Trump Revokes Biden’s Security Clearance and Intelligence Access
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced the revocation of former President Joe Biden’s security clearance and access to daily intelligence briefings, citing concerns over Biden’s handling of classified information. The move marks a significant break from precedent but follows Biden’s own 2021 decision to deny Trump similar access after leaving office.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump declared, “There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. JOE, YOU’RE FIRED,” referencing his well-known catchphrase from The Apprentice.
The decision is part of a broader effort by Trump to restrict security access for former officials he accuses of undermining his administration. He has also revoked the clearances of more than four dozen former intelligence officials who previously suggested that reports about Hunter Biden’s laptop were Russian disinformation—a claim later proven false.
Reversing a 2021 Precedent
Trump’s action mirrors Biden’s 2021 decision to deny him intelligence briefings, marking the first time a former U.S. president was stripped of such privileges. At the time, Biden justified his decision by citing Trump’s “erratic behavior” and concerns that he might disclose sensitive information. “What value is giving him an intelligence briefing?” Biden said then.
Trump now argues that Biden “could not be trusted with sensitive information,” referencing a Justice Department investigation into Biden’s handling of classified documents. The inquiry ultimately did not lead to charges but criticized Biden’s memory lapses, a characterization Biden rejected.
Security Clearances Revoked for Former Officials
Trump has also taken steps to strip security clearances and protections from key figures linked to the Biden administration. Among those affected is retired General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who was a vocal critic of Trump. Milley’s security clearance and protection detail have been rescinded, and newly appointed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered an investigation into Milley’s conduct and military grade.
Additionally, former chief medical adviser Dr. Anthony Fauci, who led the U.S. COVID-19 response, has had his security detail removed. Trump defended the decision as “very standard,” stating that lifetime protection is not guaranteed for government officials.
The president has also revoked the clearances of two former CIA directors and several intelligence officials who signed a 2020 letter casting doubt on the authenticity of Hunter Biden’s laptop. The laptop, which contained evidence of drug use and foreign business dealings, was later confirmed to be real.
Biden Camp Silent on Decision
Biden, who has kept a lower public profile since leaving office, has yet to respond to Trump’s move. The BBC reported attempts to reach his talent agency for comment, but no statement has been issued.
Trump’s sweeping security changes underscore his administration’s aggressive posture toward political opponents and former officials. The decision is expected to spark legal and political debates as the new administration continues to reshape national security policies.
