In a controversial move, President Donald Trump has withdrawn the security clearances of several prominent political figures.
This decision affects Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Kamala Harris, and others, along with the removal of security protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden, Fox News reported.
The White House issued an official statement on Friday, listing the individuals whose clearances were affected. This includes former Vice President Joe Biden, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Vice President Kamala Harris, and others such as Liz Cheney. The memo labeled the access to classified information by these individuals as no longer aligning with national interests.
Former Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, reiterated the administration's stance. She conveyed the significance of these revocations, particularly highlighting the 51 individuals who endorsed the letter related to the "Hunter Biden disinformation" narrative. This revocation also extends to their unescorted privileges in secure government facilities.
In a significant development, Joe Biden's access to the President's Daily Brief ceased. Meanwhile, several figures, including those involved with the Hunter Biden story, have seen their previous clearances revoked, prompting their responses.
Social media was abuzz with reactions. Responses included dismissive comments from individuals like Mark Zaid and Norman Eisen who acknowledged previous similar occurrences. Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger sarcastically remarked in a video, emphasizing his retired status and absence of a clearance, while using unsavory language towards Trump.
The memo's impact extended beyond security clearances. It also resulted in the termination of Secret Service protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden. The President described these measures as excessive taxpayer expenditures.
Both Hunter and daughter Ashley Biden were subject to scrutiny over their security detail. Trump cited the hefty taxpayer expense for Hunter Biden's protection, asserting that as many as 18 agents were allocated.
On Trump's social platform, Truth Social, he specifically addressed the Secret Service arrangement. He stated that Hunter's extended protection on taxpayer funds had become "ridiculous." Despite the criticism, former presidents routinely have the option to continue protection for their family members.
Hunter Biden has had Secret Service protection for an extended period of time, all paid for by the United States Taxpayer. There are as many as 18 people on this Detail, which is ridiculous!
Likewise, Trump's commentary on Ashley Biden's protection raised eyebrows. He pointed out that her security involved 13 agents and its subsequent removal as part of the new measures. This decision reflects an ongoing debate about the cost and necessity of such protection.
The revocation news has resonated across political circles and the public. While some critics observed potential partisan undertones, others focus on the broader implications for political and public accountability.
As the situation unfolds, both the impacted individuals and the public await further developments. The revocations and the accompanying Secret Service announcements represent a significant point in Trump's presidency.
In sum, President Trump's actions have terminated security clearances for several high-profile individuals. Security protection for Hunter and Ashley Biden was also withdrawn, raising questions about taxpayer expenses.
