The federal trial of Ryan Rouse, who stands accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump during a golf event in September 2024, is set to resume on Monday. This follows a week during which a judge oversaw initial testimony.
Over the last two days, prosecutors presented evidence through 13 witnesses, primarily from the FBI and Secret Service, to detail the security responses to the alleged attack.
On Thursday, the prosecution shared statements from Rouse, including his claims like “Trump can’t be elected” and “I need Trump to leave.” They alleged that he planned the attack for months, claiming he traveled from Hawaii to position himself with a rifle at Trump International Golf Club.
Rouse, who is representing himself, delivered a seven-minute opening statement that veered into unusual territory, referencing figures such as Adolf Hitler and the Wright brothers.
Key testimonies this week included a Secret Service agent recalling how Rouse smiled while aiming a rifle “directly at my face,” and a civilian who identified Rouse fleeing in a black Nissan Xterra. Another civilian reported seeing a bomb, while an FBI agent described where it was hidden.
The judge also presented a photograph purportedly linking Rouse’s clothing to the crime scene, showing pants with red stains. During cross-examination, Rouse questioned a witness about survival using an AK-47 mechanism.
Judge Eileen Cannon expressed hope that the trial would extend until 5:30 PM each day. More FBI agents and law enforcement witnesses are expected to testify on Monday as the government continues to build its case.
