Lothar Speer, NBC News Channel

FORT PIERCE, Fla. — Opening statements are set to begin Thursday for the trial of a man charged with trying to assassinate President Donald Trump while he played golf near West Palm Beach last year, when he was campaigning for a second term.

Ryan Routh is representing himself after U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon agreed to let him dismiss his court-appointed attorneys. They are, however, standing by in the courtroom if needed. Jury selected for Ryan Routh trial in Trump assassination attempt

He has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate, assaulting a federal officer and several firearm violations.

Until this week, Routh has appeared at hearings shackled at the wrists and ankles and dressed in a tan

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