Man accused of trying to assassinate Trump in Florida rests his case without testifying
Ryan Routh, who faces federal charges for allegedly attempting to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump at a golf course in Florida on September 15, 2024, has rested his case without testifying. Routh is representing himself in the trial. On Monday, his defense presented three witnesses: a firearms expert and two character witnesses. After and following that testimony, Routh declined to take the stand, ending his side of the defense.
The firearms expert, Michael McClay, testified that the weapon Routh allegedly used jammed during forensic tests — twice — after a single shot was successfully fired. He also noted that the scope on the rifle was in poorly crafted condition: mounted using materials like tape and glue, which likely would affect accuracy.
The two character witnesses described Routh as a nonviolent, peaceful person. However, in cross-examination, they conceded that they had not seen him in many years — weakening how directly their testimony might reflect his state close to the time of the alleged incident.
Prosecutors allege Routh spent weeks plotting the attack, including tracking Trump’s location, setting up a sniper-type position hidden in shrubbery near the sixth hole of the Trump International Golf Club, and acquiring a rifle. They say a Secret Service agent spotted Routh before Trump came into view, observed him aiming through shrubbery, opened fire, and Routh fled.
Judge Aileen Cannon presided over the trial. She earlier warned Routh to stay focused and relevant during his questions and testimony, and indicated that closing arguments would follow immediately after his defense rests. Jury deliberations are expected shortly after closing arguments.
Why it matters
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Determines whether Routh’s alleged plot, which prosecutors say was well-planned, meets the legal threshold for attempted assassination, even though no shot was fired.
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The trial tests evidentiary issues such as weapon reliability, intent, capability, and how character testimony factors in when the defendant is representing himself.
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Self-representation raises questions about fairness, legal procedure, and whether a nonlawyer defendant can adequately present a defense.
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The case informs how such political violence cases are handled — especially in terms of public safety, Secret Service interception, and threats to political candidates.
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Its outcome will have implications for deterrence: how courts punish or discourage plots or preparations for political violence before an act is carried out.
Key Legal Outcomes
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Routh has rested his defense without testifying. CBS News+1
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The defense called a firearms expert who testified the rifle allegedly used jammed and had a scope improperly mounted, potentially reducing effectiveness. CBS News+2ABC News+2
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The character witnesses painted Routh as peaceful but admitted long absence, possibly reducing weight of character evidence. CBS News+1
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Prosecutors claim evidence of planning, possession of weapon, aiming through shrubbery, identification by Secret Service, and flight from the scene. Spectrum News 13+1
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The case now moves to closing arguments; jury will deliberate soon. CBS News+1
Publication date & Live Link
- Publication date: September 22, 2025 CBS News
- Live link: Man accused of trying to assassinate Trump in Florida rests his case without testifying — CBS News CBS News
