Longtime Republican consultant Roger Stone did not hold back when he targeted John Bolton, a former Trump adviser who has become increasingly critical of the former president. Following the FBI’s raid on Bolton’s home in Bethesda, Maryland, Stone took to social media to voice his thoughts. “Good morning. John Bolton. How does it feel to have your home raided at 6 o’clock in the morning?” Stone asked, echoing his own experience with the FBI during their operation against him in Fort Lauderdale six years prior. His pointed remarks came alongside a clear jab at the media: “Wait! Where was CNN?”
This exchange has reignited discussions around loyalty and betrayal within Republican circles. Stone has consistently lambasted those he views as disloyal to Trump. He stated, “What goes around comes around… and Roger Stone still ‘did nothing wrong,’” referencing the familiar saying associated with his own legal troubles.
Stone has a long history in politics, having started his career in the 1960s by helping Barry Goldwater. Later, he became an adviser to Richard Nixon, giving him a background steeped in significant political events. After publicizing a photo of himself wearing a “Roger Stone Did Nothing Wrong” shirt from his past legal issues, Stone doubled down with another critique of Bolton, sharing an image that contrasted their situations. “The man on the left had his home raided at 6 am because he did something wrong. The man on the right had his home raided at 6 am because he didn’t. Karma is b—-,” he quipped. This clear line of condemnation emphasizes his view that the consequences faced by Bolton stemmed from genuine misdeeds.
Bolton has held various high-level diplomatic positions under Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush, but his stint with Trump turned contentious as their differences became apparent. The rift started over Trump’s handling of COVID-19 and his diplomatic strategies, ultimately leading to Bolton’s departure from the White House. Their relationship became further strained during the impeachment proceedings, where their divergent views became public.
Stone has stepped in to support Trump during these conflicts, especially when Bolton made headlines regarding Trump’s choice of Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence. Stone stated at the time, “Watching war pig John Bolton attack the appointment of Tulsi Gabbard as DNI makes me all the more certain that she is precisely the right person for the job.” His willingness to defend Trump against criticisms from former allies showcases the shifting alliances within the party.
As for the FBI raid on Bolton’s property, it raises eyebrows not only due to the high-profile nature of the figures involved but also because of the turbulent times in U.S. politics today. Agents were also noted in DuPont Circle, D.C., where they removed boxes from Bolton’s personal office. Such actions underscore the intensity of ongoing investigations and the lengths law enforcement will go to probe allegations against political figures.
The situation represents a clash of old guard versus new, showcasing the fractures within Republican leadership. Stone’s sharp language reflects a broader struggle as loyalty to Trump is intensely scrutinized, especially for those who have diverged from his narrative. The backlash Bolton has faced symbolizes the unpredictable and often brutal dynamics of modern Republican politics.
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