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Trump Criticizes DOJ in Wake of Second Assassination Attempt, Wants FL Probe

 September 24, 2024

An armed individual, identified as Ryan Routh, was apprehended near Donald Trump’s golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, after allegedly attempting to assassinate Trump in what was the second attempt on the former president's life within two months.

Trump has expressed frustration over how the case is being handled by the Biden-Harris administration and federal agencies, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has pledged to pursue a state-level investigation, something the former president supports, as the Post Millennial reports.

On Monday, Trump sent an email to his supporters, emphasizing his concerns about the way the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI have dealt with the latest attempt on his life.

He stated that the federal charges brought against Routh to date were insufficient, calling them a “slap on the wrist.” Trump also pointed out that this incident follows another assassination attempt just months earlier, in July.

First Attempt Left Trump Injured

The first attack occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, when Thomas Matthew Crooks tried to assassinate Trump. The assailant was killed by Secret Service during the incident, but not before Trump sustained an injury. A bullet caused Trump to lose a portion of his ear, while two others were injured, and one man was killed.

Trump criticized FBI Director Christopher Wray’s response to the Pennsylvania incident, stating that Wray downplayed the seriousness of his injury by suggesting it may not have been a bullet. Trump later claimed the director was forced to retract his statement, which was “condemned by even my worst enemies.”

DeSantis Responds with State-Level Action

In light of the second attempt, DeSantis has promised to lead a state-level investigation into the case. DeSantis noted that state charges, including potential attempted murder charges, could be filed against Routh. The governor expressed frustration with the federal government’s approach, saying the FBI is too focused on prosecuting Trump rather than thoroughly investigating the attempts on his life.

“The FBI has been going after Trump non-stop, with weaponized lawfare since he announced his first presidential campaign,” DeSantis said. He also questioned whether the federal agencies could handle the investigation fairly, given their ongoing legal battles with Trump.

Trump Claims Federal Conflict of Interest

Trump’s statement further alleged that the DOJ and FBI have a “conflict of interest” due to their continued investigations into him. He connected this to what he described as a broader pattern of harassment by the federal government, referencing several legal battles from his presidency and beyond, including the Russia investigation and the handling of Hunter Biden’s laptop.

“The DOJ and FBI have been obsessed with ‘getting Trump’ for so long,” Trump wrote, “it’s difficult to trust them with investigating the assassination attempts.” He reiterated his belief that Florida would be better suited to lead the case, arguing that the state would pursue the truth without bias.

Ongoing Legal Battles with Federal Agencies

Trump’s email expanded on a list of grievances against the DOJ and FBI, which he claimed have unfairly targeted him through various investigations. He referenced the “Russia hoax,” impeachment efforts, and what he referred to as the “lawless” raid on his Florida home, among other accusations.

Trump’s legal challenges have remained in the spotlight as he continues to face federal scrutiny. In this context, Trump argued that the current legal environment has made it impossible for him to trust the federal agencies responsible for investigating the recent assassination attempts.

State Charges Expected to Be Tougher

DeSantis stated that any Florida state charges against Routh would be “much more serious” than those currently brought by the federal government. Trump echoed this sentiment, claiming that Florida would follow “the truth, wherever it leads.” Trump’s supporters have rallied behind the idea of state-led action, with many echoing concerns about the impartiality of federal agencies.

Trump concluded his message by reiterating his distrust of the federal justice system, stating, “Our justice system is corrupt and discredited.” He emphasized that, in his view, the DOJ and FBI are more concerned with targeting him than pursuing justice in cases involving attempts on his life.

Trump Pushes for Florida-Led Prosecution

As the legal proceedings against Ryan Routh continue, Trump has urged Florida to take the lead in investigating and prosecuting the case. He and his allies believe that the state investigation will provide a more thorough and impartial examination of the assassination attempt.

Both Trump and DeSantis have expressed dissatisfaction with the federal response so far. The Florida governor's decision to investigate the matter at the state level appears to be a direct response to these concerns and could lead to more severe charges for Routh.

Conclusion: Second Attempt Raises Security, Legal Concerns

The second assassination attempt on Trump’s life within two months has sparked debate over how such cases should be handled. With the DOJ and FBI currently overseeing the investigation, Trump has openly questioned their ability to prosecute the case fairly, citing their long history of legal disputes with him.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has stepped in, promising to hold Routh accountable under Florida law, which Trump believes would result in more serious charges. The unfolding case could have significant implications for both Trump’s personal security and his ongoing legal battles with federal agencies.