Closing Arguments Set in Trial of Ryan Routh, Accused of Attempting to Assassinate Donald Trump

Closing arguments are scheduled Tuesday in the trial of Ryan Routh, who stands accused of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf course in September 2024. Routh, representing himself despite lacking formal legal training, concluded his defense on Monday after calling three witnesses: a firearms expert and two longtime friends.

During the proceedings, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon cautioned Routh about adhering to courtroom protocols, emphasizing that any deviation could result in interruptions. "Any argument you make ... must be reasonably tied to the admitted evidence. Do you understand?" Cannon asked Routh, underscoring the importance of staying within the bounds of presented evidence.

The prosecution alleges that Routh meticulously planned the assassination attempt, including purchasing a military-grade weapon, researching Trump's movements, and using multiple burner phones. On the day of the incident, Routh allegedly concealed himself near the sixth hole of Trump's golf course, armed with a rifle, and was spotted by a Secret Service agent before any shots were fired.

Routh faces five federal charges: attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, using a firearm in furtherance of a crime, assaulting a federal officer, possessing a firearm as a felon, and using a gun with a defaced serial number. If convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison.

Following the closing arguments, the jury will begin deliberations to determine Routh's guilt on each count. Judge Cannon reminded jurors of their role: "Each of you must decide the case for yourself, but only after fully considering the evidence with the other jurors. Remember that, in a very real way, you are judges -- judges of the facts. Your only interest is to seek the truth from the evidence in the case."