Former national security adviser John Bolton has raised concerns regarding the upcoming presidential election, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump’s potential reaction if he does not secure a victory. In a recent interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, Bolton expressed his belief that Trump is unlikely to accept the election results if they do not favor him, stating, “No, I don’t think so,” and added, “And I think we should be ready for it.”
Bolton emphasized the importance of the pre-election litigation currently ongoing across the country, describing it as a “good thing.” He noted that numerous legal challenges have been filed prior to the election, and the discussions surrounding these cases could shape the election’s outcome. “I actually think that’s a good thing. I think the more issues that — it’s getting late now, obviously. But the more issues that are litigated before the election, the better,” Bolton explained.
According to Marc Elias, a prominent figure in Vice President Kamala Harris’s election litigation efforts, over 200 voting and election cases are presently pending nationwide. These challenges include issues related to proof-of-citizenship requirements and deadlines for mail-in ballots. Additionally, Democrats are contesting state election officials who have expanded their roles in the electoral process, particularly in key battleground states that could significantly influence the election.
The Supreme Court has also been involved, with several election-related disputes appearing on its emergency docket recently. Bolton noted that this preemptive litigation is helping to clarify some issues before the election takes place. “At least now, some of this litigation is filed beforehand, and we’re getting results, some favorable to Trump, some not favorable to Trump,” he remarked. “It’s taking those issues off the table.”
Bolton concluded his remarks by underscoring the necessity for readiness should Trump lose the election. “But I think everybody ought to be ready. Because Trump never loses. And if he loses, it’s because it’s stolen. So, it will be difficult,” he warned.
In a related note, Harris mentioned earlier this week that her team is prepared for any premature victory claims from the GOP nominee. The Hill has reached out to the Trump campaign for comments regarding Bolton’s assertions and the ongoing electoral landscape.
