FL Attorney General Challenges FBI, DOJ Over Second Trump Assassination Attempt

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Attorney General Ashley Moody called on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to formally declare whether they will obstruct Florida’s investigation into the recent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump.

On September 15, 2024, an armed individual managed to evade detection for twelve hours near Trump International Golf Club, coming within hundreds of yards of the former president before being apprehended. This incident marks the second assassination attempt against Trump in two months, following which the head of the Secret Service resigned amid rising concerns about the agency's effectiveness.

Attorney General Moody emphasized the importance of dual sovereignty in concurrent investigations, which often see state and federal agencies collaborating to uphold public safety.

Moody also expressed her concern after reports emerged suggesting that FBI and DOJ officials may not cooperate with Florida's investigation or grant access to vital evidence. Furthermore, there have been indications that federal agents might interpret the investigation as a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 351(f), which could impede Florida's legal rights.

In her letter to FBI Director Christopher Wray and U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe, Moody requested clarification on the invocation of § 351(f) and its implications for state authority. She underscored that any assertion of federal jurisdiction should be formally documented and clearly communicated.

Moody has requested a response from the federal authorities by Friday, September 27, to ensure timely collaboration on this critical matter.

For further details, please refer to the full letter from Attorney General Ashley Moody.