The criminal trial of the man accused of trying to assassinate U.S. President Donald Trump at his Florida golf course begins with opening statements on Thursday, with defendant Ryan Routh representing himself in a proceeding set to showcase the increasing prominence of political violence in the U.S.

Routh, 59, has pleaded not guilty to five federal charges, including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

In July, Routh told the court that he did not trust a "random stranger" to speak for him and would defend himself. His two former public defenders are now serving as standby lawyers to assist with logistical issues.

On Monday, according to an Associated Press report, he told prospective jurors he was "sorry for bringing

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