Ryan Routh, the man accused of attempting to assassinate former President Donald Trump, has requested that U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon step down from overseeing his trial.
Routh’s attorneys claim that Cannon, who was appointed by Trump, may not be able to maintain impartiality in this high-profile case.
The legal motion filed by Routh’s defense team points to what they describe as “unprecedented circumstances” surrounding the case, particularly the close ties between Judge Cannon and Trump.
Their argument hinges on the fact that Trump, who is a current candidate for the 2024 presidential election, has openly praised Cannon for her previous rulings in his favor, specifically in connection with his ongoing classified documents case.
Judge Cannon was randomly assigned to preside over Routh’s criminal case.
Routh’s attorneys argue that Trump’s vocal support for Cannon could create a perception of bias.
In their motion, they highlighted Trump’s stake in the outcome of Routh’s case, given that Trump is the alleged victim.
Should Trump win the 2024 election, the defense noted, he would hold the power to elevate judges to higher courts, potentially impacting Cannon’s future judicial career.
Routh faces five criminal counts, including attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, as well as multiple firearm-related charges.
His alleged actions include stalking the perimeter of Trump’s West Palm Beach golf course with a rifle, waiting for an opportunity to strike before being spotted by a Secret Service agent.
This is the second attempt on Trump’s life in recent months, escalating concerns about his personal safety during the ongoing campaign.
If convicted, Routh could face life in prison.
His legal team insists that federal law mandates Cannon’s recusal, citing concerns that her connection to Trump could influence the trial’s outcome.
“By repeatedly and publicly praising this Court by name for its rulings in his case, Mr. Trump has arguably bolstered the perception that the Court is partial in his favor,” they wrote in their filing.
Federal prosecutors have yet to take an official stance on Routh’s request for recusal, although they are reportedly reviewing the matter.
The decision on whether Cannon will continue to preside over the case could have significant consequences, both legally and politically.
Any judge the finds him guilty has the potential of being promoted if Trump wins next month. Should we just drop all charges because a guilty verdict would be prejudicial?