In a move that has sparked controversy, Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, has ordered the revocation of security clearances for 37 current and former US intelligence officials. This decision, backed by President Trump, stems from allegations that these individuals politicized intelligence for their own interests, according to a memo shared on social media.
The officials affected by the revocation include members of national security staff who worked under Democratic presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama. However, Gabbard has not provided specific evidence to support her claims. Security clearances allow access to sensitive government information, and many former officials keep their clearances to guide successors.
In her memo, Gabbard stated that those who betray their oath to the Constitution misuse their privileges and violate public trust. Previous actions by the Trump administration have also seen security clearances revoked for individuals affiliated with Biden and Kamala Harris as part of investigations into the January 6 Capitol riot.
Recently, Gabbard has focused on questioning the intelligence assessments related to Russian interference in the 2016 elections, labeling them as politically motivated. Critics, including Democratic officials, have dismissed Gabbard's allegations as distractions from pressing political issues and controversies surrounding Trump's administration.
