Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump, has been ordered to stand trial following a federal court ruling on Monday.
Routh, 58, faces multiple charges including attempted assassination of a former president, unlawful possession of firearms, and acts of domestic terrorism. Prosecutors allege that he plotted and attempted to carry out an attack during a campaign rally earlier this year, before being subdued by Secret Service agents.
During pre-trial hearings, federal prosecutors outlined what they called “a deliberate and premeditated plan” by Routh, citing intercepted communications, weapons recovered from his residence, and surveillance footage from the rally venue. They argued that his actions posed “an immediate and grave threat not only to Mr. Trump but to public safety and democratic stability.”
Routh has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team contends that he was motivated by personal grievances and mental health struggles rather than a coordinated political plot. They have requested a psychiatric evaluation ahead of the trial.
The case has attracted significant public attention, underscoring heightened political tensions as the United States prepares for the 2026 midterm elections. Trump, who has remained active on the political stage since leaving office, has called the incident “a reminder of the sacrifices made to defend freedom of speech and democracy.”
If convicted, Routh could face a life sentence. Jury selection for the trial is expected to begin later this year in federal court, with security measures already being tightened around court proceedings.
Legal analysts suggest the trial could become one of the most closely watched political cases in recent U.S. history, with implications not only for Trump’s personal security but also for broader debates over political violence and extremism in the country.
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