John Bolton, then national security adviser, listens to President Trump during a White House cabinet meeting in April 2018. AP
The FBI carried out a court-authorized search Friday at former national security adviser John Bolton’s home and office. Investigators are looking into whether he disclosed classified information in his 2020 book.
The searches sparked debate immediately, with critics claiming political targeting, though officials did not clarify the exact reason.
Bolton’s History with Trump
Bolton served as President Donald Trump’s national security adviser but was fired in 2019. Since then, the two have often clashed. Trump threatened to jail Bolton over his 2020 book, which criticized Trump’s foreign policy knowledge. The Justice Department investigated the book during Trump’s first term, but the case closed under President Joe Biden.
Bolton has remained a vocal critic of Trump’s policies, particularly regarding Ukraine. He frequently criticizes the president’s perceived deference to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
FBI Activity on Friday
FBI agents were observed at Bolton’s Washington, DC-area home Friday morning. They spoke to a person on the porch, entered the house, and brought in several bags. At the same time, the FBI searched Bolton’s downtown office, with multiple unmarked vehicles outside.
Officials say the searches reopened a years-old investigation into Bolton’s book and are also exploring other potential leaks.
Trump’s Reaction
When asked about the searches, Trump said he knew “nothing about it” but suggested he could have started such actions himself. He called Bolton a “low life” and criticized his past actions.
Trump said, “I don’t want to know about it. It’s not necessary. I could know about it. I could be the one starting it, and I’m actually the chief law enforcement officer. But I feel that it’s better this way.”
Vice President Comments
Vice President JD Vance said the investigation focuses on classified documents but denied political motivations. He emphasized that any case would be based on law, not politics, and said, “Even if they disagree with us politically, maybe especially if they disagree with us politically — you shouldn’t throw people willy-nilly in prison.”
Bolton’s Response
Bolton said he was unaware of the FBI activity and was looking into it. His attorney has not commented publicly.
Background on Bolton’s Book and Criticism
Bolton’s book, The Room Where It Happened, criticized Trump’s foreign policy and claimed he asked foreign leaders to influence the 2020 election. Career White House officials initially cleared the material, but Trump-appointed officials tried to block its publication.
Bolton has consistently questioned Trump’s leadership and decision-making. He has criticized the president’s efforts to negotiate with Russia over Ukraine, saying, “Putin clearly won.”
Public Reaction and Concerns
The visible FBI presence at Bolton’s home led some neighbours to suggest political retribution. Senior officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel, posted on social media emphasizing that no one is above the law.
Bolton, a conservative with experience in multiple administrations, has remained a political opponent of Trump since leaving the White House.
