Jury Deliberates Fate of Ryan Routh Accused in Trump Golf Course Attack

Ryan Routh is on trial in Fort Pierce, Florida, accused of attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump at the Trump International Golf Club West Palm Beach in September 2024. Prosecutors presented evidence including Routh's internet search history, cell phone data, and physical evidence like a rifle with its serial number scratched off, arguing he planned the attack for months and tracked Trump before hiding near the golf course with a semiautomatic rifle. Routh, who chose to represent himself, denied intent to kill, claiming he was peacefully protesting and incapable of pulling the trigger, with character witnesses testifying to his nonviolent nature. Despite Routh's defense, prosecutors emphasized that abandoning the plan does not negate the attempted assassination charge, which carries a potential life sentence. The trial has been marked by frequent court admonishments against Routh for disruptive behavior and irrelevant questioning. Closing arguments concluded in late September 2025, with jurors beginning deliberations on the multiple charges against Routh, including attempted assassination and assaulting a federal officer.