Trial of Ryan Routh, man accused of Trump assassination attempt at Florida golf course gets underway

The federal trial of Ryan Wesley Routh—accused of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump last year at a Florida golf course—began Monday with jury selection in Fort Pierce. Routh, 59, insisted on representing himself, despite having no formal legal training and repeated warnings from Judge Aileen Cannon, who described the move as a “bad idea.” His public defenders remain on standby in court.

Jury selection is expected to take three days, drawing from a pool of potential jurors, with opening statements scheduled for Thursday. While four weeks have been carved out for the entire trial, observers expect a quicker resolution.

Routh faces serious federal charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and multiple firearms violations. Prosecutors allege he spent weeks planning the attack, positioning himself in shrubbery near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach—where he aimed a rifle before a Secret Service agent intervened. Routh fled without firing, leaving behind a note expressing regret for failing in his attempt.

Judge Cannon is maintaining strict courtroom protocols. Routh, though allowed to question witnesses from the podium and wear business attire during the proceeding, is under tight physical control and warned that any sudden movement could prompt immediate action by court marshals.

In addition to his self-representation, prosecutors plan to present a trove of evidence, including a rifle and security video footage. The judge has also restricted Routh’s ability to introduce politically charged juror questions.

If convicted on the most serious count, Routh faces life in prison. The trial, which began roughly one year after the thwarted assassination attempt on Donald Trump, continues to draw significant attention.

Source: NBC NEWS