John Bolton, who served as national security advisor during Donald Trump’s first term as US president, criticized Sebastian Gorka, the president-elect’s newly announced “conman” appointee to lead counterterrorism efforts.Bolton’s remarks to CNN followed Trump’s announcement that Gorka, who briefly served as a deputy advisor during Trump’s first term, would take on the role of senior director for counterterrorism.Bolton said he “wouldn’t have him in any US government.”He added that Gorka’s appointment would not bode well for counterterrorism efforts, though he was relieved that Gorka was not given a higher-ranking position.Bolton alleged that Trump chose Gorka not for his qualifications but for his willingness to comply unquestioningly.

Despite public pressure, Trump refused to release the report, and its release was thwarted by legislative Republicans, resulting in additional condemnation.Bolton claimed that Trump chose Gorka not for his qualifications, but for his unthinking compliance.”I think he is a perfect example of somebody who owes his position purely to Donald Trump,” he told reporters.Bolton had already opposed Trump’s other picks, including his nomination of former congressman Matt Gaetz for attorney general, which he called “the worst decision Trump has ever made.”Gaetz was accused of paying two women for sex, having a relationship with a juvenile, and using drugs.Following the issue, Gaetz withdrew his resignation from the nomination on November 21.The House of Representatives Ethics Committee looked into the claims against Gaetz and issued a report.