The Fox News Rundown Evening Edition: John Bolton Pleads Not Guilty After Indictment
Oct 18, 2025
David Spunt, a D.C.-based Fox News correspondent, discusses the shocking indictment of former National Security Advisor John Bolton, who faces 18 counts related to mishandling classified documents. Bolton claims the materials were pre-cleared for his book, raising questions about his legal defense. Spunt also contrasts Bolton's case with high-profile document scandals involving Trump and Biden, and shares breaking news about a terror arrest linked to recent events in Israel. The insights provide a gripping look at national security and legal complexities.
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Career Contrast Heightens The Case
- John Bolton's indictment is striking because he built his career on national security and public criticism of others who mishandled classified files.
- That background makes the charges both surprising and politically resonant across parties.
Pre-Cleared Documents Form The Core Defense
- Bolton's team says many documents were pre-cleared for his book and that career officials approved their use.
- The defense will center on those pre-clearances and how they affect criminal liability.
Case Viewed As Less Political, More Substantive
- Legal experts across the spectrum view Bolton's case as different from politicized prosecutions of other public figures.
- Career DOJ officials reportedly pursued a weightier case alleging sharing, not just retention, of classified material.