The Justice Department has released startling text messages that shed light on an alleged assassination plot against former President Trump by Ryan Routh, a 58-year-old man. On May 2, 2025, court documents revealed exchanges between Routh and a Mexican smuggler known as "Ramiro," which took place in early 2024.
According to the filings, Routh engaged in discussions with Ramiro about transporting a family of Afghan refugees from Amecameca, Mexico, to Eagle Pass, Texas. The DOJ posits that these communications provide insight into Routh's potential escape strategy after his planned assassination attempt on Trump.
The family, reportedly fleeing Taliban threats in Afghanistan, seemed to be the focus of Routh's texts. He indicated an urgent need to assist them, describing it as a "humanitarian mission." The text exchanges show Routh arguing over the $1,800 fee Ramiro quoted for the service, suggesting his primary concern was aiding the family, not profiting from the operation.
Routh, who indicated he was no longer in the roofing business and had relocated to Hawaii, showed a sense of urgency in helping the family, emphasizing the danger they faced. During the conversations, he expressed frustration with the cost, highlighting his non-financial motivation.
Days before the assassination attempt at Trump's West Palm Beach country club in September 2024, Routh hinted at a possible meeting with Ramiro. The Secret Service thwarted the plot when they intercepted Routh aiming a rifle at the president. A subsequent arrest led to the discovery of a note that detailed his intentions.
The text messages have now become a focal point, with the defense arguing they are irrelevant to the assassination case. However, prosecutors insist these texts are crucial for understanding Routh's motives and escape plans. The court has allowed the evidence, overruling the defense's objections.
Routh's alleged criminal activities extend beyond the texts. Last month's court documents disclosed his attempts to acquire military-grade weapons, including a rocket launcher, from a Ukrainian contact. This request for heavy arms supports the prosecutors' case that Routh intended to cause serious harm.
As Routh's September 8, 2025, trial approaches, these revelations add a new dimension to the already complex case. The DOJ's presentation of the text messages aims to paint a comprehensive picture of the suspect's mindset and his desperate measures to evade capture had his assassination attempt been successful.