On September 16, the Second Circuit issued a six-page order in Martins v Pidot, 16-3028, explaining why it canceled the Republican primary for U.S. House, 3rd district. The three judges had ruled from the bench three days ago but had not yet explained why. The U.S. District Court had ordered a new Republican primary because one of the two candidates, Philip Pidot, had been excluded from the ballot even though he had enough valid signatures.

The thrust of the Second Circuit order, although not expressed clearly, is that because Pidot lost in state court, he can’t go to federal court. Thanks to Thomas Jones and Rick Hasen for the link.