John Bolton, former national security adviser, sharply criticized Sebastian Gorka as a “con man” on Friday after President-elect Trump appointed Gorka to lead counterterrorism efforts in his second term.
Bolton didn’t hold back during an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, stating, “I wouldn’t have him in any U.S. government,” referring to Gorka. “It’s not the highest position he had been considered for, but I don’t think it bodes well for counterterrorism when someone like that is in a senior role at the National Security Council.”
The former official expanded on his views, emphasizing the importance of not only top positions but also roles like deputy secretaries and undersecretaries, noting that these selections would provide insight into who is truly running the government.
Bolton suggests loyalty, not qualifications, drove Gorka’s appointment
His remarks followed Trump’s announcement that Gorka would serve as deputy assistant to the president and senior director for counterterrorism. Trump lauded Gorka as a “tireless advocate for the America First Agenda and the MAGA Movement.”
Known for his outspoken criticism of Trump, Bolton has repeatedly voiced concerns about his former boss’s appointments. He previously denounced Trump’s selection of former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard for director of national intelligence, calling it one of the worst nominations.
However, Bolton later revised his judgment after Trump named Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) for the position at the Justice Department, saying Gaetz’s nomination took the lead as the worst Cabinet pick in recent history. Gaetz later withdrew from consideration, and Trump appointed former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi instead.
During the CNN interview, Bolton raised doubts about Gorka’s educational background, suggesting a thorough investigation was warranted. He theorized that Gorka’s appointment was more about loyalty to Trump than his qualifications. “He owes his position purely to Donald Trump,” Bolton said.
“He doesn’t display loyalty; he displays fealty, and that’s what Trump wants.” Bolton further argued that Trump wasn’t interested in Gorka’s opinions, but rather in someone who would always agree, saying, “Trump wants Gorka to say, ‘Yes, sir,’” adding that Gorka would comply with whatever Trump asks.
Previously, Bolton had also called for investigations into the backgrounds of Gaetz and Gabbard before their potential Senate confirmations. The Hill has reached out to Trump’s transition team for comment.
