Would-be Trump assassin Ryan Routh barred from asking hair-brained questions to potential jurors as he represents himself
Jury selection in the trial against would-be Trump assassin Ryan Routh kicked off Monday. AP
A Florida judge on Monday rejected a series of odd and irrelevant questions proposed by Ryan Routh — the man accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump — during jury selection for his upcoming trial.
Routh, 59, who is representing himself after firing his attorneys, sought to ask potential jurors their views on topics like pro-Palestinian student activism and Trump’s past suggestion that the U.S. purchase Greenland. He also proposed asking how jurors would react if a turtle crossed the road while they were driving, claiming the answer would offer insight into their values.
“These are all really off base and have no relevance to the jury selection process,” U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon said, according to ABC News. Despite Routh’s insistence on their value, Cannon repeatedly interrupted him and reminded him to follow courtroom procedures that apply to all legal professionals.
Jury selection is expected to last three days at the Fort Pierce courthouse, where Routh and federal prosecutors are narrowing down a pool of roughly 180 potential jurors to 12, with four alternates. Opening statements are scheduled for Thursday, and the trial is expected to last about a month.
Routh has also informed the court that two of his proposed witnesses are now unavailable — one due to international travel, the other out of fear of deportation to Costa Rica.
Accused of plotting to assassinate Trump while he golfed at Trump International in West Palm Beach on Sept. 15, 2024, Routh allegedly camped out for 12 hours in a concealed sniper position. He was spotted by a Secret Service agent before he could fire, prompting him to flee. He has pleaded not guilty to five federal charges and faces life in prison if convicted.
Despite Judge Cannon’s strong advice against it, Routh is exercising his right to self-representation. His recent filings suggest a chaotic defense strategy: In one bizarre court document, Routh challenged Trump to a golf match — the stakes being his own execution if he lost, or taking over Trump’s job if he won.
In a separate jailhouse letter, he questioned why his case wasn’t eligible for the death penalty and proposed being traded in a prisoner swap with Hamas, Iran, China, or Russia.
Judge Cannon, who previously oversaw and dismissed the federal classified documents case against Trump, has made it clear Routh will be held to strict courtroom standards. She instructed him to dress formally, use the lectern while addressing the jury, and warned that marshals are prepared to intervene if he makes any sudden moves — especially during presentation of firearms and ammunition as evidence.
While Routh fired his legal team in July, the judge has ordered standby counsel to be available throughout the trial.
Routh remains in federal custody in Miami awaiting trial.
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