Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has launched a state-led investigation into the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at his West Palm Beach golf club, raising concerns over federal transparency and cooperation.
DeSantis issued the directive under Executive Order 24-197, instructing state law enforcement agencies to take the lead in investigating the incident, citing frustrations with federal authorities.
🚨 #BREAKING: Gov. Ron DeSantis just told Fox News that the Feds are BLOCKING his investigators’ access at Trump’s golf course where the 2nd attempt on Trump’s life occurred
WHY?
Attempted m*rder is a STATE CRIME. How do the Feds have the right to block that investigation?
Is… pic.twitter.com/pwFfAru5Il
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) September 20, 2024
During a press conference on September 17, 2024, DeSantis explained that the state has jurisdiction over the crime and can bring attempted murder charges against the suspect, identified as Ryan Routh.
DeSantis criticized the federal government, particularly the FBI, for allegedly obstructing state investigators and hindering Florida’s efforts to uncover the truth behind the assassination attempt.
“The FBI’s unwillingness to include Florida in this investigation raises serious concerns, particularly as there were numerous violations of Florida law,” DeSantis said, emphasizing the state’s responsibility to ensure transparency.
DeSantis tasked the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) with conducting an independent probe.
The governor expressed frustration with the lack of federal cooperation, noting that state investigators had been blocked from fully accessing the crime scene at Trump’s golf course.
He reiterated that Florida’s investigation would be thorough and transparent, criticizing the federal response to the incident.
“This deranged, would-be assassin broke Florida law, and we will not wait on the federal government to act,” Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody said in a statement. Moody added that her office would prosecute any violations of state law connected to the assassination attempt and underscored the urgency of the investigation.
Florida law enforcement agencies, including FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass and Dave Kerner, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, voiced their commitment to pursuing the investigation.
“The people of Florida deserve answers, and we will not stop until we know the truth and how we can best prevent similar attacks in Florida,” Glass stated. Kerner echoed the sentiment, saying, “We accept this mission with humility, and with our law enforcement partners, Florida will get to the bottom of this.”
The decision to conduct a state-led investigation has sparked mixed reactions, with some legal experts raising concerns about the potential for overlapping jurisdiction.
Critics argue that a state probe might interfere with the FBI’s ongoing national security investigation.
Anthony V. Alfieri, a professor at the University of Miami, cautioned that the investigation could blur the lines between law enforcement and political motivations, potentially complicating the FBI’s efforts.
Palm Beach State Attorney Dave Aronberg also questioned the viability of a parallel investigation, citing federal jurisdiction over national security matters. “It’s unclear whether the state investigation will help or hinder the ongoing federal probe,” Aronberg said.
Despite these concerns, DeSantis defended the state’s decision to take independent action, pointing to previous instances where state authorities stepped in when federal agencies failed to act.
He cited the creation of Florida’s election police unit, which was established to handle election-related crimes traditionally overseen by local or federal entities.
“We’ve seen time and again how important it is for the state to step up when the federal government refuses to be transparent or take action,” DeSantis said, reaffirming his stance.
The investigation comes amid growing concerns about security for former President Trump, following multiple assassination attempts in recent months.
DeSantis stressed the need for increased protection for Trump and criticized the federal government for not doing enough to safeguard the former president.
🚨 BREAKING: BULLETPROOF PROJECT UPDATE
Matt Gaetz reveals there are FIVE ASSASSINATION TEAMS targeting President Trump, per DHS source
On American soilpic.twitter.com/qYMTubJtFr
— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) September 19, 2024
As the investigation continues, Florida law enforcement agencies have pledged full transparency to the public.
Governor DeSantis’ move to launch an independent investigation highlights his determination to ensure justice and accountability, while also fueling broader discussions about the roles of state and federal agencies in high-profile cases.
