Trial Begins for Ryan Routh in Attempted Trump Assassination Florida

The trial of Ryan Routh, charged with attempting to assassinate President Trump at his West Palm Beach golf course in 2024, began with a disrupted opening statement as Routh, representing himself, was cut off by Judge Aileen Cannon for making irrelevant remarks. Routh's unusual defense approach, which included references to broad subjects like human history, led the judge to end his opening statement prematurely. Prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating that Routh sought to prevent American voters from electing Trump, and presented evidence including cellphone data, security footage, a handwritten note expressing intent to kill Trump, and eyewitness testimony. A former Secret Service agent testified about spotting Routh armed near the golf course and firing shots to apprehend him. Security measures remain heightened around the courthouse amid the trial, which follows recent politically motivated violence including the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. The case highlights ongoing concerns about political violence and the challenges of self-representation in federal court.