Trump Assassination Suspect Seeks Self-Representation at Federal Trial

Ryan Routh, the man charged with attempting to assassinate President Trump last year at his Florida golf course, has informed a federal judge that he wishes to represent himself at his upcoming trial scheduled for September. During a hearing before U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon, Routh declined the appointment of new attorneys, asserting his intention to proceed without legal counsel despite the judge's warnings about the risks of self-representation. The judge is currently evaluating Routh's competence to waive his right to legal representation, with the trial involving serious charges including attempted assassination, assaulting a federal officer, and firearms violations. Prosecutors allege that Routh acquired the weapon used in the incident through two accomplices, one of whom has pleaded guilty to conspiring to illegally obtain firearms on his behalf. The courtroom was closed for a portion of the hearing to discuss attorney-client privilege matters, and Judge Cannon emphasized that the trial schedule would not be delayed by these proceedings. Routh, who has a GED and some college education, acknowledged understanding the court's rules, and the judge will issue a written ruling on his request to self-represent.