Man Accused in Trump Assassination Attempt Asks Judge to Recuse Herself

Ryan Wesley Routh, the man charged with attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, has filed a motion requesting U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon to recuse herself from the case. Cannon, a Trump appointee who previously dismissed the former president’s classified documents case, is facing scrutiny over her impartiality given her connection to Trump.

At a glance:

  • Ryan Routh, accused of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump, has requested that Judge Aileen Cannon, appointed by Trump, recuse herself due to concerns over perceived bias.
  • Routh’s attorneys argue that Cannon’s appointment by Trump and the former president’s public praise of her rulings could create an appearance of partiality.
  • Judge Cannon has not yet ruled on the recusal request, while the trial is set to begin on February 10, 2025.

Routh’s attorneys highlighted that Cannon’s appointment to the case and her previous involvement in Trump-related matters raise questions about her ability to remain impartial. Cannon was appointed by Trump in 2020 and gained attention for ruling in favor of Trump in a case related to the mishandling of classified documents. Trump praised Cannon publicly, adding to concerns raised by Routh’s defense team.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5oVYcP1_tk

In the motion, Routh’s lawyers emphasized that the perception of bias must be avoided to maintain public trust in the judicial process. They pointed out that if Trump were re-elected in the future, he could nominate Cannon to a higher court, which they argue might influence her rulings.

The case has garnered significant attention, particularly because it marks the third time Cannon has been randomly assigned to a case involving Trump, a coincidence that has fueled public speculation. Routh’s defense team acknowledges that there is no evidence of improper assignment but expressed concern that the circumstances could feed conspiracy theories.

Routh, who pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted assassination and several other federal crimes, was arrested on September 15 near Trump’s Florida golf course. He was allegedly positioned with a rifle and other tactical gear, preparing to take a shot at the former president. Secret Service agents spotted him before he could act, and Routh fled the scene but was later arrested.

As the trial date approaches, the decision on whether Cannon will step down from the case remains pending. Routh’s attorneys have made it clear that their request for recusal is to avoid any appearance of bias, ensuring a fair and impartial trial.