FBI Searches Home of Former Trump National Security Adviser John Bolton in Classified Documents Probe
On August 22, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a search at the Maryland residence of John Bolton, who served as National Security Adviser to former President Donald Trump during his first term, according to a source familiar with the matter. The search is part of an ongoing national security investigation focused on the handling of classified documents, though specific details about the operation remain limited.
Bolton, a prominent foreign policy hawk and vocal critic of Trump since his departure from the administration in 2019, has not been detained or charged with any crimes in connection to the search. The FBI’s actions come amid heightened scrutiny of former officials linked to Trump, particularly as the current administration pursues investigations into alleged mishandling of sensitive government materials.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, did not disclose what specific materials or evidence the FBI was seeking, nor whether agents recovered any items during the search. The operation marks a significant escalation in federal efforts to address national security concerns involving former high-ranking officials.
Bolton served as Trump’s third national security adviser from April 2018 to September 2019, a 17-month tenure marked by policy disagreements with the former president, particularly on issues like North Korea, Iran, and Afghanistan. After leaving the White House, Bolton published a memoir in 2020, The Room Where It Happened, which offered a critical account of his time in the administration. The Trump administration sought to block the book’s release, arguing it contained classified information that could compromise national security. A federal judge allowed the memoir’s publication to proceed, though the Justice Department under President Joe Biden later dropped a related lawsuit and criminal investigation into Bolton in 2021.
The FBI’s search of Bolton’s home coincides with broader actions by the Trump administration targeting perceived adversaries. Recently, Trump revoked the security clearances of several former officials, including Bolton, who had criticized his leadership or policies. This move has been seen by some as an effort to limit the influence of former aides who have publicly opposed him.
On the social media platform X, FBI Director Kash Patel posted a cryptic message shortly after news of the search broke, stating, “NO ONE is above the law… @FBI agents on mission.” Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed a similar sentiment, writing, “Justice applies equally to all.” Neither official explicitly named Bolton, but their posts fueled speculation about the political context of the FBI’s actions.
The search also occurs against the backdrop of other high-profile investigations into classified documents. Notably, Trump himself faced legal scrutiny during his first term and beyond over the handling of sensitive materials at his Mar-a-Lago estate, though those cases have largely been resolved or dismissed. The focus on Bolton raises questions about whether the current administration is intensifying efforts to investigate former officials associated with Trump’s first term, particularly those who have since distanced themselves from him.
Bolton, a longtime Republican foreign policy figure who previously served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations under President George W. Bush, has remained a polarizing figure. His outspoken criticism of Trump, including calling for accountability on national security matters, has made him a target for some of Trump’s supporters. At the same time, Bolton’s hawkish views have drawn criticism from progressive groups and others who disagree with his foreign policy stances.
As of now, neither Bolton nor his representatives have issued a public statement regarding the FBI search. The Justice Department and FBI have also declined to comment, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. It remains unclear whether the search will lead to formal charges or further action against Bolton.
The development adds to the complex political and legal dynamics surrounding Trump’s return to the White House in 2025. With investigations into classified documents and national security issues continuing to unfold, the search of Bolton’s home underscores the ongoing tension between the current administration and former officials who have publicly challenged its leadership.
As more details emerge, the public and analysts alike will be watching closely to understand the full scope of the investigation and its implications for Bolton and the broader political landscape. For now, the FBI’s actions signal that no one, regardless of their former position, is immune from scrutiny in matters of national security.
