Photo:Ryan Wesley Routh’s Rifle (Obliterated and Unreadable Serial Number Showcase); public domain
The FBI’s failure to act on credible threats has come under renewed scrutiny following the second assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. Just the News reports that the suspect, Ryan Wesley Routh, was flagged to the FBI as early as 2019 for illegally possessing a firearm, yet the bureau failed to act. This is not an isolated incident, but part of a troubling pattern of missed opportunities, where the FBI had prior knowledge of dangerous individuals but took no meaningful action.
Routh’s case highlights a systemic failure within the FBI to prioritize national security over bureaucratic procedure. Despite being a convicted felon, Routh was able to possess a firearm and allegedly aim an AK-47 at Trump’s golf course. The FBI passed the tip to local law enforcement but did not follow through. This is eerily similar to other high-profile cases, such as the Parkland and Orlando shootings, where warnings were ignored, and lives were lost.
Democrats love to tout the FBI as a critical tool in preventing domestic terrorism, yet when it comes to real threats like attempted assassinations and mass shootings, the bureau consistently falls short. This incompetence has deadly consequences. The FBI’s inability to act on clear and present dangers—like school shooters and nightclub attackers—leaves Americans more vulnerable.
The bureau’s excuses about receiving too many tips are unacceptable. If they have the resources to focus on politically motivated investigations, like going after traditional Catholics or pro-lifers, they should be able to prioritize stopping actual threats. The failure of the FBI to act on crucial information reflects not only incompetence but a lack of accountability. It’s time for real reforms to ensure that the FBI does its job—protecting Americans from real threats, not chasing political agendas.
