Who is John Bolton? Wife, Wikipedia & Net Worth

John Bolton (born November 20, 1948, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.) is an American diplomat, lawyer, and political commentator. He is best known for serving as the National Security Adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump from April 2018 to September 2019. He also held several other key positions in Republican administrations, making him one of the most influential conservative voices in U.S. foreign policy.

Who is John Bolton? Early Life & Education

John Bolton grew up in Baltimore and studied at Yale University, where he earned a B.A. in 1970 and a J.D. (law degree) in 1974. At Yale, he became known for his strong conservative political views, which shaped much of his later career in government.

Career Highlights

• Served in the Ronald Reagan administration in the U.S. Agency for International Development and later as Assistant Attorney General (1985–1989).

• Worked under President George H.W. Bush as Assistant Secretary of State for International Organization Affairs (1989–1993).

• Became Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs during George W. Bush’s presidency.

• Was appointed U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations in 2005 through a recess appointment after a highly controversial confirmation battle.

• Returned to government as National Security Adviser to President Donald Trump in 2018, but resigned in September 2019 after disagreements over policy toward North Korea and Iran.

Views & Controversies

Bolton is known for his hardline foreign policy stance. He has often supported military solutions, opposed international treaties, and criticized the United Nations. His critics accuse him of being too aggressive in diplomacy and pressuring intelligence officials to match his political views.

Books & Media Work

After leaving the Trump administration, Bolton wrote a memoir titled “The Room Where It Happened” (2020). The book gave a behind-the-scenes look at the Trump White House and contained many critical remarks about the former president. He is also a frequent guest on Fox News and writes for conservative think tanks such as the American Enterprise Institute (AEI).

John Bolton’s Wife & Family

John Bolton is married to Gretchen Smith Bolton, a financial planner with AXA Advisors. The couple has one daughter, Jennifer Bolton. Unlike her husband, Gretchen has largely stayed away from the public spotlight.

Net Worth

As of 2025, John Bolton’s estimated net worth is between $6 million – $10 million. His wealth comes from years of government service, book sales, consulting, and his work as a political commentator.

Quick Facts

• Full Name: John Robert Bolton

• Date of Birth: November 20, 1948

• Age: 76 (as of 2025)

• Political Party: Republican

• Known For: National Security Adviser (2018–2019), U.S. Ambassador to the UN (2005–2006)

• Spouse: Gretchen Smith Bolton

• Children: 1 daughter