Former Trump administration national security adviser John Bolton was charged on Thursday in a federal investigation concerning the potential mishandling of classified information. A source familiar with the matter confirmed the charges to The Associated Press. The full indictment can be accessed by clicking on the document provided below.
The investigation into John Bolton has garnered significant attention since it became public in August. This scrutiny intensified when the FBI conducted a search of his home in Maryland and his office in Washington, D.C., in search of classified records that he may have retained from his tenure in government. Bolton, who served as the national security adviser for over a year during President Donald Trump's first administration, was dismissed in 2019, and has since been a vocal critic of the former president.
News of the charges against Bolton broke during President Trump’s conversation with reporters in the Oval Office. The president stated that he was unaware of the indictment and subsequently criticized his former national security adviser. “I think he’s a bad person,” Trump remarked, adding, “He’s a bad guy.” His comments reflect the ongoing tensions between the former president and Bolton, highlighting the complexities of their relationship during and after their time in office.
The unfolding events surrounding John Bolton and the federal investigation into the mishandling of classified information underscore the vital role of a free press in a healthy democracy. As citizens, it is crucial to support trusted journalism and engage in civil dialogue, especially regarding matters that impact national security and governance.