In a notable development, the FBI executed searches at the residence and office of John Bolton, who previously served as Donald Trump's national security adviser. This operation unfolded as part of an investigation focused on the potential mishandling of classified information. Bolton, known for his critical stance towards Trump since his exit from the administration in 2019, has faced allegations regarding his treatment of classified materials, particularly highlighted in his 2020 memoir.
While the FBI has refrained from providing extensive commentary on the ongoing matter, sources have indicated to CBS News that the inquiries are linked to classified documents. As of now, Bolton has not been charged with any crime, nor has he been detained. Trump, commenting on the investigation, distanced himself from the situation, labeling Bolton as a "sleazebag," yet denied involvement in the directive for the searches.
Vice President JD Vance confirmed during an NBC News interview that classified documents are indeed central to the investigation. He urged that any pursued legal action would hinge on whether Bolton is found to have breached any laws, asserting that the probe is free from political motivations, contrary to claims from some Democratic officials.
Footage displayed police vehicles and FBI agents at Bolton's home located in Bethesda, Maryland, where they were seen transporting boxes into the premises. Amidst the search, Bolton returned home but chose not to engage with reporters present.
In his previous publication, "The Room Where it Happened," Bolton did not shy away from critiquing Trump, stating that substantial evidence underscores Trump's unsuitability for the presidency. Formerly, the Justice Department accused him of violating agreements concerning classified disclosures, though the suit was ultimately dropped in mid-2021.
As this search took place, FBI Director Kash Patel made a statement on social media proclaiming that "no one is above the law," a sentiment echoed by Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasizing the pursuit of justice. Bolton has had a tumultuous relationship with Trump, particularly regarding military interventions overseas, and has criticized the administration's actions concerning the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
This case not only marks a significant moment in Bolton's fraught history with Trump but also reflects a broader landscape where multiple adversaries of the former president, such as New York Attorney General Letitia James and Democratic Senator Adam Schiff, have found themselves under investigation since Trump's presidency resumed.
While the FBI has refrained from providing extensive commentary on the ongoing matter, sources have indicated to CBS News that the inquiries are linked to classified documents. As of now, Bolton has not been charged with any crime, nor has he been detained. Trump, commenting on the investigation, distanced himself from the situation, labeling Bolton as a "sleazebag," yet denied involvement in the directive for the searches.
Vice President JD Vance confirmed during an NBC News interview that classified documents are indeed central to the investigation. He urged that any pursued legal action would hinge on whether Bolton is found to have breached any laws, asserting that the probe is free from political motivations, contrary to claims from some Democratic officials.
Footage displayed police vehicles and FBI agents at Bolton's home located in Bethesda, Maryland, where they were seen transporting boxes into the premises. Amidst the search, Bolton returned home but chose not to engage with reporters present.
In his previous publication, "The Room Where it Happened," Bolton did not shy away from critiquing Trump, stating that substantial evidence underscores Trump's unsuitability for the presidency. Formerly, the Justice Department accused him of violating agreements concerning classified disclosures, though the suit was ultimately dropped in mid-2021.
As this search took place, FBI Director Kash Patel made a statement on social media proclaiming that "no one is above the law," a sentiment echoed by Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasizing the pursuit of justice. Bolton has had a tumultuous relationship with Trump, particularly regarding military interventions overseas, and has criticized the administration's actions concerning the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
This case not only marks a significant moment in Bolton's fraught history with Trump but also reflects a broader landscape where multiple adversaries of the former president, such as New York Attorney General Letitia James and Democratic Senator Adam Schiff, have found themselves under investigation since Trump's presidency resumed.
