A federal judge has handed down a life sentence plus an additional 84 months to Ryan Wesley Routh for his role in the attempted assassination of former President and 2024 GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump, according to a report from Conservative Brief.
Routh, 59, was convicted in September 2025 on multiple felony counts, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal law enforcement officer and various firearms offenses, in connection with a September 15, 2024, shooting at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
The Attempted Attack
According to prosecutors, Routh concealed himself in shrubbery near the golf course with a rifle, reportedly preparing to shoot Trump and a Secret Service agent. Agents intervened before any shots could reach their intended targets, and Routh fled the scene before being captured by law enforcement in the area.
At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon imposed the maximum penalty, underscoring the gravity of the offense. Cannon said Routh’s actions “undeniably warrant[] a life sentence,” rejecting defense arguments for a reduced term.
Prosecutors Respond
Federal prosecutors said the sentence reflects the severity of attempting to kill a presidential candidate and serves as a “strong deterrent” against political violence. Lead prosecutor John Shipley said the government presented extensive evidence showing just how close Routh came to carrying out the attack.
Defense Plans to Appeal
Routh’s attorneys have indicated plans to appeal the sentence, arguing the punishment is excessive. No court date for the appeal has been set.
Broader Context
The incident in Florida marked the second known attempt against Trump during the 2024 campaign. In July of that year, a separate gunman opened fire during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, resulting in one death and multiple injuries, including Trump himself. That suspect was killed at the scene by law enforcement.
Officials have also highlighted ongoing security concerns surrounding the president and former nominee. In recent months, Secret Service agents discovered what appeared to be a sniper position near Palm Beach International Airport during an advance security sweep — though no suspects were identified in that case.
