California Governor Signs Bill to Keep Trump Off the Ballot Unless He Releases Tax Returns

(TMU) — On Tuesday, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill that precludes Donald Trump from being on the Golden State’s 2020 primary ballot for president unless he releases his tax returns.

The “Presidential Tax Transparency and Accountability Act (S.B. 27),” states that any candidate wishing to run for president of the United States or governor of California is now required to file copies of their tax returns for the past five years to the California secretary of State.

“As one of the largest economies in the world and home to one in nine Americans eligible to vote, California has a special responsibility to require this information of presidential and gubernatorial candidates,” Governor Newsom said in a statement.

“These are extraordinary times and states have a legal and moral duty to do everything in their power to ensure leaders seeking the highest offices meet minimal standards, and to restore public confidence. The disclosure required by this bill will shed light on conflicts of interest, self-dealing, or influence from domestic and foreign business interest.”

Trump campaign spokesman Tim Murtaugh responded to California’s decision by stating that the legislation is “unconstitutional.”

“There are very good reasons why the very liberal Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed this bill two years ago—it’s unconstitutional and it opens up the possibility for states to load up more requirements on candidates in future elections. What’s next, five years of health records?” Murtaugh said.

Jay Sekulow, an attorney for President Trump, told the Hill, “the State of California’s attempt to circumvent the Constitution will be answered in court.”

By S.M. Gibson | Creative Commons | TheMindUnleashed.com