John Bolton, the former National Security Adviser, urged former President Donald Trump to utilize his personal wealth to cover his legal expenses in light of numerous criminal charges.
What Happened: Bolton, in an interview on NewsNation, suggested that Trump should self-fund his legal defense. He questioned why individuals would contribute to a billionaire’s legal fund, expressing confusion over the attraction people have towards Trump “almost regardless of what he does.”
"People who worry about whether poor Donald Trump's going to have enough money for campaign purposes and legal bills…he's a gazillionaire, ask him, he'll tell you frequently. He can spend a little of his own money," Bolton said.
"Well it befuddles me why anybody would give a billionaire money to pay their own legal bills," he added.
This came after Trump’s campaign confirmed that it raised $7.1 million since his arrest, including $4.18 million in a single day, marking the highest fundraising day of his campaign.
Why It Matters: Trump’s political group, Save America, has reportedly spent over $40 million on legal costs in the first half of 2023. This spending, largely aimed at defending Trump and his advisors, is more than any other expense the Political Action Committee has incurred during Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.
See Also: Trump Butler’s Lawyer Reports Threats Over IT Director’s False Testimony
Additionally, a DOJ veteran voiced concerns about the potential for money seizure if funds raised by the pro-Trump PAC, under claims of election fraud, were used for Trump’s legal fees.
Bolton has previously voiced his concerns about Trump’s legal issues, stating that a conviction could have serious implications for Trump’s political future and the Republican party.
Meanwhile, Trump, who faces 13 charges, has been criticized by Jenna Ellis, a Trump-aligned attorney, and Michael Cohen, Trump’s personal attorney, for not financially assisting his co-defendants.
Photo by paparazzza on Shutterstock
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