Trial begins in Florida over assassination plot against Trump

The trial of Ryan Ruth, accused of plotting to assassinate Donald Trump at a Florida golf course nearly two months before the U.S. presidential election, has begun.

Ruth, 59, has waived his right to an attorney and chosen to represent himself, a decision confirmed by Judge Aileen Cannon.

The defendant has not pleaded guilty to five of the charges against him, including the assassination attempt on a presidential candidate, which carries a potential life sentence.

During the trial, Ruth delivered an opening statement discussing the history of humanity and global conflicts, which the judge interrupted, instructing him to “maintain the dignity of the court.” Following a 45-minute prosecution statement, the witness testimony phase commenced.

The trial comes amid growing concerns about political violence in the U.S., particularly following the assassination of opposition figure Charlie Kirk.

Ruth is accused of plotting the attack in September 2024 while Trump was campaigning at the Florida golf course. Ruth was reportedly armed and allegedly prepared for the attack but was spotted and apprehended by a Secret Service agent before he could act.