Trump Revokes Security Clearances of Democratic Officials Following Biden's Example
President Donald Trump stated in an exclusive interview with the New York Post that he revoked the security clearance for several former Democratic officials and current legal authorities. This decision follows Trump’s earlier action of revoking former President Joe Biden's security clearance earlier this week.
Trump announced on Friday that he was revoking Biden's security clearance and discontinuing the daily intelligence briefings Biden had been receiving. He claimed this move was retaliation for Biden revoking his clearance in 2021, citing concerns over Trump's "erratic behavior" and the potential disclosure of sensitive information.
Typically, former presidents retain access to intelligence briefings even after leaving office. However, Trump alleged that Biden used his position to direct the intelligence community to block Trump from accessing national security information post-presidency.
In the interview with the New York Post, Trump disclosed plans to revoke the clearance for eight additional Democrats, characterizing this action as a form of punishment. Without their security clearances, these officials will be barred from accessing classified information or entering federal facilities.
The revocation list includes officials who were involved in investigations concerning Trump:
- Letitia James: Brought a civil fraud lawsuit against Trump's real estate company.
- Alvin Bragg: Led the hush money case against Trump that resulted in 34 counts of falsifying business records.
Trump expressed that the revocation of security clearances serves to strip these officials of their rights, saying, “This is to take away every right they have. They can't go into federal buildings.” The action is perceived as largely symbolic rather than having significant consequences for James and Bragg.
Consequently, neither James nor Bragg will be allowed to enter U.S. attorney's offices for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York.
Brian Krassenstein, entrepreneur and anti-Trump commentator, described Trump's actions on X, previously known as Twitter, as "unprecedented in a democracy," arguing it poses risks to national security and undermines the rule of law. Meanwhile, conservative activist Laura Loomer expressed that the security clearances of the eight Democratic officials have been revoked, stating they are now prohibited from entering federal buildings due to misusing legal power for alleged election interference.
With nine officials having lost their security clearances recently, there is speculation that Trump may continue to revoke clearances from other former Democratic officials and lawyers.
