Man accused of trying to assassinate Trump while he played golf can represent himself at trial, judge says
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Trump Golf Course Shooting Suspect to Represent Himself at Trial
Above: Ryan Routh, the suspect in the Florida Trump assassination attempt, speaking at a pro-Ukraine rally in Kyiv on April 27, 2022. Image copyright: Nicolas Garcia/AFPTV/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Ryan Routh's attempt to kill President Trump last fall was buried for too long by federal stonewalling from the previous administration. Whether Routh uses a lawyer or defends himself, Americans and their elected leader deserve accountability. It's time for a reckoning to ensure such political violence is never attempted again.
Democratic narrative
Ryan Routh, a complex and dangerous figure, has been thoroughly investigated by the justice system. His self-styled mercenary past and violent plans demand meticulous scrutiny to ensure conviction. Prosecutors are diligently working to limit irrelevant evidence, focusing on his crimes to secure justice, not a circus. The system, under the Biden administration, acted as swiftly as possible to hold this suspect accountable.