Trump Faces Criticism for Revoking Security for Former Officials Under Threat

President Trump defends removing protection for ex-officials targeted by Iran, sparking bipartisan concerns over safety and future recruitment.

President Trump has revoked security details for former officials, including John Bolton and Mike Pompeo, despite ongoing threats from Iran related to the 2020 assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani.
The Biden administration had extended these protections due to credible intelligence of assassination plots, which Trump ended shortly after returning to office.
Republican Senators Tom Cotton and Lindsey Graham have urged Trump to reconsider, citing risks to public safety and the chilling effect on recruiting qualified advisers for sensitive roles.
Trump justified the decision by stating that lifetime security for former officials is unsustainable and suggested they can afford private security.
Critics, including Bolton, argue that the move is politically motivated, part of a broader pattern of retribution against perceived adversaries in Trump's second term.