FBI Raids John Bolton’s Home After His Criticism of Trump’s Tariff Policies.

FBI Raids John Bolton’s Home After His Criticism of Trump’s Tariff Policies

In a dramatic turn of events, FBI agents raided the home of John Bolton, former National Security Advisor to President Donald Trump, in Bethesda, Maryland, on Friday morning at around 7 a.m. The raid, which is linked to a national security investigation, took place under the orders of FBI Director Kash Patel, as reported by officials from the Trump administration. The operation raised eyebrows, especially considering Bolton’s recent outspoken criticism of Trump’s tariff policies, including those targeting India.

A Cryptic Message from FBI Director Kash Patel

Shortly after the operation began, Patel shared a cryptic post on social media platform X, writing, “NO ONE is above the law… @FBI agents on mission.” This vague yet pointed message added fuel to the growing speculation around the reasons for the raid, which reportedly involved the investigation into the handling of classified documents.

The Investigation: John Bolton’s Role in the Classified Documents Case

Bolton, who served as Trump’s third National Security Advisor from April 2018 to September 2019, had previously been at the center of a controversy regarding classified information. An anonymous source confirmed that the raid was connected to an ongoing investigation into the alleged mishandling of sensitive documents. This probe, initiated years ago, was put on hold during the Biden administration, with some insiders claiming it was delayed for “political reasons.”

Bolton Criticizes Trump’s Tariffs on India

The raid came just days after Bolton had expressed strong criticisms of Trump’s trade policies, particularly the tariffs imposed on India. Speaking to HT, Bolton slammed Trump’s tariff on India, calling the former president’s approach “destructive” to decades of diplomatic efforts. Bolton argued that Trump’s tariffs, especially the additional 25% on Indian oil imports from Russia, were an unforced error that would push India closer to China’s sphere of influence.

In his remarks, Bolton also questioned the inconsistency in U.S. policy, pointing out that China, which also imports Russian oil, was exempted from similar penalties. “What Trump has done on tariffs is destroying decades of effort with India and many others to build good faith,” Bolton said, adding that Trump’s actions were “aberrational” and unique compared to any other past or future U.S. presidential candidates.

John Bolton’s Book Controversy: A Continuing Point of Tension

Bolton’s book, The Room Where It Happened, which was released in 2020, was also a point of contention. Trump had tried to block the book’s publication, alleging that it contained classified information. Although Trump’s efforts were unsuccessful, the legal battle over Bolton’s book highlighted the ongoing tensions between the two men. The former National Security Advisor has been vocal about his critiques of Trump’s foreign and national security policies since leaving the White House.

FBI Raid Tied to Classified Documents Investigation

The FBI raid comes amid a broader investigation into how former U.S. officials, including Bolton, handled classified materials. Trump’s administration revoked the security clearances of more than 40 former intelligence officials, including Bolton, after Trump returned to office earlier this year. This move was seen as part of Trump’s efforts to distance himself from those who were publicly critical of his administration.

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John Bolton’s Criticism of U.S. Tariff Policy

In addition to his criticism of the tariffs, Bolton has raised concerns over the overall direction of U.S. foreign policy under Trump. In a recent article for The Hill, Bolton argued that Trump’s tariff policies had been “counterproductive,” warning that they could damage U.S. relations with key allies while offering minimal economic benefits. He also expressed concern that the U.S. was treating its allies and adversaries with the same punitive measures, which could erode trust in American leadership on the world stage.

What’s Next for Bolton and the FBI Investigation?

As this high-profile investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further revelations will emerge about John Bolton’s involvement in the handling of sensitive documents and his ongoing criticism of Trump’s policies.

The raid, the investigation, and Bolton’s criticism of Trump’s foreign policy are expected to fuel further political debates as both sides of the political spectrum seek to shape the narrative leading up to future elections.