John Bolton, once a key figure inside Donald Trump’s White House and later one of his sharpest critics, is expected to admit guilt in a federal case centered on classified government records, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The former national security adviser is set to plead guilty to a charge of retaining classified information tied to diary-style notes documenting his work during Trump’s first presidency. The plea hearing is scheduled for June 26.
As part of the agreement, Bolton is expected to pay a $2.25 million fine. Sources said the deal outlines a potential sentencing range that stretches from no prison time to a maximum of five years, though the final decision will rest with the federal judge overseeing the case.
The prosecution alleged that Bolton improperly shared sensitive information with two relatives while preparing material for a book. Investigators pointed to notes involving intelligence briefings and discussions with senior U.S. officials as well as foreign leaders. Bolton had previously denied wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including accusations related to both retaining and transmitting national defense information.
People familiar with the plea negotiations said the agreement does not accuse Bolton of misconduct connected directly to the publication of his memoir. Instead, they described the arrangement as an acknowledgment that mistakes were made in handling classified material.
Bolton’s relationship with Trump transformed dramatically after his departure from the administration. Once among the president’s top national security advisers, he later emerged as a frequent critic, portraying Trump in his memoir as unsuitable for the presidency. During Trump’s first term, the government unsuccessfully attempted to halt publication of the book, arguing it contained classified information.
The case arrives amid heightened scrutiny of Justice Department actions involving political figures and critics of the president. Supporters of the administration have argued that investigations are being pursued through legitimate legal channels, while critics contend that some prosecutions reflect a broader pattern of targeting political opponents.
Unlike several other investigations involving Trump adversaries, the Bolton inquiry began before Trump returned to office in 2025 and reportedly received backing from career federal prosecutors.
The Justice Department has declined public comment on the expected plea arrangement, and representatives for Bolton have not issued a statement.
