Trump revokes Joe Biden’s security clearance in latest revenge move
In what appears to be a pay back, President Donald Trump has said he’s revoking Joe Biden’s security clearance and ending the daily intelligence briefings he’s receiving.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump referenced a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur that described Biden last year as a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.”
Moreover, while announcing the revocation, Trump said, “There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden’s security clearances, and stopping his daily intelligence briefings.
“He set this precedent in 2021, when he instructed the intelligence community (IC) to stop the 45th president of the United States (me!) from accessing details on national security, a courtesy provided to former presidents.”
“JOE, YOU’RE FIRED,” the Republican added in a reference to his catchphrase on the reality TV show, The Apprentice.
But Trump’s decision to restrict Biden’s access to intelligence briefings comes exactly four years after Biden made the same move against him, citing his “erratic behavior” before and after the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol.
Also, Trump has already revoked the security clearance of more than four dozen former intelligence officials whom he accused of meddling in the 2020 election in Biden’s favour.
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Trump’s revocations appear to be connected to his ongoing disputes with these former officials.
Many of them were outspoken critics of his policies or decisions. In particular, Trump has taken aim at those involved in handling classified information in ways he believes were damaging to him or his administration.
What legal and political implications does this move have?
Trump’s decision to revoke Biden’s security clearance could deepen political divisions and further escalate tensions between the two former presidents.
The move raises questions about the precedent for denying intelligence access to former presidents and whether such actions are politically motivated or based on legitimate national security concerns.
