellion against” the United States.
3. The bill would also bar anyone “who has been..charged with and not yet acquitted of a federal crime” while in public office.
4. The only person who fits the description in the 2024 cycle is the likely presidential candidate for one major political party.
5. The bill targeting their opponents was introduced by members of the other party, one purportedly devoted to “Defending Democracy!”
6. The bill is in committee.  Since it would limit voter choices in a critical election year, lawmakers should give it careful and detailed consideration.

Introduction

A bill introduced in Washington by state Representative Kristine Reeves (D – 30th District) would likely keep Donald Trump’s name from appearing on the presidential ballot in November.  The bill is HB 2150, introduced on January 4th to create “processes regarding the disqualification of candidates who are ineligible for office.” The cosponsors are Democratic members Rep. Julia Reeve (D – 36th District) and Rep. Steve Tharinger (D – 24th District).  No Republican members are supporting the bill.

The bill would require “the filing officer” – county clerks and the Secretary of State – in each jurisdiction to “...develop a standard oath for applicants to attest that they meet all eligibility requirements for office.”

READ THE FULL LEGISLATIVE MEMO HERE