President Donald Trump has tweeted that he has fired National Security Adviser John Bolton. Bolton however pointedly contradicted Trump and said that he resigned. What is clear is that another high-ranking Trump official is out — an astonishing turnover of such officials in a single Administration. However, few are likely to object on this one given the unpopularity of Bolton in Washington, which viewed him as someone who has long advocated the use of military interventions and wars. Update: President Trump responded by saying that Bolton was indeed fired and he did not resign as he has stated.
Donald Trump said on Twitter that “I informed John Bolton last night that his services are no longer needed at the White House.” He added I disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions, as did others in the Administration, and therefore … I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning. I thank John very much for his service. I will be naming a new National Security Advisor next week.”
However, Bolton fired back by saying on Twitter that he resigned and that Trump had not made up his mind last night.
I offered to resign last night and President Trump said, “Let’s talk about it tomorrow.”6,80412:10 PM – Sep 10, 2019Twitter Ads info and privacy8,451 people are talking about this
Fox News host Brian Kilmeade also received a text contradicting Trump:
“John Bolton just texted me,” @kilmeade says live on Fox News, where Bolton was a former contributor. “He said, ‘Let’s be clear, I resigned.'”17312:17 PM – Sep 10, 2019Twitter Ads info and privacy144 people are talking about this
Trump was warned by many that Bolton was a poor choice for national security adviser given his past controversies and his hawkish views. He was also opposed based on what many said was a volcanic temper and poor interpersonal skills. The short-lived appointment again raises questions about Trump’s judgment in such selections and ongoing unprecedented turnover rate.
Despite opposition from some leading Republicans, Bolton was reportedly appointed at the urging of major financial back Sheldon Adelson.