The jury selection process in the trial of Ryan Routh, the 59-year-old construction worker accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, has been anything but smooth. Routh, representing himself despite lacking legal training, has repeatedly clashed with Judge Aileen Cannon, a Trump appointee, over his unconventional and often bizarre defense tactics.
From the outset, Routh's proposed jury questions were deemed "politically charged" and irrelevant by Judge Cannon. These included inquiries about Trump's proposed acquisition of Greenland and that nation's stance on Palestine, as well as a seemingly nonsensical question about how jurors would react to encountering a turtle in the road. The judge swiftly dismissed these questions, describing them as irrelevant to the selection process.
Routh, facing life imprisonment on five criminal charges including attempted assassination of a presidential candidate and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime, has also encountered setbacks with his witness list. Two potential witnesses, one planning a trip to Vietnam and the other fearing deportation from Costa Rica, are unlikely to testify. This further complicates Routh's already unconventional approach to his defense.
The courtroom itself reflects the unusual nature of the proceedings. Routh sits isolated, far from the prosecution team, while Judge Cannon has repeatedly intervened to maintain order, cutting Routh off and reminding him to adhere to court rules. His past filings reveal an array of outlandish requests, including a "beatdown session" with Trump, a golf match for his life, and a prisoner exchange.
The prosecution’s case hinges on proving Routh's intent to kill Trump and that he took substantial steps toward carrying out the plan. Evidence presented includes a military-grade rifle found near the scene, numerous burner phones, research on Trump's movements, and attempts to purchase anti-aircraft weaponry. A handwritten note detailing the assassination attempt and offering $150,000 for its completion, as well as excerpts from Routh's self-published book advocating for Trump's assassination, are also expected to be presented as evidence.
Routh's defense, focused on his character, has been met with skepticism. He contends that the prosecution misrepresents his written communications and book, claiming they promote peace and non-violence. However, Judge Cannon has already restricted several aspects of his defense, including attempts to justify his actions, encourage jury nullification, and call a vast array of witnesses, including the former President himself.
The trial, expected to last 2-4 weeks, is shrouded in added security measures. The jury will remain anonymous and partially sequestered. Routh's own attempts to have Judge Cannon recuse herself due to her Trump appointment were unsuccessful, with Cannon herself asserting there is no conflict of interest. The unconventional nature of this trial promises to be a compelling and unusual case to follow.
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Originally published at: https://abcnews.go.com/US/trial-set-begin-case-man-allegedly-kill-trump/story?id=125352319
