Man Convicted of Trump Assassination Attempt Appeals Life Sentence

Ryan Routh claims he was unable to effectively defend himself at trial.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Ryan Routh, who was convicted last year of attempting to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2024, is appealing his life sentence. Routh's attorney filed a notice indicating he would appeal the final judgment and life sentence to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. Routh had pushed for a lighter sentence, citing his decision to fire his previous defense attorneys and represent himself in court.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of balancing defendants' constitutional rights with public safety concerns, especially in high-profile political crimes. Routh's appeal could set a precedent on how courts handle self-representation in serious federal cases.

The details

Routh was found guilty of all five counts last year, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate, which can carry a maximum sentence of life in prison. During sentencing, prosecutors argued that Routh had plotted for months to kill Trump and showed no remorse. The judge sided with the Justice Department, saying there was overwhelming evidence that Routh's crimes satisfied the federal terrorism statute.

  • Routh was arrested on September 15, 2024 for the attempted assassination of then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in West Palm Beach, Florida.
  • Routh was convicted in 2025.
  • Routh was sentenced to life in prison plus an additional 7 years on February 4, 2026.
  • Routh filed a notice to appeal the final judgment and life sentence on February 13, 2026.

The players

Ryan Routh

The man convicted of attempting to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2024.

Martin Roth

Routh's current defense attorney who filed the notice to appeal the life sentence.

Aileen Cannon

The U.S. District Judge who sentenced Routh to life in prison plus an additional 7 years.

John Shipley

The prosecutor who called for a life sentence, arguing that Routh had been prepared to kill or assault anyone who interfered with his plan to assassinate Trump.

Robert Fercano

The former Secret Service Special Agent who spotted Routh in the tree line near Trump's golf club in West Palm Beach in September 2024.

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What they’re saying

“Defendant recognizes that he was found guilty by the jury but asserts that the jury was misled by his inability to effectively confront witnesses, use exhibits or affirmatively introduce impeachment evidence designed to prove his lack of intent to cause injury to anyone.”

— Martin Roth, Routh's current defense attorney

“The Constitution affords citizens many peaceful avenues to oppose or express strong dissent about a Presidential candidate—murder is not one of them.”

— John Shipley, Prosecutor

What’s next

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit will review Routh's appeal of the final judgment and life sentence.

The takeaway

This case underscores the delicate balance courts must strike between defendants' rights and public safety, especially in high-profile political crimes. Routh's appeal could set an important precedent on how courts handle self-representation in serious federal cases.