Cost to Taxpayers Revealed
Former national security advisers John Bolton and Robert O’Brien, who served in the Trump administration, received continued Secret Service protection post their terms due to threats from Iran. Newly uncovered documents detail the substantial expenses incurred during this period.
Expenses Breakdown
For nearly a year of protection, the total cost for safeguarding both individuals amounted to a staggering $12,280,324. Reports from the Department of Homeland Security, signed by Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, unveiled the financial implications of this prolonged security detail.
Threats from Iran
Although the Homeland Security reports did not explicitly mention Iran, investigations by “60 Minutes” confirmed that Bolton and O’Brien were under protection due to potential threats originating from the Iranian regime. The security measures included dedicated special agents monitoring their residences, workplaces, and travel activities, a level of protection uncommon for former officials.
Continuous Protection Directive
Bolton initially did not receive protection upon leaving his White House role, but acquired it in December 2021 following reported Iranian threats against him. President Trump instructed the Secret Service to extend protection to O’Brien after his departure, costing taxpayers $1,928,922 until September 2021. President Biden later directed the ongoing security coverage for both men.
Escalating Iranian Threats
Iran’s targeting of former Trump administration members, including other officials like Michael Pompeo and Mark Esper, has intensified, with reports of kidnapping and assassination plots. Intelligence agencies highlight Iran’s persistent and bold efforts to harm American officials both domestically and abroad.
Financial Toll
The disclosed expenses for protecting Bolton and O’Brien included payroll bills, foreign travel costs, and equipment rentals, accumulating to over $12 million. This expenditure sheds light on the concealed financial burden of shielding American leaders from international threats.
Global Protection Measures
Apart from U.S. officials, law enforcement agencies have extended protection to Iranian dissidents and journalists facing credible risks from Iran. Countries like the UK have also established specialized units to counter foreign threats, with reports of foiled Iranian plots against British targets.
Assassination Plot Uncovered
In a dramatic turn, the Department of Justice unveiled criminal charges against an Iranian national, Shahram Poursafi, for allegedly orchestrating Bolton’s assassination. Poursafi, suspected to be a member of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, attempted to hire a hitman to eliminate Bolton, underscoring the real and imminent dangers posed by foreign adversaries.
Continuous Threats and Ongoing Protection
The saga continues as high-profile figures remain under constant security watch, emphasizing the persistent nature of international threats against American officials. Despite the revealed costs, the full extent of resources allocated for safeguarding officials from foreign aggression remains undisclosed.