The trial for Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to harm former President Donald Trump at his golf club in Florida last year, is set to begin Thursday in Fort Pierce, Florida. After jury selection, which took place over the course of several days, 12 jurors and 4 alternates were chosen to hear the case.
What Happened
Ryan Routh is accused of having a rifle when he was stopped by Secret Service agents near Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach in September 2024. Prosecutors allege that Routh intended to harm the former president, and the trial will determine whether those charges are proven in court.
During jury selection, 180 potential jurors were questioned. The jury that was selected consists of six White women, four White men, one Black woman, and one Black man, with four additional alternate jurors, all of whom are White. Routh, who is representing himself in court, asked the potential jurors a series of unusual questions, including inquiries about Ukraine, the Gaza conflict, and hypothetical scenarios such as what they would do if a turtle were in the road.
Reactions
The selection of the jury is an important step in the trial, as the court looks for individuals who can fairly judge the case. The judge presiding over the trial was appointed by President Trump, which has led to further interest in the case. Lawyers are now prepared to start presenting their opening statements, and the trial is expected to last for several weeks.
What’s Next
The trial officially kicks off on Thursday with opening statements. The prosecution will aim to prove Routh’s intentions, while Routh himself will defend against the charges in what promises to be a high-profile trial with significant attention due to its connection to a former U.S. president.
Closing Line
This is a developing story. We will update this article as more information becomes available. As the trial unfolds, many are closely watching for the arguments that will be made and the potential impact on both the accused and the political landscape.
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