FORT PIERCE, Fla. — The federal trial of Ryan Wesley Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, is underway, entering its third day on Wednesday. The case stems from an alleged incident that took place on September 15, 2024, when Routh purportedly tried to kill Trump while he was golfing at Trump International Golf Club.
Routh, 58, is facing serious charges including attempted assassination and assaulting a federal officer. He has chosen to represent himself in this case against the U.S. government. As the jury selection process continues, Routh is working to identify jurors based on their responses to questionnaires.
The selection began with 180 potential jurors, but as of Wednesday, only 98 remain in the pool. This process is crucial, and the courtroom is expected to finalize the jury on Wednesday, paving the way for opening statements scheduled for Thursday.
Tensions arose during the jury selection on Tuesday when Judge Aileen Cannon instructed Routh to refrain from asking irrelevant questions. He had attempted to dismiss jurors with law enforcement backgrounds, which the judge ruled inadequate for excusal. Discussions surrounding jurors’ potential biases intensified after one juror expressed admiration for Trump, further complicating the selection process.
Routh has been focusing on the juror responses to strategize his challenges. The court aims to finalize a jury composed of 12 members and four alternates to move forward with the trial. The atmosphere remains tense as both the prosecution and defense prepare for the upcoming stages of the trial.
Observations made during this period will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the court’s decisions going forward. As this dramatic case unfolds, it captures public attention amidst ongoing discussions about security and the political landscape surrounding Trump.
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