Schiff Criticizes FBI Raid on Bolton, Drawing Comparisons to Trump’s Rhetoric

California Senator Adam Schiff criticized the FBI’s recent raid on former National Security Advisor John Bolton’s home, calling it “clearly retribution”. The raid, which occurred on August 25, 2025, was part of an investigation into Bolton’s alleged possession of classified documents.

During an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Schiff expressed his belief that the investigation should not be prematurely judged. However, he quickly dismissed the idea of allowing the justice system to proceed without interference, stating, “I think this is clearly retribution.”

Schiff elaborated on his concerns, saying, “What the president is trying to do here is very systemic and systematic, and that is, anyone who stands up to the president, anyone who criticizes the president, anyone who says anything adverse to the president’s interest gets the full weight of the federal government brought down on them.”

This statement has drawn attention due to its contrast with Schiff’s previous comments regarding former President Donald Trump’s criticisms of the FBI. In August 2022, Schiff accused Trump of inciting violence against the FBI after the agency conducted a raid on Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate.

At that time, Schiff stated, “Part of what is responsible is we have the former president really stoking this, calling the FBI corrupt because they searched Mar-a-Lago when it appears they had every reason to do so and more.”

Critics of Schiff’s latest remarks argue that his condemnation of the Bolton raid mirrors the same rhetoric he once criticized Trump for using. They suggest that if Trump’s comments about the FBI were deemed incitement, then Schiff’s statements could be viewed similarly.

Political analysts note that this situation highlights the complexities of political speech regarding federal agencies. Some argue that public criticism of the FBI is a fundamental aspect of democratic discourse, while others warn that such rhetoric can undermine public trust in law enforcement.

As the investigation into Bolton continues, the implications of Schiff’s comments may resonate beyond the immediate context. The ongoing debate over the appropriateness of political rhetoric surrounding federal investigations remains a contentious issue in American politics.

In the wake of these events, the FBI has not publicly commented on Schiff’s assertions. The agency’s actions, particularly in politically charged cases, continue to draw scrutiny from various political factions.

As the situation develops, both supporters and critics of Schiff will likely continue to analyze the impact of his statements on public perception of the FBI and the broader implications for political discourse in the United States.