In a sweeping move, President Donald Trump revoked security clearances for several prominent political figures, including his former Democratic rivals Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton. This latest order follows his February decision to strip clearance from his predecessor, Joe Biden, extending to “any other member” of the Biden family.
“I have determined that it is no longer in the national interest for the following individuals to access classified information,” Trump’s memorandum stated.
Historically, former U.S. presidents and top security officials retain their security clearances as a professional courtesy. However, Trump ordered department leaders to revoke unescorted access to government facilities for those on his list, including the loss of classified briefings such as the President’s Daily Brief.
While the decision is largely symbolic for many, it carries potential legal ramifications for attorneys and prosecutors involved in cases against Trump. Notable figures impacted include Secretary of State Antony Blinken, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. Legal experts such as Norm Eisen, who has pursued multiple lawsuits against Trump’s administration, and Andrew Weissmann, a former federal prosecutor critical of Trump, were also stripped of access.
Prominent whistleblower attorney Mark Zaid was named in the order but stated he had not received formal notification. He argued that revoking his clearance could negatively impact federal employees—including Trump supporters—who rely on his expertise.
Several individuals affected by Trump’s decision took to social media in defiance. “I don’t care what noises Donald Trump makes about a security clearance that hasn’t been active for five years,” wrote Alexander Vindman on X. Eisen responded, “Just makes me file even more lawsuits!”
Trump previously revoked the security clearances of over four dozen intelligence officials, accusing them—without evidence—of interfering in the 2020 election in Biden’s favor. His administration framed the latest move as a response to Biden’s 2021 decision to block Trump from receiving intelligence briefings due to “erratic behavior.”
With the political landscape more divided than ever, Trump’s move signals a continued battle over intelligence access and national security policy.
