FBI Raids Home of John Bolton, Trump’s Former Adviser and Critic

Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Left-Leaning

Why: The article highlights government “retribution” against critics of Trump and portrays Bolton’s criticism of Trump more prominently than Trump’s defense, reflecting a skeptical tone toward the administration.

What Happened

The FBI searched the Maryland home of John Bolton, former National Security Adviser under President Donald Trump. The search was reportedly part of a national security probe into Bolton’s handling of classified information. Police cars were seen outside Bolton’s residence in Bethesda, and witnesses later observed FBI agents carrying bags into a Washington, DC, building where Bolton works.

Trump’s Response

Trump told reporters he had no prior knowledge of the raid.

“No, I don’t know about it. I saw it on television this morning,” Trump said.
He also criticized Bolton, calling him “a real sort of a lowlife” and “not a smart guy.”

Trump added that decisions on such raids were left to Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice. He said he prefers not to be directly involved but noted, “I could know about it. I could be the one starting it. I’m actually the chief law enforcement officer.”

FBI’s Position

FBI Director Kash Patel did not mention Bolton directly but stated in a social media post:

“NO ONE is above the law.”
He described FBI agents as “on mission,” signaling a firm stance on accountability in national security cases.

Bolton’s History with Trump

Bolton served as a hawkish adviser during several Republican administrations.
He was known as an advocate for the Iraq War under President George W. Bush.
In his memoir, The Room Where It Happened, Bolton gave a harsh assessment of Trump, accusing him of mixing personal and national interests.
He frequently appears on television criticizing Trump’s policies.

Trump, in turn, has criticized Bolton for being overly aggressive in foreign policy and has used him as an example of what he calls “unpatriotic” behavior.

Escalating Government Actions Against Critics

This is not the first move against Bolton:

Trump cancelled Bolton’s security clearance on his first day back in the White House.
Days later, Bolton’s government-provided security detail was revoked.

Bolton responded at the time: “I am disappointed but not surprised.”

Broader Context

The Department of Justice has also opened investigations targeting several of Trump’s critics:

Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff, long a vocal opponent of Trump.
New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his company.

At the same time, Special Counsel Jack Smith, who led two federal investigations into Trump, is facing a probe from the Office of the Special Counsel over Republican allegations that his inquiries violated the Hatch Act.

Why It Matters

The FBI raid on Bolton’s home adds to growing fears that the Trump administration is using federal power against political rivals and outspoken critics. Bolton himself recently described Trump’s approach as a “retribution presidency.” This latest move raises questions about the balance between legitimate national security investigations and potential political retaliation.