The Brit Who Tried To Kill Trump

The Brit Who Tried To Kill Trump follows the extraordinary case of Michael Sandford, a young British man who attempted to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump in 2016. It traces the events leading up to the incident, its aftermath, and the complex circumstances surrounding Sandford’s actions.

The documentary begins by introducing Michael Sandford, a 20-year-old from Surrey, England, with a history of mental health issues and autism spectrum disorder. It highlights his troubled childhood and adolescence, focusing on his challenges in social interactions and struggles with depression and anxiety. Through interviews with Sandford’s family members and friends, viewers gain insight into a vulnerable young man who became increasingly isolated and detached from reality.

As the story unfolds, Sandford’s growing obsession with American politics and his fixation on Donald Trump come to light. Driven by a misguided sense of purpose, he traveled to the United States intending to carry out his ill-conceived plan. It details his preparations, including attempts to learn how to use a firearm and attendance at a Trump rally in Las Vegas.

The film reaches its climax as it recounts the events of June 18, 2016, when Sandford attempted to grab a police officer’s gun at a Trump rally in Las Vegas, intending to shoot the presidential candidate. A moment-by-moment account of the failed assassination attempt and Sandford’s immediate arrest is provided, followed by the legal proceedings, including his guilty plea and subsequent sentencing.

A compelling aspect of the story is its exploration of the intersection between mental health, political radicalization, and the criminal justice system. Through interviews with mental health experts and legal professionals, important questions are raised about the treatment of individuals with mental illness who commit politically motivated crimes. It also examines the role of media and online echo chambers in shaping extreme political views and actions.

The broader implications of Sandford’s case are addressed, discussing heightened security concerns surrounding political figures and the potential consequences of political rhetoric in influencing vulnerable individuals. Additionally, it touches on the diplomatic tensions that arose between the United States and the United Kingdom as a result of the incident.

The documentary concludes by reflecting on the aftermath, including Sandford’s time in prison and his eventual deportation back to the United Kingdom. Updates on his current situation and the ongoing impact of his actions on his family and himself are provided, leaving viewers with much to ponder about the nature of political extremism, mental health support, and the potential for rehabilitation in cases like Sandford’s.