The Intelligence from The Economist Bolt-on charges: Trump's former adviser is indicted
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Oct 17, 2025 
Adam Roberts, Digital Editor at The Economist, analyzes the indictment of former Trump adviser John Bolton for mishandling classified materials, raising concerns over the politicization of justice. Shashank Joshi delves into the fallout from a dropped espionage case among alleged Chinese spies, which has significant political implications for the UK. Additionally, Anne Rowe honors the legacy of Saul Zabar, a deli icon whose influence on New York’s culinary landscape endures. Tune in for insights into politics, national security, and cultural history.
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Indictments Feed Perception Of DOJ Politicisation
- John Bolton's indictment illustrates a broader pattern of legal actions targeting former officials now critical of Trump.
- The prosecutions risk being seen as politicised, damaging the Department of Justice's reputation and complicating convictions.
Hacked Notes, Not Published Material, Raise Stakes
- Bolton is accused of keeping sensitive notes and sharing them with family, then storing them on a hacked computer linked to Iran.
- The alleged theft and attempted blackmail, not publication, deepened his legal exposure under classified-information rules.
Bipartisan Distrust Risks DOJ Legitimacy
- Both political sides now see selective prosecutions as 'lawfare', eroding trust in impartial justice.
- That mutual scepticism means DOJ's institutional independence is weakened regardless of case merits.