Colorado’s House Republicans are gearing up for a symbolic impeachment attempt against Secretary of State Jena Griswold following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to keep former President Donald Trump on the state’s primary ballot.
This move, largely seen as symbolic, comes after threats of a recall campaign against Griswold by state GOP leaders, including U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert.
The impeachment bid accuses Griswold of lacking “professionalism and integrity” for supporting Trump’s removal from the ballot and using her position for partisan political purposes. However, with Democrats holding a significant majority in the House, the impeachment is unlikely to succeed.
Griswold’s involvement in the case stemmed from her role in elections, as she was a defendant in the initial lawsuit. While criticizing Trump, she maintained a neutral stance during the legal proceedings.
The Colorado Supreme Court ruled in December that Trump should be removed from the Republican presidential primary ballot due to his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Griswold later urged the U.S. Supreme Court to uphold that decision.
Republicans’ desire to impeach Griswold also stems from her previous criticisms of Trump and the party. They argue that her language and behavior undermine public trust in Colorado elections.
However, Griswold has defended her actions, accusing Republicans of launching baseless proceedings and focusing on “conspiracies and political games.”
The impeachment attempt is seen as part of a broader effort by some Republicans to challenge the outcome of the 2020 election and target officials who they believe have opposed Trump.
While the impeachment is unlikely to succeed, it reflects the deep partisan divide over election integrity and the role of state officials in overseeing elections.