A federal judge in Florida has sentenced Ryan Wesley Routh, 59, to life in prison without parole, plus seven additional years for attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a golf course in September 2024.
The dramatic plot unfolded at Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, where Trump was playing golf during his 2024 campaign. Routh had carefully planned the attack, hiding with a semi-automatic rifle near the course. His actions could have ended in tragedy, but a vigilant Secret Service agent spotted the rifle and forced him to flee, preventing harm.
Routh was arrested shortly after. During the federal trial that ended in September 2025, he was convicted on five counts, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer, and several firearms offences. Reports say Routh represented himself during the trial and even tried to harm himself in court after the verdict.
At the sentencing hearing, Routh appealed for leniency, citing his age and mental health, but the court rejected these arguments. Judge Aileen M. Cannon described his actions as “deliberate and evil,” highlighting the threat posed to public safety and democratic processes. Prosecutors emphasized that Routh showed no remorse and that his crime was a serious attempt to disrupt an election.
The seven-year sentence will run consecutively for a firearms offence, while other counts run concurrently with his life term. Legal experts say the harsh sentence reflects the seriousness of targeting political figures with violence.
Routh’s lawyers have indicated they may appeal the ruling, but the court’s decision underscores the severe consequences of trying to harm public leaders. The case also serves as a reminder of the constant vigilance required to protect elected officials and maintain the safety of public spaces.
