Recent reports indicate that the U.S. intelligence community is gearing up to provide Donald Trump with classified intelligence briefings, a customary practice extended to major-party candidates to facilitate a smooth transition.
While this tradition has historically been upheld, it should not be observed in the current circumstances. As is customary, the decision ultimately lies with the incumbent president, and it’s anticipated that Joe Biden will maintain this practice to avoid any accusations of politicizing intelligence access.
However, such accusations from the GOP should be dismissed, given their recent failed attempts to impeach Biden and allegations of corruption against him and his son.
Denying Trump access to classified briefings may draw backlash from Republicans, but it would also underscore the lack of trust in Trump’s handling of sensitive information.
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The potential drawbacks of withholding early briefings from Trump are minimal. Throughout his presidency, Trump demonstrated an inability to absorb and comprehend complex national security issues, rendering such briefings largely ineffective.
However, the concern lies not merely in Trump’s ignorance but also in the inherent danger he poses, as evidenced by his past actions and decisions.
Indeed, if Trump were a federal employee, his security clearances would likely have been revoked. He would have been removed from his position. Drawing from personal experience, the speaker highlights their own background.
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They obtained security clearances during the Reagan administration. Subsequently, they held such clearances while advising a senior U.S. senator during the Gulf War. Additionally, they held clearances during their tenure as Department of Defense employees for over 25 years.
Government employees with clearances attend annual refresher courses. These cover various topics, including basic security protocols. One crucial area of training focuses on “insider threats.”
This entails identifying individuals within the organization who may pose risks. Federal workers are trained to recognize behaviors or characteristics of potential threats. They’re instructed to report concerning behavior or initiate discussions with supervisors.
Trump meets the criteria for an insider threat. Examples of such criteria are found in insider-threat training materials. Clearance holders are instructed to watch for warning signs.
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These signs include hostility towards the government, erratic behavior, and unreported foreign contacts. Other warning signs include unexplained wealth or financial problems. Interest in classified material beyond job requirements is also flagged.
Evidence of drug use or substance abuse is another concern. Trump exhibits many of these red flags, which is rare among government employees.
Disagreeing with U.S. policy isn’t unusual among clearance holders—I’ve done it myself. However, Trump’s animosity towards the current administration goes beyond ordinary dissent.
He harbors a generic disdain for what he terms the “deep state.” Trump’s anti-establishment rhetoric threatens his clearance status. His tirades against the government and society raise concerns.
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