FBI Raids Home of Former National Security Advisor John Bolton

The FBI conducted a raid on the home of former National Security Advisor John Bolton in Bethesda, Maryland, on Friday morning as part of an ongoing investigation into his alleged possession of classified documents.

Federal agents arrived at Bolton’s residence around 7 a.m., according to a report by the New York Post. Following the raid at his home, officials were also seen at Bolton’s Washington, D.C. office, where they were reportedly removing boxes. Bolton was present in the lobby during this activity.

Kash Patel, the FBI Director and a former Trump administration official, appeared to confirm the raid through a post on social media platform X, stating, “NO ONE is above the law… @FBI agents on mission.”

Dan Bongino, FBI Co-Deputy Director, echoed this sentiment in a separate post, emphasizing that “public corruption will not be tolerated.”

Sources familiar with the investigation indicated that the searches are linked to Bolton’s alleged retention of classified documents. A senior U.S. official noted that the investigation, which began in 2020, was previously halted by the Biden administration for what was described as political reasons.

The inquiry reportedly stems from a criminal investigation initiated by the Trump administration concerning Bolton’s disclosures in his book, “The Room Where It Happened.” The book, which includes sensitive national security information, was a point of contention, with President Trump previously attempting to block its publication, claiming Bolton violated a non-disclosure agreement.

As of now, Bolton has not been arrested or charged with any crimes. Since leaving the Trump administration, he has been a vocal critic of Trump, particularly regarding issues of national security and classified information.

In August 2022, Bolton criticized Trump following the FBI’s raid on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, stating that Trump did not respect the classification system and had a tendency to retain sensitive documents. “He liked cool things, he saw things … so he wanted to take them,” Bolton said during an appearance on MSNBC.

Bolton’s comments reflect a broader concern among some former officials regarding the handling of classified materials during Trump’s presidency. He has described the situation as “very disturbing,” noting that efforts were made to recover classified documents but often fell short.

The investigation into Bolton’s actions is part of a larger narrative surrounding the handling of classified information by former officials. In July 2024, a federal judge dismissed charges against Trump related to classified documents, citing constitutional issues with the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith.

As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what implications this raid will have for Bolton and the broader political landscape. Critics of the Biden administration may view the timing and nature of the raid as politically motivated, while supporters argue it underscores the commitment to uphold the rule of law.