Jury selection began Monday in the federal trial of Ryan Routh, the 59-year-old man accused of attempting to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump during a golf game in South Florida last year.
Routh, who is representing himself, addressed a panel of potential jurors in Fort Pierce, Florida, apologizing for their presence. “Sorry for bringing you all in here,” he said, dressed in a gray blazer, striped tie, and khakis. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, appointed by Trump, is presiding over the case and has allowed Routh to serve as his own defense, with standby counsel available.
Federal prosecutors allege that on September 15, 2024, Routh hid in the shrubbery at Trump’s West Palm Beach golf club with a semi-automatic rifle and aimed at the former president. A Secret Service agent reportedly spotted him first and opened fire before Routh fled, leaving the weapon behind. He was arrested shortly after with the assistance of a witness.
Routh faces multiple charges, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and several firearms violations. He has pleaded not guilty. He also faces state charges of attempted murder and terrorism.
On Monday, 120 potential jurors completed questionnaires, with the first group of 60 questioned in court. Judge Cannon dismissed 20 for personal or scheduling reasons, and questioning of the remaining groups will continue Tuesday. The court aims to seat 12 jurors and four alternates by Wednesday, with opening statements expected Thursday.
Prosecutors plan to introduce a 33-page list of evidence, including photographs of Routh holding a rifle matching the one recovered at the scene. His behavior in earlier hearings, including attempts to pose unrelated questions to jurors about Gaza, Greenland, and turtles, has already drawn scrutiny. Judge Cannon has restricted his courtroom movements, permitting him to use a podium but not roam freely.
Routh’s background includes a 2002 arrest in North Carolina after a standoff in which authorities seized a machine gun and an improvised explosive device. In 2010, police found more than 100 stolen items in a warehouse linked to him. In both cases, he received probation or suspended sentences. He has also claimed to be a mercenary and once sought recruits to fight in Ukraine.
The trial is expected to last up to four weeks, though both prosecutors and the court anticipate it could conclude sooner.
