Who is Ryan Routh? The man charged in Trump assassination attempt

Ryan Routh has been charged with trying to assassinate US presidential candidate Donald Trump at his golf course in West Palm Beach last September. He is facing several federal charges, including attempted assassination, assaulting a federal officer, and firearm violations.

Routh has decided to represent himself in court. He asked to call 24 witnesses, including professors, activists, and even Trump, but the judge rejected most of them, saying they were irrelevant or unreasonable. One unusual request included a woman he said could testify about his “gentleness” in a past relationship.

In his defense, Routh also listed personal items as evidence, such as his Eagle Scout certificates, 3D skate park models he helped design, and newspaper clippings about him.

He also wrote a note called “Dear World,” which he says proves he is peaceful. However, jurors will only see the first three sentences, as prosecutors said the rest was self-serving.

Prosecutors plan to show the jury the weapon they say Routh carried — a Norinco SKS semi-automatic rifle with a scope and ammunition. Photos show the gun stuck through a fence at Trump’s golf course.

They will also present Routh’s text messages and internet searches, including one asking for a missile launcher and another tracking Trump’s plane.

The government is bringing more than 40 witnesses, including FBI forensic experts, Secret Service agents, weapons specialists, and local law enforcement officers. The trial will now determine whether Routh’s defense can stand against the strong evidence prosecutors have gathered.

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