In a continuation of the legal battles surrounding former President Donald Trump, oral arguments began on Thursday in Minnesota to determine whether the case challenging his eligibility to appear on the state's ballot should proceed under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. This comes after a similar hearing took place in Colorado earlier this week. The case centers around whether Trump's actions and remarks on January 6, 2021, during the attack on the U.S. Capitol disqualify him from holding office under the 14th Amendment. Section 3 states that individuals who engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the Constitution are ineligible for future office.

The justices in Minnesota have two possible paths they can take. They can dismiss the lawsuit and allow Trump to be on the ballots, in which case the petitioners would likely appeal the decision. Alternatively, they can decide to move forward with the case and appoint a special master to oversee further evidence and witness testimonies.

The ongoing legal battles raise questions about the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and how it should be enforced. Experts view these challenges as a legal long shot because the ban on holding office has only been applied twice since 1919. Nevertheless, the outcome of these cases could have significant implications for Trump's political future.