“Lindsey Graham Slams Trump’s Risky Move to Drop John Bolton’s Security Amid Assassination Threats”

Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) urged his fellow senators to investigate former President Donald Trump’s decision to remove security protection for John Bolton, Trump’s former adviser and frequent critic.

Trump caused concern when he withdrew security details for Bolton and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Bolton criticized the move on social media, saying it put his life at risk. He noted that in 2022, the Justice Department charged an Iranian Revolutionary Guard official for plotting to hire someone to kill him, a threat that he believes still exists. Bolton also mentioned a recent arrest of someone attempting to plan Trump’s assassination.

During an interview on CNN’s *State of the Union*, host Dana Bash asked Graham about the threats against Bolton and whether Trump made the right call in pulling his security.

Graham explained that Senator Tom Cotton, who chairs the Intelligence Committee, had asked security officials if they would want protection for themselves or their families under similar circumstances. The officials said yes. Graham emphasized that personal opinions about Bolton don’t matter in this situation. “The Iranians have been trying to kill President Trump,” he said, adding that Bolton and others who served in government shouldn’t be left without protection, especially when they face serious threats.

Graham said the Senate should investigate the situation to decide the best way forward. While not everyone needs lifelong security, protection should be based on credible threats. He warned that failing to protect individuals like Bolton could discourage people from serving in government in the future. He also acknowledged that Trump’s decision might have been a mistake.

In conclusion, Graham called on the Senate to review the rules for Secret Service protection for former officials, particularly when there are clear threats against them.