Travis Lang Deemed Unfit for Trial Following Threats Against Politicians

Irmo, South Carolina, August 31, 2025

News Summary

A federal judge has ruled Travis Lang, 47, unfit for trial due to mental health issues after he threatened President Trump and former President Biden. Diagnosed with a delusional disorder, he believes in conspiracies hindering his presidential ambitions. He faces charges related to these threats and will undergo treatment to evaluate his competency for trial.

Irmo, South Carolina – A federal judge has ruled that 47-year-old Travis Lang is unfit for trial following his arrest in March 2025 for making threats against President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, and other politicians. Lang’s alarming statements were communicated through Facebook messages directed at his son and various posts on social media, where he asserted his intention to kill these political figures due to what he described as their “abuse and misuse of office.”

Lang’s history of threatening remarks towards politicians spans back to 2020, affecting members of both major political parties. In a judicial hearing, psychologist Lauren Schumacher diagnosed him with a delusional disorder, indicating that he believes in various conspiracies aimed at thwarting his aspirations to run for president. Though he filed to be a Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election, Lang did not meet the financial obligations necessary to secure his place on the South Carolina ballot.

His campaign was mainly self-funded, with Lang investing $6,000 of his own money, of which around $2,500 was spent as per records from the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Notably, the court noted Lang’s understanding of legal principles; however, his delusions significantly hinder his capacity to effectively assist his defense representatives.

During the hearing, the court highlighted Lang’s concerning beliefs, which include possessing unique knowledge about the now-abandoned V.C. Summer nuclear power plant, where he had worked as an inspector prior to its closure in 2017. Compounding the issue, Lang has resisted medication that may alleviate his condition, adamantly insisting on his competence, which complicates his legal situation.

U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie has mandated that Lang be treated at a hospital in North Carolina for up to four months. This treatment aims to assess whether he can regain competency for trial. If he is found to be unfit for trial, a subsequent court appearance might be necessary to deliberate on the possible implementation of mandated medication.

The severity of the threats has been underscored by the prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Matthews characterized the case as one involving charges not commonly seen. While the specifics of Lang’s messages threatening the President were not publicly detailed, it was mentioned that there had been prior interactions with the Secret Service, which could indicate the seriousness of the threats made.

Currently, Lang remains detained at the Lexington County Detention Center and has entered a plea of not guilty to the charges against him.

Background Context

Travis Lang’s case sheds light on the complications surrounding mental health and the legal system when threats against public officials are involved. The intricate factors influencing his threats and the ongoing evaluation of his mental fitness will be pivotal in determining both his future and the response by law enforcement. Lang’s background as an inspector and his presidential ambitions, although labeled delusional, provide a broader understanding of the elusive complexities entwined with mental health issues in relation to public safety.

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Key Features of the Case

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Federal Judge Rules Travis Lang Incompetent for Trial
Former Nuclear Inspector Declared Incompetent for Trial

Additional Resources

• SC Daily Gazette
• Wikipedia: Threats to Public Officials
• WIS News
• Google Search: Travis Lang threats against politicians
• WLTX
• Google Scholar: Mental Health and Legal System
• The State
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Mental Health Law
• WBTV
• Google News: Travis Lang

Author: STAFF HERE IRMO

The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.