Statement from DFL Chairman Ken Martin on Minnesota Supreme Court Ruling
We are disappointed with the result today but respect the Supreme Court’s decision. We believe that we are on strong legal ground and that if this case were heard we would prevail upon the merits, but certainly understand the tight timeline issues addressed by the Court.
This lawsuit was about the rule of law. Although the Republican Party and its standard bearer, Donald Trump, frequently talk about the rule of law, they consistently apply a double standard – making clear that everyone else should follow the rules but not them.
Despite very clear statutory guidance and frequent communication from the Minnesota Secretary of State’s office, the Republicans failed to properly follow the law which required them to elect both electors and alternate electors. It should not have been a surprise to either Donald Trump’s campaign nor the Minnesota Republican Party the steps they needed to take to ensure ballot access. If they can't competently follow the rules and steps to properly get on the ballot, how does anyone expect them to run the country.
The remedy under the law is not ideal. However, it was the only relief we could seek to hold the Republican Party and Donald Trump accountable for their failure to follow the clear requirements for accessing the ballot. The Minnesota DFL, our elected officials, and candidates have always stood for expanding access to the ballot box and we will continue to do so.
To emphasize, this lawsuit was not so much about the Presidential contest or the other races in Minnesota. This lawsuit was about holding candidates accountable to follow the laws. Whether it is residency requirements or getting a candidate’s name on the ballot, laws matter.