WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump signed an order Monday to revoke security clearances of 51 former intelligence officials.
Targeting the Laptop Letter Signatories
The executive order focuses on individuals who signed a controversial 2020 letter about Hunter Biden’s laptop emails.
The letter, signed by former officials, claimed the emails resembled a “Russian information operation.” Trump emphasized this as a serious offense.
Among those affected is John Bolton, Trump’s former national security adviser, whose clearance was also revoked.
Retired Officials Among Those Impacted
Most signatories are retired and no longer actively hold security clearances, limiting the practical effects of this decision.
However, the move reflects Trump’s effort to penalize individuals he believes undermined his administration or misused intelligence authority.
Investigating Intelligence Misconduct
The order directs the Director of National Intelligence to review all activities surrounding the letter and the Intelligence Community.
A report documenting possible inappropriate actions must be submitted to the White House within 90 days. The report should also recommend disciplinary measures.
High-Profile Figures Included
The signatories include prominent officials like former Director of National Intelligence Jim Clapper and ex-CIA Director John Brennan.
Others include John McLaughlin and Michael Morell, both acting CIA directors during their careers.
These individuals, often critical of Trump, have been central to Republican-led scrutiny over the letter’s creation.
GOP Makes Letter a Central Issue
Since 2020, Republican lawmakers have focused heavily on the letter, calling signatories for testimonies and publishing multiple investigative reports.
Trump’s decision reinforces efforts by his supporters to highlight alleged misuse of intelligence power by former officials.
