In an interview on CNN's "State of the Union," Former Vice President Mike Pence criticized the efforts to remove former President Donald Trump from the 2024 presidential ballot, arguing that such actions are "antithetical" to democracy. Pence, who was present during the January 6th Capitol riot, declined to classify the event as an insurrection.

Pence, who has previously denounced Trump's actions on January 6th, stated that he had never referred to the event as an insurrection, but rather as a riot due to the way it unfolded. While Pence acknowledged the recklessness of Trump's words, he believed that the decision to remove a candidate from the choice of the American people goes against the democratic principles that President Joe Biden and many Democrats claim to defend.

The Supreme Court now holds the authority to decide whether Trump's name will be included on the presidential ballot for 2024. On Friday, the Supreme Court announced that it would hear Trump's appeal regarding the Colorado Supreme Court's decision to block his appearance on the primary ballot in the state. This decision could have significant implications for the upcoming presidential cycle.

Pence, who withdrew from his own 2024 presidential bid, expressed confidence in the American public's ability to select the most suitable candidate and believed that the Supreme Court would share the same perspective. He affirmed his belief that the American people should have the final say in choosing their leaders and that removing Trump or any other candidate from the decision-making process would not be in the country's best interest.

While Pence remains critical of Trump's involvement in the events of January 6th, he emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values and letting the American people exercise their right to vote. He expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would align with this principle and support the American people's right to choose their candidates freely.

As the Supreme Court prepares to hear Trump's appeal, the decision will have far-reaching consequences for the 2024 presidential election cycle. The outcome will determine whether Trump's name will grace the ballot and shape the narrative of the upcoming campaign.

In the end, Pence's stance serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between holding individuals accountable for their actions and preserving the democratic process. The ultimate decision lies in the hands of the Supreme Court, and the nation waits to see how this pivotal moment unfolds.