Former national security adviser John Bolton recently expressed his disappointment after President Donald Trump revoked his security detail, stating that it hindered his ability to openly oppose the president. Bolton, who left the Trump administration in November 2019, had been receiving US Secret Service protection due to threats from Iran. Trump initially terminated this protection upon Bolton's departure, but President Joe Biden reinstated it upon taking office.
In response to Trump's decision, Bolton remarked that while he had to ensure his safety, the message was clear. He also addressed concerns about whether Trump's actions implied a desire for harm to come to him, emphasizing the importance of protecting individuals from threats posed by rogue states like Iran.
Bolton highlighted Biden's decision to restore his security detail, acknowledging that it may not have been an easy choice given the criticisms he had made of the president's foreign policy. Despite their differences, Bolton commended Biden for prioritizing the safety of Americans in the face of external threats.
In his book published in 2020, Bolton criticized Trump for his lack of understanding in foreign affairs, his focus on personal image, and alleged attempts to solicit foreign interference in the 2020 election. Trump responded by threatening legal action against Bolton.
The ongoing tensions between Bolton and Trump underscore the complexities of national security and political dynamics within the US government. The issue of security protection for former officials remains a critical concern, particularly in cases where individuals face credible threats to their safety.
