Congressional Democrats on Thursday were quick to condemn President Trump’s decision to name former United States Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton as his next national security adviser.
Trump tweeted early Thursday evening that Bolton, the hawkish former Bush administration official, will take over for H.R. McMaster beginning April 9.
“I am pleased to announce that, effective 4/9/18, @AmbJohnBolton will be my new National Security Advisor. I am very thankful for the service of General H.R. McMaster who has done an outstanding job & will always remain my friend,” Trump tweeted.
{mosads}McMaster, an Army lieutenant general, will retire from the military, a White House official said.
Bolton served as under secretary of State in the years leading up to the Iraq war, and was appointed U.N. ambassador in 2005. He will be Trump’s third national security adviser.
Democrats overwhelmingly opposed the pick, and many noted Bolton’s role in the Bush administration leading up to the Iraq War. Some expressed concerns over how he might influence U.S. policy toward Iran and North Korea.
Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) called the pick “another step backwards” and a cause for concern over national security.
Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.) called Bolton a “dangerous radical” and a “disturbing nomination.”
Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.) said the choice “puts our national security at risk,” and warned Bolton could “lead us into war with Iran & North Korea.”
Here’s how some other congressional Democrats responded to Bolton joining the Trump administration: