This is only one part, but a very important part. Torch was chosen in a primary to be the Dem candidate. The voters did not choose Lautenberg. It was the Democratic party that chose Lautenberg, NOT the people. Therefore, the voters have not had equal protection. In fact, the voters have been usurped by a special interest group.
Torch withdrew. The law allows for that. The only problem is with the date, not with what they did. If your argument were valid it would mean they couldn't replace a candidate that wouldn't or couldn't run even if it happened before the deadline. It doesn't hold up. The law that established the procedure was in existence prior to this and it applies equally to everyone.