David Axelrod, who served as chief strategist for former President Obama, commented on the FBI’s raid of John Bolton’s home on Friday. He suggested that this action sends a clear message to those who criticize the Trump administration.
“I think this isn’t just about silencing John Bolton; it also serves as a warning to the administration’s critics. If you upset the president, the full force of the government, including the Justice Department, can come down on you,” Axelrod stated during an appearance on CNN.
The ongoing clash between President Trump and Bolton, who was national security adviser during Trump’s first term, has led many to view the raid as an act of retaliation. Critics have voiced concerns over the implications of this action.
Axelrod further noted that the timing of FBI Director’s online comments and even the vice president’s reactions suggest a politically charged motive behind the raid. “The fact that FBI Director tweeted about it, and that the vice president joined in, indicates this may be politically motivated,” he added.
When the news broke about the raid on Friday morning, FBI Director Kash Patel posted on Social Platform X, stating, “No one is above the law… @FBI Agent’s mission,” although he did not specify any individuals.
Various officials have shared similar sentiments, including Vice President Vance and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino.
After his ousting from the White House, Bolton became an outspoken critic of Trump, especially regarding the latter’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Over recent weeks, Bolton has made numerous statements challenging Trump’s policies.
Bolton’s 2020 book, “The Room Where It Happened: Memoirs of the White House,” was particularly damaging to Trump and raised suspicions about Bolton mishandling classified material.
On Friday, Trump remarked about Bolton, saying, “He’s not a clever man, but he could be very unpatriotic. We know nothing about this raid.”
The FBI has acknowledged conducting “court-recognized law enforcement activities” at Bolton’s residence near Washington, D.C., related to the handling of classified information.
Upon returning to the White House this year, Trump revoked Bolton’s security clearance and his Secret Service protection.
