On Sunday, a Secret Service agent observed a rifle barrel emerging from the bushes at a golf course in West Palm Beach, where former President Donald Trump was playing, prompting the agent to open fire.
A man suspected of attempting to assassinate Donald Trump appeared in federal court on Monday, September 16, charged with two gun-related crimes. The charges, including possession of a firearm as a convicted felon and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, were filed a day after he was seen hiding with a rifle at Trump’s golf course. Authorities are expected to file additional charges as the investigation unfolds.
The suspect, identified as 58-year-old Ryan Routh, fled the scene by car, leaving behind two backpacks and his weapon. He was later arrested and appeared in court wearing dark prison scrubs, with his hands and feet shackled. Despite the close proximity of the incident, Trump was unharmed. This event raises significant questions regarding security measures, especially considering a similar incident occurred just two months prior in Butler, Pennsylvania, where another gunman fired at Trump.
President Joe Biden emphasized the need for increased support for the Secret Service, stating, “Thank God the president’s OK.” The agency has faced scrutiny and personnel changes following these security breaches, including the resignation of former Director Kimberly Cheatle. Acting Director Ronald Rowe, who has been with the Secret Service for 25 years, assumed his role following Cheatle’s resignation and has since committed to addressing these lapses.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has called for a thorough investigation and enhanced resources to ensure the safety of presidential candidates. He stated, “We need accountability” in response to the recent incident. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democrats have reiterated their stance against violence, with Harris declaring, “Violence has no place in America.”
Routh, a supporter of Ukraine, had traveled to the country after Russia’s 2022 invasion, reportedly attempting to recruit foreign fighters. Social media profiles linked to Routh contained posts critical of Trump and supportive of Ukraine. One post read, “@POTUS Your campaign should be called something like KADAF. Keep America democratic and free. Trumps should be MASA …make Americans slaves again master. DEMOCRACY is on the ballot and we cannot lose.” However, these accounts were not confirmed as belonging to Routh, and access to them was restricted following the incident.
Trump has accused Biden and Harris of inciting violence through their rhetoric, although no evidence has been provided to support this claim. Trump’s comments on the matter reflect his ongoing conflict with the current administration. Elon Musk, owner of the social media site X, made a controversial post questioning why no one had attempted to assassinate Biden or Harris, which he later deleted, claiming it was a joke.
The recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump has highlighted significant security concerns and sparked a call for increased protection measures. As investigations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of presidential candidates and addressing any potential threats.
Source: Rappler