Federal Judge Aileen Cannon has set the trial of Ryan Routh, who is accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, to begin on Nov. 18 in Fort Pierce, Florida, and the date comes two weeks after Election Day.

Routh, found near the Trump International Golf Club with a loaded firearm, is facing five charges, including attempting to assassinate Trump and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, though it remains to be seen whether the new trial date will hold, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Routh was apprehended by Secret Service agents earlier this month near the perimeter of Trump International Golf Club, where Trump was present.

Agents found him carrying a semiautomatic rifle, which had its serial number obliterated. The incident raised concerns about security around the former president, and Routh was promptly arrested and charged.

Federal Charges and Maximum Penalty

The charges against Routh are significant, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. These charges carry severe penalties, and if found guilty, Routh faces a potential life sentence.

Routh, who has pleaded not guilty to all charges, is being represented by public defenders, as he cannot afford a private lawyer. His defense team will have a challenging case ahead, given the severity of the accusations and the evidence presented by federal authorities.

Judge Aileen Cannon Oversees the Case

Cannon, a Trump appointee, was randomly assigned to oversee Routh’s case. This is not the first time Cannon has presided over a case involving the former president. She previously handled Trump’s classified documents case, which is currently under review by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.

While Judge Cannon faced criticism regarding the pace of Trump’s classified documents trial, she has moved quickly in scheduling Routh’s trial. Her decision to set a firm date for the trial, just two weeks after the 2024 election, signals a determined approach to ensure that the case proceeds without delays.

Routh's Arrest and Charges Detail Alleged Incident

The alleged assassination attempt occurred earlier this month when Routh was found near Trump International Golf Club, where Trump was attending an event. Secret Service agents on routine patrol discovered Routh close to the golf course’s perimeter. The agents detained him without incident and discovered that he was armed with a semiautomatic rifle.

The weapon Routh was carrying had an obliterated serial number, which prompted additional federal charges. Authorities quickly filed charges related to his firearm possession, noting that Routh is a convicted felon who is legally prohibited from possessing any firearms.

High-Stakes Trial Set Amid Political Climate

The timing of the trial is noteworthy, as it will take place shortly after the 2024 presidential election. Given Trump’s prominence as a political figure and the nature of the accusations, the trial is expected to draw significant media attention.

While the exact motives behind Routh’s actions have not been made public, the charges he faces are directly related to the security and safety of a former U.S. president. The fact that the trial coincides with a politically charged moment adds to the gravity of the situation.

Defense and Prosecution Prepare for November

Routh's public defenders will have several weeks to prepare for the trial, though no specific defense strategy has been revealed. The prosecution, meanwhile, is expected to present evidence linking Routh to the planned assassination, which includes his proximity to Trump’s location and the weapon he carried.

As the trial date approaches, both sides will likely gather additional evidence and testimonies. The federal court in Fort Pierce is expected to play host to a high-profile legal battle that could have far-reaching implications, not only for Routh but also for the broader political and security landscape surrounding former U.S. presidents.

Potential Life Sentence Awaits Routh If Convicted

If convicted on all charges, Routh could face a maximum sentence of life in prison. The federal charges against him are severe, and the case’s outcome will hinge on the court’s evaluation of the evidence presented.

The trial will likely focus on whether Routh had the intent to carry out an assassination and the circumstances that led to his arrest near Trump’s golf club. Prosecutors will need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Routh was planning a violent act against Trump, while the defense will have to counter the government’s case.

Conclusion: High-Profile Trial Set to Begin

As the Nov. 18 trial date approaches, both legal teams are preparing for what promises to be a closely watched case.

The trial of Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, will begin in federal court in Fort Pierce, Florida.

If convicted, Routh faces a life sentence. The case is being overseen by Judge Aileen Cannon, and the trial will take place just two weeks after Election Day, drawing significant public interest.