On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump made good on his threat to withdraw access to classified information from his predecessor Joe Biden and several Democratic figures.
Among those now denied clearance are Joe Biden, members of his family, former Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and unsuccessful candidate against Trump in 2016. Former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and ex-national security adviser Jake Sullivan are also on the list.
In a document specified to US officials and released by the White House, Donald Trump orders that confidential information is no longer releases to the personalities mentioned. “I hereby direct each executive department or agency head to recall all current security clearances held by the individuals mentioned,” he writes.
Former presidents and national security officials usually enjoy continued access to sensitive information. Back in February, Trump announced the decision, justifying that he had taken the step because Joe Biden had done the same to him in 2021.
Donald Trump was indicted for compromising national security by keeping sensitive documents, such as military plans and information on nuclear weapons, in his residence after the end of his term, instead of handing them over to the National Archives. However, the case has been closed since his presidential election victory in November.
In addition to the Democratic figures mentioned, the list disclosed by the White House also includes former Republican Representative Liz Cheney, a sharp critic of Trump.