Trump revokes security clearances for Biden, Harris, and top officials
US President Donald Trump revoked the security clearances of Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and several senior officials on Friday. This move fulfilled his earlier threat to block their access to classified information. The list includes Biden’s family members, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and key Biden administration figures like Antony Blinken and Jacob Sullivan.
In a memo to agency heads, Trump ordered the immediate revocation of their clearances and unescorted access to secure government facilities. “I hereby direct every executive department and agency head to revoke any active security clearances held by these individuals,” Trump stated.
Former presidents and national security officials usually keep security clearances as a courtesy. Many also use them when working with private contractors. However, Trump has remained angry with Biden, continuing to falsely claim that Biden stole the 2020 election.
Trump’s decision comes despite his own legal troubles. Investigators had previously examined Trump for storing classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago resort after his first term. The investigation ended after he returned to office.
Trump’s list includes prominent Democratic appointees and some Republican critics. Former GOP lawmaker Liz Cheney, known for opposing Trump, also lost her clearance. Fiona Hill, a British-born intelligence analyst who served in Trump’s White House, is another target.
Alexander Vindman, a retired US Army officer born in Kyiv, also appears on the list. Vindman clashed with Trump after raising concerns about the White House’s contacts with Russia.
This bold move further escalates Trump’s long-standing feud with political rivals and critics. While critics call it political retaliation, Trump’s supporters see it as a necessary step to protect classified information.
