Decision follows precedent set by Biden in 2021 against Trump; White House cites special counsel report highlighting Biden’s memory issues.
Washington DC [US], February 9:
In a stunning move, the White House announced the revocation of President Joe Biden’s security clearances and the immediate suspension of his daily intelligence briefings, citing concerns over his ability to handle sensitive national security information.
The decision, which was shared via the White House’s official X account, follows a precedent set by Biden himself in 2021 when he restricted former President Donald Trump’s access to classified details after leaving office, citing concerns about Trump’s “erratic behavior” following the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack.
White House Statement on Revocation
The White House’s post on X stated:
“There is no need for Joe Biden to continue receiving access to classified information. Therefore, we are immediately revoking Joe Biden’s Security Clearances, and stopping his daily Intelligence Briefings. He set this precedent in 2021 when he instructed the Intelligence Community (IC) to stop the 45th President of the United States (ME!) from accessing details on National Security, a courtesy provided to former Presidents.
The Hur Report revealed that Biden suffers from ‘poor memory’ and, even in his ‘prime,’ could not be trusted with sensitive information. I will always protect our National Security—JOE, YOU’RE FIRED. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”
Legal and Political Ramifications
While the practical effect of this announcement remains unclear—since former presidents typically do not retain security clearances—as sitting president, Biden has access to all classified information. However, Trump’s move aims to challenge Biden’s credibility in handling national security, especially in light of the Robert Hur special counsel report.
Hur’s investigation, which examined Biden’s handling of classified documents, concluded that Biden exhibited significant memory lapses, though no criminal charges were filed. Trump cited this report as further justification for restricting Biden’s access to intelligence.
The decision to revoke Biden’s clearance underscores growing tensions between Trump and the current administration as the 2024 presidential race heats up. Whether this move will have any real-world impact or remains a political statement is yet to be seen.