Trump revokes Biden’s security clearance in retaliation

US President Donald Trump stated that he intends to revoke the security clearance of his predecessor, Joe Biden, marking a striking act of political retribution.

The move mirrors a decision made by Biden four years ago when he denied Trump access to intelligence briefings, citing concerns over his "erratic behavior" following the January 6 Capitol riot.

Unlike past instances where security clearances were revoked due to specific national security concerns, Trump openly acknowledged that his decision was a response to Biden’s past action.

In a Truth Social post, he declared there was "no need" for  Biden to maintain access to classified information, echoing the same justification Biden used in 2021 to deny him briefings.

"Joe, you're fired. Make America Great Again!"  Trump wrote in all-caps.

In practice, this revocation will likely have little impact. Former presidents traditionally receive intelligence briefings as a courtesy and as a means for sitting leaders to consult their predecessors on complex foreign policy matters. However, given the deep animosity between the two leaders, it is improbable that Trump would ever seek Biden’s counsel.

Beth Sanner, a former intelligence official who delivered Trump’s classified daily briefings during his first term, suggested that the decision was largely symbolic.

"I think it is just performative," she said in an interview. "The only reason a former president needs a briefing is for foreign policy engagements, and it’s hard to imagine Biden needing it."

Trump justified his decision by referencing the findings of Special Counsel Robert K. Hur, who investigated the presence of classified documents in Biden’s possession from his time as vice president. While  Trump himself faces legal scrutiny over classified materials, Biden was not prosecuted.

"The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from 'poor memory' and, even in his 'prime,' could not be trusted with sensitive information," Trump wrote, though his interpretation of the report’s conclusions has been disputed. "I will always protect our national security."