Trial Begins for Man Accused of Attempting to Assassinate Donald Trump
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Jury selection began Monday in teh trial of Ryan Routh, 58, who is accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his West palm Beach golf course on September 15, 2024. The trial follows a series of contentious court filings by Routh last week that have already strained his relationship with Judge Aileen Cannon.
Prosecutors allege Routh positioned himself in a “sniperS nest” near the golf course with an SKS-style rifle equipped with a scope attached using electrical tape. The rifle was not fired during the incident. An FBI weapons expert later test-fired the weapon, confirming its functionality.Routh, now representing himself, has been attempting to introduce evidence and compel testimony that prosecutors oppose.He previously submitted a 12-page letter left with a friend, of which prosecutors intend to present onyl the first page to the jury. The page reads, “Dear World, This was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump but I failed you.” Routh argues the full letter demonstrates his commitment to “gentleness, peacefulness, and non-violent caring for humanity,” and contains no mention of Trump. Judge Cannon has deferred ruling on the request until trial.
in another motion, Routh offered to forgo evidence requests if Judge Cannon would subpoena Trump for a ”beatdown session,” a proposal Judge Cannon rebuked as containing “various insults and no pertinent facts.” She stated she would not subpoena the former president.
The defense is expected to call a former Marine sniper instructor as a witness, potentially to question the rifle’s effectiveness. Prosecutors maintain the weapon’s functionality is irrelevant, emphasizing Routh’s alleged intent to kill Trump. They argue that any issues with planning or the weapon itself do not constitute a defense.
Opening statements are scheduled for Thursday.
