WASHINGTON, D.C. – The FBI conducted a search on the residence and office of former National Security Advisor John Bolton, focusing on his handling of classified documents from his tenure under President Trump. The operation commenced early in the morning and spanned nearly eight hours, extending to Bolton’s downtown Washington office.
The investigation into Bolton’s activities, which initially began during Trump’s presidency, had been previously set aside by the Biden administration. However, a federal judge had once remarked on Bolton’s potential risk to national security. Bolton, who has been a vocal critic of Trump, detailed in his 2020 memoir that Trump prioritized personal retribution, a sentiment that he believed would dominate a second term.
Former President Trump distanced himself from the search, claiming no prior knowledge of the FBI’s activities. He has previously criticized Bolton, calling him “unpatriotic” and questioning his intelligence. Trump had earlier removed Bolton’s security clearance and Secret Service detail due to threats from Iran.
Bolton’s criticisms of Trump have been frequent, particularly concerning Trump’s interactions with foreign leaders like Vladimir Putin. Bolton has also expressed disapproval of Trump’s choices for key positions, including FBI Director, likening them to historical secret police forces.
Kash Patel, who led the operation at Bolton’s home, emphasized the principle that “no one is above the law.” Bolton is among several Trump critics currently under investigation by the Department of Justice, along with a prominent New York prosecutor and a sitting senator.
The issue of mishandling classified information has troubled past national security advisors. Notable cases include Sandy Berger, who faced charges after serving under President Clinton. Trump himself was investigated in 2022 for similar allegations, though the case was dropped due to his presidential status at the time.
In related news, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that National Guard troops in Washington will soon be equipped with service-issued weapons, though the move is not linked to the recent developments.