A Michigan judge has ruled that independent candidate Cornel West must be included on the state’s presidential ballot, a decision that could draw votes away from President Joe Biden in the crucial swing state. “Our children are now the unhealthiest, sickest children in the world,” Kennedy remarked, warning of the growing public health crisis.
Judge James Robert Redford’s ruling requires state officials to qualify West and running mate Melina Abdullah, unless a review of petition signatures disqualifies them. West’s campaign had been blocked by Michigan election officials citing notary issues, but the court overturned that decision.
Supporters, including the Fair Election Fund, praised the ruling, calling it a defeat for what they described as partisan tactics aimed at keeping West off the ballot. West himself celebrated the outcome on social media, saying, “This is a win for democracy and for every person fighting for truth, justice, and love.”
The ruling comes as Michigan remains a critical battleground state in the 2024 election. With West’s progressive platform likely to attract voters dissatisfied with both major parties, Democrats worry that his presence on the ballot could siphon crucial votes from Biden and alter the race’s outcome.
