The suspect in what appears to be the second assassination attempt on Donald Trump in just two months was formally charged in federal court on Monday morning with two firearm-related offenses. As investigations intensify into how the assailant managed to get so close to the former president, the nation remains in shock.
Amid the heightened tensions of the US election campaign, Trump stirred further controversy by directly accusing Joe Biden and Kamala Harris of inciting the attack. He labeled them as “the enemy within,” blaming them for the latest incident.
Ryan Wesley Routh appeared in court wearing dark-blue prison scrubs, shackled at the hands and feet. He sat quietly for about five minutes, showing no visible signs of distress before being escorted out by marshals. He was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and carrying a gun with an obliterated serial number, likely preliminary charges to ensure his continued detention while more charges may follow.
Court documents revealed that Routh had camped near the golf course for around 12 hours before being confronted by a Secret Service agent. His phone records placed him near the tree line at Trump’s golf course for much of the day. The confrontation occurred after the agent spotted his rifle hidden in the foliage and fired at him.
Ronald Rowe Jr., the acting director of the US Secret Service, confirmed that Routh did not fire any shots. Rowe explained that after being detected, the suspect fled, and Trump was swiftly evacuated to safety by his security detail. Routh was later arrested after attempting to escape in an SUV.
In the aftermath, Trump publicly blamed Biden and Harris, claiming their rhetoric endangered him. Speaking to Fox News, he said their criticism had led to this attack, referring to them as a “real threat” to the country.
Despite the incident, Trump’s campaign team confirmed that his upcoming appearances would proceed as planned. His vice-presidential running mate, JD Vance, also made strong remarks, criticizing censorship and echoing Trump’s claims.
As more details about the suspect emerged, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a state-led investigation into how Routh managed to get so close to Trump. Both state and federal agencies will work together to assess the security breach.
Meanwhile, politicians across party lines condemned the violence, with President Joe Biden expressing relief that Trump was unharmed and emphasizing the need to support the Secret Service. Biden reaffirmed that political violence has no place in America.
Members of Trump’s circle, including his family and campaign team, expressed their gratitude for his safety. His son, Donald Trump Jr., reacted to the news, and several Republican figures praised the former president’s resilience.
The suspect, Routh, reportedly has a complex political background, identifying as a Democrat but having supported Trump in the 2016 election. However, officials from both major political parties denounced the act of violence, reiterating that it has no place in American democracy.