Breaking Down Trump’s First Day Back in Office

On his first day back in office, President Trump has taken swift action to revoke the Secret Service protection of former national security adviser John Bolton. This move signals a departure from the Biden administration’s policy of providing protection to Bolton due to potential threats from Iran.

Bolton has been a vocal critic of Trump since he was ousted from the first Trump administration in 2019. In December 2021, the Biden administration granted him Secret Service protection following a series of threats from Iran linked to retaliation for a drone strike ordered by Trump during Bolton’s tenure, resulting in the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani.

Trump’s Executive Actions

In addition to revoking Bolton’s security clearance, Trump has also taken other executive actions on his first day back in office. He has ordered the removal of a portrait of former Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley from a wall at the Pentagon, and has signed an executive order revoking the security clearances of dozens of intelligence officials who signed a letter in 2020 claiming that emails found on a laptop owned by Hunter Biden bore the hallmarks of a Russian disinformation campaign.

Bolton’s Response

Bolton has expressed disappointment but not surprise at Trump’s decision to revoke his Secret Service protection. He has stated that President Biden made the right call in providing him with protection in 2021, and that the threat from Iran remains today, as evidenced by the recent arrest of someone trying to arrange for Trump’s own assassination.

Implications for Trump’s Second Term

Trump’s actions on his first day back in office are indicative of his intention to target those he considers political opponents. These measures are also consistent with his previous statements and actions, which have been characterized by a disregard for the rule of law and a desire to consolidate power.

Conclusion

The revocation of Bolton’s Secret Service protection is a significant development that raises concerns about the safety of those who have criticized Trump. It also signals the potential for a more confrontational and authoritarian second term for Trump, as he seeks to silence dissent and consolidate his grip on power.