On Friday, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. will remain on the state’s ballot for the upcoming election. Kennedy had filed a lawsuit against the Wisconsin Elections Commission earlier in the month, arguing that independent candidates face unfair treatment regarding ballot access deadlines. Despite his efforts to be removed from the ballot, his request was denied. The court emphasized that they were not making legal determinations and only ruled based on the inadequate briefing provided. Kennedy’s legal team failed to prove their case effectively, which led to the court’s decision to keep his name on the ballot.
The court’s ruling came after a petition from the Wisconsin Elections Commission to bypass the appeals court and take the case directly to the state Supreme Court, which was accepted by the liberal-majority court. However, some justices dissented from the decision. The case raised concerns about the different deadlines for party-affiliated and independent candidates, with Kennedy’s argument centered on the unequal treatment in terms of ballot access rules. Despite the controversy, Kennedy will remain on the ballot as per Wisconsin law, which states that once a candidate files for nomination, they cannot withdraw unless in case of death.
The Republican Party has expressed concerns that Kennedy’s presence on the ballot could draw votes away from former President Donald Trump in battleground states. In Wisconsin, Kennedy received more support from Republicans than Democrats. The court’s decision to keep Kennedy on the ballot, despite his attempts to withdraw, has raised questions about voter rights and the impact on the electoral process. Ultimately, the ruling will allow for Kennedy to be listed as a candidate in the upcoming election alongside other presidential contenders.
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