Trump Assassination Attempt Suspect Seeks to Drop Defense Team

Ryan Wesley Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump at his Florida golf club in September 2024, has requested to fire his court-appointed attorneys and represent himself in his upcoming federal trial scheduled for September 2025. Prosecutors allege that Routh methodically planned the attack over weeks, was spotted by a Secret Service agent before Trump came into view, and aimed a rifle at the agent, who fired shots causing Routh to flee without returning fire. Routh faces multiple federal charges including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and possession of firearms as a felon, as well as state charges of terrorism and attempted murder. Evidence presented includes a handwritten note by Routh outlining his assassination intentions and offering a reward to complete the act, which was found months before his arrest. U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon is overseeing the case and has yet to rule on Routh's competency to waive his right to legal counsel. If convicted, Routh could face life imprisonment.