FBI Foils Second Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump at Florida Golf Course

In an unsettling incident at his West Palm Beach golf course, former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt, according to the FBI. The attack comes just two months after a previous attempt on his life during a Pennsylvania rally. Trump was unharmed, and authorities quickly apprehended the suspect.

The incident unfolded Sunday afternoon while Trump was playing a round of golf. Secret Service agents, positioned nearby, noticed an individual wielding a rifle with a scope from the perimeter shrubbery of the course, approximately 400 yards away. The agents swiftly reacted, opening fire, causing the gunman to abandon the rifle and flee in an SUV. The suspect was later captured in a neighboring county. The FBI, which is leading the investigation, identified the suspect as Ryan Wesley Routh, aged 58.

Law enforcement found an AR-style rifle, two backpacks, and a GoPro camera at the scene. Palm Beach County Sheriff Ric Bradshaw commended the Secret Service for their prompt actions, emphasizing that their protection efforts were effective despite limited security, as Trump is no longer the sitting president.

In a statement to his supporters, Trump assured everyone of his safety, writing, “I AM SAFE AND WELL!” He vowed to continue his campaign undeterred, stating, “Nothing will slow me down. I will NEVER SURRENDER!” The incident is not expected to affect his upcoming campaign appearances, including a town hall in Michigan and a rally in New York.

Trump’s running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, expressed his relief that Trump was safe, having spoken to him soon after the incident. The White House also acknowledged the event, with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris being briefed. Harris reiterated that violence has no place in the country.

This marks the second assassination attempt on Trump in recent months. During the July rally in Pennsylvania, Trump was grazed by a bullet, while one supporter was killed, and two others were injured. The Secret Service has since increased security around the former president, but questions remain about their preparedness and response to these recurring threats.

The investigation into the motive behind the latest attack is ongoing, with federal agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, assisting. Attorney General Merrick Garland has been receiving regular updates on the situation.

As this story develops, it continues to raise concerns about the safety of high-profile political figures and the potential impact on the 2024 presidential campaign, now just weeks away from Election Day.