Donald Trump has publicly stated that he was not informed about the recent FBI raid on the home of former national security adviser John Bolton. The remarks were made during an impromptu visit to the People’s House exhibit, located near the White House. While wearing a hat that read, “Trump was right about everything,” Trump expressed his discontent with Bolton, labeling him as a “lowlife” and questioning his intelligence. “He could be very unpatriotic,” Trump asserted, adding that he plans to gather more information from the Justice Department regarding the details of the raid.
“I tell the group I don’t want to know, but just you have to do what you have to do. I don’t want to know about it,” Trump commented, indicating his desire to remain uninformed about certain operational matters.
Earlier in the day, Trump made headlines by reiterating his contentious claims regarding the murder rate in Washington, D.C. He highlighted the absence of murders over the past week, stating, “D.C. was a hellhole, and now it’s safe.” Trump noted that this was remarkable, suggesting it was unprecedented for the capital not to experience a murder in a week. However, data from D.C. police records contradicts this assertion, revealing that the city had previously experienced similar stretches without homicides.
Despite the evidence, Trump has continuously alleged that D.C. officials are manipulating crime statistics, although he has provided no substantiating evidence for these claims.
In another significant development, Jerome Powell, the chair of the Federal Reserve, hinted that the central bank might resume interest rate cuts next month. During a recent speech, Powell acknowledged that the U.S. economy has encountered “new challenges” over the past year, specifically citing how tariffs instituted during the Trump administration have contributed to rising prices across various goods.
Powell emphasized that the implications of these tariffs are likely to accumulate over time, leading to increased uncertainty regarding their impact. He also noted that tighter immigration policies have resulted in a noticeable slowdown in labor force growth. Moreover, Powell mentioned that changes in tax, spending, and regulatory policies from the Trump administration could have long-lasting effects on economic productivity.
While Powell's address did not touch upon the political pressure faced by the Federal Reserve, especially following Trump's threats to dismiss him, he reiterated the bank’s commitment to fostering maximum employment and maintaining stable prices for the American populace.
As the situation surrounding the FBI raid on Bolton's home unfolds, key leaders from the Justice Department have publicly supported FBI Director Kash Patel, who shared a post on social media emphasizing that America’s safety is non-negotiable. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi tweeted about the ongoing efforts to pursue justice, stating, “Public corruption will not be tolerated.” These statements reflect a strong stance on the importance of accountability.
Reports indicate that the FBI's search of Bolton's Bethesda, Maryland residence is focused on whether he improperly retained or disclosed classified information. This information comes from a recent report by the New York Times, adding another layer to the complexity of the situation.
In related news, Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that there have been a total of 719 arrests in D.C. since a federal law enforcement surge commenced on August 7. This surge has also led to the seizure of 91 illegal firearms, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat crime in the capital.
As the FBI's activities continued, Bolton was seen in conversation with individuals identified as FBI agents at the office building where he maintains an office. He later left the premises shortly after, unaware of the raid that was taking place at his home.
Public figures and commentators have reacted to the raid, with some, including former White House adviser Meghan Hays, describing it as “extremely political” and suggesting it reflects personal vendetta rather than a legitimate investigation. Additionally, political operative Roger Stone took to social media to comment on Bolton’s situation, questioning how it feels to have one’s home raided at dawn.
As the day progresses, all eyes remain on Donald Trump, who is scheduled to make an announcement from the Oval Office. The developments surrounding the FBI raid and Trump’s responses are sure to dominate headlines in the coming hours.
