US District Court Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Filed by John Anthony Castro Against Former President Trump

January 12—Today, the U.S. District Court Judge for the District of New Mexico, Matthew L. Garcia dismissed the lawsuit filed by John Anthony Castro, a controversial and little-known presidential candidate, against former president Donald Trump in an attempt to disqualify him from running for office in New Mexico.

Castro has filed lawsuits in multiple states besides New Mexico, arguing that Donald Trump should not be allowed to run for another term as President. The basis of the lawsuit is Castro asserts the Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution implies that a political candidate can legally challenge the constitutional eligibility of another candidate to hold office if they have provided "aid or comfort" to an insurrection. Donald Trump has never been convicted of insurrection by a jury.

Judge Garcia sided with previous District Courts across the country who have—without exception—dismissed nearly identical suits filed by Castro, stating, "this Court can discern no basis to depart with the reasoning and holdings in these other opinions."

Judge Garcia concluded his memorandum opinion and order by writing that the case filed by Castro "is dismissed without prejudice for lack of subject matter jurisdiction."

"We're pleased this attempt to disenfranchise New Mexico voters will not stand," said Republican Party of New Mexico Chairman Steve Pearce.

The full legal documents are linked below:

Judge Garcia Judgment For Trump.pdf

Judge Garcia Order Dismissing Castro Complaint Against Trump January 12, 2024.pdf

The Republican Party of New Mexico (RPNM) advances the ideals of individual liberties for the advancement of its citizens and the greater prosperity of our communities throughout New Mexico. Led by an Executive Board and its Chairman, former NM Congressman Steve Pearce, RPNM serves all New Mexicans via its headquarters in Albuquerque and can be contacted at (505) 298-3662.