The man accused of attempting to kill US President Donald Trump last year at his Florida golf course began his trial on Monday and, facing the prospect of life in prison, opted to fire his legal team and defend himself in court.

Ryan Routh, 59, faces five charges including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate. Prosecutors alleged he concealed himself with a rifle near the sixth green of Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach intending to shoot Mr Trump during a round of golf in the final weeks of the 2024 campaign.

A US Secret Service agent spotted Mr Routh hiding in the tree line and opened fire, prompting Mr Routh to flee before he fired a shot, according to court documents.

Mr Routh has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The trial in federal court in F

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