Washington, D.C.: In a major escalation of political tensions, President Donald Trump has officially revoked former President Joe Biden’s security clearance, stripping him of access to classified intelligence briefings. This decision marks a rare and politically charged move, reinforcing the deep divide between the two leaders.
Trump announced the decision on Truth Social, citing concerns over Biden’s cognitive abilities. He referenced a report by Special Counsel Robert Hur, which described Biden as a “well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.” The report was initially part of an investigation into Biden’s handling of classified documents but ended up raising broader concerns about his mental fitness.
“Biden doesn’t need access to confidential intelligence,” Trump wrote. “It’s a national security risk to provide him with sensitive information.”
Biden Previously Blocked Trump from Briefings
Ironically, Biden had taken a similar stance against Trump in 2021, shortly after taking office. At the time, Biden instructed intelligence officials to deny Trump access to daily classified briefings, a privilege traditionally extended to former presidents. Biden justified his decision by calling Trump “erratic” and suggesting that he might leak classified information.
Biden had publicly questioned, “What value is there in giving Trump intelligence briefings? He could slip up and say something he shouldn’t.”
Now, Trump is flipping the script, using similar reasoning to justify denying Biden access to security briefings.
How Security Clearance Works for Former Presidents
Former U.S. presidents do not automatically retain security clearance after leaving office. However, they are typically granted access to certain intelligence briefings, particularly when they are engaged in diplomatic discussions or advisory roles.
Security clearance for former presidents is discretionary and can be revoked by the sitting president at any time. While it is rare, this is now the second time in recent history that a former president has been barred from classified briefings—first Trump under Biden, and now Biden under Trump.
A Political Power Play Ahead of 2024?
This move adds another layer to the ongoing Trump vs. Biden rivalry as both leaders gear up for the 2024 presidential election. With tensions running high, some critics argue that revoking Biden’s security clearance is more about political retribution than national security.
However, Trump’s allies defend the decision, pointing to the special counsel report as evidence that Biden’s memory issues could pose a security risk.
As the 2024 election battle heats up, this latest decision highlights the intense political warfare between the two leaders—one that shows no signs of slowing down.
