Bondi hails Ryan Routh verdict, calls assassination attempt an affront to the nation
Attorney General Pam Bondi credited the conviction as evidence of the Justice Department's resolve against political violence.
FORT PIERCE, Fla. — A federal jury on Tuesday convicted Ryan Routh on all five counts in the plot to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump as he played golf at Trump's West Palm Beach club last September. Routh, 59, was charged with five federal counts, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and multiple firearms offenses. He now faces a potential life sentence.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said the verdict reflects the Justice Department’s commitment to combating political violence. 'Today’s guilty verdict against would-be Trump assassin Ryan Routh illustrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to punishing those who engage in political violence,' Bondi said. 'This attempted assassination was not only an attack on our President, but an affront to our very nation itself.' 'TI am grateful to U.S. Attorney Jason Quiñones, his entire trial team, and our law enforcement partners for protecting President Trump and securing this important verdict.'
Trump, who was in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly when the verdict was announced, said on Truth Social that he was 'very appreciative' of the justice handled by the Justice Department. He also thanked the judge, the jury, and the individuals who helped protect him during the incident, calling it a 'great moment for JUSTICE IN AMERICA' (per his post).
Following the verdict, Routh reportedly tried to stab himself in the neck with a pen before four U.S. Marshals restrained him.
Routh, 59, faces five federal counts, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and firearms offenses. If convicted on all counts, he could face life in prison.
The case underscores the Justice Department’s ongoing effort to deter political violence and to prosecute threats and acts against public figures.
Prosecutors described the case as a clear act of political violence and said the verdict affirmed that violence toward public figures will be prosecuted. Sentencing is scheduled for a later date.
This outcome follows a high-profile investigation that involved federal prosecutors and law enforcement partners, underscoring the government’s focus on protecting public figures and enforcing laws against threats and violence in the political arena.
